The Problem is ME!

Reading the first letter of John this morning for a devotional time. It, the Word, tells us not to love the world or the things in the world -- because it's passing away and has no lasting value. (People, of course, have lasting value, so love them. It's the "things" of this world we are not to love.)

Again, the Word says the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of one's life are all from the world, not from the Father.

So, who can I blame for my sins? For my wrong thoughts? For my wrong ways? I could blame the world, but I'm responsible for my own priorities. I could blame the devil. It's true he lays a snare for me and all believers -- but the Spirit helps us side step those traps if we want Him to. So the devil can't be blamed for my sins. After all, he's only being himself.

No, it's me. It's my own "flesh", as the Bible puts it. It's the junk that's inside of me that acts out. 

The problem is ME!

The good thing is this: Jesus is the remedy. Whew! Thank You, Lord.

Keep Your Eye on Israel!!

Sometimes nations get so self-involved that they forget their lack of significance. Like individuals, nations can get an overestimated view of themselves. One example is the question many Americans have regarding the Bible and end time events: "Where is America in Bible prophecy?"

The answer: it isn't there. The U.S. doesn't play a significant role in the consummation of the nations. That suggests one of two things:

1. America either no longer exists as we know it, or it has at least lost its influence and power -- it's no longer the one and only superpower.

2. Israel is the center of Biblical prophecy. The whole of history hinges on Israel -- not Rome, not Greece, not Europe, and not even the United States. Maybe one reason America isn't mentioned in Biblical prophecy is that America is not important to the story...Israel is.

Conclusion:

In the news today, focus on Israel. Israel is where the action is going to be. And one other thing, to President Obama: you push Israel aside at the peril of the U.S. 

What We Know For Sure About the End of Time

The truth is, there isn't a lot that we know about the end of time. Yes, the Bible describes some of the "WHAT" events in vivid detail -- but many of those passages equally describe events that have occurred in world history. 

We don't know WHEN it will happen. The Bible doesn't give a date, only general events that would accompany the end of time.

HOW? We know a little about that. The world will be destroyed by fire instead a flood like the last time. But never fear, God establishes a new earth. Don't ask how. We don't know. But God is pretty good at creating things from nothing.

The WHO of end times includes all humanity with certain personalities that stand out -- there's a political, charismatic dictator that rules the world; a one-world religious leader that wants to bring all religions under one unbrella. Yeah, like that will happen. There are many other personalities that people like to talk about. But lest we forget, there's only one Personality that matters. The whole of time and eternity revolve around Him. We call Him Jesus Christ, but in that day He will have a new Name -- actually a lot of them. We'll have a new name, too. Sorry mom, "Darril" ain't gonna hack it in heaven.

Talk about all the details. Speculate on the when, and draw the obvious parallels between current events and Biblical prophecy. But all of that is secondary.

What we do know that is important is this: It's all about Jesus! He is the One we should concern ourselves with. Everything revolves around Him.

Well, that's it. The one thing we know for sure is that one day God will put a stop to all this idiocy and King Jesus will come again to earth -- this time to rule, not die. And Jesus accomplishes all He sets out to do.

One other thing. If you've entrusted yourself to Christ, you're in good shape when that day comes. And, if you continue to reject Christ, there will be hell to pay!!

Hate, murder, assassination, terroism, jihad and more

I used all those trigger words so someone on the internet will be alerted to this subversive article.

I want my government to know that no matter what they do, I am a loyal, traditional, law-abiding, constitution-loving American. Even though I can't stand President Obama's liberal and un-biblical positions, I want him to know that I would jump in front of a maniac and attempt to take the bullet for you. Here's why:

1. Jesus took the bullet meant for me when He voluntarily jumped in front of the assault on my soul and died in my place. To be like Jesus, I would have to be willing to take the bullet for a sinner like you!

2. I'm afraid I don't know if you're a true Christian. Nothing you've said indicates that God has much to do with your life. So I want you to stay alive long enough to give your heart and life to Jesus -- the real Jesus -- not the radical, angry, get-all-the-white-o-people Jesus. 

3. Jesus told us to love our enemies. I'd rather not consider you an enemy, but in the spiritual sense you're against most of what I believe about God. So, I should pray for you and your salvation.

That's enough for now. I'm hoping that you, Mr. President, will live a long prosperous life until you give it all to Jesus. That's the only true meaning one can have in life -- an intimate, personal relationship with Jesus.

So let's get rid of hate, murder, assassination, terrorism, jihad and such. Let's move beyond all that to Christ.

You want a lasting legacy, Mr. President? In the end, only what's done for Christ will last. So live for Jesus, that's what matters

GF's Website

If you haven't done it lately, you need to explore the website for Grace Fellowship. (www.gracekaufman.org). It has all kinds of stuff on it -- and it's updated all the time. You can find information about the church, of course, but also a gillion photos, information about everything from VBS to missions. 

Our message from the previous Sunday(s) is available for listening or viewing!

In addition, there are a number of good articles on the left hand column. Scroll down and click on one of the very relevant and real subjects. Everyone is covered... children, parenting, teaching, and all kinds of things. These articles are changed weekly and it doesn't take that long to read them

I use the one that's always aimed at pastors (you're not allowed to read that part) LOL.

So check out the site -- DAILY.

What Goes Around, Comes Around

Remember The Karate Kid? He would always say that: "What goes around, comes around." Everyone got excited at such a wise and wonderful insight. But even experts in eastern martial arts can occasionally stumble upon an eternal truth.

It was God that said, "cast your bread upon the water, and in due time, it will return to you." 

What you invest in the lives of others; what you invest in your church; what you invest in the spiritual truths of God will all one return to you. I can't say when, and I can't say how....that's God business. That must be why Jesus said, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." How you treat others will ultimately affect how you're treated.

The converse is also true. If you invest in false realities, Satanic deceptions, and selfish attitudes it will come back to bite you. I can't say when, and I can't say how... that's God's business. But it will get you.

Live for Jesus, that's what matters. \O/

Be Encouraged ... the Bad News is Really Good News

Far too many Christians are discouraged by the economic news and world-events. Our president is making friends with our enemies, chumming it up with those who would destroy us, and bowing to those who support terrorism. At home the economy goes south - people lose their jobs, taxes go up, and vital government agencies, like the Dept or Defense, are told to make cutbacks. Let's give money to banks that don't need it, but stop funding the F-22 Fighter. 

Alcoholism, drug abuse, sexual perversion, gang murders, lawlessness, and godless liberalism have soared. The enemies of Israel are preparing to wipe it off the face of the earth. The nations are encircling the middle east, as if a great war will one day occur there.

What's a Christian to do?

Be encouraged!! Didn't our Lord say these things would happen first? We are the conquerors, the winners, the ones who will be vindicated by the King of All. If Jesus is in complete control and is working all things for our good, then why the long faces and discouraged emotions? 

With Jesus, the best is always yet to come. Be positive. Be encouraged. Aren't you the least bit excited to see what God is going to do next?

A Christian's Perspective on Obama

You should be excited...”don’t be anxious abput anything...”, as Paul would say. And I’ll tell you why.
First, be sure that Obama’s policies are unbiblical, ungodly, unconstitutional, and un-American. He will be accountable to God. (Hopefully, the voters will hold him accountable in four years).
But never fear. Everything Obama and his rogues do, plays into the hands of a great God. As believers, we are behind enemy lines and we should expect nothing less than tribulation, persecution, and turmoil. This world is not a friendly place for anyone, especially believers. We've had way too easy in America.
What is occurring now is a precursor to “something”. Perhaps the great tribulation. Perhaps the greatest revival America has ever seen! In any case, God is moving the world in the direction it has to go. And I think the Lord Jesus is guiding His Bride into the direction she needs to go. It’s actually exciting, not so scary.
Am I concerned for our country? Of course. But the United States is not my destiny. I believe that political conservatism will be re-energized and rise up to reverse and redeem some of Obama’s errors. And I also believe that Christian conservatism, a biblical world view, will gain strength and credibility because of these events.
Sometimes you need “darkness” to come along to contrast with “light”. In that case, Obama’s gang certainly meets a need. LOL
Don’t fear. Wait and see what God is up to. Whatever it is, we need to make sure we’re ready for it...ready to pray, ready to witness, ready to do whatever He opens for you.

My Answer to a Dear Friend's E-mail

A FRIEND OF MINE IN NC SENT AN E-MAIL EXPRESSING DISMAY WITH PRES. OBAMA AND DISAPPOINTMENT WITH THE AMERICAN VOTERS. MY RESPONSE:

It's always good to hear from you...even when you're mad!! LOL

Well, this "king" infuriates me, too. And so do the people that voted for this yo-yo. Okay, now that I have that said....

God used to allow idiot kings to take the throne in the Bible, too. Sometimes to teach the people a lesson; sometimes to make things bad enough to draw people to Himself; but sometimes so His people will repent of their sins and get their act together.

I suppose all these can be true of Obama. But let me warn you: it is going to get worse before it gets better.

Did you see how the Republicans in congress--every single one except 3--stood up to Obama. It's about stinking time!!!! Finally, when faced with disaster, defeat, and overwhelming evil, they finally grew a collective backbone, returned to their basic principles, and did the unpopular thing....but the right thing.

That's what Christians can do now. Return to our principles, no matter how unpopular, and speak the truth. Fight the battles. And die if necessary. It's about time for believers to realize the war we are in -- have always been in -- and be the people of God.

This is all a great opportunity for the cause of Christ. Really. So keep your eyes on Jesus. They can take your income, your freedom, and your home, but they can't take Him away!

Praise His Name for this opportunity. Now, if the church will only grow a backbone, too.

“May He give you what your heart desires and fulfill your whole purpose.” -Psalm 20:4

She Did It!

I knew she would, too. Today, Denise (my daughter) passed her "bar exam" for counseling. She has spent countless hours studying for this exam. Today she passed the text easily. She's smart. She's good. But please don't tell her I said that.

Anyway, she's on her way now. I'm proud of her.

Praise the Lord!

The Light at the End of the Tunnel

Someone recently e-mailed me and said that with the liberal, ungodly socialistic package being shoved down our throat that the light at the end of the tunnel is getting smaller. As a conservative I am as upset as anyone else at the things in this legislation. 

Example? Millions given to renovate colleges and universities for future generations of scholars. Sounds good, but in the fine print no Christian college or faith-based school -- not even secular schools that allow worship on campus -- are disqualified from getting funds. On the other hand, it pays for all kinds of money to stop the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (abstinence-based education is not one of the options).

Any way, my point is that if the light at the end of the tunnel seems to be dimming, that's no cause for alarm. First, because nothing happens without being sifted through God's divine will. And, second, because I keep my eyes on a different Light. The world is not able to comprehend it, nor extinguish it. If anything, it's getting brighter!

So, Christian...look to the Light. Look to Jesus and "the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace."

I am not preoccupied with tithing and giving!!

I challenged every member of Grace Fellowship to tithe, "give the full 10%", this year. Since before Thanksgiving I have been reminding and encouraging the church to give according to the Biblical ideal. 

Some people might say that I'm preoccupied with the giving of our members. Wrong. I'm preoccupied with the blessing of our members.

The promise, folks. Focus on the promise. "If you tithe, give the full 10%, I will pour out a blessing that you will not have enough room to receive it." That's it! It's the blessing I want FOR my people, not money FROM my people. It's the blessing!! Get it? The blessing!!

So give the full 10% as a starting place of stewardship and test God's honesty. God wants to bless you more than He wants your dough. Trust Him.

This Could be the Year!

Last year at this time there was no way of knowing that my dad would die in a couple of weeks. There was nothing to indicate that he would soon  pass away early on a Monday morning. So, in many ways I approach a new year anticipating that anything, and I mean anything, could happen.

That includes the second coming of Christ. He could come at anytime. This could be the year that Jesus calls His church home. That would great!!! I have so many loved ones and friends I'd love to see again -- not mention the chance to bow personally in the presence of the Almighty God and His precious Son, my Savior, Jesus.  

It seems to me that the world is rushing to a climactic event -- and any climactic event that may occur in the world always includes the personal involvement of Jesus Christ. So even economic woes, wars and rumors of wars, and the moral failure of our country are a part of a greater, holier picture.

I know 2009 could be the year that the church could really shine. A chance to be the Body of Christ it is supposed to be. Stop all of this traditional churchianity and move outside -- way outside -- its worldly  comfort zone. The church is the supernatural reflection of Christ on earth, or is supposed to be. You don't see it, but it belongs to Christ and should start looking like it.

I am praying that 2009 will be the year that the church acts like what it is supposed to be -- the Bride of Christ in the world.

Our best opportunities lie before us.  This could be the year that your life makes a difference for Jesus. It's up to you...and me.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Hallelujah! My Girl Did It!

Well, she did it.

My daughter, Denise, graduated today with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. 

It took a lot -- and I mean a lot -- of hard work. But she's completed the work, endured the hardship, and made it. Working various jobs, including shift manager at Starbucks, teaching classes at church, handling a counseling load through her school and through the church, playing keyboards in the worship band, and driving hours at a time to get back and forth from Kaufman, to Ft. Worth, to Weatherford, etc. etc. etc. -- I mean it, she worked hard!

I'm proud of her, of course. But I can tell you, putting parental bias aside, she is really an insightful, compassionate, and knowledgeable counselor. That's not just her daddy talking.  Well, maybe a little, but it's still true!

Pray for Denise to find a good position/ministry ... first she has to pass a major knowledge test, short of a bar exam for counselors in January. She'll be studying all this month and next.

Anyway, daddy is proud...so is mom.

This is the part I hate...

I love Christmas. I love the family traditions that we've developed over the years, and I love the music -- old and new. 

Many people seem to think that Christmas is the Savior of our economy. Already  today (Saturday) we've heard the shopper reports about "Black Friday". People look to this time of year to pull our economy out of the doldrums. Of course the world misses the whole point.

But I like buying and giving gifts, so I'm not completely adverse to the commercial hype.

This is the part I hate: Santa Clause. I'm sorry that the legend ever got started, because it's been carried too far. I mean, Santa has the attributes of Jesus: he lives forever, he knows if you've been good or bad, and knows when you're sleeping or awake. 

Alongside the stories and expectations of Santa we also teach the nativity story and all about Jesus. So on the one hand we tell them a fictional story about a character that has the attributes of God -- but one day we'll tell them that's a lie -- and on the other hand we'll tell them about a little baby surrounded by animals without really emphasizing His royal deity -- but that turns out to be the truth. 

I even heard a commercial on TV that said (and I quote) "without Santa there would be no childlike faith." You've got to be kidding!!

I've known a lot of kids who grew up without the Santa myth. Their parents never did the "Santa is coming tonight" thing. I'm one of them. Dawn and I didn't bring our kids up with Santa. They were just as happy and surprised by what they received on Christmas, but they knew it from their dad and mom. 

Santa is the part I hate about Christmas. The truth has been diluted with a cute little story that "harms no one." But why dilute the truth at all? It saves us from having to explain the difference and sort out truth from error.

May God bless your ministry today.

A Heavenly Hedge Against Hard Times

God never promised that we would not experience difficulty and hardship. When evil and adversity assails the world, believers get caught in the turmoil. Jesus said, "you will have tribulation." We are not immune to the things that befall our neighbors and friends.

However, there is a Heavenly Hedge for believers that are faithful and obedient. Based on the Word of God; and based on what I know about the character of God; and based on the history of God's care for His people I have the conviction that there is only one sure cushion against hard times.  It's tithing.

They say that when times are tough for Americans they tend to save their money instead of spending it. Which only harms the overall economy further. And our tendency as believers is hang onto our money and protect our resources...even to the point of not giving cheerfully to Kingdom causes.

But if God promises to His people that He will bless us when we give the full 10%; and if God promises to "rebuke the devourer" for us (that's whatever threatens our income and survival); then I believer the best hedge against experiencing the full impact of a chaotic world economy is giving, not saving; tithing not hoarding. 

...Just a thought.

I DOUBLE DOG DARE YOU

PASTOR'S CHALLENGE FOR 2009:

I am challenging every believer to take up this challenge. God said He would bless those who bring the full 1o% into the "storehouse" (an offering room in the temple) so that expenses could be met for maintaining the house of worship. He even went further. He promised to "rebuke the devourer" on our behalf -- whatever it is that devours the fruit of our labor and threatens our economic security.

I'm challenging You -- no, God challenges You -- to tithe and see if He doesn't bless Your efforts to be obedient and give.

Well, that's my challenge. Give a full 10%  (of gross, not net) in 2009. Will take up the challenge? I double dog dare you!

May God bless your ministry today.

Obama wins...a breakthrough?

All the mainstream media celebrates the election of Barak Obama as the 44th president of the U.S. In their jubilation many are saying that this demonstrates the decline, if not the demise, of racism in our country. The fact that a black man could be elected president proves we've come a long way.

But that's not what I see. When Obama carried many states because of the black and hispanic vote, it seems that race is what got him elected. I have two questions:

1. Is voting for McCain and against Obama simply because Obama is black racism? After all it's a decision based solely on one's preference for one race over another.

2. Is voting for Obama and against McCain simply because Obama is black racism? After all it's a decision based solely on one's preference for one race over another.

So I'm not seeing a breakthrough in terms of racism in America. Quite the contrary. Racism works in both directions. I see a country more divided over race than ever. Especially with all the threats of riots and rebellion if Obama didn't make it. What's up with that? That's not a racist threat?

Several other observations: 

1) A "religion friendly" government is about to end; faith-based initiatives started by President Bush and opposed by democrats in congress will be threatened.  

2) Look for attacks, via "The Fairness Doctrine", against conservative talk radio. The liberal congress and president will not go after the New York Times or MSNBC for their sever liberal bent, but they'll go after Limbaugh, Hannity, and others... maybe even FoxNews. 

3) Look for new bold initiatives to increase abortion rights and gay marriage. The gay agenda suffered some big losses in this election (there's always a bright spot), but now you'll see abortion friendly and gay friendly judges nominated and sworn into office. 

4) Taxes WILL go up. Obama promised to end the "Bush tax cuts" ASAP. I don't know about you, but I got a tax cut with Bush's plan, now I'll get an instant increase in taxes when Obama ends that program....and so will you. (and I fall well below the arbitrary line Obama has set that separates the middle-class from the wealthy.)

5) Watch for subtle attempts to subvert the Constitution of the United States; attempts to replace capitalism and free market with government controls on profits; and watch for attempts, ever so subtle, to oppress free religious expression by churches and religious organizations. 

6) Watch for a new tone on the national level -- a tone of anger, arrogance, and superiority...as conservations and Christians are made fun of and relegated to the back seats of influence. 

Those are just a few precautions and predictions. The Word of God and evangelical Christians have been under attack during this election. The women on The View, Opray, and MSNBC  will be real tickled with the results of this election. But dear fellow believer, in the words of an old hymn: "Be not dismayed what'er betide, God will take care of you."

It is in difficult times -- times of financial stress, political unrest, and subtle/not so subtle persecution that the church grows, people turn to God, and Christ comes shining through. One of our greatest opportunities for evangelism and harvesting may be dead ahead of us. 

People will soon find out that Obama is NOT the messiah they thought he'd be. Some of them will turn to the true Messiah that doesn't need their vote, but wants their heart. 

So, Obama's election is not a breakthrough in the way the news media will portray it. But it may be a breakthrough in the months and years ahead for the gospel. Nothing happens that doesn't cross God's desk first!

Why Things Happen the Way They Do

There are 13 reasons why things happen the way they do -- good things and bad. Our conflicts and blessings all occur because God has a plan for our lives.

The number one reason why things happen the way they do is:

God is bringing us into conformity to the image of Jesus Christ.

What makes Jesus the Lord, the Savior, the Messiah is not the healings, the miracles, and all the caring He showed to humanity. What makes Jesus, Jesus to me, is the cross -- the sacrificial suffering and death of Jesus!

Now if we are to be conformed to the image of Jesus it will require adversity, conflict, betrayal, disappointment, and suffering. Jesus warned us that for us to be like Him -- to follow Him -- we will have to "take up your cross daily". 

God wants us to be like Jesus. It will not happen without conflict and adversity!

There are 12 other reasons why things happen the way they do, but it will always include reason number one: to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ.

You can follow this series at www.gracekaufman.org -- the messages in this series are available for viewing or for downloading to your MP3 player.

The Church Ain't a Service Center

Maybe it's because we live in a "what's in it for me" world; or maybe it's because people just expect to be given things without accountability or responsibility; but for whatever reason, many folks think the church is a service center...a place where handouts are freely given to all who ask.

People that never attend our church will call and ask for assistance with gasoline, their electric bills, or other financial emergencies. Of course now we send them to the Christian Help Center where other local churches assist in meeting these kinds of needs. The point I want to make is this: people think it's okay to just show up on our doorstep and ask for money. Some even get angry if we don't!

But often church members have the same worldly attitude toward the church. They act as if the church is here to service them, meet their needs, massage their ego, tickle their fancy. And if it doesn't, they'll just go to another one -- or maybe not even go to church at all. How short-sighted. They may even be deceived by Satan himself into thinking the church owes them something.

When will Christians learn the true nature of the church -- it's not where you come to get served; it's where you come to serve! It's not a place where you come to get anything; it's a place where you come to give. 

Where in the world is the sacrifice for heaven's sake?!!