When I see him, he is an 85-year-old man looking to the prize set before him. He is standing looking off in the distance and asking for the prize, he was promised 45 years earlier. He says he is as strong now as he was 45 years ago, and I would not test him one bit. His speech is domineering and sincere; he has waited for this day. He has fought battles, wars and people to get here and now he wants what is his.
On this Earth, I will never meet my favorite veteran. He has long since passed, but the words of his life become a beacon for mine. He had a desire so bold and so powerful, he lived up to one of the meanings of his name, “bulldog.” His words bring motivation centuries later; we just need to read them.
His name is the same as my son. In fact, I was insistent that my son have the same name. So, what is his name – Caleb!
Caleb should not just be remembered as the one with Joshua telling the people they could take the land, he should also be remembered as one who obtained his inheritance!
Then the people of Judah came to Joshua at Gilgal. And Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him,
“You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God in Kadesh-barnea concerning you and me. I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh-barnea to spy out the land, and I brought him word again as it was in my heart. But my brothers who went up with me made the heart of the people melt; yet I wholly followed the LORD my God.
And Moses swore on that day, saying, ‘Surely the land on which your foot has trodden shall be an inheritance for you and your children forever, because you have wholly followed the LORD my God.’ And now, behold, the LORD has kept me alive, just as he said, these forty-five years since the time that the LORD spoke this word to Moses, while Israel walked in the wilderness.
And now, behold, I am this day eighty-five years old. I am still as strong today as I was in the day that Moses sent me; my strength now is as my strength was then, for war and for going and coming. So now give me this hill country of which the LORD spoke on that day, for you heard on that day how the Anakim were there, with great fortified cities. It may be that the LORD will be with me, and I shall drive them out just as the LORD said.”
Then Joshua blessed him, and he gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance.
Caleb knew what he wanted, but he knew he must be a man of action. Over 40 years he waited. He walked the wilderness with those who kept him out of the promise land and everyday he waited for his inheritance.
Even while in his elderly age, Caleb wanted the gift, even though he would have to drive out the inhabitants of the land. His faith in God was working each day knowing the promise was ahead. Do you and I have the convictions of Caleb to press on to the prize which is ahead?
Let us remember the words of Paul,
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3.12-14; ESV)
Also, remember the words of the Hebrews writer,
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12.1-2; ESV)
Notice the Hebrews writer makes two distinct points: (1) there are weights (things that slow us down) and (2) there are sins. Normally, our focus is on avoiding sins, but what about those things that slow us down? Are there things, circumstances, situations, or choices that are hindering you in your spiritual life?
As Day #2 of the seven day black and white photo challenge continues, I thought I would share something that constantly changes my life. The more I learn, the less I know.
I know the rules of the Black and White Photo Challenge are to post a photo with no words, details, or information about the picture, but I have decided to change the rules. While a picture can tell a thousand words, explanations help to complete the story.
Day #2 – A Book for Life
I must confess something which several people already know – I graduated high school having never read a book. Throughout all the book reports, tests, term papers, etc., I escaped high school having never read a book. You can call it a reflection on the educational system or you can realize I figured out a way to make it happen. I never liked reading and could not find enjoyment thumbing my way through hundreds of pages for hours.
Then I read one book. It was my freshman year in college, and I decided to read a book. For whatever reason, I was going to make myself read. Within a few days, I had read my first book cover to cover. It was from those few disciplined days; I began reading more and more. I always read articles, magazines, etc., but books were different.
Today, the tradition of reading continues. I am usually reading 2 or 3 books at a time.
There is one book that changes my thinking every time I read it.
This book is the Bible.
It is a book of intrigue and challenge. Whether you have read it or not, it would do you well to spend some time in the Proverbs. These wise sayings apply to every aspect of life. From there, you might want to move to Matthew chapters 5-7 and discover the Sermon on the Mount.
Most people know of the Bible, but takes it words for granted. I would encourage you to spend a few minutes each day and open this book which has lasted thousands of years and see how it can change your life.
It will change you. Just give its words an opportunity.
Seven years ago, Chris Gallagher asked me to write a post of What I love about the church. I gave three reasons then. Here are the “edited for content and to fit in the allotted space” reasons I gave then.
I love the Church in view of the fact that God loved Her enough to purchase Her at a sacrificial price.
I love the Church that is precious to Christ.
I love the Church that has the promise of an eternally joyous relationship with Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the Father.
I still love the Church, in fact, I can honestly say, “I love her more now than I did then or ever have.” But before I list more reasons, allow me to tell you a little about my background.
I grew-up church. My grandparents raised my mother in the Church and my father’s mother and aunts taught him about Christ and His Church. When my parents married there was no question in their young married life about the role of Christ and the Church. As they started a family the role of the Church increased as did their roles within her. During my growing up years my parents taught Bible classes, had members, church leaders, and ministers over for dinner, and held church socials at our house. Dad served as a deacon and was the volunteer minister for the deaf ministry. He later became an elder and continues to serve in that role.
I literally grew-up in Church. I attended a private Christian elementary school, where my mother served as a secretary. When were not at school or school functions we are at Church or church functions. By my upper high school years my peers and I were leading the youth program – we did not have a youth minister. Church was my life.
As high school graduation approached and all the opportunities for adulthood came, I could not think of a better way to live than to dedicate all my time to the Church. I went to school to become a minister. For 28 years, I have served in fulltime ministry with three different congregations. Church involvement was never an option in my mind. I knew I would be a part of Her. I love the Church.
I think of the Church the way the psalmist thought of the House of God. “I was glad when they said to m, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” (Psa 122:1)
I LOVE THE CHURCH!
I love the Church because she is the Elect Bride of Christ. (Eph 5:21-33). Paul’s description of the Church as the betrothed of Christ is a beautiful portrait. Whenever I see a long-lasting marriage relationship that is beautiful and I see the way the husband dotes on his bride of many years, I think about Christ doting on His Betrothed Bride – the Church. I think of how He is preparing Her for the day He presents His Chosen Bride to the Father. How proud He is of Her beauty and accomplishments that glorify Him. I love the Church because the Christ loves Her.
I love the Church because she is the Kingdom of Christ. (Col 1:13-14). Jesus earthly ministry was about repentance and the Kingdom. As Christians, we are a citizen in that Kingdom now. Our citizenship is in heaven (Phil 3:20) as we are part of the earthly kingdom, His Church now. I love the Church because the King of kings is Her Sovereign.
I love the Church because the Bride and Kingdom are a glimpse of heaven. Christ will present his Elect Bride to the Father at the Great Wedding Day (Rev 19:6-10). Christ will turn the Kingdom over to the Father when the end comes (1 Cor 15:24). I love the Church because the Bride and Kingdom will be translated to heaven.
I love the Church because I love Her people. Here people share a common bond. There is a love that is not easily broken. We understand each other’s struggles and pray for each other. We are there to help each other with spiritual, emotional, and physical battles. We rejoice and weep with each other (Rom 12:15). I live hours away from my parents and my brother, but I have family near me, the Church is our family. I love that family and the fellowship we have.
Maybe these are some of the reasons the Hebrew writer penned these words, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (Heb 10:24-25)
Why do you love the Church?
-Scott
Scott McCown is a minister with the Central Church of Christ in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He and his wife, Amy, have one son, Andrew, who is a Junior at Faulkner University. Scott is a graduate of Faulkner University with a BA in Bible and an MA in Ministry. He regularly publishes The Morning Drive (scottmccown.com).
Personal Note: This month I have asked several people to write for a Guest Post on the Preacher’s Pen website. You will see articles written by people you know and people you don’t know…yet. There will be articles from men, women, preachers, non-preachers, etc. This is an opportunity to see how others love the church. So, enjoy the month of “Why I Love the Church!”
Have you always wanted to study the Bible, but did not know exactly where to begin?
The outlines below are simple outlines to being your personal study. You will notice the outlines are not complete. Use them as a guide to help you study.
Preachers, feel free to use these as a help to kick start our sermon on Sunday.
Outline #1 – Attitude Determines Altitude
Why is Attitude Important?
Attitudes are always forming
Attitudes are formed when we are young
Attitude problems are the result of heart problems
What must My Attitude be?
Not as the rich young ruler.
The Attitude of Christ
We need an attitude of “Yes! We can!”
How is your attitude?
Is it Christ-like?
Since attitude problems are heart problems, where is your heart?
Have you learned to be content?
Outline #2 – Do Not Mumble or Grumble
The Dangerous Attitude of Complaining
How can we be blameless and shining as lights in the world, if we complain?
Complainers bring others down.
The Dangerous Attitude of Disputing
Some people try to dispute, stir up anger and arguments
“All that is needed to make a mountain out of a molehill is a little dirt.”
Our Attitudes and Words
Words affect people?
Replace complaining and disputing with good things (i.e. – thankfulness, faith, kindness, etc)
What will your words do today
Outline #3 – Taking it all in and letting none of it out
The Most Followed command?
Matthew 8:4 – “See that you tell no one…”
Why did Jesus say that phrase?
Do many people follow it today?
Why do many follow those words today?
Fear
Specifically, fear of rejection
Some are afraid they will be wrong
What is the solution?
We need to get off our “buts.” (ex. – I really know I should but…)
Isaiah 6:8 – “Here am I, send me”
Outline #4 – Simply Trusting God
Simply trusting God means you are like Joseph
Remember Joseph’s words to his brothers? (Genesis 45:5)
Joseph kept confidence by relying on God’s providence
Simply trusting in God means you are like Daniel
Daniel was a man of principles
He refused the kings food.
He refused not to pray.
God admires principles. (Psalm 15:1-5)
Outline #5 – Christian Repentance
Why would a Christian need to repent?
Sin
Isaiah 1:18
Christians can stray away
Demas (2 Timothy 4:10)
Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:13; 18-23)
What is your reaction to sin?
Do you deny it?
Do you try to cover it up?
Do you justify it?
Do you take responsibility?
You must live a life of action
“Faith without works is dead.”
You are salt and light
Christian’s Change
They change as they grow
Psalm 51
Outline #6 – “Lord I believe. Help my unbelief.” (Mark 9:34)
The situation: the disciples were not able to cast out a spirit of a boy, so the Father appealed to Jesus.
“Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief.”
Note the verse is not a contradiction.
It may be better rendered, “Lord, I believe. Help my unfaithfulness.”
Do you believe but lack faith?
Are you in need of an increase of faith?
The father had belief, but he needed more faith.
How can you increase your faith?
Romans 10:17
Start now. (Matthew 4:18-20)
Attend uplifting events. (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Find contentment and joy in God. (Philippians 4)
When in doubt, pray. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Remember to use these outlines are a guide for further study.
Check back next Wednesday for a few more outlines.
The older preacher, located at the time 40+ years in the same congregation, stood before the audience and spoke the words, “I would much rather wear out than rust out in the work of God. For Heaven is a place and rest and the church is a place of work.”
In the truest sense, the church is a place of work. Just because one has obeyed the gospel and become a member of the church, it does not mean the resting should begin. As mentioned on Sunday, once we are baptized into Christ, Satan does not consider the battle to be lost. He still seeks someone to devour (1 Peter 5.7). He plans to put temptations in your way to draw you away from God. Are you clothed in the full armor of God? (Ephesians 6.10-18)
If anything, when we are members of the church, our abilities are magnified and give rise to more opportunities. When we realize that God provides grace to each one of us, it should motivate us to use what He has given us (Romans 12.3). The grace He provides is different for each person is different (Romans 12.4). Just because the abilities He gives us are different does not mean our lives are not important. The parts of the body need each other to survive and to unite in the common purpose of God (Ephesians 4.1-15).
So, are you wearing out or rusting out in the church.
Let me leave you with the words of Jesus,
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11.28)
