THE GIFT REMEMBERED!

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." Galatians 6:9. (NKJV).

The arrival of the Greyhound bus grabbed my attention. A man and woman exited the bus clutching shopping bags loaded with Christmas finery. Heads bowed, they struggled to our drugstore to find relief from January’s arctic blast.

Daddy grabbed the door, opening it for them. “Can I help you, folks?”

“We need to reach my sister’s home. Couldn’t make it for Christmas. Family illness.” The man gave the name and area. “Any taxi available?"

“Afraid not but I know the place. Need to close up, then I’ll be glad to drive you.” Their luggage loaded, Daddy drove miles out of town, then turned onto a dirt lane poxed with potholes. The headlights splashed a ditch bank thick with Chinaberry trees, scrub oak, and tangled vines. At the end of the lane, the lights spotlighted a small unpainted house, porch sagging, steps holding on for dear life.

A woman opened the door, and a young girl peeped around her. Faces shone with joy when they saw family members. At their insistence, we joined them. The front room served as living room, dining room and kitchen. Newspapers covered the walls. A metal trash burner provided cooking surface and heat. A bright afghan disguised a dilapidated sofa and three mismatched chairs surrounded the kitchen table pushed against the wall. 

The girl was about my age--ten years old. Her blond pigtails hung to her waist and dimples flashed when she smiled.

After the hugs and greetings, the woman said, “Honey, show them what Santa brought you." She ran into the other room, swallowed by the darkness, and returned her face beaming. She held up a hanger displaying a little yellow sweater with pearl buttons down the front.

Many years have passed. I don’t remember one of my Christmas gifts but I'll never forget Honey and her little yellow sweater. I thought we did the couple a favor by taking them to family but I received so much more. I saw a family who loved enough to come and a little girl who gave me a gift--a lesson in joy when we don’t lose heart.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus became The Gift for me--lovingkindness, forgiveness and joy, but especially the gift of eternal life. He loves me and promises never to leave me. He offers the same gift to you. Himself. In all His glory. Won’t you receive Him?

SEEKERS OF THE KING!

“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, 'Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.’” Matthew 2:1,2. (NKJV).

“Hope it’s an exciting story tonight, Grandfather." Timmy leaned in. 

“Belteshazzar reported a bright star to his colleagues, the Magi. The sacred book promised a coming King to the Hebrews and now His Star appeared. He couldn’t leave his dying father but promised to follow. Months later, he started out, his fortune invested in three gifts for the King. An emerald, a ruby and a pearl--gems of great price.

“Weeping assaulted him as he neared Bethlehem. Soldiers marched from house to house killing the baby boys, two years and under.”

Timmy sat upright. “Why...?” Grandfather held up his hand.

“He eased open the door to a home. A mother shielded her baby, her eyes wide in terror.  Finger to his lips, he closed the door, leaned against it. A Roman soldier walked up to him.

“'Step aside. All baby boys must...' Belteshazzar opened his hand, the brilliance of the ruby dancing in the morning light. He snatched the gem, moved on.

“Years passed in his search. He found a man beaten and left for dead. He put him on his donkey, carried him to an inn. ‘Take care of him.’ The innkeeper’s frown turned upside down as he grabbed the emerald for payment.

“The pearl satisfied a greedy tax collector instead of evicting a family from their home.

“He entered Jerusalem, heart hurting, hands empty. Caught up in the crowd, he saw three crosses silhouetted against the sky. A sign on the middle cross read: This is Jesus, the King of the Jews. 

Cloaked with failure, he returned to Jerusalem, shoulders slumped and stood by a building in the eerie darkness. The ground shook, and buildings tumbled. Hit by a slab of roof, he fell to his knees. then heard the Voice.

"‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord’”

“Grandfather? The voice was the Lord Jesus?” At Grandfather’s nod, he took a deep breath. “Awesome, but why did He always miss the Lord. Seems like he was always a few steps behind.”

“Things are not as they seem, Timmy. We seek the King. He arranges the path.”

Kingdom Thinking. Like Belteshazzar, we are pilgrims, seeking the King. He promises never to leave nor forsake us. He loves us with an everlasting love. Have you seen His Star? He waits for you.


Retelling of The Other Wise Man by Henry Van Dyke.

THANKSGIVING!

“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.” Psalm 100:4,5. (NKJV).

“Janie." Grandmother called. "Need your help.” She plunked the silver candlesticks onto the counter by the sink.

“Yuck, those old candlesticks look awful. Why don’t we use the brass ones?”

“These are my Thanksgiving candlesticks. Silver polish and soft cloth in her hand, she continued. "These were wedding presents. I treasure them.”

Grandmother showed her how to clean the candlesticks. Apply the polish, then buff them.

“They’re beginning to shine.” Janie held up the candlestick. 

Finally, the silver free from tarnish, the candlesticks reflected the light. Perfect for their Thanksgiving meal.

“We’re like these candlesticks, Janie. We become tarnished in this world. These candlesticks did nothing to become tarnished. Just stayed in their places and the world around them did the rest. They couldn't clean themselves so--"

"We cleaned them." Janie's brow furrowed. "God cleans us? Like we cleaned the candlesticks?" She tilted her head. 

"But I have skin. Besides, cleaning and buffing could hurt."

Grandmother chuckled. "You're right. It's not exciting to be buffed or polished by our Lord, but He is good and merciful. Through circumstances in my life, He buffs and polishes."

"You mean like when I hurt my knee, you cleaned it and put ointment on it. It hurt bad but it healed and didn't get infected."

"Exactly. Wow. Look at these candlesticks. You did a great job, Dumpling. Let's put them on the table to provide light for our Thanksgiving meal." 

"Thank you, Grandmother. Turkey with dressing and..."

"All the trimmings." Grandmother chuckled. "I'm so thankful I have such a fabulous helper." She hugged her granddaughter.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus invites us into His kingdom. He handles our tarnished lives so we can enter with thanksgiving and praise. His truth endures to all generations. That includes you. Won’t you come?

PLANTING SEEDS!

“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:5,6. (NKJV).

“We’re planting, aren’t we Grandfather?” He handed him another seed.

‘Yes, we are. Would you like to plant some seeds? Have a garden of your own?”

“Oh, yes.” Four-year-old Timmy's big blue eyes sparkled as he bounced. “Now? Can we do it now?”

“Let’s finish this row of corn then we’ll begin your garden.” Timmy dropped a few seeds in his haste to get them into Grandfather's hand. 

A week passed. Grandfather’s corn was stringing the row. But not Timmy's. In tears, he asked, “What happened to my corn?”

His grandfather rolled his lips. “How many times did you dig up your seed?”

“I dug to see if it was growing.” He dipped his head. “Every day.”

“Here’s what I want you to do. Plant your seed. Pat the soil nice and easy. Water it every day but--don’t dig it up. Understand?” Timmy nodded.

Days later, Timmy, bursting with joy, announced. “I have plants. Come see.”

"Excellent!" Grandfather patted his shoulder. "Good job, son.

"You sowed the seed, nurtured it, but trusted it would sprout. That's the way it is with God's love."

"I don't understand."

"We pray, even weep over the ones we love, but we don't pester them. In His generous Love, The Lord allows us to participate in His Plan. Then we come to Him, rejoicing, bringing our sheaves with us."

"Wow."

"Wow, indeed!"

Kingdom Thinking. How wonderful is our God? Our Lord Jesus allows us to plant His seeds. Yes, there will be weeping, but our tears of sorrow shall turn to tears of joy. He promises never to leave nor forsake us. He loves us with an everlasting love. Won’t you accept Him? He waits for you.

CHOOSE TO GIVE THANKS?

 

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. (NKJV).


“How do you give thanks when you’re not thankful?” Timmy's chin quivered. “I don't want to, Grandfather.”

“Guilty of the very thing myself.” Timmy’s head snapped up, his eyes wide.

“You?”

“Many times. Giving thanks is a choice.” Grandfather tilted his head. “Have you noticed the Scripture doesn’t read, 'Give thanks when you feel like it?' It reads, 'In everything give thanks.'”

“But Grandfather, I’m not thankful when I'm hurting.” Grandfather smiled.

“Remember you were learning to ride your bicycle several years ago?”

“I had a hard time at first, but once I learned, I did okay.”

“Do you ever fall off your bike now?”

“Grandfather, you know I hurt my ankle practicing for the race. Now I’m sitting here, my foot propped on the stool.” He dipped his head. “And I can’t be in the race today.”

“How if we go to the race? We’ll fix a place in the back of my truck so you can watch.” Grandfather opened the hall closet, pulled out a box. “This should do the trick.”

“Your megaphone? You'd let me use your megaphone? All right!” He pumped his fist in the air.

“What’s different?” Grandfather cocked his head.

Timmy held up the megaphone. "This will make me a part of the team.” He looked at Grandfather, smiled. “You took something hurtful and made it exciting.”

Grandfather sat on the stool by Timmy’s foot. “You chose to be excited. When we give the Lord the hurtful things in our life, with His love and grace, the results are for His Glory and our good.”

Kingdom Thinking. When I give thanks for everything in my life, the Lord Jesus brings good. Therefore I rejoice for this is His will for me. He promises never to leave nor forsake me and loves me with an everlasting love. He promises the same to you. Won’t you come?

LAW AND AIRPLANES!

“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:8,9.  (NKJV).

“I’m not as bad as Derek, Grandfather.” Timmy stood, feet apart, hands on hips. “He...”

Grandfather held up his hand. “Let me get this right. You didn’t carry the garbage to the compost bin. Or make your bed. But you’re telling me this other boy...”

“Derek.”

“Yes, Derek. You believe his sins are heavier than yours?” Timmy dipped his head.  

“See that steel pipe by the tree? What if I told you that pipe could fly?”

“No way, Grandfather. Everybody knows steel can't fly.”

“It depends on the law in effect. The law of gravity causes us to think steel can’t fly. But, if we apply the law of aerodynamics, steel can fly. Look up.” A plane passed overhead.

“The truth? We are sinners. So the law of sin and death applies to all of us. Unless we accept the truth. If we confess our sins, the Lord Jesus forgives our sins and makes us clean, like new. The law of grace is more powerful than the law of sin and death.”

“We get to fly?” Grandfather smiled.

“Absolutely. The law of grace sets us free.” He paused. “Where’re you going?”

“To tell Derek about this new law and airplanes.” Grandfather shook his head, a smile on his face.

Kingdom Thinking. For years, I put sin in categories. This one’s not too bad. That one, unforgivable. Then the Lord Jesus came. He showed me sin separates me from Him. In that dark moment of separation, He offered me grace--His grace. He paid for my sins and washed me clean. His grace trumps sin. He offers His grace to you. Won’t you come?

THE LINK!

“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”  2 Corinthians 5:21. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, what are you making?”

“A chain.” He held it up. Janie's fingers covered her mouth.

“That chain—?”

“Yes?” He examined it. “Perfect, right?”

“It’s. It’s.” She rolled her lips. "The links don’t match. One's made from construction paper and one's rusted.”

“Yes. But look at this one. Heavy-duty steel. Should do the trick and hold the other links together.” Hand on her hips, she shook her head.

“Okay, what are you teaching me today?” He grinned.

“Some links are strong, some weak. If I hold this chain high, how many will fall when the most fragile breaks?”

“All that hang on the weak link.”

“Would you choose this chain for your safety if you dangle over a cliff?”

“No way. I'd want one with every link of heavy-duty steel.”

“Smart girl.” He tilted his head. “We all have weak links or sin in our lives. My link may be one thing, yours another. Get the picture?” She nodded.

“We need Someone with a perfect chain to link His to ours. One who guarantees He'll keep us safe.” He lifted his left eyebrow.

“The Lord Jesus?”

“Absolutely. He promised and He keeps His promises. We can depend on Him.”

Kingdom Thinking. My chain of life is filled with weak links. I choose to put my faith in the Lord Jesus because He loves me and promises never to leave me. His chain is unbreakable and He's the One who holds me. How about you? Won't you put your trust in Him?

TERROR IN THE NIGHT!

"Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I'll strengthen you, Yes, I'll help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10. (NKJV).

The rutted muddy road ribboned on forever. Rain pounded the windscreen, the wipers failing to keep it clear. The mouth of the deep ditch yawned, ready for the car to slide into its jaws.

Hydroplaning out of control, the driver turned the wheel into the skid. Didn't help. The vehicle veered to the right. The right front tire edged over the embankment, stilled for a few seconds before tipping into the abyss.

"Daddy!"

Strong arms gathered her, held her close.

"Shh. I've got you. Just a bad dream." He gently rocked her in his arms until she quieted. She shivered, snuggled closer, her breathing deepening.

How often did this happen? As a child, it seemed a nightly occurrence. Most important to me? Daddy came, picked me up. Everytime. I'd awake in my bed the following morning. Never did he mention it or complain of his broken sleep.

Daddy's been gone for many years but as I study the Scriptures, I see God, the Father is available 24/7. He promises never to leave nor forsake me and He loves me no matter how many times I turn to nightmare living and call to Him for help.

For over thirty years of my life, I ignored Him. I'm so glad He didn't reciprocate. He never failed to love me. He'd been there all the time. 

He knows I'll be afraid and fret so He put in writing what He'll do for me. 

"I am with you. I am your God. I'll strengthen you, help you and lift you up." 

What more can He say than to me He has said? 

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord loves His children no matter their age. (He referred to His disciples as little children). He'll never leave me. He promised in His word and He keeps His promises. He loves you, too, and wants you to know His Love. Now that's something to think about!

 

CAREFUL WHAT YOU CHOOSE!

“And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the god of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15. (NKJV).

“Choose your favorite cup and we’ll vote.” Miss Bradley handed out slips of paper.

The silver tray displayed three cups--a gold and white china cup and saucer, a white mug with blue flowers, and an old tin cup. She held up each for outside inspection, then filled them with clean water. 

She gathered the slips, tallied them. “Winner by a landslide." She held the gold and white cup. The class clapped.

“Take a look.” Mud covered the bottom polluting the clean water. Gasps filled the room.   

The blue-flowered mug? Coffee grounds tainted its water.

Last the battered tin cup. Clean water sparkled. The room was so quiet you could hear a mouse hiccup in the back hall. A hand shot up.

“Yes, Timmy?” 

“May I change my vote?” She smiled.

"Why did you choose the gold and white cup?"

"Definitely the prettiest. 'Sides everyone choose it."

"Ahh." 

"It seemed right."

"Yes, it did. Why change your vote?" The corner of his lips turned down.

'I saw the inside. Yuck."

"You may change it. But, remember choice is a way of life and presents consequences.

"For this reason, Jesus came and paid for my sins. He knew I'd pick the wrong cup because of its beauty or believe the opinion of others.

"He held my life cup so I see inside. Not pretty and I couldn't clean it. I looked into His face and saw His love for me and you know what?" Heads shook. "He cleaned my cup and filled it with Living water. His gift. My choice. Now I belong to Him."

"How about me, Miss Bradley? Will He clean my cup?"

"Absolutely, Timmy. Anyone can ask Him." Hands went up. "Thank you, Lord," she whispered. 

Kingdom Thinking. In this life journey, choices bombard us. The most important choice is to choose the Lord Jesus Christ. He alone is worthy. He loves you and will never leave you. Won’t you come to Him?

THE CALL!

“But now, this says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are mine.’” Isaiah 43:1. (NKJV).

A hand stroked her right cheek. Her eyes opened. Darkness engulfed her. She froze. Her throat felt stuffed with cotton. Could she be dreaming?

A teenage girl was missing--had everyone in town on edge. Would she be next?

Buddy, her Boston Bull terrier, slept at her feet. Daddy said she was safe but how if--?

The hand continued to stroke her cheek.

"Daddy!"

Feet pounded. The light flashed on. Daddy's eyebrows raised. His face split into a grin, then he whooped with laughter. Mama came in, covered her mouth, snickering.

He walked to her bed, lifted her left arm curved over her head on the pillow. Her arm was numb, gone to sleep, her fingers misbehaving on their own.

“It’s okay. I’m here.” He pulled her into his arms. "Sorry you scared yourself." He chuckled.

"Fear caused you to put together quite a scare. Remember our Bible verse tonight?"

"The fear not part? 

"An important verse. The Scriptures repeat it over and over again. When we fear, we call upon the Lord."

"Like I called you tonight?"

"Exactly." He hugged his daughter. "He calls us by name and claims us as His own."

"Wow."

"Wow, indeed."

Kingdom thinking. Life presents me with choices--to believe the promises of the Scriptures or the shadows that plague me. The Lord Jesus promises never to forsake me. He loves me with an everlasting love. He knows me by name. He knows you, too. Won’t you answer His call?

BOOT CAMP!

"Because of the Lord’s faithful love we do not perish, for his mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness! I say, ‘The Lord is my portion, therefore I will put my hope in him.' The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the person who seeks him.” Lamentations 3:22-25. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, I’ll never make the track team.” Timmy flopped on the sofa, mouth turned down.

Grandfather put down his newspaper. “Remember our trip to Beaufort, S. C.? You saw Paris Island?”

“Oh, yeah. Where the marines train?”

“Yes. When they graduate, they stand tall in their uniforms, handsome and in tune with one another. Impressive.

"But you saw the end, not the beginning. The training that brought them to this point is intensive, and brutal. They’re yelled at and made to do exercises to increase their endurance--whether they want to or not. They must learn to follow orders. Lives depend on it.”

 
“Sounds really hard.”

“You’re right. Remember when we hiked in the mountains?” Timmy rolled his eyes, said.

“By that afternoon I could barely put one foot in front of the other. Kept telling myself to push hard. That night I collapsed on my sleeping bag. The next morning? Muscles ached I didn't know I had.” Grandfather chuckled. “But you insisted I get up and go. By the end of the week, I kept up with the others.”

“Well, multiply that by a gazillion. That’s how the recruits feel. That’s Boot Camp.”

Timmy tilted his head. “What are you saying?”

“I know you can excel at track. Won’t be easy. You have to train.” Grandfather's left eyebrow hitched. "On this earth, we’re in boot camp. In training so to speak. One day, we'll rule with the Lord Jesus. Most important? We must learn to obey His orders.”

“Whether we feel like it or not?”

“Absolutely. The Lord is faithful and His mercies are new every morning. Because of His great love, I put my hope in Him, not in circumstances or things happening around me.”

“I want to put my hope in Him, too.” Grandfather smiled, hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. No matter what phase of boot camp I'm going through, I know the Lord is faithful and true. He is good and loves me with an everlasting love. He promises never to leave nor forsake me. He offers this assurance to you as you go through boot camp. Won't you accept His invitation?

THE RESCUE!

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:16-17. (NKJV).

“How do I know God loves me?” Timmy crossed his arms, chin up.

“I love you.” Grandfather tilted his head.

“You don't count. You’re supposed to.” 

Grandfather leaned back in his porch rocker, forehead wrinkled.

“Timmy, did you know Sara rescued a kitten?” 

"Nope."

“One day on her drive home, she saw a paper bag tossed from a  truck into the medium of a busy thoroughfare. Wind from passing cars buffeted it. Twisting and turning, the bag opened. Out popped the head of a kitten.” 

“What happened?” Timmy leaned forward.

“She maneuvered into the medium, put on her flashers. She grabbed the bag and found a terrified kitten. After treatment at the vet's office, she took the kitten home.

“Now that kitten doesn’t know much about love, not even the Four Spiritual Laws, but he knows Sara rescued him. He loves her and trusts her in an amazing way.”

“Wow. How can anyone be so mean? That’s some story.” Grandfather nodded.

“I was like Sara’s kitten. Lost in the world, the traffic whizzed by, paying no attention. But one day, the Lord Jesus stepped out of His heavenly home, came to earth as a lowly man to rescue me, a sinner. He picked me up from the world’s harsh traffic. I don’t understand why He did, but I am eternally grateful.”

“Am I one of His kittens, Grandfather?”

“You better believe it! And He loves you.” Grandfather pulled Timmy into a hug. “Even more than I.” 

Kingdom Thinking. When I think about the little kitten, I remember I was in the same predicament. Traffic zipped by, causing my life bag to twist and turn. The Lord Jesus picked me up, rescued me. He loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave me. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come?

TARNISHED!

“How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.” Proverbs 16:16. (NKJV).

Janie twisted the silver basket one way, then the other. Humph. Take forever to clean this old thing.  It’s black as soot. She squirted dish soap on a cloth, scrubbed, rinsed. 

Her shoulders drooped. It'll never come clean. She shivered, looked over her shoulder.  

Leaning against the kitchen door, arms crossed, Grandfather grinned. “What are you doing?"

She tossed up her hands, soapy water spattering. “Trying to clean this thing. Grandmother wants to fill it with her prized roses.”

“First, let’s get this soap off your nose.” He dabbed it with his handkerchief. “Know what’s happened to this basket?” She tilted her head, knowing he'd tell her.

“Underneath this tarnish, the silver’s the same as the day the basket was made.  Over time the tarnish built up because the basket wasn’t cleaned or put to good use. 

“The pollutants in the air caused the problem. The basket couldn’t do a thing about it--and along came Janie.” She giggled. With silver polish from the pantry, he motioned with his head.  

“Come on. I’ll help you. Put on these gloves and let’s get to work.” 

“Wow. That's some shine, Grandfather. Grandmother'll love it.” She wiggled her fingers. "But these gloves? Black." She snapped them off, trashed them.

“You know, Janie, we’re like this basket. We’re tarnished by living in this world filled with pollutants--physical, spiritual or emotional. We use all sorts of cleansers but nothing works. We need someone who is willing and able to cleanse us. 

“The Lord Jesus?” 

“Yes," his voice softened. "He made us and knows exactly how to clean us. He allowed sinful, tarnished man to nail Him to the tree. He took all the tarnish on Himself so we can be clean, like new."

"Me, too?" Grandfather smiled, tapped her nose.

"Absolutely."

Kingdom Thinking. No matter how deep the stain, He nailed it to the cross so I could come to Him. He cleans my live so I reflect Him. He loves me with an everlasting love. Do you want to be cleansed and loved? His Arms are open to you.

SOLD TO SAVE!

“Then Midianite traders passed by; so the brothers pulled Joseph up and lifted him out of the pit, and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver. And they took him to Egypt.” Genesis 37:28. (NKJV).

 
“They sold their brother?” Timmy stiffened, eyes flashing. “How could they?” Grandfather shrugged.

“The brothers wanted a life free of Joseph, their father's favorite.”

“Were they right about their father?” 

“The Bible tells us, Jacob, their father, did favor Joseph.”

Timmy's shoulders drooped. “Why would God let that happen? He could make them love their brother, right?”

“Timmy, the Bible shows us the good and the bad. Remember, we look at the story from down here on earth. God sees it all from above and His plan is for His glory and our good.”

“What good could come from selling your brother?” He slouched on the sofa.

“For one thing, the Lord taught Joseph to trust Him. It’s easy to trust God when everything’s going great but when things go bad? That's a different story. Also, the Lord was moving Jacob and his family to Egypt.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Seven years of famine was coming and God takes care of His people. Joseph, sold by his brothers, became the second in command in Egypt. He arranged for the storage of grain so everyone could have food.  

“The famine came, his brothers heard food was available in Egypt so away they went. They didn’t recognize Joseph but Joseph recognized them.” Timmy leaned forward, his elbows on his knees.

“Did he give them food?”

“He did. Finally, he told them who he was--"

"Weren't they afraid he'd kill them after what they'd done?"

"'You meant it for my harm,' he told his brothers, 'but God meant it for good.' He then arranged for his father and all of the family to move to Egypt.”

“I'm glad they got food but seems like a hard way to learn to trust God,” Timmy said. "He did save his family, huh?" Grandfather chuckled.

“Indeed he did, son. The Lord knows exactly what we need to bring us to Him. He desires we come to know Him so we can share His love with others.”

"Amazing, isn't it, that the one they sold saved them?" Grandfather smiled, nodded.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus promises to love me and never forsake me--no matter what’s going on in my life. Even when I don’t recognize Him. The Lord Jesus paid for my sins to give me life. Because of His great love for me, I can risk loving others. Would you like to know His love? 

SOAP THAT KEEPS ON CLEANSING!

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” 1 John 1: 9,10. (NKJV).

She thrust back her shoulders, blinked to keep back the tears at the sight of his frail body, a shell of his former self. She tapped on the door. 

"Hello. Told you I'd come to see you." He turned toward her, his eyes softening, then showing fear. 

“Never thought I'd be like this,” he said. "Hate for you to see me." 

“What can I do for you.” She pulled up a chair. “Would you like me to pray with you?”

“Been reading this.” He picked up the Bible. “Maybe it offers hope for some but not me.” He closed his eyes. A tear trickled down his cheek.

“You read the hard part of the Book. Did you read about the precious gift Our Lord Jesus gives us? The gift of forgiveness and love?”

"Didn’t see that.” Hope flickered in his eyes, faded.

“There’s no way He could love me.” He looked away.

“Because of something you did? You could tell Him you’re sorry.” He dipped his head.

“I have no right to ask Him for anything. After all I've...”

“Are you proud of it?” She tilted her head.

“Of course not.” She leaned forward, whispered.

“Then what you need is a good bath.” His eyebrows arched. “With God’s bar of soap that keeps on cleansing.” She smiled.

“He promises if we confess our sins, He’ll forgive us. That’s not all. He’ll cleanse us from all unrighteousness. He also says if we say we have not sinned, we make Him a liar...”

“I couldn’t call God a liar,” his eyes flared. "What can I do? Will you pray for me?”

“Tell you what. I’ll begin. You repeat.” She began but he took over, confessing his sins and asking the Lord Jesus to come into his life, to make him a new person. His eyes snapped open, now shining.

“Thank you for coming.” She gave him a hug.

“I’ll be back. We’re family now.” He grinned.

Kingdom Thinking. I’ve been there. Feeling there is no hope because of my actions or words. The Lord Jesus promises if I confess my sins to Him, not only will He forgive me but cleanse me--and adopt me into His Family. How about you? Do you need His soap that keeps on cleansing?

THE ENCOURAGER!

“I cling to Your testimonies; O Lord, do not put me to shame! I will run the course of Your commandments, For You shall enlarge my heart.” Psalm 119:31-32. (NKJV).

Sue slammed the front door. The side lights rattled. Body stiff, nose in the air, she stomped to the park, plopped down on her favorite bench. The nerve of her brother. To say I wade through life miserable and uncaring and that I excel at it, too? Humph.

Different scenarios flooded her mind--the hurts she’d endured and nobody understood or cared one little bit.

“Are you dying?” the little boy whispered as he stood by her not affected by the glare she sent his way. He clutched his teddy bear--one with a large red heart.

“You can hug my bear. He helps take my pain away.”

She stared at the boy--maybe five years old? His pasty skin contrasted with the dark circles under his eyes. He thought she was dying?

“Mercy me,” she said, tears pooling. She accepted the bear’s hug, returned it to its owner. 

“Thank you, I’m all better. What’s your name?”

“Bobby.” He smiled. “This is Chester. I knew he could help you.”

“What's your favorite thing to do, Bobby?” He shrugged his shoulders.

“I know one thing.” He tilted his head. “You are an encourager.”

“Is that good?” He said, forehead furrowed.

“The best,” she chuckled. He grinned, waved, and headed toward the swings.

Humph. Guess I do consider the obstacles in my life as problems instead of opportunities. That little fellow, bless his heart, encouraged me. She listened to the bird song. "How beautiful! I’d better get home and apologize to my brother."

Kingdom Thinking. I stumble at the obstacles and problems in my life but the Lord promises He will not put me to shame. He loves me and promises never to leave me. He enlarged my heart--for Him--so I can offer encouragement to others. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come to Him?

CHILDISH OR CHILDLIKE?

“Then one of them, a lawyer asked Him a question, testing Him and saying, ’Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?’ Jesus said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 22:35-40. (NKJV)

“You don’t love your brother?” she said to her four-year-old.  “Why not?”

“’Cause he won’t play with me,” she said, stomping her foot.

“What do your think love is, Sarah?”

“Umm, Bobby plays with me. He lets me play with his toys. And I get to have 

his ice cream,” she said, a nod emphasizing each point.

Her mother rolled her lips. “Would you give your ice cream to Bobby?” Sarah shook her head. “Would you let him have your favorite doll or play with your toys?” 

"Course not."

“Let me get this straight. You want him to share with you but you don’t want to share with him.” Sarah nodded.

"I don't think it works like that, Sarah. Jesus tells us to love Him and love one another."

"All the time?" Mother smiled.

"Yes. All the time."

Sarah's lip quivered. "But that's not fair. It's too hard."

"Tell you what." She pulled Sarah onto her lap. "Let's pray and ask the Lord Jesus to help us do the right thing. Okay?"

"You and Jesus will help me?"

"Absolutely."

Sarah leaned against her mother. "I'm ready. Let's pray."

Kingdom Thinking. I find myself acting childish instead of childlike. The Lord Jesus knows my needs and what is best for me. As I give my heart, mind, and soul to Him, He changes me and loves my neighbor through me--without a hitch. He will do the same for you. Won’t you choose Him?

LOVE LIGHT!

 "No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light." Luke 11:33. (NKJV)

Timmy hustled into the kitchen, shadows slinking across the walls after him. “The storm knocked out the electricity, Grandfather. Where're the candles?” 

“The drawer next to the sink. I’ll get them.” A flash of lightning illuminated the room.

 A scratch of the match and a candle flamed. “Put this candle in the candlestick for me.”

Timmy grabbed the candle. It sputtered, darkness engulfing him. 

“Don't fret.” Grandfather lit another, handed it to him. “Not so fast this time.

“Tell you what, Timmy. Let’s put these candles under a flower pot.” 

“Under a flower pot? If we hide them, we’ll be in the dark.” He shivered. “I’d rather have light.”

“Bright fellow.” He chuckled. "Light gives us life, Timmy. It also gives us hope. 

In the early days of Israel, the lamp burned during the night. The clay lamp, filled with olive oil gave light, chased away the darkness. The light also let folks know the family was home.”

“Like the night light in my room?” Grandfather nodded. “I feel safe with it on.”

“The most important light in the world is the Lord Jesus. When you asked Him into your life, He brought light because He is Light. His light shines through you.”

“Even when I do bad things?” Timmy tilted his head. 

Grandfather smiled. “Sometimes, you close your spiritual blinds and don’t let the light shine through you but He’ll never leave you."

 

"Why?"

 

"He’s a Gentleman and will never force you to do something against your will.” 

 

"Why?"

 

"Because of His great Love for you. He wants you to act out of love.”

 

“He’ll be with me?”

 

“You can count on it.” Timmy grinned.

 

“That’s what I want.” Grandfather hugged his grandson.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus, the Light of the world, offers me His love. Sometimes, I shutter His Light in my life but He promises never to leave nor forsake me. His Love Light is there forever. He offers it to you, too. Won't you choose Him?

IT’S ALL ABOUT TRUST!

In Isaiah 26:3, we read: “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.”


Lightening flashed. A clap of thunder shook the house, rattled the windows. Timmy slapped his hands over his ears, scooted closer to Grandfather on the sofa. 

“How can you sit and read at a time like this?” The lights flickered.  

“Timmy. Look at this. He opened his Bible. He'd nestled a picture of a mother bird on her nest. Lightning slashed the sky, rain pelted the leaves around her. Head tucked under her wing, she slept.

“Why do you think she can sleep through the storm?”

“Her nest doesn’t look safe.” Timmy squinted at the picture. “I don’t understand.” 

“It’s all about trust. She trusts her nest is secure and she’ll be able to protect her chicks.”

“But Grandfather, how if the nest falls?”

“She trusts it won’t.”

“But how if lightning strikes the tree? How if--?” Grandfather held up his hand.

“Trusting is difficult. Impossible, really.” Timmy blinked. “Unless you realize the 'T' factor,’” Grandfather said.

“The ‘T' factor?’” Timmy's eyebrows tilted.

“Before you could swim, you’d climb to the top of the slide in the deep end of the swimming pool. ‘Come on, Timmy, I’ll catch you.’ I held my arms to you. Down you'd come and with you in my arms, we’d go under and come up laughing. Remember?”

“I knew you would catch me, Grandfather.” Grandfather nodded.

 “Why? How if I dropped you?" 

"But you didn't."

"Ah. The 'T' factor. You trusted me. Our Lord’s more trustworthy than I am. He’ll catch you, son. Every time. Trust Him.”

"Even in the storm?"

"Especially in the storm. It's easy to trust when all is calm but in a storm? We need His strong arms to catch us."

Kingdom Thinking. When I have trouble trusting my Lord, I remember He promises never to leave nor forsake me and to love me with an everlasting love. He catches me--every time. He offers the same to you. He’ll catch you--every time, too. Won’t you trust Him?

OUT OF THE MOUTH OF A CHILD!

 

“Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.’” Matthew 19:13,14. (NKJV).

"I need food." Timmy grabbed his rumbling tummy. On his knees he watched the passengers deplane. Their flight landed ahead of schedule at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia. 

"I really am hungry, Grandfather." The stewardess stopped by Grandfather’s seat. 

“Your flight won’t be called for another thirty minutes--plenty of time to enjoy a snack and stretch your legs.”

“Thank you. Ready, Timmy?” He grinned at another tummy growl. 

“There, across the way. Let’s head over to that restaurant.”

“What would you like?” Grandfather said as Timmy scooted into a booth. 

“Give him a beer,” a gravelly voice called out.

“I’d like a hot dog with catsup and a Sprite, please.” 

Grandfather gave their orders, picked up their food, then spread it on the table.

“Can I have the blessing?” 

“Of course, son.” Grandfather bowed his head.

“The Lord is good to me and so I praise the Lord. For giving me the things I need. The sun and the rain and the apple seed. The Lord is good to me. Amen,” he belted out. He lifted his head, a pleased expression on his face.

In the deafening silence, Grandfather looked around. At the bar, heads were bowed, hats off.

“Takes a little child, with a loud voice, to bring quiet to this place.” Grandfather chuckled, took a bite of his hot dog. "Eat up, son. Don't want to miss our flight."

Kingdom Thinking. Many times I’ve tried to prove the Lord lives. But the actions of a child can speak louder than words. The Lord Jesus promises He'll never leave nor forsake me when people yell or try to discourage me. He loves me with an everlasting love. He says, “Come to Me.” The invitation includes you. Won’t you come?

TRUE REST!

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for our souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. (NKJV).

Arching her back, she flexed her shoulders. For three days she'd kept vigil at her little daughter's bedside, the shades pulled to prevent light from hurting her child's eyes. 

She placed a cool cloth on her daughter’s forehead, heat radiating from her skin. A fine red rash covered her face and neck. 

She leaned against the bed, closed her eyes.

“Mama, will you rock me and tell me a story?” 

The child’s hoarse whisper slashed the silence. She lifted her daughter to her lap. 

With the child snuggled against her, she whispered. “Once upon a time--”

“No, Mama, a story about Jesus.”

“The Lord Jesus loved the little children. One day, when children were brought to Him to be blessed, the disciples complained. But He said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And He laid His hands on them and blessed them.’ 

"He loved them.”

“Does He love me, too, Mama?”

“Indeed He does, my darling. He loves His children.” She began to sing Jesus Loves Me. Before the song ended, she felt the little body relax, her breathing regular. She kissed the forehead, now cool. 

“Thank you, Lord Jesus.” She closed her eyes, sighed. Now she could rest.

Kingdom Thinking. When I doubt His love, I choose to remember I tried to be good. Failed. Tried to do the right thing. Failed again. Finally, I gave up, lifted my arms up to Him in surrender. Instead of condemning me, He pulled me up into His loving arms. True rest. He promises His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Not just for me but for you, too. Won't you come?

FOG AND COATTAILS!

“O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.” Jeremiah 10:23. (NKJV).

“Grandfather. I can’t see where we’re going.” Fog rolled in, blurring their surroundings.

“Don’t panic, son. Can you see a few steps in front of you?”

“Yes sir. But I can’t see far.”

“Trust me. I know this path.”

“You sure?”

Grandfather knelt in front of Timmy, put his hands on his shoulders. “I never want you harmed. I love you, son. I know where we’re going.” He chuckled. 

“Hang on to my coattails.”

“Those aren’t coattails. It’s your jacket tied around your waist.” Timmy giggled.

“Works for me.” Grandfather winked.

“Works for me, too.” He latched on to Grandfather’s jacket, head up, steps steady.

“Maybe this is a lesson for both of us." Timmy tilted his head.

“Don’t understand.”

“When you thought we were lost in this fog, fear rolled in--caused confusion. We need--.”

“A coattail to hang on to?” He tugged Grandfather’s jacket.

“Right.” Grandfather chuckled. “But not any coattail. We need to hang on to the Lord Jesus. He promises never to leave nor forsake us. He loves us--forever!”

Kingdom Thinking. On this path of life when fog closes in, I choose to remember I’m not alone. I’m with the One who created the path. He knows the way but most importantly? He knows me and loves me just as I am. He loves you, too. Won’t you come to Him?

CELEBRATE!

"For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself." Philippians 3:20,21. (NKJV).

"Look, Mama," seven-year-old Davy said, bouncing on tiptoe. "I see the American Flag. It's dancing in the wind."

They watched the wind furl and snap the beautiful flag in the brilliant sunshine, a sight to behold. 

The Fourth of July Celebration at the American Embassy in San Jose, Costa Rica, Central America. The family had lived in San Jose for six months while attending language school. Now they'd been invited to join the other Americans to celebrate this special holiday.

For a while, they'd stand on a little piece of American soil and eat hot dogs, hamburgers and all things American. Citizens of the United States of America living in a land, not their final home.

Our citizenship is in Heaven. A gift from our Heavenly Father who arranges for us to remain on earth in training--a type of boot camp. This program with the ups and downs in life helps to develop spiritual muscles needed in this world to share hope with those around us. Pain? Yes. Gain? Yes. Great joy? Absolutely!  

Once in a while, I get a glimpse, a surge of joy. One of mine receives the Love Gift of Salvation and it's time to celebrate! 

Kingdom Thinking. In this world, it appears I have dual citizenship. For now, I live in boot camp. One day, our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, will transform this boot camp body so it will be conformed into a glorious body like His. He promises this, not only to me, but to you. Won't you choose Him?

SAY WHAT?

“Then He said to His disciples, ‘The Harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.’" Matthew 9:37,38. (NKJV).

 Won't be long before I’ll harvest this patch of watermelons. He always won a prize. Framed blue ribbons lined the wall in his study to prove it. He turned a melon over, then another. His eyes narrowed.

“What’s going on?” He sucked in a deep breath.

“Timmy!” At his bellow, his grandson came running, but screeched to a halt when he saw his face.

“You called, Grandfather?” his voice squeaked.

“Know anything about this?” He pointed to the melon. A neat triangular plug protruded from the underside. Jaw taunt, fisted hands on his hips, he waited.

“Well.” Timmy dipped his head, dug his toe in the dirt. "Sam and I thought we’d check the watermelons for you--to see if they were ready to pick. The first one wasn’t so we plugged it to ripen...”

“You checked all of them?” Timmy bit his lip with a quick nod.

“We wanted to help you.” Grandfather massaged his forehead with his fingers. “You read from the Bible workers were needed for the harvest...”

“Understood,” Grandfather took a deep breath, whooshed it out. “Come here, son.

“When the Bible tells us to pray the Lord will send out laborers, He’s telling us to share His message of love with others. Many people don’t realize God loves them.”

“Didn’t have anything to do with the watermelon patch, huh?” Grandfather sighed.

“No, but maybe we can both learn from this. It’s not what we say but what people hear us say. You heard worker and harvest so you thought you'd help.”

“I messed up. I’m sorry, Grandfather.”

“Me, too. Maybe next year you can help me plant and tend the watermelons. Would you like that?”

“Yessir and I'll listen from now on. I promise." Grandfather put his arm around his grandson's shoulder, gave it a squeeze. 

"How about a glass of lemonade?” They headed for the house.

Kingdom Thinking. Too many times I’ve heard part of what was said which causes problems. Hear what the Lord Jesus says. He promises to love me with an everlasting love and never to leave nor forsake me. He promises the same to you. Do you hear Him?

YOUR FATHER’S NAME!

 

“Doubtless You are our Father, Though Abraham was ignorant of us, and Israel does not acknowledge us. You, O Lord, are our Father; Our Redeemer from Everlasting is Your name." Isaiah 63:16. (NKJV).

"Your mama wanted to take I Want A Word, an English class taught by Dr. Havilah Babcock.  She climbed the stairs to his office, tapped on the door. His secretary looked up.

“May I help you?”

“Yes ma’am. I want to sign up for I Want A Word.”

“I'm sorry. That class fills a semester ahead of time,” his secretary said, with a shake of her head. 

“Thank you.” Shoulders slumped, she turned to leave. 

A gentleman in the adjoining office walked around his desk, leaned against it. 

“Just a minute. Where’re you from?”

“Mayesville, South Carolina.” 

“Who’s your daddy?” 

She answered, head tilted.

“Sign her up,” he instructed his secretary. "I know her Daddy. Hunt with him. He has good bird dogs.” 

"So. Mama took his class?" Timmy said.

"Yes and loved every minute of it." Grandfather stared, then caught Timmy's eye. "What would've happened if Dr. Babcock didn't know her father?"

"She couldn't take the class?" Grandfather grinned. "Wait. You're her father."

"Smart fellow. Knew you'd catch up." He smiled. 

"Knowing our father's name is important but knowing our Heavenly Father? He is our Father, our Redeemer from Everlasting is His name." 

"Wow," Timmy shook his head. "Awesome."

"Awesome, indeed." Grandfather pulled his grandson into a hug.

KINGDOM THINKING. The Lord Jesus is in control of my life with even the smallest details that add flavor to each day. The Lord God is my father. He loves me and promises never to leave nor forsake me. He loves you, too. Is He your Father? His arms are outstretched. He waits for you.

HACKED!

“Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadows of turning.”  James 1:16,17. (NKJV).

“You’re not gonna be happy.” Timmy tossed his test paper on the kitchen table. Grandfather picked it up, frowned.

“I thought you studied for the test. You needed an A to pull up your average.”

“Not my fault, Grandfather.” He crossed his arms across his chest.

“Really?”

“I studied the important stuff.” 

“The materials the teacher gave you?”

“Um, no. I studied the sheet Dan gave me--his notes.”

“Let me see the notes.” He held out his hand.

“But, Grandfather. They’re private.”

“‘Private’ became null and void when you failed the test. The notes, please.”

Grandfather looked over his glasses. “Son, you memorized these answers?” Timmy nodded. 

“You’ve been hacked. Someone wanted you to fail, big time. Hope you didn’t pay much for them.” Timmy dipped his chin then looked up, tears glistening.

“I’ll take my own notes from now on--and study hard. I promise.” Timmy sniffed.

“That’s the spirit. With that attitude, you’ll get it done. And I’m here to help.”

“You’ll help? After what I did?”

“Of course. You're my favorite grandson--"

"I'm your only grandson, Grandfather."

"Um, true. Now. Let’s get to work.” 

Kingdom Thinking. Hacked? Me? Yes. The enemy bombards me with wrong answers, half-truths, then inserts fear and doubt. The Lord Jesus is Truth. He promises never to leave me and He loves me with an everlasting love. Have you been hacked? The Lord Jesus offers you good gifts. Gifts to prosper, not to fail. Won’t you come to Him?

KIND AND TENDERHEARTED!

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 5:32. (NKJV).

“I’ve decided to be kind. Our Sunday School teacher told us to be kind always.”

“He’s right." Grandfather tilted his head. "Be sure it's for the right reason.”

First, Timmy saw a lady loaded with groceries. “Let me help you.” He stowed them in her car. She tipped him. Grandfather smiled when told, continued to read his paper.

“May I help you?” An older gentleman struggled to cross the street. He insisted Timmy take money for his trouble.  

Later he opened the door for a lady, held it for her to enter. She, too, tipped him.

“I’ve done enough kind things for today.” Timmy kicked a rock from one side of the sidewalk to the other. Thought this would be exciting.

The honking of a horn grabbed his attention. 

He gasped. "Oh, no. The puppy's gonna get hurt." He dashed into the street, grabbed the pup, and ran to the sidewalk. 

“You okay, fellow?” The dog licked his hand, his paw raised. 

“Who do you have there?” Grandfather said as Timmy brought an armload of puppy to the porch.

“He was in the middle of the street and so scared. Can we find his owner?”

“Good thinking, son.” He checked the dog’s collar. “Here’s his number.”

"Wow. He knows you. His tail's going faster than the windshield wipers on Grandfather's truck.” Timmy chuckled.

“And I know you. You helped me cross the street this morning. Didn’t know Buddy was missing until I got home. Figured he got out, followed me.” He offered Timmy a five-dollar bill.

“Thank you, but I can’t take it. Glad Buddy's okay, sir.”

Later Grandfather asked why he didn’t accept the money. Timmy shrugged. “Didn’t feel right.”

“You did kind deeds earlier, but when you saw the pup? You acted from your heart, not thinking about yourself. Our Lord wants us to be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving. I’m proud of you, son.”

Kingdom Thinking.  The Lord Jesus is kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving. He loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave nor forsake me. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come to Him?

HIDDEN JEWELS!!

“I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that I, the Lord, who call you by your name, Am the God of Israel.” Isaiah 45:3. (NKJV).

“What about this one?” Grandfather peered over his glasses, shook his head.

“Doesn’t have to be the biggest, son. Sometimes the best quality can be small.” Timmy dropped the large rock. "Dig deeper." Timmy picked up the pick.

This vacation week they camped in Pisgah National Forest. Today they'd mine for precious stones. Tomorrow hike up to Looking Glass. 

“Look at this purple rock.” Timmy washed it, held it up to the sunlight. 

“Nice find. Looks like an amethyst. Didn’t jump into your hands, did it?”

“Nope. Had to dig for it. Hidden deep under the dirt.”

“You know, Timmy. The Lord promises us treasures. Treasures hidden in secret places.”

“What does that mean exactly?”

“Under heat and pressure, over time, gems are created. We dig to find them.” He looked at Timmy. “The Lord loves us more than gems, right? We’re his jewels. He puts us in dark places...”

“Like when bad things happen?” Nodding, Grandfather continued.

“It’s hard to trust in the dark places when you can’t see your next step, but the Lord knows what He’s doing. He’s in the process of making treasures.”

“But it’s scary.”

“Yes, but we're never alone. He wants me to know He, the Lord, calls me by my name. And the hidden riches will come to light.”

“We’ll get hidden riches?” Timmy’s eyes sparkled.

“We’re the jewels.” Grandfather chuckled. "Circumstances and hard times cut and polish us so His light can shine through.”

“Wow. That’s amazing.” Grandfather grinned.

"Indeed it is, son. So--dig deeper."

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord brought me from a hidden place. Now through his love and grace, He’s in the process of making me into one of His jewels. He loves me and promises never to leave me. Would you like to be one of His jewels? Come to Him.

THE REAL GPS!

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” John 14:6. (NKJV).

Make a legal U Turn

“Grandfather, you missed the turn." Rain pelted the truck. 

“Don’t you trust me, Timmy?” Grandfather gripped the steering wheel, squinted through the windshield.

“Yes sir, but the GPS on your truck tells us to make a legal U-turn. Difficult to see the sign in this downpour.”

Grandfather pulled the truck over. “Let me take a look,” he said. “Yep, we need to make that legal U-turn. Sort of like people.”

“What do you mean, Grandfather?”

“Well, the Lord provides guidance for us. God’s Provisional System. He uses signs along the way. Parents, teachers, the Bible, and experiences. We can learn from them or ignore them.”

“What happens when we don’t use His GPS?” Grandfather's lips twitched.

“Remember when the twins visited last summer?” Timmy laughed. 

“Thought Aunt Jenny'd have a stroke when they stood before her, painted green from head to toe. They decided to be Martians when they found green paint in the barn--”

Grandfather chuckled. “Took a heap of scrubbing to remove the paint. Mighty painful.”

“But Aunt Jenny cleaned them because she loved them?” Grandfather nodded. “They should’ve made a U-turn when they reached the barn door especially since it was off-limits.”

“Exactly. The Lord Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life.  He loves us and wants us to come to the Father through Him."

Kingdom Thinking. I stand amazed when I realize the Lord Jesus loves me and provides the way for me to spend eternity with Him. He promises never to leave nor forsake me. He offers the same love to you. Won’t you come to Him?

THE LOVE BOX!

 In John 14:20, we read: “At that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you.

“Grandfather, this is my new friend, Gabe.”

“Glad to have you, Gabe. Lunch will be ready in a few minutes. Hope you like hamburgers?”

“Yes sir, my favorite.”

                                                           

“It’s on the table, guys,” Grandfather called a few minutes later. "Come have a seat and I'll bless our food." After the amen, Gabe tilted his head.  

“Mr. Sterling, may I ask you a question?” Grandfather nodded. “Um. Who were you talking to? I didn’t see anyone.”

“Timmy, would you get the Love Box for me?”

“Here, Grandfather.” He placed it on the table.

“Gabe, this box represents God, the Father. It’s wonderful to know the Lord God loves me. But...” 

He opened the God box to reveal a second box. “This box represents the Lord Jesus Christ. Hidden in the Father. But...” 

He opened the Jesus box. Written on the third box, Me. But...” 

He opened the Me box and nestled inside--The Holy Spirit.

"Why should this matter to me?"

"Gabe, when I asked the Lord Jesus to come into my life, an amazing thing happened. God hid me in Christ who is in God, the Father. But that’s not all. In me dwells the Holy Spirit. He promises never to leave nor forsake me and He loves me forever.

“He offers the same to you, Gabe. But to answer your question about not seeing anyone? The Father is invisible, also the Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Even though I’m hidden in them, I’m the only one visible. To you and to the world.”

“Wow. You have all that power in you?” Grandfather smiled. “And I can ask them to come into my life?” A nod. “Will you help me?”

“With Pleasure, Gabe. 'Father, we come to you today to bring a new family member to you...'”

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus promises I will know He is in the Father and I’m in Him and He’s in me. Forever. That's love. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come to Him? He waits for you.

DAILY CORE EXERCISES!

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. (NKJV).

“How was practice?”

Timmy dropped his catcher’s mitt on the table. “Coach said we need to toughen up. Exercise every day.”

“Sounds like a wise thing.”

Timmy plopped down at the table. “Maybe to you but I have muscles screaming I didn't know I had.” Grandfather chuckled.

“Consistent exercise'll get you in shape. The soreness goes away as you strengthen your core muscles which prevent injury. Keep at it son. Don’t give up.”

As Timmy stood, Grandfather said. “Don’t forget to strengthen your spiritual muscles.” He sat. “The Lord Jesus knows we need to exercise our core spiritual muscles but we don’t unless we get sore and tired from life problems.

“When we exercise our faith and learn about Him, our burdens lighten. But there’s a catch.”

“Knew it. There’s always a catch.” Grandfather smiled.

“Remember how Mr. Howard gentled his horse?”

“Yes sir. He talked soft, was patient and kind. He put the saddle on real easy."

“That’s how our Lord is with us. When we come to Him, He’s gentle and forgiving. We must allow Him to put His yoke on us. He teaches us through His gentleness and kindness how to live and walk and love with His perfect posture. By the way, His yoke fits so we don’t have blisters or sores.”

“Made to order, huh?” He tilted his head. "That's really cool." Grandfather smiled.

Kingdom Thinking. My core spiritual muscles need constant exercise. The Lord Jesus promises never to leave me and He loves me. He asks me to come to Him and learn His ways. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. He promises the same to you. Won’t you come?

SO SPECIAL!

 

"What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that do not go astray.”  Matthew 18:12-14. (NKJV).

“Grandfather, I can’t find Beau.” Timmy slid to a stop, gulped.

“When did you see him last? He's probably asleep somewhere. Did you check his bed in the kitchen?” He nodded. "His basket in the den?" Tears glistened.

“I called him and called him. Think someone took him? Or he’s hurt or--”

“Don’t panic, son. We’ll find him. Surely a three-month-old Boykin Spaniel can’t escape.”

“He’s so tiny, Grandfather, but he ate a good breakfast...”

“I’ll say. If he eats that much every day we’ll call him, Roly Poly.” Grandfather chuckled as they walked into Timmy’s room.

“Why are your clothes on the floor? I thought you put them in the clothes hamper.” Timmy dipped his head.

“I forgot. I’ll do it now.” He lifted his dirty jeans. Curled up, fast asleep, lay a brown ball of fur. 

“Beau.” The puppy raised his head, blinked, and yawned. He grabbed him, held him close.

“Oh, Beau. You’re safe.” Timmy plopped down in the pile of dirty clothes, rocking his puppy like he'd never let him go.

“What a lesson, son,” Grandfather said. “Jesus told about one sheep who wandered away. So special the shepherd left the others to look for him. When he found him, he rejoiced and brought him home on his shoulders." He tilted his head.

“Now you understand how the Lord feels when one of His lambs is found.” Timmy nodded and hugged Beau who licked his face. He grinned.

"So special!"

Kingdom Thinking. I wandered in this world, didn't know my destination. The Lord Jesus found me. He picked me up in His arms and brought me to safety. He'll do the same for you. He loves you and promises never to leave you. You're special. Won’t you come?