Frank’s Reflections

This message is for me, but you can read it. You have my permission. Are you running from one situation to another? You put out one fire, and then you see another one burning. Grab the water hose and extinguish it. It is the mission of the day. By the time the fire equipment is in its proper place, there’s another one burning bigger than the last one.

Sound familiar? Probably. Too familiar. Huh.

Headaches every day, take a couple of pills and keep on going. How long do you keep going? Usually, till something gives. You. Them. Employment maybe. What does it take until you honor yourself? Yes, I said it. I’m guilty of all the above.

Is this some kind of scenario? No, just real life. It’s Sunday, went to church, came home, took some ibuprofen, and laid down for 15 minutes. It turned into 45 minutes. Now I’m going to be late for a meeting that is 45 minutes away. I got in the car and started the journey. One-third of the way there—headache still there.  Made a decision. Turned around and headed for home. Going to miss this meeting, the first one in 3 years, not feeling very well. Felt guilty, so I self-indulged. Stopped for ice cream, the first in weeks. It didn’t satisfy.

Reached home, picked up a book to read, and got my mind to relax. There it was—a section on relaxation. It reminded me not to feel guilty and enjoy some “self” time.

Even the God of creation took a day off. He rested on the 7th day (Genesis 2:2). If God set the example, wouldn’t it be wise if we do the same? It is a principle that many people do not follow until something happens. Reread the first part of this paragraph. Read it again and again and again. Did you get the message? I did. Now the question is, can I follow my own advice? I hope so.

I’ll let you know in a couple of months from now in a future blog.

Maybe it’s time you decide to follow God’s pattern, too. There will always be fires of situations burning. Let someone else grab the water hose and put out some of the fires.

Fire isn’t just for Hell. There will be a fire in Heaven. The height of its flame will be higher than we thought possible. The fuel for this fire is surprising to most Christians. It will be our works, not the actual tasks, but the motives behind them. I Corinthians 3:13 NKJV states the burning this way, “Each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is.” There will be a revealing of the true intentions of our deeds. Why did we do certain things? Who were we trying to impress? Man, or God?

Part of the Christian’s eternal reward is an evaluation of our actions for Him. Were they really for Him or an attempt to look good in the eyes of our peers and friends? The ultimate test for us regarding our actions is fire—a visible, revealing truth concerning the motive for each of our deeds. Just like the purifying of precious metals—silver or gold—the smelting pot reveals impurities. After the removal of the contaminants, the real, pure metal is brilliant. The fire in heaven removes – burns – all the contaminates of man’s actions. The spotless remains are the rewards that Jesus will bless.

This evaluation will take place at the Judgment Seat of Christ in Heaven (II Corinthians 5:10). It is there that each person will receive their “just” rewards. Those that have been tried by fire.

How big will your fire be? The size of a match, a campfire, or a bonfire. Maybe it would be good for each believer to do some self-inspection of our lives and contemplate our motives for some of our actions. Are they to look good to friends, co-workers, etc? Hopefully, we do right because that is what God wants us to do, all the time. Even when it may hurt us. It’s the eternal picture that we must keep in mind. We certainly do not want to see a bonfire in Heaven, burning up our deeds.

Some people never seem to stand out in a crowd. They’re the quiet ones. Hardly ever noticed, yet, still there. They are part of the group, but seemingly not part of the crowd. Society calls them introverts. They’re usually the silent ones and often the smarter ones.

Extroverts are quite the opposite, always talking, laughing, and expressing their opinions, no matter what. They know everything about everything and everybody. When they open their mouths, they usually reveal something about their intelligence or lack thereof. Extroverts, although prominent, have a way of saying too much sometimes. They may lack compassion at times, so they will tell you what they think regardless.

Love is an introverted characteristic. Sometimes affection is better communicated without words than with a lot of words—actions best express love. Many times, their efforts go unnoticed, but at least they are sincere, and this sincerity is always there. The Apostle Peter spoke at times before he thought. He was the extrovert of the disciples and their spokesman. Sometimes he put his foot in his mouth. Words are just words, but the motive behind the words reveals the love of the one acting. 

Real love requires a commitment that reveals sincerity and genuine, honest devotion. Christ commands husbands to love their wives. Interestingly, the Bible talks about the man doing the loving, but not the wife (Ephesians 5:25a). 

Christ demonstrated His love of the church by giving Himself for it (Ephesians 5:25b), laying down His life for it.

The New Testament church shows their Christian love in their worship and actions.

We celebrate Valentine’s Day in February. It’s a day that we honor those that we love. Husbands and boyfriends usually give cards, candy, flowers, and/or special dinners in an expression of their outward love. That’s the extrovertedness in us.

The introvert, however, does the thoughtful, little things. Most of the time, they go unnoticed, but they are the actions that are valued because they reveal the heart. It’s those thoughts that build relationships beyond what words can describe.

Most introverts live in the shadows of others that go unnoticed by the crowds. It’s after they’re no longer with us that the realization becomes evident. We will miss their thoughtfulness. The quiet little things that went unnoticed are appreciated later. 

It has been one of those weeks. Busy, crazy busy, or maybe it was busy crazy.

Where did the week go? Almost everything fell into place. However, one thing fell through the cracks. I’m doing it now, trying to play catch up. 

Have you ever been behind? 

Sure, you have. Everyone has.

So, what did you do? I just decided to relax. I watched an old movie on TV. One of those sweet tear-jerker ones. The kind where the main character gets stepped on all through life. Finally, the hero comes to the rescue.

Life has seasons where things do not always work out. Some people never have a saint come marching in. Life seems to beat them up every way they turn.

How does one keep going? 

As a wannabe published author, I keep pitching my book proposal. So far, I am batting a 1,000–a perfect score. I have been turned down by every editor and agent. Should I quit? Not a chance.

There is a mission and purpose to my madness. To be obedient to my Lord. 

I was even told by one editor, recently, not to use the word “Lord” in my writing. Her reasoning was the millennials think that lord refers to the “Lord of the Rings.” My assurance comes from scripture. “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62 NKJV). What does that mean? To me, simply do not quit.

God’s family has lots of people who have become discouraged and dropped out of sight. That’s a shame. Good people have let cruel people become strong discouragers.

But God’s grace is always enough. He allows second, third, and fourth chances. He is understanding. That is the way He is. Maybe it is time to let the God of the universe take care of things.

Every time a person speaks to an audience, they must decide where to start. What are the introductory remarks? Sometimes that is a difficult decision. There are times a mental debate occurs to find the ideal starting place. Most individuals begin with thorough, thoughtful planning of the content to be presented. As the presentation progresses, the emotions of the situation can seize control and unplanned words just pour out.

When you were young, you may have suffered consequences for not telling the truth. I did, how about you? My parents wanted to build moral character in me. When a person comes into God’s family, their personality begins to change by their ability to be truthful. Everything rises and falls on that principle.

So, what does the Lord have to say concerning starting? Three scriptures come to mind with the same premise. All of them are in the book of John. First, in 1:14, “And the Word (Jesus) became flesh and dwelt among us . . .full of grace and truth.” Then in verse 17, “But grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” Finally, in 14:6, “Jesus said to him (Thomas), I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Jesus emphasized the truth. This principle is foundational to every society.

One of the great things about truth is you do not have to remember the lie you told. When a person lies to hide the fact, any fact, sooner or later, they will forget the lie that they said. Or maybe they tell so many lies they get confused about what is the truth and what is the lie. That’s a sad fact in which some people get trapped; however, there are people who fall into that category. 

How does this personality trait impact society? When the truth is not there, doubt is. If uncertainty is present, then trust is absent. Honesty is the substance on which everything stands. Homes, churches, and governments also thrive on that standard. Without this foundation, all parts of society eventually crumble. It begins with an obscure crack that keeps getting bigger and bigger. Then, it becomes visible, sometime in the future, without a remedy.

It’s a subtle thing, but do you remember who told the first lie? Satan, serpent, Lucifer whatever you call him. Scripture calls him the father of lies (John 8:44). Too many people get caught up in his deception. They always hurt themselves by doing so. It is a hard lesson to learn, and there are times the consequences are expensive in more ways than one.

So, where do you start? The answer will always be the truth. Please do not let that truth escape you.

Most children were taught from an early age to do what is right. The parental guiding hand wanted to instill integrity into the child. Part of the process involved was to honor their parents. That learning endeavor began by doing what was said. Soon started a struggle between the child and authority. Children have always wanted their way, and insightful parents wanted the best for their children.

God has always blessed the person who is not deceitful. The Lord honors truth. He always has and He always will. Jesus said to him, “I am . . .the truth” (John 14:6). When a person comes to the Lord and experiences salvation, they will change. II Corinthians 5:17 calls the redeemed “new creatures.” What does that mean? It means the character of the new believer now can become more like Christ. The new man can now put the old ways behind him and start a fresh, clean life.

The original helpers for the church in Jerusalem were men of respected reputation and wisdom (Acts 6:3). These men were used by the Holy Spirit to advance the work of the Lord. This mature spiritual journey develops slowly for most individuals. The lifelong development of a Christian is a process, slow at times, and rapid at others, depending upon our receptivity.

There are times we stumble. Other times we fall flat on our face. How one moves forward is up to him. Integrity is the guide. Trusting in Jesus and depending on the Holy Spirit’s guidance, will make the journey sweeter.

John Mark, an apprentice of Paul and Silas, offended Paul by quitting on a missionary adventure (Acts 15:37,38). Later, Mark, as he is better known, had re-established his testimony as being dependable. Paul recognized that and then requested Mark’s presence in II Timothy 4:11. Mark somehow became useful for the ministry. God used John Mark to write part of the New Testament, the book of Mark. God would not have used Mark if he was still a quitter.

Why the above example? Let me explain. Regardless of your past faithfulness or lack thereof, there is still hope for you. God can encourage you, use you, and bless you for His glory.

God always desires what is best for each of His children, regardless of the past. Do not let a haunting memory continue to discourage you. If Mark can re-establish his usefulness for God, so can any other sincere believer, including you, to do what is right in His sight.

The book of Ecclesiastes declares there is a time for almost everything. “To everything there is a season, a season for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born; A time to die…” The scripture goes on to describe most every event in life. Every happening in your life has a season. Seasons are a term for different periods in a year. The seasons of life have their cycles also.

It doesn’t make any difference what season you are in. It too shall pass, eventually. It may take a while for the transition, but it will happen. Life has a way of continuing regardless.

So, what matters to you? What is important to you today may not be so tomorrow or next year. This startling occasion has your focus—why? Why is it a concern to you? Can you change the event or the results? In most cases, the only thing that we can do is comfort somebody going through a rough situation.

What time is it? Is it time for you to reevaluate your own life? A time to change? For years, before I would type something on this computer, I would handwrite it on paper. Then, I make some corrections before the keyboard and my fingers connected. My fingers, two or three, typed slow. Real slow.

The next adventure for me was voice dictation. That was a remarkable improvement for me, but still, I had to make corrections because of my articulation. Even that wasn’t the finished product.

The next step in the course of events was to run the article through the review section in Word. Then, on to Grammarly for the final product. Well, that isn’t true. The next step was to pass the article on to a friend for her expertise in proofreading. Sometimes she bled all over it. When I finished correcting all her recommendations, the last step was for my wife to post it on WordPress. No, she had to make her recommendations before posting it, too.

A blog isn’t a blog for me unless it is original, then rehashed, and rehashed one more time for good measure.

I have told you my story. There is a season for everything. Only what is in print will last more than a lifetime of memories.

One last thing, a new beginning has happened. This article NEVER went through the handwriting or dictation process. It came about without any of my old methods. I opened the computer and started typing. “IF” I can start a new adventure this new year, so can you!

That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.

Sometimes we are overwhelmed with things to do. The list is longer than there is time in a day. Where do we begin? What are the priorities? You may be so bogged down and confused you do not know where to start.

As the New Year approaches, the list of needed actions is lengthy.

So, where does one begin? Some people check off the easy ones first. That will shorten the list. This will also give you a sense of achievement. It can encourage you to approach the next item on your list (the checklist may be in written form or mental notes of the task). A visual list works better for me. It helps to relieve my anxiety and to see the completion of some of the issues. It also allows a better focus on the more time-consuming problems.

Now, you have a good start on the issues of life. Where does God fit in with your lifestyle? Some block Him out until THEY solve their issues. The problem with that line of thinking is you assume that you can take care of each difficulty by yourself. The underlying issue is we have allowed situations to control our lives. God’s list of priorities for you should have Him on top of the list. God first, other things after. Those two thoughts prioritize the real itemized list. When God is first, the other things somehow fall into place. They are accomplished because He is guiding you and assisting you. He is giving you wisdom and energy to tackle each situation. These are, in fact, opportunities for you to depend on and trust His guidance?

Some of you may be thinking, “that will not work in my life.” Let me say again, “It will”. My family has experienced it. God somehow intervened all along the way because we put Him first. Yes, the times were tough. Extremely tough. Yet God got us through them.

He will do the same for you. Trust him. Don’t quit on Him. He is faithful. He will never desert you.

But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah from you shall come forth to me one who is to be ruler in Israel.¹

Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.²

For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.³

But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.⁴ 

And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.⁵

Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.⁶

The Word became flesh and took up residence among us.⁷

He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel.⁸

The Son of Man came to find lost people and save them.⁹

All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.¹⁰

I kept them in Your name,¹¹ 

May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.¹²

¹ Micah 5:2 ESV; ² Isaiah 7:14 ESV; ³ Isaiah 9:6 CSB; ⁴ Galatians 4:4,5 NASB;
⁵ Matthew 1:21 NKJV; ⁶ Luke 2:10,11 KJV; ⁷ John 1:14 HCSB; ⁸ Luke 2:32 NLT; ⁹Luke 19:10 NCV; ¹⁰ Matthew 28:18 KJV; ¹¹John 17:12 NKJV; ¹² Romans 15:33 ESV.

In this final month of the year, we usually find ourselves giving and receiving gifts. After all, it is Christmas and many people say I want this or that. If possible, they get it all wrapped up with a bow on top. Desire and fulfillment may arrive at the same time and place.

More than two thousand years ago, God gave some people choices to make around the events of our Lord’s earthly birth. It’s interesting to look at a few. Some made the right decision, and some did not. What could have been good for some wasn’t because of their choices. Others decided to trust God, and God recorded their names or occupations in the Bible. 

Joseph was just a man wanting to do the right thing when he found out that his fiancé was with child. He was willing to pray and ask God what to do. God showed him in a dream that it was right to wed Mary. How would scripture be written if Joseph had said no to God?

Mary, a teenager, was told by an angel that she was going to have a child—the Savior of the world. She asked how? The reply was the Holy Spirit will overshadow you. That’s all she needed to know, and she said yes to God. What if she said no? Her name would never appear in God’s Word.

Another individual, the innkeeper, said he had no room for the young couple. Mary was about to give birth to the Son of God, and he said no to them. What would the Bible say if the innkeeper made accommodations for this travel weary couple? Praise would be part of the accolades about him. Maybe his name would be recorded in the Bible. Today his name would be a familiar name among men.

When you think of the shepherds, what do you think? It’s a respectable occupation that may be lonely but not looked upon with low esteem.

How about Herod, the local ruler, who felt threatened by a young man, Jesus? Because of jealousy and his insecure personality, his name was not respected by the societies of the world. Scriptures would have recorded compliments if Herod rejoiced over the King of Kings being born in his territory. But no, this man wanted to stand in the way of our glorious King. 

The wise men traveled from afar to worship our Lord.  They even brought gifts in appreciation as they worshipped our Savior. The gold was used by Joseph and his family to go to Egypt which prevented Herod from killing the Messiah, our Savior. These wise men are portrayed as true worshippers today in every Christmas play. What if they said, “It’s winter and it’s cold, the trip is too far?” The Bible probably would have never mentioned them. 

When God brings an opportunity to you for helping others, what will you do? What will be your choice? Eternity will record your answers. May we, by the grace of God, be willing to say yes. Yes, to God, and no, to everything else. It may be our only chance to make a difference for some for all eternity.