How High Can You Count?

Posted on June 13, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[336 words] When 156,000 American, British, and Canadian soldiers landed at Normandy, France on June 6, 1944, it was the largest seaborne invasion in history. More than 4,000 Allied soldiers died during that World War II battle. What a high price, and an enormous sacrifice! Most people agree that although the cost was high, the decision American General Dwight D. Eisenhower made to launch the invasion was a noble one, and the goal of defeating the Nazi regime was worth the sacrifice. Jesus admonishes us to “count the cost” of being His disciple (Luke 14:25-33). In fact, He said, “those...

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Is Racism A Sin?

Posted on June 13, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[330 words] Before answering the question, it is imperative that the terms, racism, and sin be defined. First, the term racism is defined as “prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one’s own race is superior.” As important as defining the term is understanding what racism is not. 1. It is not a person of one “race” acting justly against a person of another “race.” 2. It is not a person of one “race” disagreeing with a person of another “race.” 3. It is not a person of one “race” correcting...

The GIFT of a Great Relationship

Posted on June 13, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[388 words] We just love getting gifts, don’t we? How wonderful it is having someone think of us and spend time and resources to get us something special. It lets us know that we are loved. And, of course, we should be most thankful for the love and gift God has given us in Christ Jesus (John 3:16; Eph. 4:7). I remember attending a wedding where the minister conducting the service told the couple getting married that they were a gift to one another. That is true. There is nothing more wonderful than being in a healthy and happy relationship...

Adaptability, Attitude, and Always Abounding

Posted on June 13, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[354 words] For some people, when they encounter changes to their environment or routines, it is unsettling, unnerving, and can be a very traumatic experience. For others, when they encounter change, it can be exciting, thrilling, and a roller-coaster ride of new experiences (either good and bad). For all of us, whether we have positive reactions or negative reactions to change, it should be an experience to say, “I trust in God to keep me grounded.” Life changes. Situations change, but God remains constant (Heb. 13:8; Jas. 1:17). Here are some ways we can trust Him more, no matter how...

Seek First to Understand, Then Be Understood

Posted on June 13, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[354 words] Stephen Covey was an American educator, author, businessman, and keynote speaker. His most famous book is entitled, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” This book highlights seven ways one can be more effective in life, work, or their profession as they seek to hone their craft. Habit #5 is: Seek first to understand, then be understood. We are currently in the midst of a society where members are wanting to be heard. We continue to see people from all walks of life desiring someone to talk to and seeking someone to listen to what they have to...

As We Listen

Posted on June 13, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[381 words] In Luke 8:18 Jesus warned, “Therefore take heed how you hear.” He had said earlier, “And hearing they may not understand” (vs. 10). The words “hear” and “heard” are also found in vs. 12, 13, 14, and 15. Later, Jesus would add, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it” (vs. 21). Seems that hearing is important, especially if God’s will is being communicated. A disposition to hear, to hear carefully, to make sure we understand correctly, ought to be our goal. How well do we listen when God’s word...

Contentment and Purpose

Posted on June 13, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[367 words] We live in a country that is wealthy and even though we may be going through a hard time we are still considered some of the richest people in the world. The Bible teaches that contentment with what we have, if we are rich or poor, is an important character trait we all should work to have. Seeking after money and possessions opens us up to temptation and leads to sin. “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food...

What Made Him Pray?

Posted on May 7, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[339 words] The scriptures show us clearly that Daniel was a man of prayer (Dan. 6:10), so it’s no surprise to see him pouring his heart out to God in Daniel chapter 9. Several clues in this chapter teach us what motivated Daniel to pray on this occasion. Scripture made him pray (Dan. 9:2,11-13). Realizing God’s promises were real and close to fulfillment made him hit his knees. Daniel understood this from his study of the prophet Jeremiah (Jer. 29:10). Recognizing God’s promises ought to drive us toward His throne, too. Christ’s return and the coming judgment should lead us...

Expressions of Faith

Posted on May 7, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[386 words] Isn’t it frustrating when our plans get hindered? As the apostle Paul was writing the letter to the Romans, he told them that he had often planned to come to them, but had been hindered (Romans 1:13). Many of us today during this current crisis are feeling the weight of altered plans. Careers, education, social lives, and even grocery shopping is off track for many. But we must be careful not to let the practice of our faith get sidetracked. Let’s notice how even in what was surely a frustrating time for Paul, faith was still flourishing and...

His Eyes Are Upon You

Posted on May 7, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[343 words] Recently, I read a story about an 11-year-old boy up north. He was eagerly looking forward to attending a friend’s birthday party. Days before the event, he and his mother had picked the perfect gift. They had carefully wrapped it. Friday night, all was ready for the occasion. But, Saturday morning, everyone awoke to an unexpected snowstorm. The blowing snow made driving difficult…almost impossible. However, the boy insisted. “But Dad,” said the boy. “It’s not too far to my friend’s house. I could walk it in the snow. Besides, my other friends are walking there, too.” Finally, the...

Our Strength

Posted on May 7, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[359 words] There are a number of interesting scenes presented in the book of Nehemiah. One, often overlooked, is found in chapter 8. People were gathered in an open square to hear God’s word read to them. Ezra was the reader and it was an extensive reading, to say the least. All morning long he read. And, people listened attentively (8:3). With reverence, people stood. Careful explanation was given to be certain the hearers understood the meaning of what was read (8:8). The reaction of the people would lead us to conclude they saw glaring faults and failures in their...

Honey, or Venom?

Posted on May 7, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[388 words] Honey has a very sweet, pleasant taste. It can be eaten by itself. It can also be used to sweeten other foods. Some believe that there are some healing benefits to honey as well. Most people would welcome having a jar of honey in the house. Venom? Well, venom is poison. When I think of venom, I think of a poisonous snake. Venom stings. Venom harms the body. Venom can bring death. Venom is not something that individuals welcome into their homes. They keep it as far from them as possible. We mention these two things because our...

Let’s Read the Writing on the Wall

Posted on May 7, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[303 words] In Daniel chapter 5, we read about how a man was stripped of his blessings. The man’s name was Belshazzar, one of the rulers of ancient Babylon. This fellow was rich and powerful. As is often the case with those born rich, he was arrogant and irreligious. One night, Belshazzar was partying and getting drunk. He and his friends were profaning Jehovah God. Then a frightening event occurred. A hand appeared and wrote a message on the wall. It was a message of judgment. No one could read and understand the message but Daniel the prophet. Daniel told...

Being a Disciple of Jesus

Posted on May 7, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[379 words] “But beware of men; for they will deliver you up to the courts, and scourge you in their synagogues” (Matthew 10:17). Jesus was sending His disciples out to preach the gospel of Christ telling the people to repent of their sins. He also told them all of the things which they would encounter. When we read this, it seems that it was going to be a very difficult time for them. It is also difficult for us. People would mistreat them. Some will also mistreat us. He tells them they would be brought before governors and kings for a testimony...

What If God Took Your Excuses Away?

Posted on May 7, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[327 words] Several years ago, while living in another city, one of the elders in the church here and this writer were making some calls on some of our members who had become negligent in their attendance with the house of God at the times of worship. As we sat in one home, we listened to a young mother give, as an excuse tor forsaking the assembly of the saints, that her children were unruly, they were difficult to handle, and very noisy, and that it was a source of embarrassment for her to bring them to services. Though this...

What Will We Tell Our Kids?

Posted on April 8, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[392 words] Someday we are going to tell our children and grandchildren about 2020. We will tell them about this virus and all of these weird changes that we had to make. We will talk about social distancing and how big corporations turned over their production to provide essential medical equipment. Maybe we will end up talking about how America’s economy roared back or maybe we will tell them how it didn’t. Maybe we will tell them about loved ones that passed. At least we will have a good story to tell. I wonder what we will tell them about...

Shelter in Place

Posted on April 8, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[398 words] “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1). Due to the COVID-19 crisis, many Americans have been told to stay home. That means do not go to work, do not go to school, do not leave the house at all unless you have to. The number is only expected to increase. This is commonly referred to as the “Shelter in Place” directive. In our home state of Kentucky, our government officials are calling the plan “Healthy at Home.” A few random thoughts on the spiritual nature...

Dealing With Chickens

Posted on April 8, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[314 words] I loved visiting my Aunt Maureen and my Uncle Tolle Chapman in Nobob, KY when I was a little boy. They always had chickens in their backyard! I would spend hours watching the chickens peck the ground and interact in their little space. My aunt Margaret lived just up the road. She too, had chickens! I liked her chickens even though she had a rooster that spurred me on my leg (I still have that scar). What I noticed with both sets of chickens is this: Both groups worked, moved around, and survived as they learned to deal...

Quarantine is a Biblical Practice

Posted on April 8, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[335 words] Peter’s first letter addressed the difficulties the church was facing in the first century A.D. Today, we are facing a pandemic unlike anyone has ever seen in our generation. To the faithful, the hardest thing is having to self-isolate away from our friends at the Lord’s church. We do this so we won’t contract the virus and spread it to others. Peter sought to encourage his readers to remain committed in all their trials. Like them, we can read Peter’s words and learn the value of putting our focus on the one who can provide all we need...

Finding Some Normalcy

Posted on April 8, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[300 words] The other day I talked about my work life during “limited shelter in place.” That reflects part of my strategy for dealing with all of this craziness: find ways to create normalcy. I have found times when I found myself stressed without really knowing why. That made me realize how disorienting a loss of routine is. So I’m trying to maintain a normal routine. I get up early and do my usual morning routine. I shower, shave and dress as if I were going to my office. I try to keep normal office hours, working during that time....

What it Takes to Be God

Posted on April 8, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[310 words] In part of John’s glimpse of heaven, he saw four living creatures who did not rest from praising God saying, “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come” (Rev. 4:8). In this saying of honor, three great attributes of God are given. Holiness. God is the Holy One (Ezek 39:7). He is one hundred percent love and purity (Psa. 12:6; 1 John 4:8). He is total righteousness and is always right (Deut. 32:4). Truly He is “Holy, holy, holy.” Omnipotence. God is the All-Mighty One (Psa. 65:6). He spoke everything into existence,...

Are Monsters Due in Abilene?

Posted on April 8, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[306 words] An episode of the classic TV show Twilight Zone was called “The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street.” In this episode, the power goes out in a neighborhood. Someone suggests the possibility that this is the work of aliens and that one family is in cahoots with the invaders. Later power is restored at one house, then a different one, then a different one. The gathered crowd turns into a violent mob, accusing and attacking one another. Is that where we’re headed with the coronavirus? Will we be pointing fingers and accusing people? Will we stand in judgment...

Yes, It’s a Pandemic

Posted on March 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[395 words] Uncontrolled disease can be horrific. With the current worries about the spread of a new coronavirus dubbed “COVID-19,” we have heard the terms “epidemic” and “pandemic” tossed around quite a bit. An epidemic occurs when a disease affects a greater number of people than is usual for an area, and a pandemic is when that epidemic goes worldwide. With pandemics, health officials search diligently for the cause, the mode of transmission, and possible clues to protecting the world population. As governments and health systems struggle to cope with the COVID-19 crisis, we are reminded of the worldwide scourge...

Security of Believers

Posted on March 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[308 words] One of the basic doctrines of Calvinism is the impossibility of apostasy. This teaching says that once a person becomes a Christian there is nothing he or she can do to be lost One man went so far as to say that even if he murdered someone in cold blood he could not be lost. This is not the kind of security that is taught in the Bible. For the Christian, eternal life is based on faithfulness throughout life. Peter said to those who add the “Christian Graces”: “For if you do these things you will never stumble”...

My Brother

Posted on March 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[335 words] “Afterwards the LORD asked Cain, “Where is Abel?” “How should I know?” he answered, “Am I supposed to look after my brother?” (Genesis 4:9 CEV) In 1964, a young woman was stabbed and raped outside her Queens apartment while witnesses observed and did nothing. The perp even left and returned to resume stabbing her. The New York Times claimed that 38 witnesses observed this crime and did nothing. One of those witnesses later said, “I just didn’t want to get involved.” Clinical experiments show that witnesses are less likely to help a crime victim if there are other...

The Day Jesus Cleaned House

Posted on March 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[336 words] Why did Jesus have to cleanse the temple? Why was He not content to just let things go on business as usual? In John 2, Jesus “cleans house” literally because those Jews had made the temple a “house of merchandise” (John 2:16). There were things, behaviors, and attitudes that didn’t belong in a house dedicated to the Lord. 1 Corinthians talks about the temple of the Lord being both the individual human body and the collective body of the church (see 1 Cor. 3:16-17; 6:19-20). Can Christians look with the eyes of Jesus and see the point when...

Of Fools and Blind Faith

Posted on March 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[335 words] Both evidence and reason point convincingly to faith in God. The charge of “blind faith,” often leveled against the conviction of believers, better describes the plight of those who see a world without God. “For every house is built by someone, and He that built all things is God.” (Hebrews 3:4, McCord.) A house suggests a builder. To imagine a house building itself, or accidentally exploding into existence, is to contemplate the absurd. Such a nonsensical notion, absent any empirical, philosophical, or historical foundation, is “blind faith” to the extreme. But there is a faith equally ridiculous and...

Credibility from Mountaintops

Posted on March 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[363 words] There are many people who look on those who are religious as naïve, that is, people with good intentions, but devoted people deluded by ideas not based in reality. Though this is hardly the case, it matters not; some just choose to think this because they desire to live in accordance with what the world presents. Unfortunately, many Christians give them reason to think this because they themselves do not align their lives with the confession of Christ they express. In my devotional reading this past week, I read 1 John 1:1-4. As I read, I reflected on...

Are You Tired?

Posted on March 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[351 words] “Man who is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble. He comes forth like a flower and fades away; he flees like a shadow and does not continue.” Job 14:1-2 reminds us life is hard and short. This is not “news” to any of us! We are all aware of the challenges of life that we each face everyday. The obstacles we deal with range from physical, emotional, relational, financial and so many more. In sum, the pain we see, feel, and anticipate is extremely hard. The older we get the more we realize...

Wedding Vows Are to Be Honored

Posted on March 4, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[357 words] “Do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife…through sickness and health, until death do you part?” “I do.” “Do you take this man…until death do you part?” “I do.” “Before God and these witnesses, I now pronounce you man and wife.” Of course, you have heard or spoken similar words at your own or someone’s wedding. That moment when someone confirms their vow and intent with “I do” is a little tense. It is a big responsibility to take on. That’s the point isn’t it? “I do” has to mean something. No one replies “I...

God’s GPS of Salvation

Posted on March 4, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[351 words] Our technological society has become very familiar with the “GPS” which facilitates navigating from point A to point B. When properly set, the GPS ideally prevents one from becoming “lost” when driving. I totally depend upon my GPS to navigate me through an unfamiliar city or location. I love it for the miles and the gasoline it saves me, not to mention all of the stress in wandering from street to street trying to find my way. In His unlimited wisdom, our Creator recognized man’s desperate need for a “spiritual GPS.” His inspired prophet declared, “I know, O...

Beds, Aren’t You Glad We Have Them!

Posted on March 4, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[352 words] It was another cold rainy morning. I just wanted to go back home and curl up in my bed. Sound familiar? It got me thinking about the word bed in the Bible. The word bed is mentioned in the Bible about 108 times in the King James Version. We know that people made beds and bedding as time passed but we are just not sure when. It is not until Genesis 48:2 that we come across a word that is translated as bed. Israel [Jacob] is nearing the end of his life and getting ready to die. He...

Ants

Posted on March 4, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[307 words] In the fable of the ant and the grasshopper, the ant is portrayed as wise because he prepares for winter while the grasshopper lacks the common sense to acknowledge its approach and thus suffers and dies. God seemingly did infuse the ant with an instinct to cooperate and work for the common good of the colony. God tells the lazy person to observe the ant and be wise. (Proverbs 6:6) Some species cut leaves upon which they float across streams. Others form a chain of bodies to span open spaces, while some wage war and make forced laborers...

Securing Their Hearts

Posted on February 2, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[387 words] How shall the young secure their hearts and guard their lives from sin? Thy Word, the choicest rules impart to keep the conscience clean! Where in the world can young people learn what is holy and pure and right? The words of that old song clearly and lovingly convey the solitary truth that Biblical guidance is really the only way that our young people can survive in a world full of wickedness (I John 2:15-17). Even though they may not tell us directly, our young people desire some things of us every single time we see them: Encouragement...

Family in the Faith

Posted on February 2, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[328 words] Throughout Paul’s missionary journeys recorded in the book of Acts, he interacts with a number of young men who variously traveled with him, ran errands for him, and continued the work in a congregation begun by him. However, while the text mentions a few of these younger preachers, the relationship Paul had with Timothy serves as a poignant model that deserves careful attention and emulation. After ten years of working together, Paul wrote his first inspired epistle to Timothy, and even the opening salutation reveals the spiritual depth of their relationship: “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by...

Times of Grief

Posted on February 1, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[343 words] Have you ever been in such emotional pain that your heart felt like it was literally aching? The worst pain in this life is not always physical. Often times it’s the emotional pain of saying “good bye” that can drive us to our knees. It can make us lash out in anger. It can make the toughest man alive break down in tears, and it can crush a young person’s spirit. Why would a God of love and compassion let such a thing happen? If He cares, but He can’t do anything about it, wouldn’t that mean He’s...

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Posted on January 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[303 words] Bill drove into his hometown for one more chore. His mother’s funeral had been a month earlier. His dad had passed away two years ago. Today, he had to sign final papers to sell his childhood home. He arrived in town a little early, so he decided to take one last look at the house where he’d grown up. Inside, there were memories in every corner. He saw the doorframe where his dad had marked his growth each year. He stood in the kitchen where he had watched his mom bake cookies. He remembered the fun times as...

Help Wanted

Posted on January 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[302 words] The kingdom of Christ has the following positions available for immediate employment: Ambassadors (2 Cor. 5:20) – Must be willing to represent Christ honestly, honorably, and faithfully. Bakers (Matt. 13:33) – Must be able to add leavening properly. Farmers (Matt. 13:3) – Must be willing to rise early and sow the seed in all kinds of weather. Fishermen (Matt. 4:19) – Must be very patient and skilled. Guards (1 Tim. 6:20) – Must be able to stay alert at all times. Harvest Workers (Matt. 9:38) – Must be able to work hard when the harvest is ready without...

Good Communication Requires Wisdom

Posted on January 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[324 words] The root cause of conflict points back to “poor communication.” How many of us want to be “heard?” How many times do we feel we failed in a conversation? My parents would not be happy and would say to me, “You shouldn’t speak before you think!” Forty-six years later, I still struggle to understand what they were saying to me. But, I have a clearer understanding of their teaching as I think back to the many times I have “dropped the ball” when trying to express myself or listen to others as they expressed themselves. Sharing the Gospel...

Dealing with Shame

Posted on January 5, 2020 by Bulletin Digest

[341 words] Rayden Overbay is a 12-year-old with special needs from Yukon, Oklahoma. He became somewhat famous not long ago because of the terrible way he was treated. A video of him being bullied went viral. He was bullied to such a degree—he felt such shame—that he had written, “I want to kill myself” on his arm. What can be done in such a situation? How can we help someone recover? What is the remedy for the shame that they feel? Being from Oklahoma, the Sooners football team took it upon themselves to try and make things right. They made...