SHAKE IT OFF

I love reading daily devotionals. They speak to my heart and often confirm God's will and direction for me. God's Word is the primary source of devotionals for me, but I also love reading thoughts that others have written that have Biblical support.

One that I read is God's Word for You Today. On Monday it included the following story. It was good reading and encouragement. I felt led to share it today.

It reads:

The story’s told of a farmer whose mule fell into a well. Since he had no way to get him out, he decided to bury him there. He got a truckload of dirt and dumped it on top of the mule. But instead of lying down under it, the mule started kicking and snorting until he worked his way to the top of it. This continued all afternoon. Truckload after truckload, the mule just kept shaking it off and stepping on top of it. Finally when the dirt reached the top of the well the mule just snorted and walked away, a dirtier but a wiser mule. What was intended to bury him, just brought him out on top.

Here is the point: Sometimes we have to make a point to shake off things that otherwise would bury us. We don't have to live in depression of dismay due to life's setbacks. We can shake it off and with God's help go forward. 

Paul said to forget those things that are behind and press forward. 

I will do that today. I will shake it off and go forward. 

I'M A PASTOR

God called my to preach, but that has primarily been fulfilled in my life as a pastor. What does a pastor do? That is a multi-faceted question. It doesn't have just one or two simple answers. Admittedly, there are some aspects of being a pastor that are extremely enjoyable, and then there are other aspects.

I have rejoiced and laughed with dear church folks, and then I have wept and cried with them at other times that were tough. There is so much that goes into being a pastor.

I am writing this blog just as Wanda and I head out the door to go pray for a dear church member who will undergo a long 8 hour back surgery today. It is a dangerous surgery that will determine her life quality for years to come. She and and husband need prayers and support.

This past Sunday, our precious church honored us as their pastors. I have served here for 10 years and am grateful for their love and support. They are dear people whom God has put a love and passion for to shepherd them to heaven.

That is my goal. I want to see them all make it to heaven as they grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Oh Lord, please help me to be a good and faithful pastor.

RIDING BIG RED IN AUTUMN

I never thought I would enjoy motorcycle riding. It came late in life. I thought it was to dangerous a thing to do, and it probably is. Yet, I have had a barrel of fun doing it. My most enjoyable rides have been up to the Smokies to view Autumn.

Last week we rode almost 1400 miles from Jacksonville up to Savannah and then Northwest up to the Smokies. The skies were clear and their was a coolest in the air. It was fantastic riding weather. You couldn't ask for better.

Why do I enjoy it so much?

I totally get my mind off things.
I love the outdoors.
The smells are more succinct.
The co-riders are fun people.
The stops for coffee and meals are bonuses.
It is freedom.
It is eye-popping.
It is friendly people.
It is sharing with Wanda.

I love the picture taking too. Here are a few shots from our recent trip.

Enjoy.

OUR HELPER

Jesus returned the the Father and has sent The Holy Spirit to us to be with us and to help us. When we have immediate, personal need, Holy Spirit is there. He doesn't leave us or forsake us. He wants us to call on the Lord and to pray in the Spirit. That is more incredible than I can write or describe.

Think of it. God has sent His Spirit to live in us. Wow!

Why would He do such a thing?

It is His love and desire to walk with us and to fellowship with us.

Day by day I am learning the blessing, privilege, and power of the Holy Spirit in my life. He leads in truth. He guides. He corrects. He teaches. He releases fruit and gifts into my life. Oh, how I need the Holy Spirit.

When no one else can be present, He is always present. He walks with me and talks with me. He is real.

Thank you Lord for sending Your Spirit into my life to be my helper. I need you every hour. Thank you for your ever present help in time of need.

You never fail.

JAGUARS LOSE

Ouch!

Another loss by the Jags yesterday that could have been a win. How do they do it? What's wrong with these guys? Can we be that bad?

Football is a game of muscle, will, and determination. I know the ball can bounce the wrong way, but that happens for every team. Sooner or later a team has to own up to how they are playing.

I like the new coach. I think he is a winner, but it hasn't happened yet.

What will it take?

Muscle, will, and determination.

Oh, a maybe a few more good players who have muscle, will, and determination.

We're one of the worst teams in the NFL, but I thought we'd do better than this. We're 1-5 and going down fast. I won't give up yet. I believe. I believe they can do better.

Next week will be another game. Another opportunity. Another chance.

Until then, I hope they work on the muscle, will, and determination. That is what it takes.

GOD CALLED ME

In 1968 God called me into the ministry. I have no doubt. In my inner being God spoke to me and called me to preach. It was more real than you reading this post. He pressed His thumb print into my heart. I still feel it. It is real.

On our recent trip up to the mountains to enjoy the Autumn leaves, we stopped by Anniston, Al, where I grew up as a teenager. God called me into the ministry one Sunday morning in August of 1968. Here is a picture of the church building where Mom and Dad pastored. I am so grateful that He counted me faithful to preach and share His Word.

RIDING "BIG RED" AGAIN

Wanda and I are off to see the autumn leaves in North Georgia and maybe the Smokies. We're crusin' on "Big Red," with some friends who like to ride motorcycles too. We're hoping to see beautiful reds, and yellows, and oranges if the leave are tuning. You never know how it will be.

Why do I love to ride "Big Red" so much?

I leave my worries behind.

My mind goes to the greater outdoors.

You see more and smell more.

Life seems freer.

People are friendlier.

You never know what is around the next bend.

It is just plain fun.

I'll post some pictures. Hopefully, you can share in the colors of the season too. If you get a chance, pray for our safety. I know motorcycling is fun, but is also dangerous. We'll ride safe. You pray. I know Mom is praying too.