While out ministering the other evening, a man came up to me and asked, "I
hear you used to be a biker, what club did you ride with?" He was hoping I was
an outlaw, but I explained I still do ride, every chance I get, but that I never
was an outlaw, and never associated with any clubs. And that although I have
friends in many types of clubs, 1%ers and citizens, I prefer to go it alone
without all the rules, regulations, and group riding that goes along with it. I
explained I can do more without colors than I could with them before. Which
brought out the next question, "you said you never joined a club?" Now it was
semantics time, for I was with a motorcycle ministry for years, and in the biker
community it is not recognized as a club, for various reasons, and more rules.
I further went on to tell him that we parted ways, I was not welcome any more
when I chose to follow God rather than all their legalistic rules, and became a
threat to them. I didn't expose their sin, it found them out. A rebel among
rebels, making the right choice, and choosing God. A habit I need to follow
more often, as we all do. Not to say there aren't Christians within Christian
clubs, just too many restrictions when it comes to Jesus. The list would go on,
so I will instead. All new religions, denominations and ministries set out to
do it better than the ones that existed, but when you get off the path of
righteousness, you will fail. Choosing Jesus over man's clubs or religion is
always the best move to make. Motorcycle or not.
20 years ago we were attending a Pentecostal church, and yes the spirit of
the Lord was there, not just in emotions. Until some men weaseled their way in,
and soon what was free was now charged for. It was all about them, and how
great they were. They knew best, I guess God's plan had flaws in it for them.
The emphasis had gone from Jesus to man, from prophet to profitability. So we
left, and didn't attend church for a year. Feeling the urge to go one more
time, I was greeted by an elder at the door. "Mike, where have you been,"
asking as if I was out in some non-approved sinful activity. It was really a
year I grew closer to the Lord daily. When I answered, "I had to make a choice
between God and the Assemblies of God, I chose God." Flabbergasted, he muttered
something while walking away, not the answer he was looking for. And today the
pastor, and many pastors after are gone, and the church that once had two
services, has half a parking lot full for one. Do not be deceived, God has
closed churches and ministries before when they interfere with His plans, better
to choose God over man every time. Success isn't found in programs, plans, or
numbers-but in the obedience to Jesus, and following Him!
When I was part of a senior study-hey, I made it by one year, a woman
started a ministry of making things for seniors in nursing homes. And it
flourished, as God's plans do when we follow Him. But soon some discord
followed, some Mormon women stopped by and wanted to help. Knowing their
doctrines and beliefs are not Christian,they allowed them to stay anyway-with a
new rule, we won't talk about God. And soon this time of fellowship, and
sharing, praying, and ministering turned into a piecework for sale group. The
Christian ladies who were part of it left, to fellowship and make items on their
own, and soon this one time Christian ministry was now taken over by the
Mormons. And it failed, sadly the pastors of the church did nothing, even when
they knew of what was going on. Once again, straying from God, turning your
back on Jesus, will lead to destruction. How many lessons do we need until we
turn to Him?
So yes I ride, and have no problem with those who minister within clubs.
Just a warning, are you following the club or the spirit of God? Do you follow
God, down new paths, or just the same old activities over and over again? Do
you actually mingle or keep within yourselves? How many non-Christians do you
actually befriend and minister to? Lazarus may not have ridden, but that is no
reason to step over him when you see him in need.
We have all been there, and if not will be there. For some of us again.
God doesn't give up on us, even though we do on ourselves. Ask Him today, what
is your will for me today. We ask in faith. But we obey in obedience and
trust. Knowing that what He has set before us will benefit us, give glory to
Him, and bring blessings to those involved. We don't need fancy talk, or to
advertise we are a Christian by what we wear. Let our actions, attitudes, and
words speak for us. I have learned when someone wearing Christian clothing
comes along what to expect. So I tend to hide, I don't need evangelizing, if
you were in the spirit you would know that-God wouldn't have you waste your time
with me. God sends people your way, not your outfit. So my challenge to you,
and to me, is simple. Don't waste your time bragging about what a great
Christian you are, show me! It's called love. And I even here there is a ride,
the Love Ride, that requires of you no club affiliations. All are welcome. A
secular ride, but a good idea. A charity event, the single day's largest fund
raiser. Could you imagine if it were clubs only? Money is stylish-it goes with
everything. Jesus invited all who were weary and offered them rest. Biker,
hooker, businessman, soccer mom, and kids of all ages. No dues or membership
required. Welcome, come as you are. Follow God, he knows where He is going.
Do you?
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com