earning the right

Biker Jim and I were discussing the quality of doctors during one of his hospital stays. We were joking that whether #1 of 312 graduates, or #312 of 312, they were both doctors. When in walked his nephrologist while we were laughing. So we asked him where was his class ranking, after he inquired of our smiles. We must have been suspicious-no one smiles at Palomar. Then he smiled, back at us, and said he didn't have a class ranking-his college was pass/fail. We only hoped he had passed-courage left us at that moment and we didn't have the nerve to ask.

But listening to him talk about his years of his years of interning, and his various degrees, and continuing schooling, it was obvious he had earned the right to be a doctor. So we felt better. He had some 20 years and hundreds of hour of surgery experience, something that cannot be taught, but only acquired through experience. I still have never heard of a course being taught on experience-although many try to by-pass this valuable teaching tool. Start at the top and work your way down, seems to be their mantra, and sadly it shows. Money will buy an education, it just doesn't guarantee you'll learn anything.

When Moses came down with the two tablets containing the Ten Commandments, his face shone like an angel-he had been in the presence of God. But with time it faded, and to hang onto the former glory of it, he chose to wear a mask. If anyone asked, it was to protect the people, but the truth was it was to hide the faded glory. A mask that too many wear today. Moses had earned the right to represent God, but on God's terms not his own. A characteristic I see today, and have been guilty of myself. I see groups of people being taught how to witness, and then go out, thinking this education gives them the right. Some think because my parents are saved, or I went to church religiously, or I graduated from seminary, I can do it. But first it takes being born again, a right given as a gift by Jesus, then you have the right to be called a child of God. It takes a submission to the holy spirit. Would you trust an old biker just because his nickname was Doc? So why would you believe someone with good credentials? Or a title? Why not trust God, what about His credentials?

Yet many walk today based on experience, knowledge, or pride. Faded glory, not the jeans. Where once God worked through them, when they trusted God, now they know it all, and are unreachable. This is particularly sad when the person is called a pastor. Sooner or later, his failings will be your fault. When all this time you should be trusting God. I get annoyed when some well meaning Christian comes up and preaches to me. I guess I don't fit the profile of what they think a Christian should be, and I get offended when confronted. As do many other non-Christians, who feel persecuted by this type, and another reason they would never go to church. Why not trust God, and let the spirit guide you? Remember when you were a young Christian and you had all this faith, so you were obedient? Remember when you didn't try to please God, but found God pleasing? Remember before religion entered your life, when it was all about Jesus, and your life was a witness-you didn't have to go out witnessing? Before you were the main topic? Before you became aware that a walk with God wasn't a class ranking, but a pass/fail. And you passed!

Because we have earned the right according to Jesus to be called sons of God, extend the same courtesy to others. Earn the right to share the gospel-listen to them, don't preach. The second you start preaching to me, I'm outta here-I don't want to hear it. I rather have my needs met, by God, and be shown His love-not your zealousness. Which can run contrary to what the spirit wishes to do through you.

So take the time to get to know God. "I don't know," is a good answer when you don't know. Remember it is all about Jesus. He'll give you the words-if you listen. Which is what you want your audience to do for you. Leave the mask for Halloween, and be yourself in Christ-a full time job for most of us. And let the spirit work through us, and watch as God uses us for the kingdom. You cannot teach experience, but you can build a relationship with Jesus. Get to know Him, or better yet, let Him let you get to know Him. As long as it is all about Jesus, you have the right agenda. And the only agenda to have.

If your idea of evangelism is wearing Christian t-shirt, or having a bumper sticker on your car, a backwards collar, a title, or a patch on your back, get to know Jesus first. He cares more about what is inside of you than what you think you show. And like any good surgeon will remind you, all healing works from the inside out. Which also happens to be how God works on us. Just ask Moses, the mask you hide behind is evident to all but yourself. I prefer to hide behind Jesus. I want to know Him, and others to know Him too. Earn the right to share Him. "Who was that masked man?" was popular long before the Lone Ranger. So don't be a lone Christian, and never have to say about Jesus, "and we never got a chance to thank Him."

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the 200 pound toddler

This is a story more about my wife than me, but really about my friend Jesus Christ. Although I, and we were central players, it is about God's love that took us through. I seem to be sharing a lot about my open heart surgery, but it has made a bigger impact on my life, and those around me, than I anticipated. In church last night, I wondered if I had become a drama queen, thinking about what we had been through, but God reminded me that I have putting Him first, giving Him the preeminence. That what seemed emotionally was drama, to Him was worship. Here are just a few of the scenarios to back Him up. Never once did we doubt God had everything under control. And yes, that is me in the photos. You have been warned.

Jesus tells us that when we are weakest, that God's strength is made perfect. And also whoever takes care of the least of them, is doing it to Him. From the time I went to urgent care in Durango, to the two days in Mercy Hospital-which I thought was two hours, to my being life flighted, to my surgery, and then recovery, I was the weakest. Unable to function, yet totally dependent on those around me. Yet I had this peace-way beyond an emotion, or that words can describe. I had to be kept on life support, as my body could not sustain itself. And it took the special care of nurses, surgeons, and specialists to keep me going-all provided by God's grace.

At first I had to be taught to swallow-it seems you can lose the ability, and all food goes into the lungs instead of the stomach. I was allowed 2 small, ice chips per hour, which my son had to feed me. I was so weak I couldn't pick up a spoon-what had happened to the hands that used to grip the throttle? I couldn't control my body functions, and when finally allowed to get up and walk, it seemed my legs didn't hear the order. The simplest of things I used to do without thinking, were now huge tasks. I was the 200 pound toddler, who had to be changed, fed, and taught to do basic functions all over again.

When released, I had to ride in the back seat only-if an air bag went off it could kill me-the impact on my sternum, which was broken during surgery, would not take the impact. Next time you get in or out of a car so effortlessly, for me it took time. The same getting in and out of bed. I was not allowed to push, pull, hug, or extend my arms-try functioning without doing that!

And here is where my wife was the ultimate nurse. She had to shower me, and wash my hair-while I could only sit on a chair. We both got excited the first time I stood in the shower, or washed my hair by myself. I couldn't shave, or even comb my hair. I had to rest both elbows on the table to eat, and couldn't cut any meat I ate. And when feeding myself, so much food would never make it from the spoon into my mouth. No the food on my shirt wasn't lunch, it could have been breakfast-from yesterday. Think of a two year old-and that was what I was reduced to. Unable to do anything for myself, I was totally dependent on those around me. And thank God for my wife, who went way beyond the call of duty. Even administering my antibiotics through my piccs for a month. I place the blame for her care directly on God-for without the love He had for me, and the love He gave my wife for me, I would have been reduced to just another patient in rehab. Today I have a greater appreciation of grace, mercy, and having been humbled, a stronger dependence on God. Who never left me-or forsook me. From ER to helicopter to surgery to rehab, I was never alone. Nor was my wife.

Today this 200 pound toddler can feed himself. I can shave, shower, and shampoo again. I can put my arms around my wife, and hug her. And I still spend precious time with God. But I can never find the words to thank her for being there. Wives take note-the vow says for better or worse, through sickness and health, till death do us part. My wife has seen the worse, the sickness, and was faced with death. Only Jesus was her strength-make Him yours. Husbands-give your marriage over to Jesus-and love your wife as He loved the church-giving His life for it. I didn't have much to give, but I gave it all-and today my vows are still honored.

You may not always be in love with your spouse, but always honor your vows. Just like God honors His word, and His promises, not because of who you are-but because of who He is. I love my wife because I loved Jesus first, who loved me first. I have seen His strength made perfect in me, and seen my wife grow in the love of Christ. From child to adult, to husband, then to 200 pound toddler-I need Jesus in every aspect of my life.

Today I am alive because of God's miracles. I cling to that. My body continues to heal, but my soul is growing at an alarming rate. Get close to Jesus and stay there-today because of His love, I can truly say "it is well with my soul." And to my wife-I love you-more than words. I see Jesus in you daily-what more can a husband ask for.

love with compassion,

your 200 pound toddler,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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he calls me friend, what do you call him

It was my first real job in the summer of 1970 that I met and made friends outside of my neighborhood or school. You never forget your first real job, not counting cutting yards or having a paper route, especially when you get you first paycheck. Let's see, 40 hoursX $1.50 hour = $60.00. Only taking home $55 was my other intro to real life, as taxes were now a part of my job experience, and would be for the next-well the rest of my life. But it was the friends made that summer, working for the Union County Park Commission that over time would prove more valuable than those first paychecks. From cities and towns throughout Union County, we were from different backgrounds. I had learned I had played basketball against Fred Allen, a tall, black kid from Plainfield, where only 3 summer earlier the tanks filled the streets in a riot torn city. Pete and Rich were the Wally Cleaver type guys from Westfield, richer than all of us. We could tell by the car Pete's mom dropped them off in every morning. I befriended my first American Indian, Fred Moore, in these pre-Native American times, and years later at a dance when we met embraced as long time friends. Kyle Looney, if ever a last name fit a person, just made you laugh by saying hello, with a permanent smile, and looking like a young Bill Cosby. We had to make him work by himself sometimes so we could get work done, he was so funny. And Steve Pruden, who was the first hippie I met, and later when I would meet him again would become close friends. He became an aspiring blue grass musician, and I spent many nights at his place while he practiced, he and his friend Pete finally opening at a college for Vasser Clemmons. There were others, but these guys touched my life, and heart. They were my friends, with only the iris beds of Green Brook park and the Union County Park Commission our common bonds. I still remember the arguments over who was better, Rare Earth or the Carpenters as we listened to old AM radio. I still enjoy both today, with a nod going to the Carpenters. And yes Fred, no one I knew ever danced to them. But while you were dancing, I was holding hands and....

Theresa and I have been black sheep among the Black Sheep, Harley Davidsons for Christ for years. We hang with them, minister with them, and attend their breakfasts. When I was down last summer, and my bike still in Durango, Ken and Ned went up and got it for me, without being asked. I stopped by their meeting last night to thank them, and stayed for their meeting. Where one topic was their Downed Biker Fund. And raising money for it, and the rules set up to dispense it. I fought the tears as the rules stated you must be in HOG or Black Sheep, meaning you are a Harley owner. We're not. The tears came, thankfully in the dark, as they had given me a large check when we needed it while I had open heart surgery. And I do not qualify for it according to the rules. They had stepped outside of the rules, saw a need and filled it. I know they were as blessed giving as we were receiving. When joking about two Harley guys with a Triumph in their trailer, Ned told me "we wore masks to conceal our identity." Sorry guys, no mask will ever conceal the smiles behind them, or the love contained in them. Friends of the highest degree, putting their words into action-it's called love.

I wonder, how many of us share Jesus with others, and would introduce him as our friend? Lord and savior-yes, because He is, but He also calls us His friend. In a fallen world where each person has his own idea about God, how many times do they just need a friend? And while we burden them with our limited knowledge of the Bible, we fail to listen and see the need. Can we just be a friend to them, showing them a side of Jesus they don't hear about? Think of that next time you have a chance to show His love in action. Jesus is our friend, but more importantly we are His. We all need more friends, and some have none at all-be theirs, and show the love of Jesus. For while we were yet strangers, He died for us. I was once a stranger to Him, ask Him to be your friend today. He says he will stick closer than a brother, wow. Remember that next time a brother offends you-Jesus won't and don't!

Over the years I have made many friends, which are ultimately only acquaintances. So it is with a great regard I use the word friend, and get very possessive and protective of them. I often wonder what happened to those friends from that summer of 1970, I don't intend to lose touch with my close friends. And I will never lose my friend Jesus-for He will never leave me, or forsake me. Get to know Him today... If you don't know Him, let me tell you about my best friend-who just happens to be the Son of God...I call Him Lord and Savior, He just calls me friend.

And being a black sheep among Black Sheep will always remind me of the love they showed us...I call them friends.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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memories of the future

You may not wish to admit it, or admit to getting it, but you were born at just the right time. And all of your recollections are based on that. Think British motorcycles for instance, born in the early 40's, you can remember riding one when they reigned supreme, but born in the late 50's, just 15 years later, and they may not even be a memory, as Honda and the Japanese bikes were rewriting motorcycle history. And watching as the British motorcycle industry was in its self destruct mode. So confident were they, they never thought the Japanese could compete with their little bikes. Until a 250 2-stroke would dust off a Bonneville, or until a group of them with bags tied to the back seat would go by on a trip-passing the Norton owner with his bike on its center stand and his toolkit open. Remember when you didn't change the oil, you just topped it off? Timing may be the most important thing that figures into your memory bank. The only bank any of us still have deposits-even after years of withdrawals.

I watch as a friend buys a Kia, and it is now popular. I remember less than ten years ago working for a dealer who sold them, and what junk they were-worse than a Yugo. I also had a friend who was the national service manager for Yugo. Now those are stories. I had a customer request a rental car when his Kia self destructed at 40,000 miles-high mileage for one at the time, and was told by the service manager, "sir, you own a rental car." Times change-from embarrassment to prestige. Too bad we can't predict the next trend. If we could, how many of our dads would have bought '57 Chevies, and kept them as an investment. Born to soon, or grew up too late? We all have 20/20 hindsight.

So today when I go to car shows, you hear talk of orphan cars, brands that no longer exist. Brands that once stood for something, had solid reputations-but somehow missed the boat just a few years later. Gone in the fifties were Packard, Hudson, and Willys-pronounced like "what you talking about Willis?" Studebaker left in the sixties, and just in the past ten years we no longer have Plymouth, Oldsmobile, and Mercury. Where before GM was known by its brands, now GM is a brand, with subclasses of cars made by them. Remember the furor when Pontiac put an Oldsmobile motor in one of its cars? And didn't tell the public? And the lawsuits that followed? Gone now are the Oldsmobile men, Pontiac only owners, and the people who would never buy anything but a Plymouth. Which was carefully named by Walter P. Chrysler after Plymouth bailing twine-a brand all farmers knew and respected-not the ship that appeared on its logo years ago, at Plymouth rock.

Time has also whittled down the Vincent owners, the Norton only crowd, and thanks to John Bloor, a whole new generation is riding new Triumphs today, not to be confused with the old Meriden twins. Yes, we were all born into a perfect time-where all dates past and future hinge on us-before Mike and after Mike in my case. Yours will be different-not necesssarily better-or worse.

So with so much talk about the welfare of our kids and grand kids, what are we going to leave them? What legacy do we wish to leave them of us? What will you find stored in their memory banks in 20 years? Or will they have to reach for an i-pod to remember, just like they do for a friend's phone number they don't know?

When sick last summer, and faced with death, I considered what I was leaving my family. A real wake-up call from God. Was my legacy teaching them to burp the alphabet, or was it Jesus? Would they be businessmen, or blue collar workers? Would they marry and have a family of their own, or just live together, not realizing the damage they were inflicting on their children? What values did my life lessons show them, or had I just given them a group of rules-neglecting morals. Would they only remember the punishment, and what would they pass on to their kids? I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the things of God they had been shown by us. Heart patients don't need any more shocks. But I was touched to see the things of God they had seen in us, and others, come to life. To see compassion and concern for others, and a love for us that you always hoped was there, but that they seldom showed. They too were born at just the right time, and I am glad to see a whole new generation living for Jesus. Not what I would have scripted, but we are not what our parents would have scripted for us. Once again showing God's timing in when we were born. And again proving God knows of what He is doing-despite our advice.

It is very possible we may be the last generation before the rapture. What a memory to take to heaven. But if we are not, morals and a relationship with God through Jesus are still the most important. If you once walked with Him, return to Him today. All is forgiven. If you never trusted Him, today is the day of salvation. History can be a cruel animal, and after death you may never be remembered here on earth. But you have a Father in heaven who will remember-so make peace with Him today, and assure tomorrow.

Heaven awaits those that believe-don't become memorabilia like Triumph posters, or Norton ads, or even a Pontiac commercial. At just the right time, Jesus died for us-no matter what time you are born into, His timing is perfect. And the best reason to look ahead, when all our memories only take us back.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

a special Labor Day message

When I lost my job over four years ago, I applied for unemployment. When called for an interview, I was put in a room with 20 others, and told we were not your basic unemployed. We all had made large incomes, and wouldn't need to be retrained. Although later history would prove that our jobs were gone forever. In a room of 6 figure incomes, I would say it was safe we didn't sign up for the money-I made more per day than UI paid per week. And in a room of achievers, with quite impressive resumes, we were unhirable. Such a deal for $450/week.

When I left Mercedes Benz, there were four of us making big bucks, and doing a great job. Experience, knowledge, and being trusted by our customers was the key to our success. But when I was told they could hire 2 1/2 people for what they paid me, it was obvious it was about the bottom line. A kinder, gentler type was needed, they thought, so they hired girls who worked at the cosmetic counter at Nordstrom's, but had good customer skills. Polite guys with ties out of college, and the rest of worked harder because of them. They were given a small workload, about half of the industry standard, and were made to look successful. I cannot tell you how many of their customers I got to remedy the problems they couldn't solve or caused. But money talks, and a fast nickel beat a slow dime. They never understood the values of the Mercedes Benz owner, and even though the cars continued to break, you now had someone who really cared-even though your car left the shop just as broken. And you wonder why things don't work as they should? Or could?

When I wanted to get into ministry, God gave me a vision. But before I decided to obey Him, I made a resume, and went on-line with various Christian job searches. And was utterly disappointed, and disgusted. No one was looking for a ministry to minister in-they were looking for a job. Father Al once told me of a man who wanted to work for the Flight 93 Chapel. His dream. But lost interest when he found out it had no pay, and no benefits. For he had no vision, only a requirement of an income. Ask your pastor, what was his vision, and what is it now?

Jesus encountered many like this in Matthew 25. Those who worked for the church, but not the Kingdom. Who had great resumes of accomplishments, but fell short in obedience to God. Who would brag to Jesus of what they did, only to be told to be gone, that Jesus never knew them. See also Galatians 4:10. Where their DD, men of the year status, perfect attendance, helping out at the church were good things, God looked at the heart. Why did they do what they did? And if really after God's own heart, why did they no obey what He asked? Just to love-as He loved us, and to love our neighbors, and enemies as we love our self. But how to do that? Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, give drink to the thirsty, and visit those who are sick or in jail. Not much glory in that. Except eternally. You see God isn't interested in what you accomplish, but in your obedience. One of the hardest things I had to adapt to was what to do with my time. I used to put 12 hours of effort into 8 every day, now I had free time. To spend with God, after doing what He asked that day, but to get to know Him better. Why go to seminary, when I could sit at the feet of the master? Why know all the books of the Bible, when I knew the author on a first name basis. You see, all the things we think are important, and worth boasting about are just pride. God doesn't offer you rewards for your accomplishments, but says "well done my good and faithful servant." Servants don't ask when, where, how, or to whom to serve-they just serve. And Philippians tells us that Jesus became a man to do what-serve!

He also says obedience is better than sacrifice. Why work hard, when you can work smart? Did you ever see an ad promising a big income for working smart? Maybe that was why I was put in the group at the UI office. We worked smart. The rewards always came monetarily.

Do I miss the big income? Not really. The long hours, and nagging bosses? No way. Today I get excited when I get a letter from one of the inmates I equip, who equip others in prison. I get excited when those in the hospital get released. When I see families reunited, and people turning their lives around for Jesus. The things that really matter cannot be gauged by dollars or sense.

Take a good look at your resume. It will not get you into heaven-only Jesus will. But it may keep you out. Trust God, and obey God. The disciples all were not qualified for what Jesus asked them to do, but in obedience they changed the world. Now what are your qualifications, again...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

can't find what you're looking for...

As a kid it seemed everybody's dad had some kind of work bench. Whether just hammer and nails, or a full blown lathe with tools, as a kid you wanted to work with it. But had to deal with the fact you weren't old enough, but someday you could. Soon, Mike, you're still young, late fifties,...It was a time when dads fixed things from garden hoses to screens. Nothing got thrown away, but saved, as it may become needed and valuable some day. And many of us carry on the tradition still, for when looking around my garage I find motorcycle parts I know I will never use. What is the demand for luggage racks for a 2000 Sprint RS? Mirrors for a 2006 Tiger? And I even have a space for parts from my 1990 Crown Vic, parts that should be thrown away, yet I can't seem to part with them. Is it me-or the parts? Or both?

Thanks to China and other nations who don't pay their employees a fair wage, we have numerous replacement parts available. Replace the part-cheaper and faster than fixing the old. But not as satisfying. We spend more time in line at Home Cheepo than replacing the part. What did you do Saturday morning, fix the faucet or wait in line?

Remember changing your own oil? Replacing your spark plugs? How about washing your own car? In many cases memories, now we have quick lube who can do it faster and cheaper-but not necessarily better. Spark plugs-every 100,000 miles-if you get them out! See you at the car wash-not as good as you used to do, but it gives you more time to wait in line to have these things done.

And what about the work bench? It still may be there, but the tools are long gone. Now it has beach chairs, dog leashes, and at my house add motorcycle parts. Somewhere under there is a work bench-just waiting for you. But today many are just a depository for junk we don't have room for anywhere else. Too many things, just not enough things to do. Add that to the list.

I have always found that maintenance is cheaper than repairs. Not that maintenance is cheap, but you can save time and effort, and money by being smart now. A form of maintenance. We all know the Jiffy Lube mantra about every 3000 mile oil changes, but what about our walk with God? Many approach it as a penalty for knowing Him, and an hour a week seems like eternity to them. Not realizing the decision you make for Jesus today will dictate where you spend eternity. We rather wait until our kids are in trouble, rather than instruct them now. Teach them morals-then you won't need as many rules. Put down the cell phone and talk with your kids. You might learn something. And you all may avoid problems later. Lead by example-you may find out you already are, and the example is not one you want your kids to emulate.

Use life to be a workbench. Jesus is all the tools you need. Many precious times are spent with Him just visiting. Or hanging out, with no particular plan in mind, just hanging with Jesus. And maybe your kids-or spouse. Let go of things from the past-so much is just clutter, pass it on to someone who needs it-maybe just give it away for free. And watch as your life becomes less cluttered and you are free from the burden of things. The freedom found in Christ now becomes part of your family. And everyday life.

But like the proper use of a work bench, it takes work. Effort, and a commitment. Anything done well does. Check out Jesus today. Start clearing off the work bench-you may find things you couldn't find and thought you had lost. Kids and family included. Along with self respect-which you will transfer to others in love.

Every tool has a purpose, and a place. Find your place in Jesus, and find your true purpose. The time spent today will have an impact on tomorrow. Maintenance is still cheaper than repairs-pay me now or pay me later.

Jesus already paid the price. Take full advantage of it now, before today becomes yesterday, and the bench of life cluttered with junk. Jesus Christ-the right tool at the right time-for all times!

And enjoy the day spending it with your dad.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

job-lessness

Let's start off with a multiple choice question, just to prove a point. The book of Job is about a-Job, b-the devil, or c-God? Times up. The answer in a minute. But first...

I get many prayer requests from well meaning people. From how can I afford a new prom dress, to how can I afford my next operation. With most somewhere in between, after they have tried to figure out the problem themselves, blamed someone else, and then finally turned to God. Often with advice, or giving Him a choice of which solution to choose for them. Note-our solutions generally involve no pain or sacrifice, and usually resemble more of the genie in the lamp approach. Love doesn't demand of itself. For instance I recently got a request for help with a ministry, I get a lot of those. We need this, we need that...if you are truly following God, it is His ministry and He will and already has provided all you need. Usually not the answer we want. With the request drawing attention to us, and away from God. If you cannot trust God, do you think He will put His precious children in your hands? So instead of trusting God, we appeal to our Christian family, who usually is so wrapped up in our own problems. And despite the situation, the request many times ends asking for money. Why not just ask God, isn't it His riches that He draws from, don't expect much if you are looking at my bank accounts. But in this request I saw two common misconceptions about God-taught by churches, but not found in the Bible. One-blame the devil. Was it not you who used poor business sense? If it is the devil's fault, why are you listening to him? Will he bail you out? Do you doubt God has everything under control? The other is money will solve all things-spiritual and physical. Wrong again-although many sent us money to help with my recent open heart surgery, no amount of money would solve the problem, it took God's hand on the proper surgeon. No attacks from the devil, but a time to trust God, and turn to Him, not from Him. And so I offer this advice-Godly advice, which works if taken.

First go to God, and only God. Job's friends ended up being more of a burden than a blessing. God is in full control, blaming the devil for your own stupidity won't solve anything. Too many talk to the devil, when they should be talking with God. And then listening. What would Jesus do? You have to ask? Many don't have a clue. How can you trust someone you don't know?

Throughout our summer ordeal we never doubted God, or that this was all about Him, although we were important players in it. Never blamed the devil, doctors, elevation, or ourselves-we trusted. We went beyond faith, we were obedient. Which leads to blessings. For although grace is all about God, it is still our choice to accept what He provides-or deny it, and wimp and cry, and blame others. We found great strength in our weakness, I was among the "least of them" and could only look to God and to no one else. I am glad I didn't. So we come back to the opening question, who is the book of Job about?

If you answered c-God you are correct. For the Bible, all of it is about God. Not Moses, not Joseph, and certainly not me. It is about God, who sent Jesus so we could be reunited with Him. He never left us-can we say the same? So next time you pray, or send a request, pray first. Knowing that a loving god has already begun the process, and He will put you on whose heart He wants to pray for you. To show is love and grace. He knows the answers, we obviously don't. So listen to God-a key component in prayer. And then obey. Without faith it is impossible to please God, without obedience you will never see the blessings He has in store. When He offered you salvation, did you accept it? Or blame someone else?

Look to the one who can control life and death, when Job finally did He was so much closer to God. It's that personal. He had riches restored, but the true richness came from His relationship with God. Why blame the devil when you can praise the Lord?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com