ITCHY, ITCHY

     Stella Peterson was going out of her mind and she, well, needed to do something so, she decided to go visit her best friend Bernadette Henderson. When she walked up to the door of Bernadette's house and started knocking on it instead of hearing a come in, she heard “Itchy, itchy, itchy.” and “Go away!” followed by another round of “Itchy, itchy, itchy.”

     “Bernadette,” Stella called out, “Is that you in there making those funny noises?” “No! Yes! I don't know.” Bernadette answered, “When I looked in the mirror this morning I didn’t look like me so I’m not sure who I am.” “Well, why don't you open the door and I'll tell you.” Stella said. “No!” Bernadette said, “I'm staying in here. Itchy, Itchy, Itchy.”

     “Come on, Bernadette.” Stella pleaded, “I'm your best friend. Why won't you open the door?” “It's all your brother's fault.” Bernadette replied, “Harold's the one that made me like this.” “Like what?” Stella demanded to know but the only reply she got was “Itchy, itchy, itchy.”

     “Just come on up here.” Stall demanded next, “It’s seems silly for me to talk to your front door.” “Then just go away.” Bernadette said, “I'm not opening the door, somebody might see me.” “But I'm the only one here.” Stella protested, “Now tell me what's wrong, why won't you open the door.” “I told you.” Bernadette replied, “It’s Harold’s fault.”

     “Alright,” Stella said, “What did Harold do?” “He made that silly potion to make people more like God.” Bernadette said. “Don’t tell me you drank some of it too.” Stella said, “It doesn't work.” “I thought it would keep me from being shy.” Bernadette told Stella, “And now I'm covered with freckles. Itchy, itchy, itchy.”

     “And that's why you won't open the door.” Stella stated. “ They keep calling out to be scratched,” Bernadette called back through the door, “But the doctor said that if I scratch them they will open up and spread.” “That's because they're not freckles.” Stella said, “If you leave them alone and don’t scratch they’ll go away. Or at least that's what the doctor told me. Have you been scratching them?”

     “Yes!” Bernadette called out and then flung the door open, “Did you drink the potion too?” “AUGH!” Stella called out when she saw Bernadette.” “AUGH!” Bernadette called out when she saw Stella. “You look horrible.” Stella said. “So do you.” Bernadette replied, “And why are you wearing mittens? It's not that cold out yet.”

     “The mittens are suppose to help me keep from scratching.” Stella said. “Is it working?” Bernadette asked. “Some.” Stella said, “But I'm still not becoming more like God. I even drank some more of the potion this morning and Itchy, itchy, itchy.” “Why did Harold ever have to make that potion?” Bernadette asked. “Because I asked him to.” Stella cried.

     And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, "You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die."

Genesis 2:16-17 (ESV)

     Do you ever get hungry? Have you ever tried to eat something you shouldn't when you were hungry? God gave Adam and Eve plenty to eat but there was one tree from which they were to never eat. Guess what?

      Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God actually say, 'You shall not eat of any tree in the garden'?" And the woman said to the serpent, "We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, 'You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.' " But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths. And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden. But the LORD God called to the man and said to him, "Where are you?" And he said, "I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked, and I hid myself." He said, "Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten of the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?" … To the woman he said, "I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children. Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you." And to Adam he said, "Because you have listened to the voice of your wife and have eaten of the tree of which I commanded you, 'You shall not eat of it,' cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life; thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return." … therefore the LORD God sent him out from the garden of Eden to work the ground from which he was taken. He drove out the man, and at the east of the garden of Eden he placed the cherubim and a flaming sword that turned every way to guard the way to the tree of life.

Genesis 3:1-24 (ESV)

     Is it sin to be tempted? If it is then we are in BIG trouble for we read in Matthew 4:1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. (ESV) But we also know from Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest (Jesus) who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. (ESV)

     Sin comes not because we are tempted but because we give in, like Adam and Eve and it is usually our desires that Satan uses to tempt us into sin as we read in

• James 1:14 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. (ESV)
• 1 Timothy 6:9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. (ESV)

     When it comes to sin as a result of temptation we need to remember

• 1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (ESV)
• Hebrews 2:18 For because He Himself has suffered when tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted. (ESV)

     We also need to remember that the tempter will come back time and time again. Even after failing to get Jesus to sin we read in Luke 4:13 And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time. (ESV)

      So, Here's Something To Ponder

• Do you desire like those in Pupperville to be more like God?
• In what ways to you avoid temptation or giving into it so that you may be more like God.

GOD DID IT

     “I'm not sure what to think of everything.” Barney Lee said to Bernadette Henderson as they talked in the park about the rebellion being over. “Well, I even heard that Stella told Harold she was sorry and gave him a hug.” Bernadette said. “She did that?!” Barney said in disbelief, “I wonder if she liked it?”

     “NO! She didn't!” came a reply. It was Stella. “It was Horrid, it was Yucky, it was Gross and I'll Never do it again not even if he was... was... was... I guess he was shot wasn't he.” “Yeah,” Barney said, “And in a way we are all responsible for what happened.” “I take it, you still don't like your brother?” Bernadette added.

     “Come on, Bernadette.” Stella said, “Brothers and sisters are NOT suppose to like each other. We’re suppose to hate each other and fight with each other.” “Does that mean you still won't get along with him?” Bernadette asked. “Are you kidding?” Stella said, “Even when he’s being good, he’s being rotten.” “what are you talking about?” Barney said when he heard that.

     “Well, Bernadette,” Stall said, “Believe it or not, I was trying to go out of my way to try and show some appreciation to Harold for what he did and all I got was 'I didn’t do anything.'” “You tried to show Harold some appreciation?” Bernadette said in shock. “Yeah.” Stella replied, “I tried to throw him a hero party for him and he said he would refused to come.”

     “That doesn't sound like Harold?” Barney said. “Why wouldn't he come?” “ He keeps saying he didn’t do anything.” Stella said, “He says that God did it all and the party should be for Him.” After thinking about that for a moment, Barney got a big grin on his face, “Do you know what this means?” “Duh.” Stella said, “It means I just wasted all my time planning a party.”

     “No.” Barney said, “It means Harold is out of his comma and is getting better.” “Oh.” Stella said a bit disappointed, “I guess so, I guess so but he can’t come home from the hospital for several more weeks.” “Several weeks?” Bernadette asked, “When were you going to have the party?” “Last week” Stella said and then whispered, “Before Harold was even out of the hospital”

     “How was he suppose to show up for that?” Barney asked. “Well,” Stella replied, “He could have sneaked out to come. He's really good at that.” “I have an idea.” Bernadette interrupted, Why don't you still have the party, but wait until Harold is out of the hospital. But instead of having a hero party for Harold turn it into a 'Thank You God' party. Then invite Harold to tell everybody about how God used him.”

     “That's a great idea.” Barney chimed in, “I'll even help you put it together.” “I suppose that might work.” Stella sighed, “I better go and call the Quaker oats man back.” “Huh?” Barney and Stella said looking at each other when they heard that but when they went to ask for an explanation, Stella left. So they just picked up talking about the rebellion being over.

     Paul and Barnabas stayed in Iconium a long time and spoke bravely for the Lord. He showed that their message about his grace was true by giving them the power to work miracles and signs. But the city was divided. Some of the people agreed with the Jews, and others believed the apostles. Some who were not Jews, some Jews, and some of their rulers wanted to mistreat Paul and Barnabas and to stone them to death. When Paul and Barnabas learned about this, they ran away to Lystra and Derbe, cities in Lycaonia, and to the areas around those cities.

Acts 14:3-6 (NCV)

     Paul and Barnabas were doing the work of preaching.... But trouble came and they had to move on to preach again but this next time something different happened.

      In Lystra there sat a man who had been born crippled; he had never walked. As this man was listening to Paul speak, Paul looked straight at him and saw that he believed God could heal him. So he cried out, “Stand up on your feet!“ The man jumped up and began walking around. When the crowds saw what Paul did, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have become like humans and have come down to us!“ Then the people began to call Barnabas “Zeus“ and Paul “Hermes,“ because he was the main speaker. The priest in the temple of Zeus, which was near the city, brought some bulls and flowers to the city gates. He and the people wanted to offer a sacrifice to Paul and Barnabas. But when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard about it, they tore their clothes. They ran in among the people, shouting, “Friends, why are you doing these things? We are only human beings like you. We are bringing you the Good News and are telling you to turn away from these worthless things and turn to the living God. He is the One who made the sky, the earth, the sea, and everything in them. In the past, God let all the nations do what they wanted. Yet he proved he is real by showing kindness, by giving you rain from heaven and crops at the right times, by giving you food and filling your hearts with joy.“ Even with these words, they were barely able to keep the crowd from offering sacrifices to them.

Acts 14:8-18 (NCV)

     Imagine people wanting to call you a God for what you did, imagine them wanting to sacrifice to you and lift you up, imagine telling them it was all God's doing and He deserves the credit. Humility is something we all should have.

• Micah 6:8 - He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? (ESV)
• Colossians 3:12 - Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, (ESV)

     Along with being humble comes some wonderful promises.

• Psalm 138:6 - Though the LORD is supreme, he takes care of those who are humble, but he stays away from the proud. (NCV)
• Luke 14:11 - All who make themselves great will be made humble, but those who make themselves humble will be made great. (NCV)
• Proverbs 22:4 - The reward for humility and fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life. (ESV)

     Harold's unwillingness to take credit for what happened in Pupperville but give the credit to God is just one way to show humility. So, Here's Something To Ponder.

• In what ways do you let God use you?
• In what ways do you show humility by giving God the credit?

THE BEST PLATE

     It was Sunday morning and Randy Smith was in his office at the church building getting ready for the morning service. As he was going over his sermon notes one last time he was interrupted by the sound of crying coming from outside his office door. “I really don't have time to deal with another problem right now,” he thought to himself but decided he better see who it was.

      As Randy stepped into the hallway he saw a sobbing Bernadette with what looked like some kind of pottery in her hand. “What's wrong, Bernadette?” He asked, “Why are you crying?” “I broke it?” came the reply through the mournful sobs. “I’ll probably get sent to my room for a week.”

     “What did you break?” Randy asked, wondering if it was something belonging to the church. “Our best plate.” Bernadette said. “Your best plate?” Randy said, “How did that happen.” “Well,” Bernadette went on to explain between her sobs, “I was trying to get it down from the cupboard and it slipped out of my hand.”

     “That is kind of sad.” Randy said trying to console her, “What were you going to use it for?” “To help you.” Bernadette said and burst in to a loud cry. “Help me?” Randy said “How?” “ I heard you were going to talk about the best plate this morning.” Bernadette said still crying. “Best plate!” Randy said, “I wasn’t going to talk about the best plate, I was going to talk about the breast plate.”

     “What!?” Bernadette gasped, “They turn those into plates?” “No, Bernadette.” Randy said, “I’m talking about a piece of armor that covers the breast area.” “Oh” said Bernadette when she heard that. “This plate is made of righteousness.” Randy continued.

     After a moment of silence, Bernadette asked, “When you get done with it can I have it? I need it to replace the one I broke.” “I don't think that will work.” Randy said shaking his head. “I didn’t think so.” Bernadette sighed, “Maybe I can use it to protect my self when I tell my Mom what happened to her plate.”

     “You haven't told her yet?” Randy asked wondering if she was going to try and hide it from her mom. “Not yet.” Bernadette said. “I don't want to but I need to because it is the right thing to do.” Your right.” Randy said, “And you know what? That is the breast plate of righteousness at work.” “What?” Bernadette said. “You mean doing right helps protect us?”

     “That's right.” Randy said. “Has anybody told Harold that?” Bernadette said almost laughing. “Maybe I can right him a letter and tell him. After all, doing the wrong thing never helped him at all.” “You can say that again.” Randy said in agreement to which Bernadette did and then left.

     During those many days the king of Egypt died, and the people of Israel groaned because of their slavery and cried out for help. Their cry for rescue from slavery came up to God. And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. God saw the people of Israel—and God knew.

Exodus 2:23-25 (ESV)

     Israel had been living in Egypt as invited guests but the times had changed, they were slaves in need of rescue. That was No problem, all God needed to do was send send Moses to Pharaoh to say “Let My people go.” and all will go … Well, maybe it was going to take some persuasion. Through Moses and Aaron, God performed one miracle after another for Pharaoh – a snake from a rod, blood, frogs, insects, cattle die, boils, hail, locusts, darkness, 1^st born dead, pillars of fire, dividing the Red Sea. Time and time again, Pharaoh refused to do what God wanted him to do. Instead of doing what was right he hardened his heart and refused to let the people go. Soon after Israel was free, they tried to follow in Pharaoh's footsteps and refused to do what was right as well. (Exodus 7-14)

     In the book of Ephesians, Paul, talking about the armor of God tells us in 6:14b to put on the breastplate of righteousness, (ESV) Righteousness basically means doing what is right and there is much about it in the Bible.

• Deuteronomy 6:18 And you shall do what is right and good in the sight of the LORD, that it may go well with you, and that you may go in and take possession of the good land that the LORD swore to give to your fathers (ESV)
• Philippians 1:11 be filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. (ESV)
• Philippians 3:9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith— (ESV)

     We must also remember that the breastplate coves some very important organs – like the heart.

• Proverbs 4:23 Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. (ESV)
• Matthew 15:18 But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. (ESV)
• Luke 6:45 The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. (ESV)
• Romans 10:10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. (ESV)

     Here's Something To Ponder

• Do you practice righteousness in what you do?
• Do you protect your heart?

SLEIGH RIDE SURPRISE

     Trying to do some last minute Christmas shopping, Daisy Smith wandered through the mall. After hours of walking sh sat down for a bite to eat in the courtyard As it turned out, the table she sat at was right next to a group of girls from church and she couldn't help over hearing several them talking about the sleigh ride that had been held at the McDonald's farm.

      “Speaking of last night.” Daisy heard Tracy McDonald say, “I think I received the biggest surprise of my life.” “Hi Tracy.” Daisy said wanting to get in on the conversation, “Did I hear you say you received the biggest surprise of your life last night?” “I think we all did.” one of the other girls piped in.

      “Did it have something to do with the sleigh ride last night?” Daisy asked. “Yes and no.” Tracy answered. “So,” Daisy said, “What was the surprise then?” “Harold!” The girls all yelled out at once. “I should have known.” Daisy said shaking here head. “What did he do this time? No, Let me guess, Harold did something to the horses.”

      “No,” Tracy shook here head. “He covered the seats with super glue?” Daisy asked next. “He did that last year.” Tracy said. “Then what kind of trouble did he get into this year?” Daisy wanted to know. “Actually,” Tracy replied, “He didn’t do anything wrong.” “I can see why that would be a big surprise.” Daisy said a bit surprised her self, “Was he sick or something?”

     “I'm not sure.” Tracy said, “But I do know he wasn’t acting his normal self.” “Did he say why he was acting different?” Daisy asked. “He said it had something to doing with Christmas and giving Jesus the unperfect gift.” one of the other girls answered, it was Bernadette. “The unperfect git?” Daisy questioned, Don't you mean the perfect gift?”

     “Yeah,” Tracy went on to explain, “He said he wanted to give Jesus the perfect gift but Barney’s list didn’t have anything good on it. So, Harold decided to give the unperfect gift.” “Well,” Daisy said wanting to know, “What was the unperfect gift that he gave?” “Himself!” The girls all said in unison. “Harold gave himself.”

     “What?!” Daisy shouted out in surprise. “That's right.” Tracy said, “He decided to give himself to Jesus. And he wasn’t going to try to be good on his own anymore.” “Since when did Harold ever try to be good?” Daisy injected, “Do you think he was serious?” “I doubt it.” Stella sneered. “I sure hope so.' Tracy added, “But I wouldn't hold my breath. But then, he was well behaved last night. Makes you wonder.” “Wonder indeed.” Daisy said and then got up to do some more shopping.

     It's that time of year when we think about gifts both giving and getting. It's that time of year when we should also be thinking of the greatest gift and the greatest gift giver. James 1:17 says Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. (ESV) Of all the gifts that God has given, the greatest gift He gave was His Son. John 3:16 says For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (ESV)

     Too many times this greatest of gifts is rejected and even attacked but not always. No, I'm not going to look at the Wise men and their giving of gifts but a couple of men, who like Harold, gave themselves to God.

• The first was an Ethiopian - Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Rise and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." This is a desert place. And he rose and went. And there was an Ethiopian, a eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure. He had come to Jerusalem to worship and was returning, seated in his chariot, and he was reading the prophet Isaiah. And the Spirit said to Philip, "Go over and join this chariot." So Philip ran to him and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, "Do you understand what you are reading?" And he said, "How can I, unless someone guides me?" And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. … Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus. And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, "See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?" And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. Acts 8:26-38 (ESV) He was reading scripture but couldn't understand it. Philip was sent to explain. He gave himself to God.

• The second was A Jailer - The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bonds were unfastened. When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul cried with a loud voice, "Do not harm yourself, for we are all here." And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" And they said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. Acts 16:22-33 (ESV) He put Paul and Silas in Jail but they kept singing. He tried to kill himself when he thought they had escaped. He heard good new and gave himself to God

     We are told:

• For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 (ESV)
• For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, Ephesians 2:8 (ESV)
• And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15 (ESV)
• For he says, "In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you." Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (ESV)

     Here's Something To Ponder

• What kind of gifts has God given you?
• What have you given God?

NEVER GROWING UP

     Daisy Smith was hosting a scrap booking party and had invited the moms in the congregation along with their daughter to join her in the fellowship hall of the church to work on their pictures. To her delight there was a rather large turn out and they spent hours pouring over pictures, drinking coffee, eating various deserts, and laughing at family stories.

      One such story involved Bernadette Henderson and how she managed to mix things up on another of the ten commandments. It all started, according to Martha Peterson, when Bernadette stopped by to play with Stella, or at least that what she thought she was doing there but in Bernadette's words, she had come to warn her.

     “Warn me?” Martha said, “Warn me of what? I asked her.” “Weren't you listening to the sermon on Sunday?” Bernadette asked me and that started rambling on about how I was breaking the seventh commandment. And if she was here today she would have probably told us that most of us were.” When the ladies heard that several of them gasped in horror for they knew what the seventh commandment was.

     “'WHAT?' I gasped, I never broke that commandment.” Martha said she told Bernadette. “'Yes you did.' Bernadette insisted, 'You grew up.' 'Well, yeah', I told her 'But what does that have to do with the seventh commandment? And here is what she said, 'It says “Thou shalt not commit adultery and you became an adult.”

     After a bit of laughter, Martha continued her story, “'I think you’re a little mixed up.' I told her, 'I didn't brake the seventh commandment.' 'Are you telling me you never grew up? Bernadette asked when I said that, 'You sure look older than 18.' I am older than 18 I assured her. ' Than that means your an adult and if you’re an adult you broke the seventh commandment.' Bernadette insisted to me.”

     “It took me nearly half an hour,” Martha continued, “Before I was able to convince her that becoming an adult doesn't mean you commit adultery. 'You mean it’s safe to grow up?' She finally asked. 'Yes, I told her, She could grow up and become an adult.' Still she said she didn't want to become an adult but stay a kids forever. When I asked her how she was going to keep from growing up, she said she was just going to quit having birthdays.”

     “Sounds like all of us.” someone piped in when they heard that. “I quit having birthdays years ago.” someone else added and then everybody laughed. Once the laughter settled down, Martha finished her story telling them how Bernadette said she had to go tell a whole bunch of people, including her mom, that they had not committed adultery.

     When I think of adultery there are two things that immediately come to mind – the seventh commandment - Exodus 20:14 You shall not commit adultery. (NASB) and the story of David and Bathsheba. What doesn't come to mind is growing up / becoming an adult.

     The story of David and Bathsheba can be found in 2 Samuel 1. Here is a part of that story - Now when evening came David arose from his bed and walked around on the roof of the king's house, and from the roof he saw a woman bathing; and the woman was very beautiful in appearance. So David sent and inquired about the woman. And one said, "Is this not Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?" David sent messengers and took her, and when she came to him, he lay with her; and when she had purified herself from her uncleanness, she returned to her house. The woman conceived; and she sent and told David, and said, "I am pregnant." (NASB)

     So, what is adultery? The Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary describes it as follows: An act of unfaithfulness in marriage that occurs when one of the marriage partners voluntarily engages in sexual intercourse with a person other than the marriage partner.

     When you read through the Bible, you can find many stories of adultery besides that of David and Bathsheba. You can also read that God is serious when it comes to keeping the 7^th commandment.

    

• Deuteronomy 22:22 If a man is found lying with a married woman, then both of them shall die, the man who lay with the woman, and the woman; thus you shall purge the evil from Israel. (NASB)
• Leviticus 20:10 'If there is a man who commits adultery with another man's wife, one who commits adultery with his friend's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death. (NASB)

     Remember the woman in the New Testament that was brought before Jesus. She had committed adultery – not sure why they didn't bring the man – and her accusers wanted Jesus to say she deserved to be executed for they knew what the law said. Jesus agreed but showed her mercy after the accusers walked away.

     Jesus lets us know in the New Testament that adultery goes beyond the physical act in Matthew 5:27-28 "You have heard that it was said, 'YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY'; but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. (NASB)

     Of course, this doesn't mean all sex is out, after all God created it. I don't quote from the Message paraphrase very often but here Hebrews 13:4 Honor marriage, and guard the sacredness of sexual intimacy between wife and husband. God draws a firm line against casual and illicit sex. (MSG)

      Here's Something To Ponder

• How serious are you willing to take the 7^th commandment?
• How guilty are you in light of Jesus word's in Matthew?

NO GOD IN SPAIN

      It was Monday morning and Bernadette Henderson was taking a stroll through the park enjoying the sounds of the morning birds. About halfway through the park, she saw someone she thought she knew from church sitting on a bench and decided to go over to her and say hi. As she neared the bench she was able to tell that it was none other than April Zaspella.

     “Hi, April!” Bernadette called out, “Mind if I set beside you?” “I'd love the company, Bernadette.” April said with a smile. “How did you know it was me?” Bernadette asked as she sat down, “I thought you couldn't see?” “I can't” April replied, “But I can hear and I know your voice from church.”

     “What brings you to the park?” Bernadette asked. “I'm just meditating on yesterday's sermon and thinking up a poem to help me remember it.” “Oh.” Bernadette injected. “How did you like the sermon yesterday?” April asked. “It was alright.” Bernadette answered, But I couldn't understand why Randy kept telling us God doesn’t want his name used in Spain.”

     “What did you say?” April asked thinking she heard wrong. “Is said I couldn't understand why Randy kept telling us God doesn’t want his name used in Spain.” “I don't remember Randy saying that.” April said. “Of course he did.” Bernadette insisted, “He said his sermon was bout the third commandment - Don’t use God’s name in Spain.” “Oh boy!” April said shaking her head.

     “I keep asking myself 'Isn’t God’s name good enough to use in Spain?'” Bernadette said. “Yes Bernadette.” April giggled, “It is good enough. In fact It’s good enough to be used everywhere.” “Then why can’t they use it in Spain?” Bernadette asked, “Is God afraid they'll us His name the wrong way?”

     “Well...” April said, “That’s close to what the third commandment says - don’t use God’s name in vain.” When Bernadette heard that she started shouting, “Vain!? Vain?! I thought Randy said Spain!” “Nope.” April giggled, “He said vain.” “Oh great.” Bernadette said slapping her forehead, “Do you know what that means?”

     “Of course I do.” April said with a smile. “Now I'm going to have to crawl up on our roof.” “What?!” April exclaimed, “What does your roof have to do with it?” “Where else would I find a vane.” Bernadette snorted, “I just hope nobody put God’s name on our weather vane. I wouldn’t want to be breaking the third commandment.”

     “What are we going to do with you?” April asked shacking her head. “How about holding the ladder for me.” Bernadette answered, “That way I won't fall.” “No,” April answered, “I think I'll just stay here and work on my poem.” “Suit yourself.” Bernadette said as she stood up to go, “I just hope I don't fall.”

     Bernadette, she'll mix things up and still not come far from the truth for it is not only those in Spain but everywhere that need to use God's name correctly.

     After these things and these acts of faithfulness, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah and encamped against the fortified cities, thinking to win them for himself. And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib had come and intended to fight against Jerusalem, he planned with his officers 2 Chronicles 32:1-3a (ESV)

     Hezekiah was one of the good kings of Judah and had done much to return the people back to God. Now Sennacherib king of Assyria was planning to make war against Jerusalem. Hezekiah started prepping fro war. Let's see what happens.

     He planned with his officers and his mighty men to stop the water of the springs that were outside the city; and they helped him. A great many people were gathered, and they stopped all the springs and the brook that flowed through the land, saying, "Why should the kings of Assyria come and find much water?" He set to work resolutely and built up all the wall that was broken down and raised towers upon it, and outside it he built another wall, and he strengthened the Millo in the city of David. He also made weapons and shields in abundance. And he set combat commanders over the people and gathered them together to him in the square at the gate of the city and spoke encouragingly to them, saying, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or dismayed before the king of Assyria and all the horde that is with him, for there are more with us than with him. With him is an arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God, to help us and to fight our battles." And the people took confidence from the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.

     After this, Sennacherib, king of Assyria, who was besieging Lachish with all his forces, sent his servants to Jerusalem to Hezekiah king of Judah and to all the people of Judah who were in Jerusalem, saying, "Thus says Sennacherib king of Assyria, 'On what are you trusting, that you endure the siege in Jerusalem? Is not Hezekiah misleading you, that he may give you over to die by famine and by thirst, when he tells you, "The LORD our God will deliver us from the hand of the king of Assyria"? Has not this same Hezekiah taken away his high places and his altars and commanded Judah and Jerusalem, "Before one altar you shall worship, and on it you shall burn your sacrifices"? Do you not know what I and my fathers have done to all the peoples of other lands? Were the gods of the nations of those lands at all able to deliver their lands out of my hand? Who among all the gods of those nations that my fathers devoted to destruction was able to deliver his people from my hand, that your God should be able to deliver you from my hand? Now, therefore, do not let Hezekiah deceive you or mislead you in this fashion, and do not believe him, for no god of any nation or kingdom has been able to deliver his people from my hand or from the hand of my fathers. How much less will your God deliver you out of my hand!' " And his servants said still more against the Lord GOD and against his servant Hezekiah. And he wrote letters to cast contempt on the LORD, the God of Israel and to speak against him, saying, "Like the gods of the nations of the lands who have not delivered their people from my hands, so the God of Hezekiah will not deliver his people from my hand." And they shouted it with a loud voice in the language of Judah to the people of Jerusalem who were on the wall, to frighten and terrify them, in order that they might take the city. And they spoke of the God of Jerusalem as they spoke of the gods of the peoples of the earth, which are the work of men's hands.

2 Chronicles 32:3-19 (ESV)

     Hezekiah cuts off the outside water supply, strengthens the city, makes weapons and encourages the people and then Sennacherib starts the war …. with a war of words doing his best to discourage the people treating God as some worthless idol

     Exodus 20:7 says You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain. (ESV) So, what does it mean by “vain” use of God's name? To treat God's name vain is to make it: empty, false, worthless. It is to profane or misuse it. We need to give God's name respect, honor and glory.

     Here's Something To Ponder

• How often do you treat God's name in vain as in OMG, etc?
• Does it bother you when other's treat God's name in vain?

GIANT JUNE BUGS

Love bears all things, believes all things, - 1 Corinthians 13:7a (ESV)

      It was another beautiful spring day and this time Randy didn't need to work at the office. His sermon was finished and he now had time to get his garden planted. After spending most of the morning pushing a tiller through the black dirt, Randy decided it was time to take a break and have a tall cold glass of lemonade.

      As he stood looking over the freshly tilled dirt, Bernadette came running up to him breathing really hard. After giving her a couple minutes to catch her breath Randy asked her if he could help her. “What are you doing?” Bernadette asked almost as if she was scolding him. “Just standing here drinking some ice cold lemonade.” Randy answered, “Would you like some?”

      “You're not planting a garden, are you?” Bernadette asked, “Please tell me you're not.” “Of course I'm planting a garden, Bernadette,” Randy replied, “I do it every year. This year I'm panning on planting corn and potatoes and onions and carrots and beans and..” “NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!” Bernadette screamed when she heard that cutting Randy off in mid sentence.

     “What's wrong, Bernadette?” Randy asked, “Are you okay?” “We're all doomed.” Bernadette muttered, “You planted a garden and now their going to come.” “Who's coming?” Randy asked. “The ... Giant ... June ... Bugs.” Bernadette said, “Their bigger than a moose.” “Did you see one?”, Randy asked, “Or are you making this up?”

     “I'm not making it up.” Bernadette pleaded, “It’s true. Harold told me all about them. He said he even saw one. He said they come every time you plant a garden and then, then, then, they destroy everything. We’re doomed. And it’s all your fault.” “Are you sure Harold isn’t making this up to get out of planting his own garden.” Randy asked almost positive Harold was.

     “Harold would never do that.” Bernadette pleaded, “He loves food too much. He said he heard all about them from his friend Bert.” “I didn't know Harold had any friends.” Randy injected, but Bernadette continued, “He said they came from outer space and there is nothing in the world that will stop them. He said they came back from the moon a the space shuttle.”

     “Space shuttle.” Randy said. “Now I know Harold is making this up. The space shuttle doesn’t even go to the moon.” “It doesn't?” Bernadette asked a bit puzzled. “Tell me” Randy said, “Do you believe everything you here?” “Of course not.” Bernadette cheerfully answered, “I only believe the believable stuff.” “Like space monsters?” Randy asked. “Yeah.” Bernadette answered.

     “If I don’t believe everything I could get in trouble.” Bernadette said after thinking about what she had just said yeah too. “One time my mom told me veggies were good for me. I didn’t believe that and I got in trouble so...” “I think you need to go practice some discernment to figure out who is telling the truth. And I need to get back to my garden.” “I'll try.” Bernadette said as she started to leave, “But I'm still keeping my eyes open for those Giant June Bugs.”

     1 Corinthians 13:7 tells us that love believes all things. If we are to experience and share God's love are we really suppose to believe everything? Are there times when we shouldn't believe things? In Matthew 24:23 Jesus says “if anyone says to you, 'Look, here is the Christ!' or 'There he is!' do not believe it.” (ESV) Jesus talks of times when we are not to believe. When it comes to everyday life, there ends up being times when we should believe and we don't and times we shouldn't and we do like in this old Aesop fable.

     There was once a young Shepherd Boy who tended his sheep at the foot of a mountain near a dark forest. It was rather lonely for him all day, so he thought upon a plan by which he could get a little company and some excitement. He rushed down towards the village calling out “Wolf, Wolf,” and the villagers came out to meet him, and some of them stopped with him for a considerable time. This pleased the boy so much that a few days afterwards he tried the same trick, and again the villagers came to his help. But shortly after this a Wolf actually did come out from the forest, and began to worry the sheep, and the boy of course cried out “Wolf, Wolf,” still louder than before. But this time the villagers, who had been fooled twice before, thought the boy was again deceiving them, and nobody stirred to come to his help. So the Wolf made a good meal off the boy’s flock, and when the boy complained, the wise man of the village said: “A liar will not be believed, even when he speaks the truth.”

     While the focus of this story tends to be the boy who cried wolf, I tell it because of those who refused to believe the boy after they had been lied to several times. In a way, they failed to show love, they failed to over look the wrong, they failed to forgive.

     In the Greek, the word translated believe has the idea of thinking something to be true, to place confidence in, to trust someone. To be able to do that when we have been lied to we need to be able to forgive.

• Luke 17:3-4 - Be on your guard. If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and comes back to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.” (HCSB)
• Ephesians 4:32 - Be kind and loving to each other, and forgive each other just as God forgave you in Christ. (NCV)

     When someone becomes untrustworthy, unbelievable, yes, they may need to change but we need to be willing to believe, and trust if we are to love and that may mean putting the past aside.

      Here's Something To Ponder

• What are you willing to believe even when it is unbelievable?
• How do you react when others fail to believe you when you are telling the truth?

BEAR, BARE OR BEAR

Love bears all things, 1 Corinthians 13:7a (ESV)

      It was a beautiful spring day and Randy thought he would sit outside while studying for his next sermon on love. As he leaned back against a tree a gentle breeze blew across his face bringing the scent of blossoms and fresh cut grass. As he sat there taking in the scents of spring, he picked up his Bible and started reading, unfortunately the sounds of spring kept side tracking him.

     The first sounds he heard were the birds. “What beautiful sounds they make.” he thought and then there were the frogs which got him thinking about his younger years when he used to catch them and then there was the loud RRROOOAAARRR!!! of a bear.

     “All right, Harold!” Randy called out, “There are no bears around here. Come out with your hands up.” “I’m not Harold!” Bernadette stated as she came out from behind the tree Randy was leaning against. “Bernadette!?” said in surprise, “What are you doing here?” “I thought you could use some help with your sermon.” Bernadette answered.

     “Well,” Randy said, “You might be able to help me. Bye the way, what was that loud roar all about?” “You mean you don’t know.” Bernadette asked a bit puzzled, “I was pretending to be a bear. I thought it would help you with your sermon. “How will pretending to be a bear help me?” asked scratching is head.

     “I don’t know.” Bernadette said putting her hands on her hips, “All I know is I heard you were going to talk about a bear for your next sermon.” Randy scratched his head some more trying to remember saying he was going to talk a bout a bear. “If you talk about “Teddy bears” I can help you out a lot.” said, “I’ve got thirteen of them. My favorite is the pink one with yellow pok-a-dots.”

     “Well, I’m not talking about teddy bears.” Randy said. “How about Panda bears?” Bernadette asked, “There pretty cute. Or maybe some polar bears or black bears or brown bears or maybe even a Big Ferocious Grizzly Bear.” “I am not talking about bears.” Randy interrupted almost shouting, “I’m talking about love and how it bares all things.”

     “A love bear, how cute.” Bernadette chirped when she heard that, but before she could carry on Randy let out a big RRRROOOOAAAARRRR!!!! himself which caused her to scream “AAAUUUGGGHH!!! A bear. Help!!! Help!!! .......” “Calm down, Bernadette” Randy laughed. “Calm down?” Bernadette quipped, “I heard a bear. You’ve got to protect me.”

     “Protect you? Hmm.” Randy thought out loud, “I think you just helped me with my sermon.” “What?!” Bernadette screamed, “ I’m being attacked by a bear and all you can think about is your sermon.” “Calm down Bernadette.” Randy said again, “ There is no bear but if there was I would protect you. As for my sermon, It's not about bears but about how love bears all things.”

     “Love bears things?” Bernadette asked trying to figure out what the meant. After a few minutes her eyes got big and she blurted out, “I'm not going to help you with that. I'm not going to bare myself, I'm keeping my clothes on.” and with those words she left on the run as Randy called after here to no avail “Not that kind of bare.”

     Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Psalm 100:1-3 (ESV)

     What do you know about sheep? – They're black, white, fluffy, dumb and needful of a shepherd? Throughout the Bible people are often represented by sheep. There are many stories in the Bible that teach us lessons using sheep to represent us and some of these stories about sheep well help us with our bear. Let's look at some familiar stories involving sheep.

     And David said to Saul, "Let no man's heart fail because of him. Your servant will go and fight with this Philistine." And Saul said to David, "You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him, for you are but a youth, and he has been a man of war from his youth." But David said to Saul, "Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him. - 1 Samuel 17:32-35 (ESV)

     Did you see the sheep in this story? David, in trying to convince Saul he could handle Goliath tells of tacking care of his sheep, of rescuing them from bears and lions.

      “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. - Luke 15:4-5 (ESV)

     Did you see the sheep in this story? It was lost and needed to be found and it was.

      So Jesus again said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, - John 10:7-14 (ESV)

     Did you see the sheep in this story? Did you see how the good shepherd take scare of them? Did you see that Jesus is the Good Shepherd and we are the sheep?

     1 Corinthians 13 :7 tells us that love bears all things. The word for bear in the original language has the idea of holding up, or covering up as in a roof which is meant to protect. This is what love does.

     Try these verses out

• 1 Peter 4:8 - Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. (NASB)
• Romans 15:1 - We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. (ESV)
• Galatians 6:2 - Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. (ESV)

     Here's Something To Ponder

• In what ways have you been protected by love?
• In what ways are you letting your love protect others?

THE BOPPIN PIG

Love does not delight in evil - 1 Corinthians 13:6a (NIV)

      “Has anybody ever read from the book of Third Corinthians?” Randy asked as he started off a discussion for the youth group. His goal was to teach a little history from the early church fathers but before he could ever get to the lesson, he decided he needed to talk about role models instead mostly thanks to Tracy McDonald.

     “Third Corinthians?” Stella smirked when she heard that, “There’s no such book in the Bible.” “You’re right.” Randy told her, “There is however a letter written to the Corinthians by a man named Clement.” “Cement?” Bernadette exclaimed, “That must be a hard to read.” “Clement not cement, Bernadette.” Randy replied “And it’s possible he is the same Clement that Paul mentions in his letter to the Philippians. Isn’t that cool.” Randy knew teenagers liked to use the word “cool.”

     “Maybe.” Tracy responded, “But it’s not as cool as the Boppin Pig.” “The Boppin Pig?” Randy questioned, “Who or what may I ask is the Boppin Pig?” “That's the code name for Tom Smith” Tracy answered. “And who is Tom Smith?” Randy asked. “Just a man about the size of a semi truck.” Tracy said, “And he's so cool.”

     “The size of a Semi Truck?” Randy asked. “Just about.” Tracy replied. “According to the farm news on TV last night he weighs in at 852 pounds. He is so cool.” “852 pounds!” Randy exclaimed, “No one ways that much.” “But he does.” Tracy said, “They interviewed him while he was eating and I can see why. He ate like a pig. I wish I could eat like that.”

     “What! You want to eat like a pig?” Randy asked in shock. “Yeah.” Tracy replied, “I'm tired of table manners.” “Sounds like your Tom Smith needs someone to teach him manners.” Randy claimed. “I don't think so.” Tracy laughed, “The interviewer tried and it was so cool.” “What was cool” Randy asked. “You don’t tell a 852 pound man what to do.” Tracy responded, “He bopped him.”

     “He bopped him?” Randy questioned. “Yeah.” Tracy giggled, “He sent him flying clear across the room and then it was the camera mans turn. He scolded Tom for boppin Joe. So Tom got up knocking over the table, picked up the camera man and threw him out the window. It was so cool.” “That doesn’t sound cool to me.” Randy shuddered, “In fact it’s sounds out right terrible.”

     “I guess he does it all the time.” Tracy responded, “He even has a fan mail club and a web sight. WWW dot Boppin Pig.” “You mean People actually like what he does?” Randy asked. “Of course,” Tracy replied, “After all, he’s so cool.” Trying to turn things back to God, Randy asked, “Do you think God likes what he does?” “As big as he is,” Tracy replied, “I don’t think God would even try to stop him.” With those words, Randy set aside his scheduled talk on history and focused on God's size and our role models.”

     Now the Philistines fought against Israel, and the men of Israel fled before the Philistines and fell slain on Mount Gilboa. And the Philistines overtook Saul and his sons, and the Philistines struck down Jonathan and Abinadab and Malchi-shua, the sons of Saul. The battle pressed hard against Saul, and the archers found him, and he was badly wounded by the archers. Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, "Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me." But his armor-bearer would not, for he feared greatly. Therefore Saul took his own sword and fell upon it. And when his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he also fell upon his sword and died with him. Thus Saul died, and his three sons, and his armor-bearer, and all his men, on the same day together.

1 Samuel 31:1-6 (ESV)

     A tragic end comes to king Saul and his sons. They are at war with the Philistines, again, and this time an arrow hits Saul. To avoid capture he asks his armor bearer to kill him but he refuses. Saul kills himself and than the armor bearer follows suit. But somebody was watching. Here is a summary of 2 Samuel 1:1-16

 

     On the third day, behold, a man came from Saul's camp, with his clothes torn and dirt on his head. And when he came to David, he fell to the ground and paid homage. David said to him, "How did it go? Tell me." And he answered, "The people fled from the battle, and Saul and his son Jonathan are also dead." Then David said to the young man who told him, "How do you know that Saul and his son Jonathan are dead?" And the young man who told him said, "Saul said to me, 'Stand beside me and kill me, for anguish has seized me, and yet my life still lingers.' So I stood beside him and killed him and I took the crown that was on his head and the armlet that was on his arm, and I have brought them here to my lord." Then David took hold of his clothes and tore them, and so did all the men who were with him. And they mourned and wept and fasted until evening. And David said to the young man "How is it you were not afraid to put out your hand to destroy the LORD's anointed?" Then David called one of the young men and said, "Go, execute him."

     Unlike the man who claimed to kill Saul, unlike Tracy who thought the Boppin Pig was cool, David did not delight in evil. Problem is, too many of us do and God warns against such behavior for it does not match with the Bible's definition of Love.

     There is much danger when it comes to treating evil as good. Here's is some of what the Bible has to say:

• Malachi 2:17 - You have wearied the LORD with your words. But you say, "How have we wearied him?" By saying, "Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delights in them." Or by asking, "Where is the God of justice?" (ESV)
• Proverbs 17:15 - He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the LORD. (ESV)
• Proverbs 24:24 - Whoever says to the wicked, "You are in the right," will be cursed by peoples, abhorred by nations, (ESV)
• Isaiah 5:20 - Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! (ESV)

     Of course, Love does not delight in evil.

      Here's Something To Ponder

• How many things that are “evil” find there way into your “Good” list?
• Are you truly saddened by what is being called good that is evil?

LITTLE MISS STUCK UP

Love is not jealous or boastful or proud - 1 Corinthians 13:4b (NLT)

      It was Sunday afternoon and several of the kids from the youth group had gathered in the auditorium to practice there Easter play. As Randy Smith stood at the back to quietly observe how the practice was going he noticed a rather sad looking Bernadette Peterson slouched over in the back pew and it almost sounded like she was crying.

     Thinking he might try and cheer her up, Randy walked over and asked her if she was getting excited for Easter. “Not really.” came the reply. “Don't you enjoy all that good food?” Randy asked. “Too much food.” came Bernadette's reply. “What about the egg hunt?” Randy asked next. “They're too hard to find.” Bernadette replied. “The candy?” Randy asked, “Too sweet.” came the reply. “The conversation?” Randy asked next. “Boring.” Bernadette answered.

     “Wow” Randy thought, “She must really be down. But I know what will cheer her up.” “Are you excited about the Easter celebration of our Risen Lord?” But instead of cheering up Bernadette burst into tears. “Did I say something wrong?” Randy asked to which Bernadette answered through her sobs “Stella got the lead in the Easter Puppet Play at church.”

     “So your Jealous.” Randy said while thinking of a recent sermon he gave on the subject. “I didn’t even try out.” Bernadette replied, “I was too shy.” “Oh.” Randy said in surprise, “If your not jealous then what's the problem with Stella having the lead in the puppet play?” “Stella has become Little Miss Stuck Up.” Bernadette replied sounding a bit angry now.

     “Little Miss Stuck Up?” Randy questioned, “That's not a nice way to talk about your friend.” “I know,” Bernadette replied, “But it’s the truth. She’s let being a star go to her head. “What do you mean?” Randy asked. “She thinks she’s super special and only has to be around those who are stars. And I’m no longer good enough for her.”

     “What do you mean?” Randy wanted know. “She said I wasn’t good enough for her anymore.” Bernadette told him, “And furthermore, she said she would be embarrassed to be seen with me. She even told me to drop dead, because the world doesn’t need poor people like you, and, and, and.” Unable to finish her sentence, Bernadette burst in to tears again.

     “Your still my friend.” Randy said as he sat down beside Bernadette and put his arm around her. “I know.” Bernadette replied with half a smile, “I just wish Stella was still mine. Her new friends are just as bad as she is.” “I think Stella is setting her self up for a big fall.” Randy said. “Yeah,” Bernadette agreed, “And I hope she falls soon. I want her friendship back.”

      For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. - 1 John 2:16 (NASB) There are some things that do not come from God nor do they belong to God. They are the things that belong to the world and its prince – Satan. Pride or arrogance is one of those things.

     Not only is Pride not from God but it is not a part of love, the fifth in Paul's list on love. When we look through the Bible we can find plenty of examples of pride, of little stuck ups and the not so wonderful results.

      Naaman at least to begin with lost a chance to be healed because of his pride. - Now Naaman, captain of the army of the king of Aram, was a great man with his master, and highly respected, because by him the LORD had given victory to Aram. The man was also a valiant warrior, but he was a leper. Now the Arameans had gone out in bands and had taken captive a little girl from the land of Israel; and she waited on Naaman's wife. She said to her mistress, "I wish that my master were with the prophet who is in Samaria! Then he would cure him of his leprosy." So Naaman came with his horses and his chariots and stood at the doorway of the house of Elisha. Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, "Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh will be restored to you and you will be clean." But Naaman was furious and went away and said, "Behold, I thought, 'He will surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the LORD his God, and wave his hand over the place and cure the leper.' "Are not Abanah and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be clean?" So he turned and went away in a rage. - 2 Kings 5:1-12 (NASB)

     Like Naaman, Haaman let pride get the better of him. Unlike Naaman, Haaman never relented and well, - After these events King Ahasuerus promoted Haman and advanced him and established his authority over all the princes who were with him. All the king's servants who were at the king's gate bowed down and paid homage to Haman; for so the king had commanded concerning him. But Mordecai neither bowed down nor paid homage. When Haman saw that Mordecai neither bowed down nor paid homage to him, Haman was filled with rage. But he disdained to lay hands on Mordecai alone, for they had told him who the people of Mordecai were; therefore Haman sought to destroy all the Jews, the people of Mordecai, who were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus. Then Zeresh his wife and all his friends said to him, "Have a gallows fifty cubits high made and in the morning ask the king to have Mordecai hanged on it; then go joyfully with the king to the banquet." And the advice pleased Haman, so he had the gallows made. And in due time Haaman found himself hanging from his own gallows. - Esther (NASB)

     Even in the New Testament we can find pride with disastrous results. - On an appointed day Herod, having put on his royal apparel, took his seat on the rostrum and began delivering an address to them. The people kept crying out, "The voice of a god and not of a man!" And immediately an angel of the Lord struck him because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and died. - Acts 12:21-23 (NASB)

     When it comes to pride and thinking more of one's self than one should think about these verses

• Proverbs 11:2 - Pride leads only to shame; it is wise to be humble. (NCV)
• Romans 12:16 - Be in agreement with one another. Do not be proud; instead, associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own estimation. (HCSB)
• James 4:10 - Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you. (HCSB)
• Romans 12:3 - Because God has given me a special gift, I have something to say to everyone among you. Do not think you are better than you are. You must decide what you really are by the amount of faith God has given you. (NCV)

     Here's Something More To Ponder

• How often do you become a “little stuck up”
• What happens to those around you when you become a “little stuck up”

BAGG'N BRAGG'N

Love does not brag and is not arrogant, - 1 Corinthians 13:4b (NASB)

      It had been a busy day for Randy and he was looking forward to calling it a day and walking home. Along with seven meetings, Randy had been working hard on his sermon on love for the coming Sunday and somewhere in the back of his mind, he had this nagging feeling someone wanted to give him something for his message.

     As Randy opened the door to leave, there was someone standing there with a huge bag bag of something. “Can you help me?” came a voice from behind the huge load. Quickly Randy grabbed on to the bag and help set in on the ground and to his surprise, it was Bernadette Henderson standing there. “Here they are.” she said, “I hope these work for your sermon.”

     “Uhm.” Randy said, “Thanks but what's in the bag?” “Bags.” Bernadette replied cheerfully, “I thought you could use them for your sermon this Sunday.” “My sermon?” Randy questioned. “Yeah.” Bernadette, said, “You said you were going to teach about love and that love does not bag.” When Randy heard that he placed his hand on his forehead and shaking it slowly murmured “Love does not bag.” and than he gave a short chuckle.

     “If these aren't enough, “ Bernadette said, “I know of another great example you might be able to use.” “Another bag?” Randy replied hoping the answer was no and it was. “No.” Bernadette replied, “I thought you could use Old Joe down at the grocer. He must love an awful lot.” “Why is that? Randy asked wondering where this was going.

     “Because,” Bernadette replied, “When ever we go there he never bags. We always end up bagging our own stuff.” “I thought it was Old Joe’s job to bag.” Randy asked. “I thought so to,” Bernadette answered, “But all he does is stand there and B R A G brag. If you ask me I think you should talk about bragging instead of bagging.” “Well, now that you mention it.” Randy started to say but was cut off.

     “Why Old Joe is a perfect example of a bragger.” Bernadette continued, “All he does is stand at the end of the check out and tell you how good he is. “Good at what” Randy injected, “According to Old Joe himself,” Bernadette continued, “he’s the best bagger in the state. Say’s he won some kind of bagging competition.”

     “Have you ever seen him bag?” Randy asked to which Bernadette replied, “Once. And boy was Mom ever mad. He was bragging so much that he wasn’t paying attention and he kept putting all the heavy things on the bread and he broke the eggs. So, what are you going to do with all these bags?” “I don't need any bags, Bernadette.” Randy said with a smile, “I'm planning on talking about how love does not brag.”

     “Rags!” Bernadette exclaimed, “Why didn't you says so. My dad has lot’s of those in the garage. Would you like me to get you some?” “Never mind.” Randy said shaking his head, “I think your bagg'n bragg'n story will help me plenty.”

     Have you ever wanted something, thought you were going to get it but didn't. Proverbs 25:14 says People who brag about gifts they never give are like clouds and wind that give no rain. (NCV) When rain is needed clouds give hope but if they don't give rain they are worthless. So is a man who brags/boasts. I know of one man in the Bible that bragged plenty but to his fellow soldiers he was like a cloud that gave no rain.

     The Philistines had a champion fighter from Gath named Goliath. He was about nine feet, four inches tall. He came out of the Philistine camp with a bronze helmet on his head and a coat of bronze armor that weighed about one hundred twenty-five pounds. He wore bronze protectors on his legs, and he had a bronze spear on his back. The wooden part of his larger spear was like a weaver’s rod, and its blade weighed about fifteen pounds. The officer who carried his shield walked in front of him. Goliath stood and shouted to the Israelite soldiers, “Why have you taken positions for battle? I am a Philistine, and you are Saul’s servants! Choose a man and send him to fight me. If he can fight and kill me, we will be your servants. But if I can kill him, you will be our servants.“ Then he said, “Today I stand and dare the army of Israel! Send one of your men to fight me!“ … David said to Saul, “Don’t let anyone be discouraged. I, your servant, will go and fight this Philistine!“ …. When Goliath looked at David and saw that he was only a boy, tanned and handsome, he looked down on David with disgust. He said, “Do you think I am a dog, that you come at me with a stick?“ He used his gods’ names to curse David. He said to David, “Come here. I’ll feed your body to the birds of the air and the wild animals!“ … As Goliath came near to attack him, David ran quickly to meet him. He took a stone from his bag, put it into his sling, and slung it. The stone hit the Philistine and went deep into his forehead, and Goliath fell facedown on the ground. So David defeated the Philistine with only a sling and a stone. He hit him and killed him. He did not even have a sword in his hand. Then David ran and stood beside him. He took Goliath’s sword out of its holder and killed him by cutting off his head. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they turned and ran.

1 Samuel 17:1-58 (NCV)

     The fourth thing Paul says about love is that it doesn't brag or boast. -1 Corinthians 13:4 When one brags or boasts it usually means they are lifting self up over others which is just the opposite of love.

     The Bible reminds that we are not to boast in things like tomorrow or wisdom or might or even riches. Yet, if we feel we need to boast we are to boast in the Lord.

• Proverbs 27:1 - Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. (ESV)
• Jeremiah 9:23-24 - Thus says the LORD: "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD." (ESV)

     As we read in 1 Samuel, Goliath boasted of his might and with his own sword, he lost his head.

      Here's Something To Ponder

• In what ways have you bragged which put others down?
• Would you ever consider bragging about God and what He has done?

THE PERFECT PRESENT

Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above - James 1:17 (NLT)

      It was almost Christmas in Pupperville and a gentle snow was falling on the ice skating pond as Louie practiced his Figure eights. Unfortunately, he wasn't paying attention to where he was going and crash, he ran right into a young lady and went sprawling to the ice. As Louie pushed himself up, he turned to apologize.

     “I'm sorry.” he said, “Are you okay?” “NO.” came a muffled reply as the young lady lay face first into a snow bank. Hearing that made Louie feel really bad. “Are you hurt?” He asked. “No,” came another muffled reply and than the young lady sat up and said “It's almost Christmas.”

     As it turned out, the young lady was Bernadette, and Louie knew her well. “It's almost Christmas?” Louie puzzled out loud, “What's Christmas got to do with anything?” “We're opening presents in two more days and I'm nor ready!” Bernadette growled. “ I got my Dad finished first, than all my friends but I don’t know what to get for my MOM!”

     “That shouldn't be hard since you're both girls.” Louie said trying to calm her down. “I didn’t think it would be either but I want to get her the perfect present.” Bernadette told Louie, “I’ve gone through every catalog in the house at least a dozen times and I’ve searched and searched on the Internet.”

     “Did you check all the stores in Pupperville?” Louie asked as he started to think of some way to help her. “Stores?” Bernadette replied in disgust, “Stores? You mean actually go out with all those other people and shop? Are you crazy?” “It's not that bad walking through the stores.” Louie tried to encourage her, “Besides, I thought girls like to shop.”

     “Well, I guess it wouldn’t be so bad if I knew Harold wouldn’t be there.” Bernadette told him. “But he has a booth set up outside the mall and he's trying to sell a ton of things. He even tried to sell me a bunch of dead frogs. He said they would be the perfect present for my Mom.”

     “Where in the world would Harold have gotten that much stuff?” Louie asked. “He wouldn't say.” Bernadette told him. “Every time I asked, Harold said it was a secret. And then tried to sell me some other gross thing.” “Were people actually buying stuff from him? Louie asked. “I don't know.” Bernadette told him “But his booth was the busiest one there.”

     After a few minutes of silence, Louie told Bernadette “You could give yourself to your mom.” “I guess I have enough wrapping paper to wrap myself.” Bernadette sighed, “So, what did you get Daisy for Christmas?” “Uhm, I, Uhm.” Louie stammered, “I think I forgot. I better rush over to Harold's booth and see if I can find something?” “What!?” Bernadette exclaimed when she heard that but Louie never heard her for he was on the way.

     In Isaiah we read of vineyard, a vineyard planted by God. I will sing about the one I love, a song about my loved one’s vineyard: The one I love had a vineyard on a very fertile hill. He broke up the soil, cleared it of stones, and planted it with the finest vines. He built a tower in the middle of it and even hewed out a winepress there. He expected it to yield good grapes, but it yielded worthless grapes.

Isaiah 5:1-2 (HCSB)

     God loves to give and when it came to the vineyard that He planted, he gave it everything it could need so as to produce the perfect grapes but what He got was worthless. God's giving doesn't always end up being for naught.

     There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple complex. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, Simeon took Him up in his arms, praised God, and said: Now, Master, You can dismiss Your slave in peace, according to Your word. For my eyes have seen Your salvation. You have prepared [it] in the presence of all peoples— a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Your people Israel.

Luke 2:25-32 (HCSB)

     Although it happened 8 days later, God gave Simeon his wish. Simeon was aloud to see the Christ child and when he did, he praised God. Sometime later it was men giving gifts to God. After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, wise men from the east arrived unexpectedly in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” When King Herod heard this, he was deeply disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. So he assembled all the chief priests and scribes of the people and asked them where the Messiah would be born. “In Bethlehem of Judea,” they told him, “because this is what was written by the prophet: And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the leaders of Judah: because out of you will come a leader who will shepherd My people Israel.” Then Herod secretly summoned the wise men and asked them the exact time the star appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. When you find Him, report back to me so that I too can go and worship Him.” After hearing the king, they went on their way. And there it was—the star they had seen in the east! It led them until it came and stopped above the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed beyond measure. Entering the house, they saw the child with Mary His mother, and falling to their knees, they worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their own country by another route.

Matthew 2:1-12 (HCSB)

     There are two types of giving in the Christmas story. There is God's giving

• John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (ESV)
• 1 Timothy 2:5-6 - For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. (ESV)

     And than there is our giving

• 2 Corinthians 9:7 - Each one must give as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. (ESV)
• Luke 6:38 - give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you." (ESV)

     Here's Something To Ponder

• Are you willing to accept God's gift of His Son.
• Are you willing to Give yourself to God