When I was in high school the guidance counselor could always be depended upon to make a loan. Milk or cookies were only a dime. He was about to loan to a student who owed me money. I said, you know you will never see it again. He said, “If they do not pay me back, I have not lost much, and I have learned not to loan them a greater amount.”  

Some people say they do not give anything and do not expect to be given to. Perhaps they have learned that lesson from others, or have experienced it.  Once on a move I had to have about $1400 to get into an apartment. I was willing to wait until I got paid, but one of the assistants said, “Why wait, I just sold some stock and you can pay me back when you get it.”  

When it comes to beggars, they can be categorized into two types. Those who have no choice and are forced to do it, and those who have mastered the art of begging and make a substantial amount of money from it. How do you decide in a split second, which? Trust your heart.

This scripture is taken out of context. Jesus said, “For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me”.  This was said in reference to the expensive flask of ointment that was poured over Jesus’ head. The disciples had said that it could have been sold for a large sum of money and given to the poor.  

Many look at it as if to say, why worry about those that are less fortunate. Even Jesus said that there will always be the poor.  Others look at it to mean that we should be concerned and do something about it. Jesus answers this question. Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done (Proverbs 19:17).

For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.

Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink?  And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you? And the King will answer them, as you did it to one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it to me” (Matthew 25:35-40).

If you are ever in doubt, the Apostle Paul reminds us to “Let brotherly/sisterly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body” (Hebrews 13:1-3).

Ghostbusters is a 1984 American comedy film directed and produced by Ivan Reitman, and written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis. Three eccentric parapsychologists who start a ghost-catching business in New York City.  Based on his own fascination with spirituality, Aykroyd conceived it as a project in which they would venture through time and space battling supernatural threats.

We all need help at different times in life and are blessed if we have someone we can turn to. It might be a parent, a friend, a mentor, or a total stranger. It does not have to always be about the lack of money. You might have the money but can not get your hands on it right then.

In your darkest moments, think first of Jesus and turn to Him in prayer. What if you do not have a relationship with Him and doubt whether he will answer your prayer in time to solve your problem? If this is the case, then you have to figure out which person you think is more likely to come to your aid.

Although we live in a time when we believe that everything can happen at a moment’s notice, there are times when this fails. Almost everyone that I know, that are reliable, which happens to be female, they might not be anywhere near their cell phone, or know its location.    

The cell phone can be a blessing or a curse. There is not a day that goes by that I do not have to help someone find their phone. At least in antiquity it was hard to lose. I am no different, I have to have someone call mine also. Why is this so? Could it be that we do not rely on our phone as much as some?

How about this situation: You’re in a boat crossing the Sea of Galilee when a major storm suddenly threatens to sink the ship/boat. The disciples of Jesus, in that exact situation, thought about Jesus. They found Him asleep in the back of the boat. But He rose to the occasion and stilled the storm (Matthew 8:23-27).

If there was one person you could turn to, regardless of the situation. It would be Jesus.  “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).

There is nothing wrong with receiving accolades for achievement and success. We are often told from the beginning of knowing life, “Do your very best.” The challenge is to stay focused on the One who calls us to follow Him saying, “for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

People who achieve an extraordinary level of fame or reputation while still alive are often called “a legend in their own time.” There are others who are “a legend in their own mind.” Pride has a way of distorting how we see ourselves while humility offers a realistic perspective.

I taught a student years ago who had all of the fancy moves he saw in basketball greats but never scored any shots while playing. Nor did he provide the assistance for others to achieve shots. His mother was angry with the coach because he was not accepted on the school team.

The writer of Proverbs said, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” Self-evaluation positions us for a fall. Viewing ourselves in the mirror of self-importance reflects a distorted image. This is why we do not often ask others what they think about us.

I have often wondered why great people have a dark side that not many know about until they make an awful mistake in doing something that does not have anything to do with why they are called great. I was told by a student that you cannot separate the two people. They are the same person.

Some of the vilest people in modern times were/or great artist, great singers, great financial geniuses, great sports players, musicians, preachers, great politicians, teachers, builders, soldier, mother, father, sister, brother. And some I am sure I left out.

Yet when they are spoken of, they are treated like two different people. Some will say, yes that is true, but—I still think they are great. Like the student’s observation that I mentioned above, I still struggle with that. Am I alone? What are your thoughts on the subject?

The antidote to the virus of arrogance is true humility that comes from God, our Creator. “Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.”

Jesus told His disciples, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:26-28).

Not many people are confident enough  to ask “who do people say I am” for fear of them telling the truth. Something they might not want to acknowledge. Yet, we read that the “Son of Man, The Teacher, The Savior, Jesus Christ” was not afraid to ask. 

“But what about you? He asked. “Who do you say I am? Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” In my mind, that speaks volumes.

Unfortunately, we have to deal with mean people, that includes children at one time or another. Romans 1:28-30 contains a long list of unrighteous behavior, which includes malice, gossip, slander, insolence, heartlessness and ruthlessness. Not very good traits to have.

However, being the subject of mean behavior is hurtful and demoralizing. What does the Bible say about how we should treat mean people? The first proper response to mean people is empathy, especially when it is a first-time altercation or offense.

One of the most beautiful examples of empathy in the Bible is Jesus’ response to those who crucified Him and cast lots for His clothing. Instead of focusing on His own pain, he thought of their spiritual condition. Instead of responding with justified anger, He asked God to forgive them for their ignorant actions (Luke 23:34). Stephen, the first martyr, followed that example (Acts 7: 59-60).

We should be empathetic, and we should always respond with kindness. Being mean to a mean person only escalates the situation; we are called to be peaceful and “turn the other cheek.” If the mean person is a Christian, the Bible recommends confrontation. Not in a mean or violent way but to remind them of who they say they are and whom they say they belong.

Remember that sometimes we are the mean person. We should always remember, when people are mean to us that we owed God a huge debt. He forgave us, and we can forgive others.

Before we can answer the question about why Christians are so mean, we need to biblically define Christian and clarify the word mean. It has been said that in Western culture, the word Christian has come to signify anyone who likes Christmas and does not identify as belonging to any other religion.

The world is flooded with voices and opinions, many of them professing to speak for Christianity. At the same time, many of them are crude, foul, abusive, and hateful, which is everything  Jesus was not.

The behavior of some who call themselves Christian is dreadful, but we must remember that becoming a Christian does not result in instant maturity. Many enter the kingdom of God as uncivilized, evil people. They receive a new heart and the Holy Spirit at salvation, But His work in them takes time. Salvation takes a life time.

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” Peter gave the correct answer.  Who do people say you are? I hope not Satan.

From An Essay on Criticism is one of the first major poems written by the English writer Alexander Pope, published in 1711.  The first time I heard it was used by C. E. Ford. When we were dating I heard it all of the time. I had dosed in high school Literature. The other quote was “My mistake and your error.” A half apology, if you will.

Admitting one’s error does not come easy for many, and will give a half apology and perhaps repeat it again with words such as, “Don’t be so thin skinned, or Do not take me serious”. Those who are genuinely sorry will look for ways to do it more appropriately.

Kamar Toffolo Work Relationships, lists 5 examples of apologies that will make saying “I’m Sorry” at work much easier: I will list four. One will be mine.

1. Say the words “I’m sorry.” Don’t dance around it. You don’t want your apology recipient to come away not knowing they were apologized to.
2. Be specific about what you’re apologizing for. Acknowledge what happened, what you did, and what damage you may have done.
3. Avoid justifications and obfuscations. The words “if and “but don’t belong in your apology, nor does pushing the blame off on someone or something else.
4. Show that you’ll avoid a repeat offense. Talk about what you’ll do differently next time and what actions you’re taking or going to take to help with the present situation.

Please forgive me for not being more cautious? Or please forgive me for my lack of sensitivity? Please forgive me for not being more selfless?  I have found out that the word forgive works for both children and adults. Yes, you are supposed to include children too. It shows a strength, not a weakness.

“Be perfect, therefore, as your Heavenly Father is perfect (Matthew 5:48).” However, the Word of God offers an opportunity for repentance and reconcilement if we have made poor choices in our life.

“A person who refuses to admit his/her mistakes can never be successful. But if that person confessed and forsakes those mistakes, another chance is given (Proverbs 28:13).”

In the disciple’s prayer, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your father will not forgive your sins (Matthew 6:9-14).”  This one is hardly ever mentioned, let alone printed. It backs up verse 12.

“Bless is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered (Psalm 32:1).”

Even though we  read, hear, and look each day at injustices coming to people, and we may wonder why, everything is going to be alright. And even though we all go through times of struggle and question the reason behind it in our own lives, everything is going to be alright. I want to tell you and show you from God’s Word, that everything is going to be alright.

The idea that serving God brings with it immunity from trials has caused many suffering persons to become disillusioned and quit serving Him. However, If you are saved, you are the recipient of a list of benefits that are too long to mention in this post. Some of which are: Salvation, forgiveness of sin, eternal security, the presence of God, His help and provisions, and a home in heaven.

However, most of these are in the spiritual realm, while most of our trials happen in the physical realm. This is why we often have a problem accepting the things that come our way. If we are not careful, when the trials of life begin to multiply in our lives, we might come to the same conclusion that the preacher came to in Ecclesiastes.

We might just come to the conclusion that all of life, especially the rewards of living for the Lord are just a waste of time. That is the problem the writer of Ecclesiastes is dealing with in this passage and it is a problem that we all deal with from time to time.

In my case when the trials and tribulations became too unbearable, I blamed myself.  I did not give up on God. I knew better than to give up on the one who said that He would never leave or forsake me. I gave up on the church. When I came to my senses, I found another church.   One who could help me get back on track. Never let one thing, one idea, or one person determine your destiny.

Verse 12 reminds of the age-old question that has plagued the heart of man/woman since the dawn of time, “ Why do the righteous suffer while the wicked prosper?”

Verse 14 clearly lays out the problem experienced by the Preacher. This is a question that is addressed many times in the word of God.

It is the focus of the book of Job. Job’s “friends” concluded that the righteous do suffer. Therefore, Job’s trials were in reality the results of Job’s sins! Many people are still of that opinion.

It is the focus of Psalm 73. Asaph is nearly to the point of giving up as he witnesses the prosperity of the wicked and the trials of the righteous. “This is what the wicked are like—always free of care, they go on amassing wealth.”

Psalm 37 also deals with this problem, as does Psalm 49. “The wicked draw the sword and bend the bow to bring down the poor and the needy.” 

These are problems that we all deal with at one time or another. This is one of the reasons I say, “Life is not Fair.” I am speaking of the earthly realm.

Now, let us allow the Lord to help us to achieve the proper perspective on this subject. He said in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace, In the world you shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

The dictionary defines a role model as a person who someone admires, and whose behavior they try to emulate. However, many times sports stars, rappers, and other celebrities are chosen because of their success in a skill or economic way. The whole person is very seldom considered.

Whether they are good or bad role models, they can influence both children and adult’s identity, values, attitudes, and behaviors. They may influence young and old to value superficial aspects of their lives like brand names and their image. My motivation was to not emulate the people I saw while growing up.

Role models can be great for self-improvement because some must have a standard to strive for or compare themselves with. Many great leaders, sportsmen and high-achievers have one thing in common — they all have role models whom they strived to emulate in some way and eventually ended up doing better than their role models.

In the 1990’s Charles Barkley stated,” I cannot be a role model for your kid. Your kid does not know me. I can be an athletic hero, but a role model should be a mom, a dad, an aunt, an uncle, someone the kid has a contact with.” He was criticized for his honesty. You have to read the rest of the story.

If your role model is your parent, teacher, or a family member, you have the advantage of having access to them so that you can talk to them and get tips on how to go about doing things. They can become our personal coaches, and do a good job of it because they care about us and seeing us do well can be as important to them as it is to us.

So, we should choose our role models carefully, choosing those with a strong moral standing and of an upright character. Though they may have their flaws, (all have sinned and come short) they can be inspiring despite their weaknesses. This will help us to see how it is possible to overcome or simply turn a weakness into a strength, and not let flaws hold us back from being the best.

The Bible makes it clear that the goal of our lives is to become like Christ. Paul challenges us to “Present everyone matures in Christ.” (Col. 1:28). However, becoming like Christ is a lifelong process, not an event. It does not appear as glorious as the earthly role models.  God can take what little faith we have and multiply it in ways that make our limitations vanish.

His provisions for us are always complete.

No doubt you started thinking about your New Year’s resolution months ago. They were good ones, ones that would change things about you that you saw as a great improvement. But did you stop to think about how successful you were in implementing the one that you made last year?  How did it go?

According to some statics, these are the 5 most popular ones that were chosen over the years:

• Exercise more
• Lose weight
• Get organized
• Learn a new skill or hobby
• Live life to the fullest

Psychologist will probably tell you that not even one, as stated, is measurable. This could be the reason why you were not successful. How much exercise were you doing before? Was it consistent? Was it walking, running, lifting weights, or getting up to change the channel instead of using the remote?

Did you seek medical advice prior to deciding to lose weight? How were you going to lose it? Did you plan on starving yourself or cutting down on fast food, sugar drinks and snacks? Were you going to seek assistance in doing so? If you are not the one who prepares your food, you must have buy-in from the cook.

What does getting organized mean? Getting rid of excess stuff in the garage that prevents the car from entering? Stacked up paperwork left over from retirement? Making final arrangements for when you are no longer able to do for yourself? Downsizing from a big house to a smaller one or an apartment?

Finishing that degree that you started but never finished? Setting up that “Ham Shack” (Amateur Radio) to use the license that you pursued and continued to renew for the last two decades? Beginning to use those many tools that you acquired over the years to build bird houses or furniture?

Getting a Passport to travel to places that you always wanted to visit. Completing your “Bucket List” (things you want to do while you still can). Do you plan to do them alone or with someone else. If it involves doing them with someone else, have you discussed it with them? Their list may have changed since you last talked about it.

Here are some suggestions that could make the world a better place:

• Put others first
• Seek a peaceful way to accomplish a task
• Show compassion
• When you feel helpless, ask for help
• Spend more time with positive family and friends

If this sounds too complicated, why not take the advice of the Apostle Paul. Be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us (Cor. 11:1). And we have not only the perfect model, but we also have the perfect power who works in us, both to work for His good pleasure (Eph.5:1-2).

Hopelessness is the feeling that nothing can be done by anyone to make our situation better. We are so sure of it that we internalize it and might fail to ask anyone else for assistance. We might be victims of the following.

Focus. The ability to keep our attention fixed on our vision and goals. When we lose focus, we stop engaging in activities that give us a sense of purpose.

Amusements. Entertaining distractions that draw us away from our vision, and goals. They are fun but do not give us a sense of purpose. If we exercise moderation, they can serve as a “lighting rod” for relaxation and recharge.

Diversions. Meaningful activities that serve someone else’s vision and goal, but not our own. Because we get a warm and fuzzy feeling, we can be tempted to spend all out time accomplishing other people’s goals and neglect our own.

Sometimes we feel hopeless because we lose focus with the big picture. We put all our time and resources on one person, one experience, one goal that we think is essential. We forgot about the adage, “Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.” Why, if we drop it, we risk the chance of all of them being broken at once.

For example, you struggle to attend a school that you were told you were sure to find a lucrative job right away when you graduated, but you found out that this was not the case. Thousands had been told the same thing. You missed the cut by one. They filled all positions in May, but you marched in June.

You find another job that you feel is exactly right for you because you have all the experiences that they sought. In fact, you were so good that you helped train some of the people who started after you. After you said they were ready, they received promotions. When it came time for yours, there was no one to speak for you.

Or you think that because you lost your job that you are hopeless—even though that job could not be essential for happiness since it was supposed to be temporary. Here again, you lost focus. Tunnel vision blinded you again. Let me remind you of some stellar advice from the Holy Bible.

Do not put your confidence in powerful people, there is no help for you there. (Psalm 146:3). Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and find rest for your souls.

Will you try Him today?

Dr. Art Lindsley, with the Institute for Faith Work and Economics, on May 19, 2021, referencing C.S. Lewis, stated: “Beware the Temptation of the Inner Ring.” One of C. S. Lewis’s most memorable essays is entitled The Inner Ring.

It describes the experiences and desires of us all at various stages of life to be accepted within the inner ring of whatever group matters to us at the time. It can be a job or a church. To feel “excluded” or “out of it” is a miserable feeling. However, attaining a slot in the inner circle may test your moral compass.

These desires are not necessarily wrong. Certain inner rings are unavoidable. Someone has to be president of the student government, become a partner, be a leader in a denomination, get a promotion, or be an elder, and it is not wrong to desire that position or influence.

If you get “in,” will you find the satisfaction you seek? The initial rush of excitement will not last. Eventually, you will have to look for another ring to enter. If you are governed by that desire, you will never get what you want. If you succeed there will be nothing left.

This desire which draws us into it can affect our relations at home, work, church, and even the community. If you are not careful, this desire can totally engulf you to the point of virtue or vice. A life sentence if you will. Many times, you might not notice it because it starts out so subtle.

The mother of Zebedee’s children (James and John) came to Jesus with her sons. She got down on her knees before Jesus to ask something of Him. He said to her. “What do you want?” She said, “Say that my two sons may sit, one at Your right side and one at Your left side when You are King (Matthew 20:20-21).

But when you are invited, go, and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he/she may say to you move up higher. Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you (Luke 14:10). Jesus encourages humility.

The author suggests that you focus on your work and let the results take care of themselves. The life you save may be your own.