Winter Haven Christian Church

February 28, 2023

“WHAT’S RIGHT? - WHAT’S WRONG?!”

Gentiles, who do not have the law,...show the work of the law written in their hearts.” ~Romans 2:14-15 

People who reject absolute standards of right and wrong are often inconsistent. When they think they are being treated unfairly, they appeal to a standard of justice that they expect everyone to adhere to.

A philosophy professor began each new term by asking his class, “Do you believe it can be shown that there are absolute values like justice?” The free-thinking students all argued that everything is relative and no single law can be applied universally. Before the end of the semester, the professor devoted one class period to debate the issue. At the end, he concluded, “Regardless of what you think, I want you to know that absolute values can be demonstrated. And if you don’t accept what I say, I’ll flunk you!” One angry student got up and insisted, “That’s not fair!” “You’ve just proved my point,” replied the professor. “You’ve appealed to a higher standard of fairness.”

God’s moral standards are in the Bible, and He has given us a conscience to tell us right from wrong (Romans 2:14-15). Every time we use the words good and bad, we imply a standard by which we make such judgments. Biblical values are not outdated. They are good for any age because they originate with an eternal, unchanging God.

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “ONLY GOD HAS THE RIGHT TO SAY WHAT’S WRONG!” 

January 16, 2023

“THE CENTER OF HISTORY!”

“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” ~Matthew 16:16

On the file folders in its biographical morgue, The Washington Post identifies famous people with a single vocational notice, such as “home run king” or “motion picture star.” According to a former report, one of these files is marked, “Jesus Christ (martyr).”

Every individual who considers Jesus Chris makes some judgment about Him. French philosopher and historian Ernest Renan said, “All history is incomprehensible without Christ.” American author Ralph Waldo Emerson concluded, “His name is not so much written but plowed into the history of the world.”

Kenneth Scott Latourette, former chairman of the department of religion at Yale Graduate School, wrote, “That short life of Jesus has been the most influential ever lived. Through Him millions have been transformed and have begun to live the life which He exemplified. Gauged by the consequences which have followed, the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus have been the most important events in the history of man.”

What label do you put on Jesus Christ? If you agree that He is who He claimed to be, then let Him who is the center of history be not only the center of your creed but also the object of your loyalty and love.

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “YOUR DECISION ABOUT JESUS DETERMINES YOUR DESTINY!”

           ALWAYS DECIDE TO FOLLOW JESUS!

September 19, 2022

“DO UNTO OTHERS!”

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” ~Matthew 7:12

In May 2006, David Sharp set off from base camp to make his third attempt on Mount Everest. He actually reached the summit, but on his way down he ran out of oxygen. As he lay on the side of the mountain dying, 40 climbers passed him by.

Some say that at such oxygen deprived altitudes, rescues are too perilous. But others say that climbers are too eager to reach the top and too selfish to help those in trouble.

I wonder what would have happened if someone who passed that stricken climber had said, “I will treat him the way I want to be treated?”

In Matthew 7:12, the golden rule, Jesus gave His disciples the secret to fulfilling the entire Old Testament relational regulations—love others and live for their benefit. He said this in the larger context of all the radical principles that He had taught up to this point in His sermon (5:17-7:11).

As difficult as it is to live for the benefit of others, Jesus knew His followers could consistently live out this ethic as they drew strength from a righteousness that went beyond duty and outward conformity to rules (5:20). It is a righteousness that can come only from God Himself.

If we are Jesus followers, let’s walk in His steps—loving others and living for their benefit.

God Bless you, Forever!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. LOVE IS THE DEBT WE OWE ONE ANOTHER!

August 31, 2022

“HIS GOOD PURPOSE!”

“All things work together for the good to those who love God.” ~Romans 8:28

Romans 8:28— how easily and how often this Bible reference rolls off our tongues! But perhaps we need to grasp fully what this verse is saying.

Randy Alcorn, in a book he has co-authored with his wife Nanci, offers some insights on Romans 8:28. He quotes the New American Standard Bible translation of this Verse: “God causes all things to work together for good.” Randy points out that it doesn’t say each individual thing is good, but that God works them together for good.

Recalling his boyhood days, Randy tells how he often watched his mother bake cakes. One day when she had all the ingredients set out—flour, sugar, baking powder, raw egg, vanilla—he sneaked a taste of each one. Except for the sugar, they all tasted horrible. Then his mother stirred them together and put the batter in the oven. “It didn’t make sense to me,” he recalls, “that the combination of individually distasteful things produced such a tasty product.” Randy concludes that God likewise “takes all the undesirable stresses in our lives, mixes them together, put them under the heat of crisis, and produces a perfect result.”

Let’s look beyond our circumstances and remember that God has an ultimate good purpose.  

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “WHEN THINGS LOOK BAD, DON’T FORGET: GOD IS GOOD!”

August 1, 2022

“I REMEMBER GRANDPA!”

He took them up in His arms...and blessed them.” ~Mark 10:16

 Five –year-old Bree climbed up onto Grandpa Dick Bandy’s lap. She snuggled close to him and whispered, “I remember what you told me, Grandpa.” Her words brought warm assurance to Dick’s heart.

Here is why. As a grandfather, Dick had decided to be a good influence for Christ to his grandchildren. He didn’t preach at them or badger them, but he simply talked to them about the Lord. He and Bree had been talking one day, and she told him she was memorizing some verses. So he helped her to recite John 3:16, one of the verses she had memorized. He told her to substitute her name for the words the world and whoever. Then he told her why—because God loves her and Christ died for her. After listening intently and doing what he suggested, she went on her way. Now it was a few months later, and that’s why Dick was so happy that she remembered. She knew that Jesus loved her.

You don’t have to be a grandparent to tell a child about the Lord. Nor do you have to be a theologian. Just be willing to take a child into your arms, and give him or her the best blessing of all—the message of God’s love.

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “GOD HAS A GREAT CONCERN FOR LITTLE CHILDREN

June 30, 2022

“RIGHT PLACE!”

“A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” ~Proverbs 16:19

They were in the right place, on the wrong day. Or so it would seem.

The Dayspring Chorale, a traveling high school singing group, arrived at a nursing home for Thursday concert. However, the folds at the home were expecting them on Friday. But they said if the group could get set up fast, they could sing for 20 minutes. Then they’d have to stop for a memorial service for one of the residents.

The chorale hurriedly got ready and sang, and as they did, the son of the man who had died heard them. When they were done, he asked if they could sing at his dad’s service. They gladly agreed and ministered hope and truth to all who attended. God used these young people in a special way—all because of a secretarial error. But was it a mistake?

We carefully make schedules so we can be where we think we should be. But we always need to keep in mind the words of Solomon, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps” (Prov. 16:9).

Do we seek ministry in life’s unplanned schedule changes? Do we turn detours into guided tours of what He wants to do through us? If we’re doing God’s will, we’ll be in the right place. Then, wherever we are, we can point people to Him.

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. UNEXPECTED CHANGES ARE OPPORTUNITIES IN DISGUISE!

May 30, 2022

“IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT!”

"Let your light so shine before people, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” ~Matthew 5:16

I love the story of the stressed-out woman who was tailgating a man as they drove on a busy boulevard. When he slowed to a stop at a yellow light, the woman hit the horn, cussing and screaming in frustration and gesturing angrily. As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a police officer who ordered her to exit the car with her hands up. He took her to the police station and placed her in a holding cell.

An hour later, the officer returned and said, “I’m sorry, Ma’am. This has been a big mistake. When I pulled up behind you, I noticed your ‘What Would Jesus do?’ license plate holder and your ‘Follow Me to Sunday School’ bumper sticker. I assumed the car was stolen!”

Satan doesn’t care so much if you’re a Christian as long as you don’t act like one. If he can get you to live by his signals, he can damage and disarm you every time and dishonor the name of Christ in the process.

Instead, Jesus calls believers to be “salt” and to “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

With Jesus in the driver’s seat of our lives, we can show off the love and glory of God.

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. DON’T LET SATAN MANAGE THE DETAILS OF YOUR LIFE!

April 29, 2022

“TURNING PAIN INTO PRAISE!”

“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it!”

~I Corinthians 10:13

After years of a remarkable and fruitful ministry in India, Amy Carmichael became a bedridden sufferer. As the courageous founder and dynamic heart of the Dohnavour Fellowship, she had been instrumental in rescuing hundreds of girls and boys for a terrible life of abusive servitude. All the while she carried on that rescue operation of bringing young people into spiritual freedom through faith in Jesus Christ, she was writing books, and especially poems, which continue to bless readers around the world.

Then arthritis made Amy's pain wracked invalid. did she bemoan her affliction or question God? No. Amy was still the guiding inspiration of Dohnavour, and she still kept on writing. Her meditations, letters and poems are full of praise to God and encouragement to her fellow pilgrims. 

When affliction strike us, how do we react? Are we embittered, or do we trustfully appropriate God's sustaining grace? (I Corinthians 10:13). And so we prayerfully encourage those around us by our Spirit-enabled cheerfulness, our courage, and our confidence in God?

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. WHEN YOU'RE UP TO YOUR NECK IN HOT WATER, BE LIKE THE TEAPOT AND START TO SING!

March 28, 2022

“THE NEXT GENERATION!”

“The things that you have heard from me...commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

~II Timothy 2:2

A man who played double-bass in the Mexico City Philharmonic said that the finest instruments are made of wood that has been allowed to age naturally to remove the moisture. “You must age the wood for 80 years then play the instrument for 80 years before it reaches its best sound,” said Luis Antonio Rojas. “The craftman must use wood cut and aged by someone else, and he will never see any instrument reach its peak during his own lifetime”.

Many important things in life are “next generation” matters—-teaching, training and parenting are among them. The apostle Paul invested himself in people whose spiritual influence would continue long after he was gone. He wrote to Timothy: “The things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men

who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2). Paul, Timothy, “faithful men”, and “others” represent four spiritual generations built on the enduring foundation of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Are we living only for today and the short term, or are we giving ourselves to others who will continue the faith after our race is run? Living for Christ and making disciples are all about the next generation.

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. WE INFLUENCE FUTURE GENERATIONS BY LIVING FOR CHRIST TODAY!

February 28, 2022

“OUR UNSEEN HELPERS!”

“Are Angels not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?” ~Hebrews 1:14

At one point in his stormy career, Martin Luther received some discouraging news. But he responded by saying, “Recently I have been looking up at the night sky, spangled and studded with stars, and I found no pillars to hold them up. Yet they did not fall.” Luther was encouraged as he reminded himself that the same unseen God who was upholding the universe was caring for him.

There is another unseen source of help from which God’s children can take courage when facing a physical or spiritual crisis—angels! Those heavenly hosts, called “ministering spirits: (Hebrews 1:14), are instantly responsive to God’s command. Little do we know what powerful protection and help they provide. When Jesus was enduring agony in Gethsemane,

“an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.” (Luke 22:43).

But you say, “I’ve never seen an angel.” No need of that! It’s enough to know that they do their quiet, delivering work beyond the realm of physical sight (Psalm 34:7), calling no attention to themselves lest we look away from Jesus, our Savior and Lord. But their protection is real. Just knowing that these unseen helpers are on our side strengthens our trust in the God they so faithfully serve.

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “THE ANGELS OF GOD PROTECT THE PEOPLE OF GOD AS THEY DO THE WORK OF GOD!”

January 31, 2022

“FORGIVEN”!

“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.” Psalm 32:1

A little boy had just been tucked into bed by his mother, who was waiting to hear his prayers. But he had been naughty that day, and now it was bothering him. So he said, “Mama, I wish you’d go now and leave me alone. I want to pray by myself.”

Sensing that something was wrong, she asked, “Bobby, is there anything you ought to tell me?” “No, Mommy,” he replied. “You would just scold me, but God will forgive me and forget about it.”

That little boy understood one of the greatest salvation benefits of all—the reality of sins forgiven. The Bible indicates that in Christ “we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Col. 1:14). We who have received the Lord Jesus as Savior enjoy freedom from sin’s eternal condemnation (Rom. 8:1), and we can also have daily forgiveness and cleansing (I John 1:9).

The apostle Paul said that salvation provides these added benefits: we are justified (Rom. 3:24), and we are at peace with God (Rom. 5:1).

We should never get the idea that our sins are taken lightly by the Lord. But when we acknowledge our guilt with true repentance, God is ready to forgive because of what Jesus did on the cross. It’s up to us to accept it.

God Bless You, Always!,

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. WHEN GOD FORGIVES A SIN, HE NEVER BRINGS IT UP AGAIN!

January 4, 2022

“THE OYSTER MAN!

“That the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.” II Corinthians 4:7

In the days of John Wesley, lay preachers with limited education would sometimes conduct the church services. One man used Luke 19:21 as his text: “Lord, I feared Thee, because Thou are an austere man” (KJV). Not knowing the word austere, he thought the text spoke of “an oyster man.”

He explained how a diver must grope in dark, freezing water to retrieve oysters. In his attempt, he cuts his hands on the sharp edges of the shells. After he obtains an oyster, he rises to the surface, clutching it “in his torn and bleeding hands.” The preacher added, “Christ descended from the glory of heaven into…sinful human society, in order to retrieve humans and bring them back up with Him to the glory of heaven. His torn and bleeding hands are a sign of the value He has placed on the object of His quest.”

Afterward, 12 men received Christ. Later that night someone came to Wesley to complain about unschooled preachers who were too ignorant even to know the meaning of the texts they were preaching on. Wesley simply said, “Never mind. The Lord got a dozen oysters tonight.”

Our best may not always measure up to the standards of others. But God takes our inadequacies and humble efforts and uses them for His glory.

God Bless You, Forever!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. DO WHAT YOU CAN FOR THE LORD WHERE YOU ARE WITH WHAT YOU HAVE!!!

December 6. 2021

“RETURN ON INVESTMENT!”

“You were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit.” I Corinthians 6:20

Long before the U.S. professional baseball season begins each spring, team owners and managers are busy negotiating trades and contracts. They’ll pay large sums of money to get the athlete who will help them win the championship. When the season starts, all eyes are on the newly acquired talent to see if he was worth the cost. The ultimate measure of the player’s success is whether his contribution to the team is a good return on the investment. In I Corinthians 6:20, Paul reminds us that we too have been “bought at a price.” The context paints a compelling picture of Christ’s great sacrifice. He liberated us from the cruel slave master of sin by buying us with the high price of His own life. Getting a grip on God’s great and loving investment in us should motivate us to gladly consider making His sacrifice rich in dividends. How is that return on His investment measured? By living to bring glory to Him! Our eyes, hands, feet, thoughts, dreams and desires have been purchased to reflect the wondrous glory of God’s will and wisdom. In other words, we are no longer our own. Paul concluded, “Therefore glorify God in your body” (v.20). Living to reflect His glory is the return

on investment that makes the Owner of our lives look good!

God Bless You, Always!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “OUR CHOICE TO BRING GLORY TO GOD YIELDS A GREAT RETURN

November 15, 2021

“CHEERING EACH OTHER ON!”

“Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works.” Hebrews 10:24

A mile from the finish line of the Marathon, thousands of onlookers holding signs line the route. When spectators spot a family member or friend coming into view, they shout the person’s name, wave and yell encouragement: “Just a little farther! Keep going! You’re almost there.” After running 25 miles, many competitors are barely walking and ready to quit. It is amazing to watch exhausted runners brighten and pick up the pace when they see someone they know or hear their name called out.

Encouragement! We all need it, especially in our walk of faith. The book of Hebrews tells us to keep urging each other on. “Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, …but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (Heb. 10:24-25). The New Testament is filled with the certainty that Christ will return soon. “The Lord is at hand” (Phil. 4:5). “The coming of the Lord is at hand” (James 5:8). “Behold, I am coming quickly” (Rev. 22:12). As we “see the Day approaching,” let’s keep cheering each other on in the faith. “Keep going! You’re almost there! The finish line is in sight.”

God Bless You, Forever!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. EVEN IF YOU HAVE NOTHING ELSE TO GIVE,YOU CAN GIVE ENCOURAGEMENT!

September 17, 2021

“HELP! I’M IN TROUBLE!”

“Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the stomach of the fish, and he said, “I called out my distress to the Lord, 

and He answered me. I cried for help from the depth of Sheol; You heard my voice.” Jonah 2:1-2

When was the last time you heard anything good about the prophet Jonah? He disobeyed God when he told him to go to the wicked city of Nineveh to preach His message of judgment. The Lord called him to go northeast, but Jonah board a ship heading west. God had to send a storm and a fish to help him change his mind— and his direction! When Jonah finally did go to Nineveh, he didn’t fare very well there either. He had hoped God would destroy the cruel Ninevites. But when he preached God’s message of judgment, the people repented and God spared them. So Jonah pouted. In spite of all this, one good thing can be said for Jonah; He did the right thing when he got into trouble. When he was swallowed by the fish and found himself in the worst mess he had ever been in, he turned to God and prayed. Later he testified, “I cried out to the Lord because of my affliction, and He answered me.” When we are in trouble, we too can cry out to the Lord. He may not take the trouble away; but He will help us bear it in a way that brings glory to Him. And He has promised to be with us always (Matt. 29:20). Have you been running away from God? Are you in a mess of trouble? Cry out to God. The One who delivered Jonah can also deliver you.

God Bless You, Forever!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. GOD’S HELP IS ONLY A PRAYER AWAY!

September 3, 2021

“NO OLYMPIC MEDAL”

Sorry, my wonderful church family of WHCC! After having served as the longest Senior Minister (12 years) to the First Christian Church in Moweaqua, Illinois, Sharon and I were invited to their 125th Homecoming on August 1.

Being the keynote speaker for the two worship services, all went well and were blessed until I exited the left stage. No, I didn’t try to wrap-up my sermon with a double-back-flip and single twist off the stage. If so, there certainly would be no positive scores from the judges. I slipped on the cotton-pickin’, no railed steps! -Oh, did I take a tumble, landing on all fours! OUCH! I knew immediately I had broken something. My right leg, below my knee was dangling like a pendulum of a grandfather clock. They propped me up in a wheel chair, with ice on my leg and I preached the second Worship Service.

I was then transported by ambulance to the St. Mary’s Hospital in Decatur, Illinois for x-rays. Sharon and I returned home the next day. On Wednesday, August 4, I saw my primary doctor and on August 12, saw my orthopedic doctor, had an MRI and discovered I had a Quad Tendon Rupture. On August 17, I had knee surgery.

I have a stabilizing leg brace from my thigh to my ankle. UNCOMFORTABLE! I need to wear this for the next six weeks with rehab starting in 5 weeks.

The hardest for me to do is sit still! I’ve got a lot of ministering to do for our Lord!

Thank you God for my awesome, beautiful and loving care-giver, Sharon and co-care-givers, Shari and Marc! Thanks to all who are filling in for me! I appreciate you more than you know! Thanks for your prayers, cards, pictures, food, etc. God, please bless your wonderful, divine family of WHCC.

Yep, I’m still rejoicing in my Lord, always. ~Philippians 4:4

“All things are possible through Christ who strengthens me.” ~Philippian’s 4:18.

Love you bunches through Jesus!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. WORKING FROM HOME!!!

August 13, 2021

“BRING US LIGHT”

“To give to His people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, 

with which the Sunrise from on high shall visit us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, 

to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:77-79

As hard as she tried, Joni Eareckson Tada could not get into the Christmas spirit. It was Christmas Eve, and she was seated in church with her friends. Candles lined the sanctuary. Boughs of green pine decked with red ribbon were everywhere. A soft snow swirled outside. Everything was perfect—except Joni.

As the congregation sang, she did not feel a single stirring of adoration or praise. “It’s no use,” her heart cried. “I’m a failure.” So she sulked. Then the bittersweet, wistful strains of a familiar carol reached her heart. From “O Come, O Come, Immanuel” came the words. “And ransom captive Israel, that mourns in lonely exile here.” This described her feelings exactly.

The song continued, “O come Thou Dayspring, come and cheer our spirits by Thine advent here; and drive away the shades of night and pierce the clouds and bring us light!” “That’s how I feel!” she cried out in her soul. She bowed and asked the Lord to take gloom away and bring her cheer—and He did!

What happened to Joni happens to all who respond in faith to Jesus—whether they are receiving Him as their Savior or are renewing fellowship with Him. He came to drive away the darkness of guilt and gloom and replace it with the light of His joy and peace.

O Come, Immanuel!

God Bless You, Always!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “NO JESUS NO PEACE! KNOW JESUS, KNOW PEACE!”

July 16, 2021

“JUST DO IT”

“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” James 1:22

John Wesley said it well. Thousands have echoed it since. “The problem of problems is getting Christianity in the life.” What is it that makes putting the Christian faith into practice so difficult? Maybe it’s because we assume that it’s enough simply to know God’s truth in our heads.

Most of us have heard more sermons than we can count. We may even take elaborate notes on what we hear. We tune into several religious broadcasts on the radio, and we watch a few more on television. We read the Bible regularly. We feel good about what we know. What else is left? The answer is as simple as it is obvious: “Just do it!”

At the end of his initial consultation with a client, the famous psychoanalyst, Alfred Adler would as a perceptive question: “And what would you do if you were cured?” The patient would give an answer. Adler would listen, then get up, open the door, and reply, “Well then, go and do it!”

How do you get God’s truth into your life? The answer is as obvious as it is ignored. In God’s strength, and in loving obedience to Him, just do it!

God Bless You, Always!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “WE MASTER THE SCRIPTURES ONLY WHEN 

May 26, 2021

“GONE THE SUN!”

“Your sun will never set again, and your moon will wane no more; the Lord will be your everlasting light and your days of sorrow will end.” Isaiah 60:20

In 1862, during the US Civil War, General Daniel Butterfield wanted a new melody for “lights out.” And so, without any musical training, he composed one in his head.

Years later, the general wrote, “I called in someone who could write music, and practiced a change in the call of ‘Taps’ until I had it suit my ear, and then…got it to my taste without being able to write music or knowing the technical name of any note, but, simply by ear, arranged it.” General Butterfield gave the music to the brigade bugler, and the rest is history.

While there are no official lyrics to the hauntingly familiar strains of “Taps,” here is a commonly accepted version of one verse: Day is done, gone the sun, from the hills, from the lake, from the sky; All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.

What a comforting lyric as faithful members of the military are laid to rest! And what hope in the acknowledgement that God is near, even-especially-in death!

At a time when death and evil reigned, the prophet Isaiah anticipated a day when death itself would die. “Your sun shall no longer go down,” he wrote to Israel, “for the LORD will be Your everlasting light” (60-20).

For those who follow Jesus, the strains of “Taps” are not a funeral dirge but a song of hope. “The days of your mourning shall be ended” (v. 20). All is well. God is nigh.

God Bless You, Always!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. SUNSET IN ONE LAND IS SUNRISE IN ANOTHER!

May 12, 2021

“INNER STRENGTH!”

“But those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.” Isaiah 40:31

What sustains believers in Christ when they hear distressing news or when they’re faced with enormous pressures? It’s an inner strength, the strength that comes from God. David said it this way: “The Lord is the strength of my life” (Psalm 27:1).

A study by the Laboratory for Statistical and Policy Research at Boston College bears this out. A devastating flood hit Toccoa Falls, Georgia in 1977, killing 39 and causing $1.5 million in damage. The researchers compared the survivors of that Bible college community with those who lived through similar catastrophes in four other states. The report stated, “On the whole, the people at Toccoa Falls came out very well. They were in better mental health than those in communities who weren’t hit so hard. Their very strong religious commitment gave them an understanding of what happened.”

Author Leslie B. Flynn gave this summary: “In other words, inner strength from their Christian faith enabled the survivors at Toccoa to fare better than others who suffered similar…calamities.”

Have you ever been weakening under pressure? Take the word of Isaiah and “wait on the Lord” (40:31). You will experience His calmness and renewal. Call on Him. He will give you inner strength.

God Bless You, Always!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “WITH JESUS ON THE INSIDE, WE CAN WITHSTAND ANY TROUB LES ON THE OUTSIDE!”

April 28, 2021

“UNEXPECTED ALLIGATORS!”

“When tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.” Matthew 13:21

Long-time actress and comedienne Gracie Allen once received a small, live alligator as a gag. Not knowing what to do with it, Gracie placed it in the bathtub and then left for an appointment. When she returned home, she found this note from her maid: “Dear Miss Allen: Sorry, but I have to quit. I don’t work in houses where there is an alligator. I’d a told you told you this when I took on, but I never thought it would come up.”

Some people who say they’ll serve Christ are quick to leave when trouble comes. In Jesus’ parable of the soils, He pictured the various responses that people have to the gospel. For example, a person may seem to accept God’s truth, but he stumbles in his faith when difficulties arise (Matt. 13:20-21). Such troubles test the quality of one’s faith and expose the weakness of one’s commitment to Christ.

But someone may say, “Shouldn’t our Lord tell us up front what is involved in following Him?” He does. He appeals to us with one invitation: “Trust Me.” If we let trouble or disillusionment shake our faith, we are breaking the spirit of trust that brought us to Christ in the first place.

Father, when life brings us the unexpected and feel like quitting, help us to be faithful, and be fruitful for You.

God Bless You, Eternally!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “FOR THE CHRISTIAN, TESTING CANNOT BE SEPARATED FROM TRUSTING.”

April 14, 2021

“LIBERATING LOSS!”

“You do not know what will happen tomorrow.” James 4:14

Life on this sin-warped earth is unpredictable. James reminded us that we don't know what tomorrow will bring (4:14). If disaster comes-an accident, a tornado, an illness-will we surrender to despair? Or even while grieving our losses, will we remain confident of God's wisdom, love, and power, and move on with hope into tomorrow?

Inventive genius Thomas Edison lost his great New Jersey laboratories in an inferno-like fire on a December night in 1914. Yet the very next morning, walking among the still smoldering rubble of those buildings that had housed so many of his projects, Edison, then 67, said, "There is great value in disaster. All our mistakes are burned up. Thank God, we can start anew."

No matter what hopes and dreams and relationships have been destroyed in our lives, with God's help let's prayerfully follow an example far more inspiring than Edison's. Let's resolutely determine, as Paul did, that we will forget the things that lie behind and press forward in our pilgrimage and service (Philippians 3:13-14). Sometimes our Lord must liberate us from the past, even by painful loss, in order to lead us into a more fruitful future. 

God Bless You, Eternally!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. "GREAT TRIALS OFTEN PRECEDE GREAT TRIUMPHS!

March 30, 2021

“A SURE HOPE!”

“But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep.” 1 Cor. 15:20

Konrad Adenauer, former chancellor of West Germany, once told evangelist Billy Graham, “If Jesus Christ is alive, then there is hope for the world. If not, I don’t see the slightest glimmer of hope on the horizon.” Then he added, “I believe Christ’s resurrection to be one of best-attested facts of history.”

Christ’s resurrection and ours go together. Establish one, and the other is sure. So argued the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 15. And if Christ didn’t rise from the grave, what’s left? Empty preaching (v. 14), false witnesses (15), a futile faith (v. 17), unforgiven sins, (17), dead loved ones who have perished (vs. 18), and hopelessness (19). The force of this negative reasoning comes from what Paul established in verses 1 through 11. He listed many credible witnesses who saw the risen Lord. Peter (vs. 5), 500 people (v. 6), all the apostles (v. 7), and Paul himself (v. 8). When Socrates lay dying, his friends asked, “Shall we live again?” He could only say, “I hope so.” In contrast, the night before Sir Walter Raleigh was beheaded, he wrote in his Bible, “From this earth, this grave, this dust, my God shall raise me up.” We who trust Christ don’t have to say “I hope so.” Jesus’ resurrection is a sure hope for our coming resurrection.

God Bless You, Forever!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. CHRIST’S EMPTY TOM GIVES US FULL ASSURANCE OF HEAVEN.

March 17, 2021

“UNANSWERED PRAYER!”

“I pleaded with the Lord three times…And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you.” II Corinthians 12:8-9

The Lord in His wisdom does not grant every prayer. Even Paul did not receive everything he sought at the throne of grace. His “thorn” was not removed; he was just given grace to bear it. Of one thing we can be certain. If our goal is to glorify God, He will give us what we ask, or what we would have asked if we could see as He sees.

Oftentimes I have come to thank the Lord for not granting some request of mine, for in the light of future developments I could see God’s wisdom in denying me the thing for which I had so fervently pleaded.

There are other times we may request things that God will not give us because they are completely contrary to His plan for us. ‘Yet we ask anyways, like the little boy who was overheard saying his nightly prayers: “Please God, make Miami the capital of Florida”. When he had said “Amen,” his mother asked, “Why did you ask that?” “Because”, he explained, “that’s what I put down on my exam paper today”

We must always remember that God’s thoughts are not our thoughts, nor are His ways our ways (Isaiah 55:8). When He says no to us, He has a very good reason for not granting our request.

God Bless You, Always!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “YOUR REQUEST DENIED? GOD’S GRACE SUPPLIED!”

March 3, 2021

"EARTHQUAKE!”

"The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust;” Psalm 18:2

The story is told about the time an earthquake struck a small village and caused great fear. One of the residents, however, seemed so calm through it all that the neighbors wondered how she could remain so peaceful and undisturbed. “What is your secret?” someone asked her. “We want to know what keeps you so relaxed while ground we stand on is shaking under our feet. Aren’t you afraid?” The woman simply replied, “No, I’m not. I’m just glad that I have a God who is strong enough to shake the world!” We who know Him as our heavenly Father through faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, can also find comfort and courage in threatening circumstances. We are in the hands of One who is all powerful. Nothing is too strong for Him to control. He is able to care for and protect His own no matter what happens. In those life threatening situations we who are children of God and are trusting in the Lord can experience a deep, settled peace as we relax in the everlasting arms of our all powerful God. And, with the psalmist David, we too can say, “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust.

God Bless You, Eternally!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “WHEN THE WORLD AROUND YOU IS CRUMBLING, GOD IS THE ROCK ON WHICH YOU CAN STAND”   

February 3, 2021

“THE MASTER’S APPROVAL!”

…Well done, good and faithful servant….” Matthew 25:21

Rudolph was a young musician in Vienna with a burning desire to write a symphony. Finally the time came when he was able to do so. After writing and rewriting it many times, he showed the score to some friends and asked for their opinion. Without exception they agreed it was an excellent work. But Rudolph continue to labor over it, polishing and perfecting what he hoped would be a masterpiece. At last, he was ready to present it to the public.

The orchestra performed his symphony beautifully. After the last movement ended, there was a brief pause. Then the audience broke out in thunderous applause. Rudolph, however, seemed unmoved until an old white-haired man approached him. Placing his hands on the young man’s shoulders, he exclaimed, “Well done, Rudolph! Well done!” Only then did the young musician smile with satisfaction. He had received approval from the one he wanted most to please-his respected mentor.

That’s how we should view our work—as service for our Master. Recognition from people is encouraging. But we should long to hear above anything else our Lord’s “Well done, good and faithful servant.” It’s the Master’s approval that really counts!

God Bless You, Always!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “WHEN YOU DO WHAT PLEASES GOD, GOD IS PLEASED WITH YOU!”   

January 20, 2021

“WHAT SHALL I WEAR TODAY!”

“Put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness and longsuffering.” Colossians 3:12

The alarm goes off. It’s morning already. You lie in bed, thinking.

You ask yourself the same question you ask yourself every morning, “What shall I wear today?”

You brush away the mental cobwebs and think through the day. There’s nothing really important---just the usual routine.

You listen to the clock radio for the weather report. Then you decide: the comfortable blue outfit with the red accents.

What we wear is important. We all want to dress appropriately and look our best. Besides, when we feel that we look good, we go through the day with more energy and confidence.

The Lord Jesus cares about what we wear, but He is more concerned about what we “put on” spiritually. Colossians 3 lists some of the virtues with which we should clothe ourselves

every morning: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. When we are wearing these, we will deal properly with situations that arise, our friendships will be strengthened,

and we will have the good feeling that comes with knowing we are pleasing the Lord.

How have the days been for you? Pleasant? Or are there troubles? Bad feelings? Anger and hurt?

Maybe you need to put on some new clothes. (Colossians 3:12).

God Bless You, Always!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. “CHRISTLIKENESS IS NEVER OUT OF STYLE!”

January 6, 2021

“A TESTED STRING!”

“For You, O God, have tested us; You have refined us as silver is refined.” Psalm 66:10

A talented violinist was scheduled to play before a very critical audience. Although she had a fine instrument, she was not satisfied with the quality of its sound. So she said to her father, “This violin must yield its full resonance and vibration of tone. I’m going out to buy some tested strings.”

When asked what tested strings were, she replied, “First they’re put on a rack and stretched and strained to take all the vacillation out of them. Then they are hammered and put through an acid test. This is what enables them to produce a perfect and full tone.” When she attached the tested strings and tuned the instrument, the music was noticeably more warm and rich than before.

If our lives are going to produce beautiful music for the Lord, testing in imperative. We all tend to vacillate. Sometimes we are up; sometimes we are down. Sometimes we are hot; sometimes we are cold. This hinders the spiritual tone God desires. Although we don’t enjoy the stretch, the strain, and the stress, what God-honoring results they can produce!

Just as a tested string gives the highest quality of sound, so Christians who accept their trials and learn to profit from them are able to bring the greatest glory to the Master Musician.

God Bless You, Always!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. THE TRIALS OF LIFE ARE INTENDED TO MAKE US BETTER, NOT BITTER!

December 2, 2020

“RESPONSE OF LOVE & GRATITUDE”

He has put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.” Psalm 40:3

Minister and lecturer Thomas DeWitt Talmage (1832-1902) told the story of an accident that occurred on a ferry on one of the Great Lakes. A little child standing by the rail suddenly lost her balance and fell overboard. “Save my child!” cried the frantic mother. Lying on the deck was a great Newfoundland dog, which plunged into the water at the command of his master. Swimming to the girl, he took hold of her clothing with his teeth and brought her to the side of the boat, where both were lifted to safety. Although still frightened, the little girl threw her arms around that big shaggy dog and kissed him again and again. It seemed a most natural and appropriate thing to do.

Likewise, a response of love and gratitude should flow from every person who has been rescued by the Savior through His self-sacrificing death on the cross. He came from heaven’s glory to suffer and die that we might have eternal life. The apostle Paul expressed his gratitude when he wrote, “Giving thanks to the Father who has…delivered us from the power of darkness and translated us into the kingdom of the Son of His love” (Col. 1:12, 13). 

Is your heart filled with praise and gratitude for all that God has done for you in Christ? It is a most fitting response.

God Bless You, Forever!

Preacher Jim Reed, D.V.

P.S. PRAISE IS THE SONG OF A SOUL SET FREE!