Frank's Bible Blog

Keeping Your Pants Up and Groupies4God

Recently I was leading a discipleship group and we were discussing the armor of God in Ephesians 6. There were two particular parts of the armor that generated a lot of discussion--the belt of truth and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God.

We were reminded that the belt does several things--not the least of which is holding your pants up! One of the group members commented how in BIble times people would tuck the end of their robe into their belt so that they could move freely and quickly--such as when going to war.

Truth keeps everything together and allows us to successfully navigate life.

The question was raised "How do you get truth?" Well, we know Jesus is Truth (John 14:6) and God's Word is true.

That led us to the sword of the Spirit.

Another participant commented how if we don't know God's Word, then we have nothing that the Spirit can use in our lives. With both truth and the sword it is clear--we need to know God's Word. We need to read it, study it, meditate on it, and memorize it.

Okay, we know all that--but it's especially hard to memorize.

Well, let me introduce you to Groupies4God.

This is a group of people who recently started meeting on Facebook to learn verses together. Each Monday a new verse(s) is posted on the site Groupies4God.com and the group commits together to learn that verse over the coming week. As a way of accountability, if you are a Facebook member, you can indicate to everyone once you learn the verse. Facebook, of course, is free to join. If you don't want to join that's fine--you can still see the verse of the week. It's just nice to be part of a group that is committed to helping each other learn God's Word.

So, let's "keep our pants up" and take up the "sword" by learning the Bible. Let's start a movement to hide God's Word in our hearts. Gather some friends and commit together to weekly Bible memorization. 

Join us at Groupies4God.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com.

Psalm 39--Are You Really as Young as You Think?

Are you young or old? Now before you answer consider this: the concept of being young or old is really based on when we expect to die. If you are 20 and you figure you have at least 60 years left, then you consider yourself young. If you are 80 then you might consider yourself old. But should the 20 year old actually think he has plenty of time left? What if he is going to die in the next year? Then he really is old...he has limited time left. The point is this--we often do things or don't do things based on our concept of our age. If we are young, we may put off doing important things because we think we have plenty of time. If we are older, we may aggressively try to complete a"bucket list" while we have time and miss out on some bigger issues. In Psalm 39 David prayed a very interesting prayer. "Show me, O Lord, my life's end and the number of my days" (v4). He went on to ask the Lord to "let me know how fleeting is my life." In essence he was saying, "God, remind me today and every day that I don't have much time left." David wanted to make sure that he made the greatest impact possible for the Lord with whatever time he had left. David also saw that the greatest hindrance to that productivity was sin. "Save me from my transgressions," David pleaded, "do not make me the scorn of fools" (v8). Some live for wealth, but David reminds us that sin can consume that as well. "You rebuke and discipline men for their sin; you consume their wealth like a moth" (v11). Those who pursue wealth do so in vain, "he heaps up wealth, not knowing who will get it" (v6). The message is don't allow sin and worldly pursuits to rob you of years of productivity for the Lord. Whether we consider ourselves young or old, we all should keep our mortality in view and maximize every day that we have for God's glory.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com.

Psalm 28-- Are You Generic?

In business, companies are always trying to differentiate themselves and their products from their competition. What makes them different from everyone else? Why should you buy from them? Some products, however, take the opposite approach--they try to blur the distinctions between themselves and a better known product. Generic foods are a great example of this. Often they are even packaged to look similar to the national name brand. They try to make you feel that they are identical to the recognized brand so that you will be comfortable buying it. As Christians, we are called to differentiate ourselves from non-believers--not blur the lines! The problem with some Christians is that they have "packaged" themselves in such a way that they so resemble the the world that it is not easy to tell them apart. They act like everyone else around them. There is little distinction. In Psalm 28 David said he did not want to be like those who are outside of God. He wanted his prayers answered (v2) and God to deliver him (vv6-7). Yes, there were those around him "Who speak peace to their neighbors, but evil is in their hearts" (v3) and he did not want to be like them. Instead, he would put his trust in the Lord (v7), he would worship the Lord (v7), and he would lead a holy life before the Lord (v2). Don't be generic! Let people see the light of Christ in your life.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com.

Psalm 25-- Lessons from the Karate Kid

Several years ago there was a popular movie and sequel called the Karate Kid. It was about a boy with a difficult home life who took up karate. The boy had a lot of potential but knew if he was going to be successful he needed training by a real karate master. There was such a person who agreed to train him. At first, however, the training was nothing like the boy thought it would be. The master had the boy wax his car! Not only that, but he was insistent that it be waxed a certain way with very deliberate strokes. "Wax on, wax off," the master kept repeating in a famous scene from the movie. Day after day the master had the boy do other seemingly meaningless tasks. After a while the boy got very frustrated. "When is he going to start teaching me!" he wondered in exasperation. He almost quit on the master but was persuaded to stick it out--and boy was he glad he did! When he went into the big karate match he discovered that he had not spent days doing worthless tasks. He actually was learning discipline and how to move his arms, hands and body in certain ways that were beneficial to karate. The master did not tell him why he had the boy doing certain moves, just that he needed to do them. In the end, the master knew what was best and the boy became a champion because he learned to intimately follow the master. I believe that you and I can become champions in life when we, too, learn to follow the Master--the Lord. Psalm 25 is a great picture of a learner--a student--desperate to follow the master and ready to reap the rewards of this discipline. "Show me Your ways...teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation. On You I wait all the day" is how the psalmist-learner expresses it in verses 4-5. He was ready to wait "all the day" on the Master because he knew that the Master had the truth. He knew that the master knew the best path to take. He knew the master would lead him to victory. "Who is the man that fears the Lord? Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. He himself shall dwell in prosperity...the secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him" (vv12-14). Today, you and I can unlock the Master's "secret" and find true success if we will become desperate students. Desperate students who linger on every word of the Master. Desperate students who seek the Master's guidance in everything, even when it doesn't make sense. Desperate student's who turn only to their Master for truth and nothing or no one else. Desperate students who trust their Master (v20) and live in integrity as they wait on their Master's direction (v21). Are you a desperate student of the Lord today? Are you even teachable?


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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com.

Zechariah 7--Results Not Just Rituals

On the surface it seemed like a legitimate question. A delegation of Jews went to the prophet Zechariah and the priests to ask if they needed to continue fasting in the fifth month like they did during their captivity years. Now that they were back in their homeland and nearing completion of the temple, was this necessary? God had a word for them in Zechariah 7, but it wasn't a direct answer to their question. Instead, God questioned their motives for doing the fasts in the first place. "When you fasted and mourned...did you really fast for Me--for Me?" (v5). God then shifted the focus away from the few days a year that they fasted to how they lived the other days of the year (vv6-10). God has never--and will never--be impressed by rituals alone. It has and always will be the motivation behind the rituals and how those rituals change one's life that concerns Him. The problem in this chapter wasn't the ritual of fasting, it was the people doing it. We go through the rituals today of praying, attending church, tithing, and even fasting. Those are good things to do but in God's eyes they are meaningless unless the motivation behind them is proper and the outcome of them is a godly life. Okay, you go to church on Sunday but how do you live the other six days? What difference does Sunday make in the rest of your week? When was the last time you took something specific from Sunday and incorporated it into your Monday? Are you going through the motions of a ritual or are you allowing the ritual to change you for the better?

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com.

Zechariah 6-- Translating the Vision into Action

Vision is one of the greatest attributes that any leader can posses. If you study great leaders, you will see that they were all people of vision. Leaders need both a long-term vision and also a more immediate vision. But what really makes a great leader great is that they are able to translate that vision into action. In Zechariah 6 we find both a short-term and a long-term vision. They are reminders to us that we need to have both of these kinds of visions in our lives. The immediate need before the Jews who had returned to Israel from captivity was the rebuilding of the temple. In this chapter, God shows them that He is well aware of their situation. He also gives them a picture to symbolize that His glory will once again fill the temple. He tells them to construct an elaborate crown and put it on the head of the high priest whose name was Joshua. The crown was an encouragement to Joshua that he would be successful in his efforts. It also was a vision to the future of the Ultimate One, the Highest of high priests, the King of all kings, the Lord Jesus Christ whose glory will fill the whole earth. The chapter closes with a short but critical statement from God: "This shall come to pass if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God" (v15). While the long-term vision had nothing to do with Joshua's and the Jews obedience, the short-term vision had everything to do with it. If they wanted to be the ones to see God move to restore the temple and bring His glory to Israel once again, then they would have to do what God told them to do. They would have to translate that vision into action. Has God given you a vision for what He wants to accomplish in your life? Then translate that vision into action by diligently obeying the Lord one step at a time.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com.

Zechariah 4-- No Mountain High Enough

We stood along the bank of Alaska's Copper River and listened to our guide tell us the stories of how early settlers had reached that spot. Inspired by the prospects of gold, these adventurers traversed steep mountains, trekked across dangerous glaciers, and stared down the wildest of creatures. Most, however, never struck it rich. In fact, few found gold at all. The real "gold" was in selling supplies to these fortune seekers! I am inspired, however, by the determination of these people who were willing to risk it all in an attempt to better their lives. It also makes me wonder why we so many people give up when they are faced with even the smallest of obstacles. Zechariah 4 records God's challenge to Zerubbabel to not give up. Zerubbabel was called by God to lead the temple rebuilding effort following the Jews' return to Israel from captivity. Zerubbabel had faced various "mountains" of opposition but God said to him, "Who are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you shall become a plain" (v7). It didn't matter the size of the mountain or the depth of the challenge because God was bigger than it all. There is, however, a critical fact that Zerubbabel, or for that matter anyone who seeks to overcome mountains in their quest to fulfill God's purpose, had to keep in mind. It is "Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit says the Lord of hosts" (v6). We fail at "mountain" climbing because we try to do it in our our strength and power. Some fail because the don't even try to venture out with God. They feel so insignificant and they can't see how God could ever use them. "For who has despised the day of small things?" asks God (v10). He has an unending supply (vv2-4, 11-12) of whatever is needed to enable you to fulfill the calling He has placed on your life. Let's venture out with God, knowing that there isn't a mountain too tall to climb when we are relying on His power and Spirit.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com.

Haggai 1-- How to Stop Spinning Your Wheels

It seemed like a good idea at the time. A buddy and I were on a fishing trip when we decided to drive down a dirt road running alongside a river. We were looking for a good fishing spot. We were a good ways along when we drove through a dip in the road with water in it. Well, the truck we were riding in got stuck in the mud. The more my friend pushed the accelerator, the more the wheels spun. We got out and tried to push it, but before we knew it we were both covered in mud. We were going no where! We finally gave up and called a tow truck. Haggai 1 describes a time in the life of Israel when they were spinning their wheels, figuratively. They had returned to Israel after 70 years of Babylonian captivity with the primary objective of rebuilding the temple. Opposition from non-Jews stopped the project, and it laid dormant for years. The people went on with their business and basically forgot about what should have been their top priority. God said that "Because of My house that is in ruins, while every one of you runs to his own house, therefore the heavens above you withhold the dew, and the earth withholds its fruit" (vv9-10). They were sowing seeds but reaping little fruit. They were working hard but never seemed to be able to get ahead. They were trying and trying but coming up short. They were spinning their wheels! God said it was because their priorities were wrong. They had placed themselves and their comfort above honoring God, and God withheld His blessings from their lives. Do you feel like you are just spinning your wheels? Do you feel like no matter what you do, you can never get anywhere in life? Maybe it is because your priorities are wrong. Instead of falling deeper into the mud, take a step back and prayerfully evaluate how you spend your time, money, and other resources. Look at your attitude and the goals that you have. Consider what you are passionate about and the things that drive you to do what you do. Are you seeking God first in all of these things? Let's fix our priorities and stop spinning our wheels.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com.

Ezra 10--High Value May Require High Sacrifice

Every day we make decisions about value and sacrifice. We decide if the price of gas is worth the value of our mobility. We decide if certain clothes rise to the value of sacrificing some of our money to purchase them. We decide to give up some of our time to do what we value, whether that is time with the family or time with our favorite hobby. If we perceive that the value is high enough, then we are willing to make greater sacrifices. Now ask yourself this: What value do you place on holiness? What sacrifices would you be willing to make to live right before God? Do you value God's pleasure enough to drastically alter your life if you discovered it was out of alignment with God's nature and will? These were the questions that needed to be answered by the Jews who had returned to Israel from exile. Some of them, including their political and even religious leaders, had intermarried with people from the surrounding pagan nations. This was the very sin that led to their destruction in the first place. In Ezra 10 the Jews face this issue head-on. Would they compromise and allow the sin to continue? Would they eradicate it, even it if meant making incredible sacrifices? Those sacrifices in some cases would include divorcing wives and leaving children. Could they make the ultimate sacrifice to get their lives right before God? Notice how the people handled the situation. First, at the insistence of their leaders and with just three days notice, they all gathered in Jerusalem (v9). Standing outside under heavy rain, they were confronted with their sin (v10) as Ezra pulled no punches in declaring their guilt and calling for repentance. The people then agreed to a process to deal with the situation because "Nor is this the work of one or two days, for there are many of us who have transgressed in this matter" (v13). As you can imagine, because of this kind of sin, it would take some time to put things in order. They did, however, follow through with that process. Repentance started with a decision, continued with confession, and completed with action. It is important to note that under the New Covenant of grace, God does not call us to divorce if we are married to non-believers, even though He says we should not marry non-believers in the first place. God, however, certainly does call us to eradicate sin in our life, even if that means making great sacrifices to do so. So, let's revisit the question we started with: What value do we place on holiness? What sacrifices are we willing to make to live right before God? Ponder these as you go through your day.
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Ezra 7-- How to Become an Overnight Sensation

I have a consultant friend who likes to say it takes 10-15 years to become an "overnight sensation." Whether it is business, ministry, music, art, etc. there is almost always a substantial amount of time that goes into becoming something that the public notices. Malcolm Gladwell in Outliers: The Story of Success actually documents that it takes the right opportunity plus 10,000 hours of "practice" to become a true success or true expert. He shows this with The Beatles, Bill Gates and others. We also see this in Ezra 7 as we are introduced to a Jewish priest and scribe by the name of Ezra. Ezra bursts onto the global scene as he leads another wave of Jewish exiles back to Israel and then goes on to institute spiritual reforms. He is seen as a strong leader with close ties to the king of Persia. Look deeper at this "overnight sensation" and you might be surprised by what you see. In verse 6 he is called a "skilled scribe in the Law of Moses." In the same verse we are told that the king gave Ezra "all his request."  The king acknowledged Ezra's "God-given wisdom" (v25) and authorized him to appoint magistrates and judges among the people. Finally, verse 28 says that Ezra gathered the leading men of Israel to go with him. When you put all of this together you see a man who had earned the respect and admiration of leaders over time. He became an expert in God's law through discipline, consistency, and effort. He sought God's wisdom and used that in his every day interactions. Most of all,  "Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel," (v10). Ezra prepared himself to fulfill God's mission for his life. That preparation paid off in a big way! This begs two questions for us to ponder today. First, are we committed to fulfilling God's mission for our life? Second, what are we doing to prepare ourselves to be successful in that mission? If we want to be a "success" in our walk with the Lord, we must be focused and put in a substantial amount of time and effort for that to happen. Remember, overnight sensations rarely happen overnight.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Ezra 6-- How to Get God to "Show Up"

I've had the wonderful privilege of taking people on numerous missions trips around the world. It is always exciting to watch what God does in people's lives as a result of their stepping out of their comfort zone and into the Great Commission. I especially love watching the "first timers." Inevitably they come back with similar stories--"I didn't think God could really use me, but I went and saw God do amazing things." Before they could see the work of God they had to first respond to the word of God. When they stepped out in obedience to God's word, then they saw God's might. The Jews who returned from exile to Israel experienced this process first hand in Ezra 6. After their work to rebuild the temple had been stopped by their opponents and the construction site laid dormant for years, they listened to God's word. They started working again as they sought official permission from the Persian King Darius. Not only did Darius allow them to continue, but he offered to pay the costs from his treasury (v8). He went even beyond that and said that if anyone tried to change his decree allowing the rebuilding, "Let a timber be pulled from his house and erected, and let him be hanged on it, and let his house be made a refuse heap," (v11). Wow! No one wanted to block the reconstruction efforts after that! God showed up in a powerful way, moving the hearts of the powerful and empowering the hearts of His people. The Jews finished the temple, dedicated it, and re-instituted the sacrificial system (vv19-22). They heard God's word. They stepped out of their comfort zone, overcame opposition, and acted on God's word. Then they saw God "show up" and provide everything they needed. The problem with many of us, however, is that we want God to show His might first before we respond to His word. It doesn't work that way! Respond to His word, then you will see His work.
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Psalm 15-- Changing the Rules in the Middle of the Game

It was a tough-fought game as my daughter's volleyball team battled one of the top teams in their league. The score was very close and the game nearing completion when the referee called an infraction on the opponents. According to the league's rules, our girls should have been given a point and possession of the ball. Instead, the ref gave the team a warning and allowed them to continue to serve. This gave them the advantage and they went on to win. Obviously, we were very frustrated because the rules were changed in the middle of the game. After all, you decide on rules ahead of time so that the game can be played smoothly and everyone knows what is expected. Most people go through life without determining their rules or values ahead of time. Like that referee, they change their position and response to fit their immediate circumstances rather than having a preset value system that does not change. Even Christians are guilty of doing this. God says in Psalm 15 that if we want to have an intimate, vibrant relationship with Him, then there are some rules or values that we need to hold to regardless of our circumstances (v1). There are three characteristics of the person who follows these values (v2). First, they "walk uprightly." They live a consistent, godly life. This is demonstrated by how they view sin and how they keep their word (v4). Second, they work "righteousness." This is demonstrated by how they treat others (v3), handle conflict (v3), and avoid taking advantage of people when their position or finances would allow them to do so (v5). Third, this person "speaks the truth in his heart." What is spoken in the heart eventually is spoken with the lips. This person doesn't backbite others (v3). These characteristics or values are reflected in the person's lifestyle. The person determined ahead of time to live like this--and not to change the rules in the middle of the game. "He who does these things shall never be moved" (v5). Consistency is pretty important in sports, but it is vital to living a God-honoring life.
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Psalm 13-- How Much Longer?

"Are we there yet? How much longer? When will this be over?" If you have children, you have probably heard these questions many times. We may not realize it, but many adults ask the same questions of our heavenly Father. Four times in the six verses that make up Psalm 13, David asks "How long?" It seemed like an eternity, but David was experiencing a period of his life where it seemed that God had forgotten him. "I can't take much more of this," was what David felt and maybe what you are feeling today. By the end of the chapter, however, David's exasperation had turned to singing. "I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me" (v6). What happened between the "How longs" and the "I will sing" that changed his attitude? It was prayer (vv3-4). If you find yourself repeatedly asking "How long," then maybe it is time to intensify your praying. Prayer enlightens us (v3) and enables us to get a better perspective. It shifts our trust from ourselves to the Lord. It transfers the burdens from our shoulders to God. It enables us to rejoice once again. It replaces the "how longs" with a chorus of praise!
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Psalm 4-- Standing Out from the Crowd

Have you ever sat in a mall and people watched? Dozens of people walk by and you don't notice anything particular about them, they just blend in with the crowd. Then along comes someone who's appearance sets them apart from everyone else. Maybe they have brilliantly bright neon green colored hair or they are wearing clothes with colors that clash so bad you spot them a block away. Whatever the reason, they just stand out. Well, as believers we should stand out from the crowds around us--not because we dyed our hair or dress like it was 50 years ago--but because we pursue godliness. Psalm 4 discusses what it means to stand out from the crowds (vv1-2) as we seek to be more like God. The godly are special to the Lord--He sets them apart for divine service (v3). The godly know that God hears their prayers (v3). Godly men and women are careful to avoid sin and regularly evaluate their lives (v4). Godly people actively serve the Lord and have an unwavering trust in Him (v5). Godly people enjoy a unique joy and peace that is not dependent upon their circumstances (vv7-8). All of these things make the godly stand out in a world that pursues sin and self interests. What about you? Do you stand out from the crowd because of your godliness? Or does your life look like the unbelievers around you?
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Genesis 50--Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Have you thought about your legacy? Have you thought about the impact you will have even after you are gone? Most people never think about their legacy until it is too late to do anything about it. It is unfortunate that many people squander much of their lives when they could be living in such a way that glorifies God and impacts the next generation. In Genesis 50 we are told about the end of two men's lives--two men who made a difference in their world. Two men who left a lasting legacy. They were Jacob and his son Joseph. Jacob had moved his entire family and all they had to Egypt, at the request of his son Joseph who had become second in charge of the country. Verse 3 tells us that when Jacob died the Egyptians mourned for him 70 days. Jacob's body was moved to his homeland of Canaan for burial and it was accompanied by "chariots and horsemen, and it was a very great gathering," (v9). On the way to bury him the group stopped and mourned for seven more days, causing the people there to proclaim "this is a deep mourning of the Egyptians" (v11). Jacob wasn't an Egyptian, but because of his influence and the influential life of Joseph, even the Egyptians were impacted. Jacob lived 147 years. His son Joseph's life was characterized by forgiveness and perspective, which we see again right after his father's death. His brothers, fearful that Joseph would seek revenge for the way they had mistreated him, begged his forgiveness (vv17-18). Joseph had already forgiven them because he realized "you meant evil against me; but God meant if for good...in order to save many people" (v20). Joseph died at 110 (v22) having saved not only his family from destruction but countless others as well. "One day," he told his family just before his death, "God will take you back to our homeland, the land of Canaan. And when you do, take my bones with you." Joseph's life impacted their past, their present, and even their future. Jacob and Joseph--what a beautiful legacy and what a great example they are to all of us. Pause for a moment and think about your own legacy. What kind of a legacy will you leave?
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Genesis 23-- When the Going Gets Tough...

It has been said that tough times reveal the true character of a person. When things go bad and the pressure intensifies, then we see the real person. Such is the case in Genesis 23 with the death of Abraham's beloved wife, Sarah. She was 127 when she died (v1). How would Abraham handle this? What would his testimony be in this very difficult time? We immediately notice that Abraham was just like any of us--he mourned and cried for his dear wife. Just what any of us should and would do. It is Interesting, however, that the bulk of this chapter focuses on the business transaction of Abraham securing a burial place for Sarah. We would expect Abraham to mourn his wife, but how would he conduct his affairs immediately after her death? This is where we see several things about Abraham's character. First, he was well respected wherever he went (v6). He had established his character and that did not change when things got tough. Second, he was respectful and considerate of others even though he was grieving (vv7-9, 12). Finally, he did not try to take advantage of others who were sympathetic to him; instead, he made sure his business dealings were fair and above-board (vv12-18). In other words, he didn't try to cut corners or compromise himself just because he was going through a difficult time. Abraham's godly lifestyle was consistent. In fact, the reason he was able to handle himself so well in the hard times was because he learned how to handle himself well in the good times. If you wait until times are tough to establish a good reputation it won't happen. Character is something we work on every day of our lives.
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Genesis 22-- Abraham, D.L. Moody and You

The famous evangelist Dwight L. Moody was known for his incredible commitment to Christ and determination to reach people for the Lord. He shook two continents for Christ in the 19th century, and the impact of his ministry is still felt today. What led to such an incredibly fruitful life? I'm sure there were many things, but one really stands out. Early in his ministry, a close friend said to Moody "It remains to be seen what God will do with a man who gives himself wholly unto Him." When Moody heard those words, he said to himself "I will be that man." Abraham in Genesis 22 may not have said those words but he exemplified that sentiment with his life. God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac--the son of promise, the son he had waited so many years to have. Now Isaac was not a baby or even a young boy. He probably was in his teens or early 20s. Abraham was so surrendered to God that he was willing to do anything God said. This wasn't just blind, unconscious, cult-like obedience. No, Abraham knew this was the son of promise. He believed that God would keep His word and make Abraham a great nation through Isaac. He believed that "God would provide for Himself...an offering" (v22). You see, Abraham so believed God and was so committed to Him that he believed God would raise Isaac from the dead, if need be, to keep His word (Hebrews 11:19). What will God do with a person who gives himself or herself wholly to the Lord? He will make them into an Abraham or a D.L. Moody--into someone who impacts both their own generation and generations to come. Just imagine the incredible things that God could do through you! Will you follow Abraham's example? Will you take on Moody's mantra and be that man or woman?

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Genesis 18-- The Foggy Bridge

The first time I ever rode across San Francisco's Golden Gate bridge I never actually saw the bridge. I was a child on vacation with my grandparents and the whole area was fogged in. We could only see a small part of the bridge--just what was right in front of us. Many years later, as an adult, I took my family on a double-decker tour bus ride across the bridge. This time, however, it was an absolutely gorgeous day. It was a clear as clear could be and we really got a feel for the massive size of that bridge. The bridge hadn't changed between those two visits but my perspective of it sure did. Fog distorted my perspective on the first trip. Often was we go through life, our perspective is very limited. We allow the fog of disbelief or a lack of understanding to keep us from seeing the full picture. This was the case with Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 18. Earlier Abraham laughed when God reiterated His promise of a son by Sarah (17:17). Now in chapter 18 it was Sarah's turn (v12). Then came a profound question in verse 14: "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" Because we are finite, we sometimes view God that way as well. We allow our fog to distort our perspective and don't realize that nothing is too hard for the Lord. In the second half of this chapter, we find Abraham respectfully bartering with God in an attempt to fend off God's judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah, where Abraham's nephew lived. Abraham figured there must be at least 50 righteous people there and God would spare the cities, but alas he was wrong. He went back and forth with God until he got down to 10. "Surely there must be 10 righteous people living there," Abraham assumed. We see later that there wasn't even 10. We assume things but God knows things. We underestimate God and overestimate man, and that leads to a foggy perspective on life. So let's learn from the Golden Gate Bridge, as well as from Abraham and Sarah, and keep things in perspective.
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Genesis 17-- The Countdown to Lift Off

We've all seen the countdowns to a Space Shuttle blast off. For the astronauts on board, however, their countdown started long before the clock that we see. It started years before as they anxiously awaited time for their mission. They began counting down the various missions ahead of theirs as they trained and prepared for their moment. Their countdown is in months not just seconds. I have heard astronauts talk about that waiting time--how everything they do is looking ahead to that time when they will enter space, and how they want to make sure they are prepared for that moment. In Genesis 17 God starts the countdown clock on the fulfillment of His long-standing promise to Abraham. Twelve months and Abraham and Sarah would give birth to the son with whom God would establish His covenant (v19, 21). It had been 13 years since Abraham's "false start" with the birth of Ishmael (chapter 16) but now God reiterates His promise that Isaac would be born. Abraham initially laughed at this (v17) but when God started the countdown (v21) Abraham got serious. God told Abraham that male circumcision would be the sign of His covenant (v10-11), and Abraham complied (vv 23-26). As difficult as that must have been, Abraham followed-through on what God told him to do in preparation for the fulfillment of His promise. You see, waiting doesn't always mean inactivity. In fact, waiting often involves lots of activity--preparations for the anticipated moment. Just like the astronauts prepare as they wait for their mission, there often are things that God would have us to do as we wait on the fulfillment of His promises to us. Part of believing that God is going to accomplish something is preparing ourselves for it. What is it that you are waiting on God for today? What is it that you believe with all your heart that God is going to do in and through your life? Follow the example of the astronauts and start preparing now for lift off!
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Genesis 16-- Avoiding a False Start

Imagine that you are at the Olympics running the 100 meters against the greatest athletes in the world. The race is ready to start. You get down into the starting position, your one foot firmly planted against the starting block, and you wait for what seems like an eternity. You know it is critical that you get a good jump out of the blocks. You know that since it is such a short race you have to come up fast and nail your stride. But as you try to anticipate the starter's gun, you jump just a second before it goes off. "False start," the announcer says as he calls out your lane number. You know if you do that again you will be disqualified from the race. Let's face it--waiting is hard. Whether it is running a track meet and waiting for the start or driving a car and waiting for the light to turn green. It is also hard to wait on God. We pray and pray and pray yet the answer we seem to get is "wait." That's not easy. When you get the "wait" signal, what do you do? Sometimes we jump out ahead anyway and end up with a false start. That is what happened to Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 16. Even though God repeatedly told the couple they would have a child, they jumped out ahead of God when Sarah suggested to Abraham that he take her servant Hagar as a wife (v2). The result of that decision continues to be a source of conflict to this day as Hagar's children (the Arabs) and Sarah's children (the Jews) still struggle. Notice that after Hagar became pregnant and had a falling-out with her boss, she fled into the wilderness (v7). God, however, sought her out. He didn't leave her alone in the wilderness. He promised to multiply her offspring--but she needed to return to Sarah. I'm sure that was a difficult decision considering how harshly Sarah had treated Hagar, but she listened to God and went back. Hagar waited on God to fulfill His promise to her. Abraham and Sarah, on the other hand, got ahead of God. Whenever we get ahead of God we run into problems. Our false starts can be very costly, and they can negatively impact future generations. So today, let's be careful to wait on the Lord and avoid a false start.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Genesis 14-- Decisive Action Needed

It was called the "Miracle on the Hudson" when US Airways flight 1549 heading from New York to Charlotte made an emergency landing on the Hudson River on January 15, 2009. Hailed as a hero, Pilot Chesley B. “Sully” Sullenberger took decisive action and saved the 155 passengers and crew, and countless more lives, by keeping the plane from crashing into the densely populated city. His quick-thinking and clear-headed action averted a catastrophe. This reminds me of someone in Scripture known for his decisiveness, and that was Abraham. The more you read of Abraham's life, the more you realize that he was a man of action. When God said go, he went. When something was wrong, he took action to fix it. When he saw what he felt was right, he did it. In Genesis 14 the area where Abraham's nephew, Lot, resided was attacked by invading armies. Lot and all of his possessions were taken captive. When word reached Abraham about Lot, Abraham immediately moved to do something about it. He put together his own mini-army and successfully attacked Lot's captors. Afterward, Abraham meets someone called Melchizedek who is identified as "the priest of God Most High." While scholars differ on exactly who this was (some say it was a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ) it was clear how Abraham responded to him--he gave Melchizedek a tithe of all he had. Again, Abraham took action even though it cost him greatly (this was long before the tithe was given as a command through Moses). When God says "go," do you? When the Holy Spirit prods you to do something, do you take action? There are some things that are so clear we don't need to pray about doing them--we just need to take action and do it. How many opportunities do we miss because we fail to act? How much do we short-change ourselves because of our indecision? Let's learn to listen closely to God and then be quick to respond to what He says.
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

 

Genesis 12--Dangerous Detours and Rest Areas

Have you ever been on a long road trip and then came to a detour? Not one of those two blocks out of the way detours but a miles and miles out of the way detour? I have. Then when you finally get back on the main road you are tired and what do you do? You look for a rest area. Now if all you did was take detours and hang out at rest stops you would never get to your destination. You might see some interesting things along the way, but you will never get to where you are supposed to go. We see this illustrated in Genesis 12 with Abraham. God called Abraham to leave his location, his culture, and extended family (v1) to go to a land He would show him. That land, as it turned out, was Canaan, which we know today as the area in and around Israel. What is interesting is that Abraham and his family originally were headed to Canaan (11:31) but when they got to a place called Haran they settled down there. They came to a rest stop and never left! So, God gets them into Canaan where He wants to build Abraham into a great nation (vv2-5). After a while, however, Abraham took a detour down into Egypt, lied to the authorities there (vv12-13) and eventually was deported (vv19-20). The good news, as we will see in chapter 13, is that Abraham got back on track and back to where God wanted him. What about you today? Have you taken a detour from what God has called you to do? Or maybe you were headed that way but then settled down into a comfort zone or rest area? If that is the case, let me encourage you to get back on the trail today! Wandering in detours and lingering too long at rest stops will prevent you from realizing your full potential.
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Genesis 8-- Are We There Yet?

The narrow door opened and our family walked into what would be our home for the next week. Not much bigger than our house's closet, the four of us made our way into the stateroom of the cruise ship. At least we wouldn't be spending much time in the cabin--there were a litany of things to do on the 900+ foot long floating hotel. Surprisingly, by the seventh day we were definitely ready to get off. We had enough! I can only imagine what it was like in Genesis 8 for Noah and his clan sailing in the ark for nearly a year (it only rained 40 days but it took the rest of the time for the waters to recede and the land to try out). Noah's ship was about half the length of our cruise ship, and it was filled with animals! No swimming pools or midnight buffets for him! I imagine there were many days when Noah wondered aloud, "Are we ever going to be able to get off this thing?" It must have felt like they weren't making much progress. No ports of call, just bobbing up and down with nothing to look at. But this was a time of protection and a time of transition for Noah and his family. Yes, it must have seemed like an eternity, but God was at work getting everything ready for a new life in a new world. God protected them and the animals in order that He could carry out His plan. Sometimes in life it may seem that we are stuck on the ark. We know we are in the center of God's will, but things aren't going as fast as we would like them to go. If this is you today, know that God is using this time to both protect you and to transition you into something even better. The wait will be worth it when that day arrives!
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Genesis 5-- What's On Your Tombstone?

If you could choose how long you live, how many years would you pick? Would you be satisfied with the average? Or maybe you want to hit the century mark? But what if you could live to age 300 or even 600? I don't know that I would want to live quite that long--life can get pretty difficult at times. We see in Genesis 5, and the genealogy of Adam's family, that hitting your 800th or 900th birthday was commonplace. Try putting candles on those cakes! One person in this list, however, didn't make it that long. He went "early," not because he died but because "God took him" (v24). Enoch lived a mere 365 years, and in that "short" time, he distinguished himself from everyone else in the world. You see, Enoch walked with God. While others were pursuing their own ambitions, Enoch was spending his days pleasing God. Enoch was taken to heaven without seeing death. May it be said of each of us, no matter how many years we have on this earth, that we walked with God. I don't know of any better inscription for a grave marker or tombstone than he or she "walked with God."
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Ecclesiastes 12-- The Ghost of Christmas Future

Do you remember the classic tale A Christmas Story? Ebeneezer Scrooge lost perspective on life. That impacted his priorities and how he treated others. It took the Ghost of Christmas Future to help Scrooge see how he would waste his life if he continued living like he was living. In a sense, Solomon is our "Ghost of Christmas Future" as he in Ecclesiastes 12 walks us to the edge of the end of our lives and invites us to look back. The time for procrastination will end. There will be no more "I'll get serious about this tomorrow" because the days of being able to do anything will have ended. Let me encourage you to carefully read Solomon's description of what it is like when we get older (vv 2-8). As he entered his later years, Solomon realized how much of his life he had wasted pursuing temporary things. Every day we spend focused on our own priorities and living for ourselves is a day that is wasted--and a day that can never be recovered. And it is a day that we one day will regret. So how can we live our lives without regret? How can we maximize our lives and live them to their fullest? Three things. First, start now (v1). Don't delay! No matter what age you are, this is the time to put God first in your life. Don't wait another day. Second, pursue wisdom throughout your life and not just knowledge (vv9-12). Learning is good and we should be life-long students, but knowledge for the sake of knowledge is shallow. Wisdom, however, will enable us to successfully navigate life and help others to do the same. Finally, do what God says to do (v13). It is just that simple. Have enough fear, appreciation, reverence, love, etc. for God that you follow what He says to do. That is our purpose. That is what life is all about. That is what will give our life meaning, fullness, and true joy. There is no such thing as the Ghost of Christmas Future, so if you are waiting for him to show up, you are out of luck. Learn from the mistakes of Solomon--don't waste any day of your life.
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Ecclesiastes 11-- Whose the Center of Your Universe?

Unfortunately we see it all the time. From athletes to Hollywood celebrities to the guy next door, we live amidst people whose worlds only revolve around themselves. They know little to nothing about generosity. Then there are the politicians who say we need to look out for each other and stop being so greedy--but when their own finances are revealed we discover that they made millions but only gave away a couple thousand dollars. We each have a fundamental choice that we must make. Are we going to live for ourselves exclusively or are we going to live for God and others? It is one thing to talk about being our brother's keeper; it is quite another thing to do it. This is the focus of Ecclesiastes 11 where we are told that we need to be generous to others (vv1-8) and not make excuses for not giving. Solomon, who spent years acquiring things for himself, finally realizes the shallowness of stuff and the importance of helping others. God does reward us when we give (v1) but that reward is not always immediate. Solomon also encourages us to give when we have the opportunity to do so and not delay (v2) because we do not know what might come in the future that would keep us from being able to give. Self-focused living is not only about what we do with our money and possessions, but whether or not we allow God to direct us. "Walk in the ways of your heart, and in the sight of your eyes," Solomon says, "but know that for all these God will bring you into judgment" (v9). When we live for ourselves we only end up bringing grief upon ourselves (v10). So today you have a choice. Who are you going to make the center of your universe?
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Nehemiah 12-- Managing the Ebb and Flow

It has rightly been said that the only things constant in life is change. How true that is! Life is not static, even though sometimes we wish it were. There is an ebb and flow to life. There are ups and there are downs. We ascend to the highest mountains but eventually come down into the dark valleys. Nehemiah 12 teaches us that leadership is all about managing the ebb and flow. Sometimes the most dangerous time for a person, ministry or organization is when things have been going good for a long time. It is easy to become complacent and take your eyes of God when everything seems to be going your way. There are three great lessons in this chapter about managing the ebb and flow. First, celebrate the victories (vv27-43). Yes, celebrate! When you and your team do well, give praise to God and spend time rejoicing over what you have seen accomplished. That is exactly what Nehemiah did when they completed the rebuilding of the walls. Make a big deal about it--just make sure the glory and focus stays on God. The second lesson is that we must maintain our responsibilities (v44). It is easy when we are in the midst of a celebration to slack off on the things that brought us to that point. Nehemiah didn't. Even while celebrating, he was making sure that the right things were getting done. Finally, establish a godly legacy. This happens when we consistently live for God regardless of what is happening around us. Twice in this chapter there are references to Israel's King David, someone who lived hundreds of years prior to Nehemiah. In both mentions he is called "David the man of God" (vv24, 36). Imagine if hundreds of years after you were dead people still spoke of you and referred to you as the man or woman of God! What a great legacy. Let's learn from this wonderful chapter to celebrate the successes in life, faithfully fulfill our responsibilities, and live consistently for God so that we can establish a godly legacy.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Nehemiah 8-- Don't Take It for Granted

It is easy to take something for granted when you see it all the time, isn't it?

Think about those things that you pass each day to work. You've seen them so many times that you don't give them a second thought. Unfortunately, some of us are like that when it comes to the Bible. We have not just one Bible but multiple Bibles. We may have access to Christian TV or radio where the Bible is read and taught.

We are so accustomed to having the Bible around us that we may forget its importance. I've been in places, however, where there were no Bibles, where I have given someone their very first Bible. It is an entire different reaction in these settings.

Those who have not had God's Word cherish it and desire to read and understand it, while many of us who have multiple copies of God's Word sitting around our houses never open one. In Nehemiah 8 we see the Jewish people, those who had returned to Israel following years of captivity, gathered to hear God's Word. Common people did not have access to God's Word.

Most of the people assembled that day had never heard God's Word read before. They had heard about God's Word and had teachings from it passed down over history, but they had not experienced it for themselves.

Three simple things happened in this chapter, but they had a profound impact.

First the people heard the Word. "Then he [Ezra] read from it...from morning until midday, before the men and women and those who could understand" (v3).

Next, they understood the Word. There were "preachers" scattered amongst the assembly who explained to the people what was read. We are reminded that there is a need still today for people to explain God's Word to those who do not know it (see Romans 10:14-15).

Third, they allowed God's Word to truly impact their lives as they started obeying it (vv9-18).

Let me encourage you to do two things today. First, make a commitment to spend some time in God's Word each day. Second, each time you open God's Word, ask God to make that reading like the first time you ever touched a Bible.

Look for something new--something you have never seen before. Keep God's Word fresh in your life--and do what it tells you to do!

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Nehemiah 6-- Discerning God's Will

IKEA is a Swedish chain of home furnishings stores that have become very popular here in the U.S. IKEA's products are unique and most of them require assembly. Now I must admit that when I read "assembly required" I usually cringe because I know it will probably take me twice as long to put it together as what the box says it will take. Not so, however, with IKEA. Because they sell their products in multiple countries--with multiple languages--they have made them very easy to assemble. Their instruction manuals have no words, only pictures. This means that even I can figure it out! Don't you wish that God revealed His will like an IKEA manual--where we just follow the pictures? But He doesn't for a number of reasons. How then can we clearly discern God's will? Nehemiah 6 gives us five great steps to discovering God's will. First, maintain an unwavering commitment to accomplish God's purpose (VV1-9). Because Nehemiah was totally committed to doing what God wanted, he would not allow anything to distract him from fulfilling his God-given mission. Second, get advice from the right people (v10). Nehemiah was approached by an informant--a "double agent"--who supposedly was trying to give advice on the enemy's plans and what to do about it. Nehemiah quickly recognized that this guy was not the kind of person that he should be listening to. Third, hold to your convictions (V11). Know what is right and what is wrong, and determine ahead of time that you will not compromise and violate God's clear commands. Next, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit (vv12-14). Nehemiah talked constantly to God, he carefully listened to God, and I believe he was quick to act on what God laid on his heart. This made him more discerning. Finally, walk in wisdom (vv17-19). Wisdom is more than just having knowledge; it is doing the right thing with that knowledge. Nehemiah knew the political ramifications of his commitments but he acted in wisdom by not letting it frighten him to the point of quitting. Discerning God's will is much easier when we follow the five steps that Nehemiah took.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Nehemiah 5-- The Hen and the Hog

You have probably heard the story of the hen and the hog that were walking past a church. The church's marquee announced a breakfast they were having that Sunday. "We should provide their breakfast," said the hen, "there's nothing like bacon and eggs on a Sunday morning." The hog turned to the hen and replied "for you, that would mean a minor inconvenience but for me it is a total commitment."  A lot of us are like that hen--we are willing to be slightly inconvenienced once in a while but like the hog, we won't make a total commitment. We don't want to go too far when it comes to making sacrifices. Serving Christ, however, is a commitment that often requires sacrifices. Nehemiah 5 is a great story of someone committed to pleasing God and doing the right thing, even though it cost him in the short term. Notice five sacrifices that Nehemiah made. First, he sacrificed a pay raise when he became governor (v14-15a). Second, he sacrificed power (v15b). Next, he sacrificed personal comfort (v16a) as he stayed engaged in the building project. Fourth, Nehemiah gave up investment opportunities (v16b). Finally, he gave much of his own income to feed and care for others (vv17-18). All that Nehemiah asked was that God would remember him for all that good that he had done for others (v19). I believe that God certainly did remember him--just like God remembers us and blesses us for doing what is right. So, which will it be for you today? A slight inconvenience or a total commitment?

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Nehemiah 3-- Find Your Section of Wall

What is the biggest project that you have ever undertaken? How did you feel when you started the project? Probably a bit overwhelmed! How did you feel when you finished it? Relieved? Did you have a sense of pride, knowing that you had completed something very difficult? Sometimes when we are faced with big projects or big challenges the hardest part is figuring out where to start. Many people feel that ministry--service for the kingdom of God--is like that massive project. You know you need to be involved but you have a hard time getting started. Or maybe you feel that there is someone else better qualified who should do the job while you sit on the sidelines.

Nehemiah 3 is one of the most remarkable chapters in Scripture when it comes to everyone finding a place on the team and engaging in something significant--something bigger than themselves. Now when you first glance at the chapter is is easy to glaze over it--there are a lot of names that you probably can't pronounce. But go deeper, and you will be encouraged by what you see. People from all walks of life, professions and social statuses took part in rebuilding the Jerusalem walls. There were religious leaders (vv1,22), people from other cities (v2), goldsmiths, merchants, perfume makers, home owners, apartment renters, civic leaders, blue collar workers, white collar workers, men, and women (v12). Some of the people had building skills while many did not. Some could do more--and they did, while others were only able to do small amounts. The project was bigger than any one person, but when all of God's people came together, they accomplished something truly great. Here's the bottom line for us: we need to find our place on the wall of God's kingdom and go to work. No more excuses. There is something that you can do to build the kingdom. Find it, roll up your sleeves, and help make a difference.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Nehemiah 1-- No Auto-Pilot for His Life

Nehemiah had a great job. It was prestigious and probably had plenty of perks. Nehemiah was a cupbearer, an assistant, to the king of Persia. Nehemiah could have just "coasted" through life doing his thing for the king and enjoying all that life had to offer him at the time. But Nehemiah was not the kind of person to put his life on "auto pilot". No, Nehemiah was someone who had a heart for God and was sensitive to the needs in the world of his time--especially those of his heritage, the Jews.

In Nehemiah 1 we see Nehemiah quizzing some of his brethren who had returned to the Persian capital from Jerusalem. He wanted to know in detail how things were going there. What he learned disturbed him. His people were suffering greatly. Now Nehemiah had a choice. He could dismiss this information and simply feel sorry for the Jews who had returned to Israel from their years of captivity, or he could do something about the situation. It wasn't his problem, but Nehemiah chose to act. And what was his first action? It was to pray--but not just any prayer. Part of his prayer was asking God to make him part of the solution, as he planned to approach the king with the situation (v11). Let me ask you today--is your life on "auto pilot"? Are you just going through life, doing your own thing, oblivious to the needs and opportunities around you--to the things where your life could make a real difference? Life is more than just showing up to work, paying the mortgage and trying to get by. Your life has a God-given purpose. Like Nehemiah, God wants all of us to make a difference in this life and this world.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Acts 16-- West Nile Virus and Your Future

Every summer here in Texas and other western states, we are alerted to the dangers of West Nile Virus, a mosquito-carried disease that in rare cases can be deadly. We are told by health officials to not have any standing or stagnate water on our property as this can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. In our spiritual life, stagnation is also dangerous. It keeps us from becoming all that God would have us to become and it often makes us more susceptible to temptations. The Apostle Paul was never stagnant.  He kept growing, kept moving, and kept doing his part to expand God's kingdom.  In Acts 16 we see Paul and his team on the move once again for God, making their way through various cities and regions.  Notice several things that Paul did as he moved for God. 1) He expanded his team.  Paul kept his eyes out for people whom he could mentor (vv. 1-4).  2) He was Holy Spirit led.  He went when and where God wanted him to go (vv. 6-10).  3) He engaged people, sharing Christ with a group of women (vv. 13-15).  4) He worshiped God even in difficult times and in difficult places (v. 25).  5) He was fearless in his mission (vv. 35-40).  These are good steps for us to follow as we stay on the move for God and avoid stagnation.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Acts 11- Christianity in Action

There is a popular song that says "love isn't love until you give it away." The point is that love isn't merely an emotion or concept, it is an action. Similarly with Christianity. If we have received Christ as our Savior, we should be moved to action. Notice four examples of Christianity in action found in Acts 11.  1) Christians rejoice when groups of people receive "repentance to life" (v.18).  We long to see people from every tribe, tongue and nation experience the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. 2) Christians engage the culture around them. Verse 20 talks about witnessing to Hellenists. These were people of Jewish descent but who were totally identified with the secular culture.  They were Jewish by race but not by religion or practice--what we would call today "secular Jews."  Certain Christian men engaged these people and proclaimed Christ to them.  3) Christians are concerned about spiritual growth, not just conversion (v.23).  Barnabas at first, and then Paul helping him, discipled the believers in Antioch, which led to even more people turning to Christ. 4) Christians pro-actively care for those in need.  The believers in Antioch, hearing of an impending famine, gave of their resources to help those in Judea who would be in need.  If you are a Christian, how are you putting you faith into action?

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

Acts 9-- Best Supporting Characters

The Academy Awards has two categories called "Best Supporting Actor" and "Best Supporting Actress."  These are film actors who help make movies successful--although they aren't the main stars.  The movie doesn't revolve around them, but it probably would be lost without them.  Similarly, Acts 9 describes four such characters.  People who are not the focus of Scripture but who had a major impact on those around them.  In the case of two of them, they launched the ministry of biblical "superstar" Paul.  Ananias and Barnabas both stood up for Paul (Saul) before others in the church.  His reputation as a Christian persecutor caused the believers in Damascus and Jerusalem to not trust his claims of conversion.  Ananias in Damascus and Barnabas in Jerusalem put their reputations on the line to be obedient to God and help Paul get started. 

Two others also make the "Best Supporting Character" list.  They are Aeneas and Tabitha.  Aeneas was a paralyzed, bedridden man who was healed.  His healing and subsequent witness resulted in many people in his community turning to Christ.  Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, touched the lives of everyone around her by her generosity and care.  Her impact was so great that when she died, God used Peter to actually bring her back to life.  She continued her ministry and God was glorified through this amazing act.  Four people we hear little about in Scripture but who made a big impact on those around them.  God may not place you in the "lead actor" role with the spotlight and all the attention, but you certainly can have a role equally as important.  History may not write about you, but it may write about those whom you impact.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.