Frank's Bible Blog

Psalm 53-- Is the World Suffering from Selective Hearing?

If you are a parent it probably has happened to you. You tell your child to do something and he or she ignores you. You say it louder and are still met with silence and inaction. Finally, you scream to them before storming into their room.

Once there, you are met with an "I didn't hear you."

Now sometimes that "I didn't hear you" is because the TV was too loud or the iPod was cranked up in their ears. Sometimes it is "selective" hearing--they hear what they want to hear, and it usually isn't you!

There are many people like that when it comes to God. They either are so self-absorbed that they don't notice God, they are so distracted that they can't hear or see Him working around them, or they have selective hearing and choose to ignore Him.

They also often live and operate in fear when there is no cause for fear (v5). This is most evident with those who do what we may consider irrational superstitions.

Some cultures, for example, believe that you have to "swing" away your sin. Each Spring the adults go to a playground-like setting. They stand on a swing, making it go back and forth, in fear that if they don't they will face God's wrath. They will put on their best clothes--guys in suits, women in nice dresses--and swing away!

In Psalm 53 David paints a picture of these outsiders. He uses words similar to those in Psalm 14 to reiterate the sinful and fallen nature of man. "The fool says in his heart, 'there is no God'"(v1).

Some scholars say that Hebrew words for "there is no God" is not a denial of the existence of God, but rather a denial of the providence of the Deity. In other words, whether God really exists or not doesn't matter because the person denies God's right to control, direct or intervene in his or her life. They live for themselves with no thought of God. "There is none who does good, not even one" (v3). They are going their own way and without God's grace will continue to drift through life and eternity separated from the Almighty.

While it is easy for believers to sit back and say "I'm glad I'm not like them," God would have us respond differently. He longs to have a personal relationship with everyone.

How do you break through and reach a person like that? Romans 10:13-15 says "For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?And how shall they preach unless they are sent?" It goes on to say, "So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God."

It is up to us to lovingly enter into the "noise" of their "room" and share God's word. Not screaming like the frustrated parent, but as a loving friend who, like them, was once lost in life but now desires to show them the way forward.

Will you be that friend and help the world with its selective hearing problem?

_________________________

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 50-- Your Day in Court?

"All rise," the bailiff commands, "the honorable Judge Smith is now presiding."

A familiar scene played out in courtrooms all the time. The parties are assembled, the jury is in place, the judge makes his or her entry and takes control of the proceedings.

Now with that scene firmly in your mind's view, consider another courtroom as described in Psalm 50.

This courtroom is much greater than that which typically holds 2-3 dozen people. In this courtroom the whole world is assembled. Then the Judge makes His grand entry. Before the bailiff can give his command a hush fills the assembly as those gathered look on with awe at the presence of the Judge--no ordinary judge, but God Himself.

There is no jury.

There is no prosecutor.

They are not needed for the righteous, perfect Judge will handle this Himself.

There are two defendants on trial. The first is a believer who has all the outward formalism of worship but lacks it inside. He looks spiritual but is missing any real spiritual vitality. He does all the "church" things but his devotional life is nearly non-existent. He lives a self-focused life rather than a life of thanksgiving to God. When difficulties arise he turns to himself, others, or to worry in an effort to solve his problems.

The second defendant is not a believer but sure can talk like one. He knows the lingo, knows many of God's instructions, and often tells these to others. But he lives just the opposite. He lives a life that is wicked and opposed to God.

The Judge turns and addresses the first defendant.

"Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you and you will honor me" (vv14-15).

It is a stunning reminder of how this defendant used to live and a dramatic call to once again place the Lord first in his life.

The judge then speaks to the second defendant.

"These things you have done and I kept silent...But I will rebuke you and accuse you to your face. Consider this, you who forget God, or I will tear you to pieces, with none to rescue" (vv21-22).

A chill goes through everyone who heard these words. "He's giving him another chance," the crowd whispers to each other, "what will he do with it? Will he turn away from his sin and embrace God? Or will he one day have to face God's wrath?

If this scene were played out today, would you be one of the defendants?
_________________________

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 65--Escape to the Comfy Room

My wife and I love to entertain folks at our home and regularly have people over. Our living room is nice but on the formal side, and it's where we will greet guests or visit if the guests aren't staying long.

The living room is pleasant but no where near as comfortable as an upstairs room we call the media room. The dark carpeting and richly-painted walls set a nice ambiance. The sofas are extremely comfortable, and every seat reclines. This is where we really like to entertain--especially during football season.

Kick off your shoes, fill a plate with some chips, grab a can of soft-drink--and cheer on the Dallas Cowboys! This room is a warm, comfortable and inviting place. It's also where we like to hang-out as a family even when we don't have guests. You feel at ease there. It's relaxing.

This picture is what I see when I read Psalm 65. The psalmist wrote, "Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts! We are filled with the good things of your house..." (v4). Another translation says "We will be satisfied with the goodness of your house."

I picture God inviting me into His house and taking me to His "comfy room"--an incredibly warm and relaxing room where He gives me the opportunity to hang-out with Him. I settle into the comfy chair, kick-back, and listen. I'm at ease. This time, however, there's no ballgame to watch. No, there is something much better. The opportunity to spend time in the presence of the Creator.

What do I say? What do I hear? What is the conversation about?

It's about how God hears prayer (v2). It is about His incredible grace that forgave us when we were overwhelmed with sin (v3).

It is a time to reflect on His "awesome deeds" (v5) and celebrate His creative genius and strength (vv6-7). It's a time to pause and consider how He cares for this earth (v9), bringing water and grain to provide for the needs of those who dwell here (vv9-11). It's a time to reflect on the beauty of His creation (vv12-13).

Do you daily enter into that "comfy room" with the Lord? Not necessarily a physical room with reclining chairs, but entering into God's presence where you spend time worshiping Him and listening to what He has to say? Do you crawl up next to Him and simply look on in awe of who He is? Do you pull away from the busyness of life to experience His refreshing? Are you allowing Him to fill you with the good things that come from hanging-out with Him?

Today, you may feel like you are running on empty. You may feel like you are being pulled in every direction. You no sooner got out of bed today than you were ready to head back. Maybe you are discouraged or disappointed. Let me suggest that you head to the comfy room. Spend some time with the Lord reading His word, worshiping Him, praying to Him, listening to Him.

You might be surprised how rested, calm and encouraged you are the rest of the day.

_________________________

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 53-- Is the World Suffering from Selective Hearing?

If you are a parent it probably has happened to you. You tell your child to do something and he or she ignores you. You say it louder and are still met with silence and inaction. Finally, you scream to them before storming into their room.

Once there, you are met with an "I didn't hear you."

Now sometimes that "I didn't hear you" is because the TV was too loud or the iPod was cranked up in their ears. Sometimes it is "selective" hearing--they hear what they want to hear, and it usually isn't you!

There are many people like that when it comes to God. They either are so self-absorbed that they don't notice God, they are so distracted that they can't hear or see Him working around them, or they have selective hearing and choose to ignore Him.

They also often live and operate in fear when there is no cause for fear (v5). This is most evident with those who do what we may consider irrational superstitions.

Some cultures, for example, believe that you have to "swing" away your sin. Each Spring the adults go to a playground-like setting. They stand on a swing, making it go back and forth, in fear that if they don't they will face God's wrath. They will put on their best clothes--guys in suits, women in nice dresses--and swing away!

In Psalm 53 David paints a picture of these outsiders. He uses words similar to those in Psalm 14 to reiterate the sinful and fallen nature of man. "The fool says in his heart, 'there is no God'"(v1).

Some scholars say that Hebrew words for "there is no God" is not a denial of the existence of God, but rather a denial of the providence of the Deity. In other words, whether God really exists or not doesn't matter because the person denies God's right to control, direct or intervene in his or her life. They live for themselves with no thought of God. "There is none who does good, not even one" (v3). They are going their own way and without God's grace will continue to drift through life and eternity separated from the Almighty.

While it is easy for believers to sit back and say "I'm glad I'm not like them," God would have us respond differently. He longs to have a personal relationship with everyone.

How do you break through and reach a person like that? Romans 10:13-15 says "For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?And how shall they preach unless they are sent?" It goes on to say, "So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God."

It is up to us to lovingly enter into the "noise" of their "room" and share God's word. Not screaming like the frustrated parent, but as a loving friend who, like them, was once lost in life but now desires to show them the way forward.

Will you be that friend and help the world with its selective hearing problem?

_________________________

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 50-- Your Day in Court?

"All rise," the bailiff commands, "the honorable Judge Smith is now presiding."

A familiar scene played out in courtrooms all the time. The parties are assembled, the jury is in place, the judge makes his or her entry and takes control of the proceedings.

Now with that scene firmly in your mind's view, consider another courtroom as described in Psalm 50.

This courtroom is much greater than that which typically holds 2-3 dozen people. In this courtroom the whole world is assembled. Then the Judge makes His grand entry. Before the bailiff can give his command a hush fills the assembly as those gathered look on with awe at the presence of the Judge--no ordinary judge but God Himself.

There is no jury.

There is no prosecutor.

They are not needed for the righteous, perfect Judge will handle this Himself.

There are two defendants on trial. The first is a believer who has all the outward formalism of worship but lacks it inside. He looks spiritual but is missing any real spiritual vitality. He does all the "church" things but his prayer and devotional life is nearly non-existent. He lives a pretty self-focused life rather than a life of thanksgiving to God. When difficulties arise he turns to himself, others, or to worry in an effort to solve his problems, rather than turning first to the Lord.

The second defendant is not a believer but sure can talk like one. He knows the lingo, knows many of God's instructions, and often tells these to others. But he lives just the opposite. He lives a life that is wicked and opposed to God.

The Judge turns and addresses the first defendant.

"Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you and you will honor me" (vv14-15).

It is a stunning reminder of how this defendant used to live and a dramatic call to once again place the Lord first in his life.

The judge then speaks to the second defendant. 

"These things you have done and I kept silent...But I will rebuke you and accuse you to your face. Consider this, you who forget God, or I will tear you to pieces, with none to rescue" (vv21-22).

A chill goes through everyone who heard these words. "He's giving him another chance," the crowd whispers to each other, "what will he do with it? Will he turn away from his sin and embrace God? Or will he one day have to face God's wrath?

If this scene were played out today, would you have to be one of the defendants?
_________________________

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 12--Time Travel

Have you ever wished that you could time travel into the future? There have been many movies, TV shows, books, etc. with this as their theme, and many people have fascinated about it. If you could discover the future, would it have an effect on how you actually live today? I suspect that it would. I suspect that we would see things that would cause us to want to live differently so as to change the outcome. In Zechariah 12, God gives us a glimpse into the future. He shows us a time when the nations will gather against Israel (vv 2-3) but they will be destroyed (vv4-9). He also describes a time when "The inhabitants of Jerusalem...will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son..." (v10). There is great mourning when these who have been filled with the "Spirit of grace" (v10) see the Lord Jesus Christ and realize that they were responsible for Him being pierced. They were responsible for His death. Who are the "they?" Certainly those alive with Christ who shouted "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!" But in reality, it is all of us because it was your sin and my sin as well as the shouting crowd's sin that pierced Christ. When one day we see Christ's hands, feet, and side and we realize how much He really did suffer for us, we too will grieve over our sin. But now that we have time traveled and gotten a glimpse into the future, thanks to this chapter, should this change how we live now? Should we be more aware of our sin and how it hurts Christ? Should we grieve and mourn over our sin now? If we did, would it then cause us to live more holy, more pleasing lives now that would bring greater honor to the One who was pierced for us?
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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 share this blog with 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.

Psalm 6-- When You Can't Stop the Tears

Have you ever had a time in your life when it seemed that you could not stop crying? Something happened or you were faced with the reality of something so overwhelming that the tears just poured out no matter how hard you tried to stop them? Sometimes we all just need a good cry! David was in that situation in Psalm 6. "All night I make my bed swim; I drench my couch with my tears. My eyes wastes away because of grief," (vv6-7) is how David worded it. What can we do when we find ourselves in those kinds of situations? First, grieve. That's right, grieve! Grieving is normal, natural and needed. We need to grieve the loss. In the beatitudes, Jesus said "Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted." If we want comfort, we have to first mourn. Second, acknowledge your weakness (v2). It's okay to admit that you don't have all the answers, you can't fix all the problems, or you don't have the power to change things. Third, turn the situation over to the Lord (vv2,4). Fourth, surround yourself with the right kind of people (v8). Finally, praise the Lord for His intervention in your life (v9). We all face grief at some point in our lives, but by following David's example we can overcome it in the Lord and be stronger as a result.
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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 28-- The Desperate Tale of Two Brothers

Emotionally hurt with his world crashed down around him, we find Esau in Genesis 28 desperate to recover his father's favor. Earlier he exchanged his birthright for some stew, then he lost his father's blessing. It seemed that his brother Jacob got everything that should have been his. So when Jacob goes off to find a wife who wasn't from the area, Esau decides he needs to do that as well. He already had two wives from Canaan (much to his parents displeasure) but thinks that if he finds one from his extended family it will bring him back into his father's graces (vv8-9). While Esau (a grown man) is desperately trying to recover from his emotional pain, his brother has his first real encounter with God. Jacob had grown up hearing about God. He knew many things about God. But he didn't know God for himself. Then along a roadside as he journeyed to find a wife, God spoke to him (vv10-15). This was a turning point in Jacob's life. Jacob vows that if God would be faithful to him, Jacob would serve the Lord and put Him first (vv20-21), even in his possessions (v22). Jacob had caused a lot of grief, he was a conniver and a liar. But something started to change in his life as he met God on that dusty road. His focus started shifting from himself to the Lord and others. He went on to become a great man of God whose 12 sons would become the 12 tribes of Israel and the Jewish nation. Where are you at in your life today? Are you like Esau, desperate to recover from your emotional pain? Desperate to find someone who will love and accept you? Or maybe you are like Jacob prior to this chapter. You know all about God but haven't made a personal commitment to Him. Maybe you have done some terrible things, caused a lot of grief, lied to a lot of people. Whether it is the emotional pain of an Esau or the guilt of a Jacob, Jesus Christ is waiting to forgive you, heal your emotional scars, and lead you into an abundant life. If you have never done so, today ask God to forgive your sin, acknowledge that Christ's death, burial and resurrection is sufficient to pay for your sin, and commit your life to the Lord right now. God will make you into a new creation and give you a purpose and peace that you have never known before.
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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 27--The Collapsing Family

Every so often it seems that there is a tragic story of a mine that has collapsed with workers trapped inside. Sometimes the workers survive, but too often we hear of lives that are lost. They are in the mine where they have been many times before, but on that tragic day something happens to weaken the mine's supports and it collapses on the workers. Far more frequent than mines collapsing are families collapsing. The supports give way and the world comes crashing down on many families. Tragically, some families disintegrate. In other cases, they survive. They are hurt, dirty, scared--but they continue. Such was the case in Genesis 27 with Isaac, Rebekah and their two children, Esau and Jacob. Notice some things that caused the "mine" to weaken and eventually collapse. We see that Rebekah elevated her child above her husband (vv5-10). She conspired to trick her husband in order to benefit her favored son, Jacob, and secure Isaac's blessing for him instead of Esau. She also directly lied to her husband (v46). In addition, she underestimated the pain that she caused Esau (v44). She assumed Esau would get over this in "a few days," but he didn't. We also notice that Jacob wasn't concerned with what was right or wrong, only with getting caught (vv11-12). Then we see Esau becoming desperate (v34) and rather than turn to God, he turns to rage (v41). He would harbor this intense anger and bitterness for a long time. As we look back on their lives, we see that Isaac and Rebekah did what many couples do today. They lost themselves in their children. Not only that, but they each had their own favorite child on whom they focused. I have seen this many times--after many years a couple ends their marriage because they no longer have an emotional connection to each other. Everything centered on the children and when the children leave home they have nothing in common. Don't live just for your children! The best gift you can give to your children is the example of a strong marriage. Put your priority on your spouse and then together seek to raise, guide, and nurture your children to realize their full potential in Christ. Do that and everyone will be better 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 26-- When Good Work Ethic Causes Trouble

Have you ever had a job where your co-workers were jealous because you did so much better than them? Maybe you always went the extra mile but they did the least amount necessary. One person I know started a new job where he did service calls for a company. Under the union contract, employees were supposed to complete five calls per shift. This guy found that he could usually complete more than that in a typical day. It didn't take long, however, before he started getting heat from his co-workers. If he could do more in a day, then they would be expected to do more--and they didn't like that. It seems that there always are people around us trying to pull us down because our getting ahead makes them look bad. Such was the case for Isaac in Genesis 26. There was a famine in the area, so Isaac relocated his family to Gerar, the same place where his father had spent time. He worked hard and God richly blessed his efforts (vv12-13). Soon he became so prosperous that everyone around him was jealous. They tried to make life difficult for him (v15) and eventually kicked him out of the area. Isaac sought peace with those around him, even giving up wells that rightfully were his in order to avoid strained relations (vv18-22). He had plenty and was able to dig more wells. There are some things worth fighting for, but to Isaac, this wasn't one of them. He did his "thing" and didn't get deterred by those who were jealous of him. Now, before we leave this chapter, there are two negatives that we need to notice. First is that Isaac lied about Rebekah being his wife when they arrived in Gerar. Rather than being honest and trusting God to take care of him, he tried to devise a plan to protect himself. As we saw in the last chapter, he was looking out for his own interests and not that of others. Nor was he thinking about long-term ramifications. The second negative is that son Esau marries not one but two pagan women, causing Isaac and Rebekah great grief (vv34-35). Esau is another example of being self-focused, and he is the product of a dysfunctional family (see chapter 25). So here is the take away from this chapter: do what is right in both your business and family affairs, and leave the outcome to God. Some people give great attention to their work but let their family suffer. Others are lazy and have a poor work ethic. Don't let either be true of 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 13-- Keeping a 20 Foot Long Nose in Perspective

Mount Rushmore is amazing! I vividly remember my first visit. We drove around a curve in the road and there it was--larger than life! For our international readers who may not be aware of it, Mount Rushmore is where the heads of four U.S. presidents are "engraved" (blasted is a better word) into the side of a mountain. Each head is massive--60 feet tall. Their noses are 20 feet long. It took 14 years and the removal of 800 million pounds of stone to complete the project. I imagine it would have been easy when working on, say Lincoln's beard, to get so caught up with the small details that workers would lose sight of the bigger picture. But they didn't. They had to make sure that each smaller detail was proportionate to the whole. It is important, not only in constructing monuments but also in life, that we keep things in perspective. Sometimes that means making small sacrifices in order to accomplish something bigger. Abraham in Genesis 13 is a good example of this. When the livestock and possessions of both Abraham and his nephew Lot grew to the point that they couldn't stay in the same area (vv6-7), Abraham dealt head-on with the situation. He offered a solution rather than allow strife between members of his family and between their employees. He allowed Lot to choose any of the land that he wanted and Abraham would move his enterprise the opposite direction. It is interesting that although Lot chose what looked like the best land, his move almost cost him his life. He moved toward the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah (v10). Abraham took the less-desired land but in the end, got it all. "Look from the place where you are," God said to Abraham, "for all the land that you see I give to you and your descendants forever" (vv14-15). Abraham made a temporary sacrifice for the sake of others but God rewarded him many times over. I have seen this over and over again in my life. When I kept perspective of God's bigger picture and willingly made sacrifices to achieve His will, God blessed far beyond anything I could have imagined. I wonder how many people there are who will never experience all the incredible things that God has for them in this life because they lose perspective or fail to make the necessary sacrifices. Let's do what's right, even if it is inconvenient, and leave the outcome to 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 http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.

Nehemiah 9-- Time to Get Serious

The terrorists attacks on the Word Trade Center in New York on September 11, 2001 was a defining, history-altering moment for the U.S. as a nation, and certainly for the hundreds of families who lost loved ones in the incident. I remember the incredible seriousness that spread across the country. The guys that did comedy sketches on the local news radio were silent. The Jay Leno and David Letterman shows went dark. Nobody could laugh. This was a time of national mourning where seriousness replaced joking. There are times when not only as a nation but also as individuals were are called to seriousness. We are called to face the reality of an unpleasant situation. This was the case for the Jewish people in Nehemiah 9 after they had heard, many for the first time, God's Word. It was a sobering time as they faced the reality of their situation and how sin had brought them to that place. "We are in distress," (v37) the cried. They used this serious, sacred assembly of the people to deal with sin--both theirs and their ancestors. First, they acknowledged God's righteousness (v8) and His goodness (vv5-15). Next, they acknowledged their sin and rebellion against that righteousness (vv16-18). Then they recognized God's incredible mercies (vv19-32) and His justice in punishing them (vv33-37). Finally, they decide to do something about their sin and change their ways--which is the topic of the next chapter. Today, maybe it is time for you to get serious for a little while. Maybe it is time for you to pause and take a long, hard look at your life and the affect sin has had on it. Maybe today is the day for you to do what Israel did and repent.

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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.

1 Corinthians 12-- Snowflakes and Churches

We used to live a few miles from Lake Erie in Ohio. Every winter we would see snow--lots of it! After a while, the snow started to pile up and you just wanted to say "enough already!" But if you paused and looked closely at the snow--especially the flakes as they fell--you saw something beautiful. You saw their incredible diversity. So many flakes yet each one different. If God can make snow flakes so unique, think about how much more special He as made each of us! 1 Corinthians 12 both celebrates the unique gifts that we have from God as believers and challenges us to use them properly. When it comes to our gifts, abilities, uniqueness, etc. we basically have two choices: focus on these things in a divisive way (I'm better than you, or I want what you have) or use them to unite and improve the Body of Christ. God obviously emphasizes team work and the use of our gifts to unite. This is one of the major passages of Scripture dealing with spiritual gifts, and God makes it clear that every believer has at least one (you got it at the point of salvation). How you grow, develop and utilize that gift(s) is up to you.  Do you know what your spiritual gifts are?  If so, are you using them to build up the church?  Or are you squandering something wonderful with which God has entrusted you? If you don't know how God has gifted you, the best way to find out is to get involved in different types of Christian service and see what comes "natural" to you. God has created you unique. He has beautifully gifted you. He has empowered you to make a difference in this life. Join the team, work together with other believers, and impact eternity.

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Note: There are many different spiritual gifts surveys or inventories that you can take which can help guide you toward discovering your gifts.  One place you may want to look at is www.churchgrowth.org. Ultimately, however, the only way to really know is to ask the Lord to show you as you engage in ministry.

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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.

1 Corinthians 1-- Choose Your Own Adventure

When I was a child, there was a series of books I liked to read called Choose Your Own Adventure. Each book had different endings, depending on the choices the reader made. So you read through to a certain point in the book where you were then given a series of choices. Each choice had a corresponding page number where the story would resume. Imagine if we could do that with your life? Imagine if there was a way to do that with the decisions that you have made in your life. Imagine if you could read about what would have happened if you had made a different choice. What if you hadn't made the decision to commit your life to Christ (assuming you have)? Where would you be today without Christ? As 1 Corinthians 1 points out, we have been given the grace of God (v4) and are enriched by Him because we have responded to what many consider the foolishness of the Gospel (v18). We came to a juncture in life where we had to make a decision. The prevailing "wisdom" said to ignore the claims of Christ and live life for yourself (vv19-21) but because "the foolishness of God is wiser than men" (v25) you made the right decision and your life has been forever enriched. Now that you have made that decision, you still must choose your own adventure. You must choose to walk in God's wisdom (v30) or choose to become self focused and even divisive with your life (vv10-17, 31). The decisions that you make even now will write the future chapters of your life. Choose wisely!

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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.

Revelation 20-- Fact not Fiction

It reads like a fascinating adventure novel, but it isn't fiction. Revelation 20 lays out some dramatic events, the focus of which is a 1,000 year reign of Christ on the earth. We are told that Satan is bound for 1,000 years so that he can no longer "deceive the nations" (v3). During that time the saints of God, especially those who suffered greatly and were martyred during the tribulation, will reign with Christ (v4). The chapter also details a final rebellion by the devil and then the "great white throne" judgment where those who have died without Christ are sentenced to eternal damnation (vv11-15). There are a lot of differences of opinion among scholars about this millennium period (which actually is the focus of a lot of Old Testament prophecy). Whatever your view of the millennium, one principle rings true to us today: current sacrifices are definitely rewarded one day. Faith looks forward in anticipation to God fulfilling His word and plan. Hebrews 11 tells us of Old Testament saints who did not get their reward in this life, but they pressed on anyway because they were looking for a city not made with hands--they were anticipating Heaven and their rewards to come. The flip side of this truth is the fact that current sin will be punished. One day everyone who rejected Christ as savior, no matter how powerful they were or how insignificant (v12), will stand in judgment. God will show them definitively from their lives that they are deserving of eternal punishment and separation from God. Then they will be shown that they never received Christ's remedy for sin. Let this chapter be a reminder that the decisions we make now do matter. They matter for eternity.

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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.

Revelation 16-- Why Do They Get Away with That?

---Please see the special note below today's posting---

You just have to cringe at some of the sacrilegious and even blasphemous things we see and hear around us. Everything from bumper stickers to Hollywood movies that blatantly mock Christ and defiantly oppose God and anything righteous. "Why does God let them get away with that," I often ask myself. The "why" has to do with God's nature and not their acts. It is a reminder to us of the incredible graciousness of God and His long suffering toward humanity. Don't be fooled, however. There is a limit to how long God will wait on man before His holiness demands judgment on the world. Revelation 16 records the "bowl" or "vial" judgments, which are the final judgments of God initially launched by the opening of the first seal in heaven. The previous judgments, as bad as they were, pale in comparison to these that are unleashed at the end of the Tribulation. Mankind is afflicted with incredible sores. Water in the oceans, rivers and springs turns to blood. The sun intensifies causing massive burning of people. Darkness accompanied by incredible pain paralyzes many. Preparations are made for a massive, truly global war whose focal point will be a valley in Israel 14 miles wide by 20 miles long. Finally, the earth's greatest earthquake occurs which literally changes the world's topography. In the midst of all this, mankind will continue to blaspheme God (vv 9,11,21). This should all be a reminder to us of the warning in Galatians 6:7 "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap." There is a price to pay for sin--both now and in the world to come. Let us never forget that although God is exceedingly gracious, He is also holy.
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Special Note: In the next week we will be sending out family prayer cards to those on our snail mail newsletter list. This is the first updated card that we have done in several years. If you don't currently get our hard copy newsletters, and would like to get the card and upcoming newsletters, sign up at www.maxpoint.org/newsletters. Also, our periodical email newsletter will also be coming out this week featuring innovative ways to use this blog. Frank's Bible Blog has a number of features that you may not be aware of that can help pastors, small group leaders, teachers and individuals. You can also sign up for the email newsletter at www.maxpoint.org/newsletters.

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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.

Revelation 11-- Shining a Light in a Very Dark World

It reads like the script of a Hollywood horror or sci-fi movie. Two people come to global prominence as they speak out against the evils of the world. For three and a half years anyone who opposed these two and sought to kill them were themselves killed--consumed by fire from their mouths. The two turn water to blood and fill the earth with plagues. The world and its leaders are outraged with these two, but are unable to do anything about them. Then suddenly, without warning, the two are killed. For three and a half days their bodies are laid out in the streets of Jerusalem for all the world to see via television. In a global celebration greater than Christmas, people everywhere rejoice in their death. But then the unimaginable happens--the two come back to life and then ascend into the heavens as a massive earthquake rocks the surrounding city killing 7,000 people and destroying ten percent of the buildings.

No, this isn't a Hollywood script. It is the future scene painted for us in Revelation 11. There are two principles in this that I would like for you to notice. First, even in the midst of the Tribulation where God is pouring out His wrath on humanity, He gives mankind opportunity to turn to Him. God truly loves every person and longs for them to have a relationship with Him. God does everything possible to give them every opportunity possible to turn to Him. Second, these two witnesses carried forth God's light into a very hostile world. Imagine being the two most hated people in the whole world just because you proclaim God's message. Even though it often isn't popular, God wants His message made known to everyone. You and I are the carriers of that message. Sometimes that message is embraced; other times it is vehemently rejected. Regardless, like these two witnesses, we are called to proclaim truth and leave the results up to God. We are called to shine a light in a very dark world. How is your light today? Is it shining brightly or is it hidden in fear?
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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.

Jude-- It's Not Halloween, It's Reality

Each October here in the U.S. children dress up for Halloween. They put on costumes of superheroes, famous people, and others then go door to door asking for candy. It's always interesting trying to figure out who is really behind the mask. Unfortunately, "Halloween" takes place every week in some churches. There are people who come appearing to be one thing when they actually are not. Jude had much to say about them in his short epistle. These are people who have turned "the grace of God into lewdness" (v4) and actually deny the person and work of Christ. They influence others to sin and depart from sound doctrine and holy living as they "defile the flesh, reject authority, and speak evil of dignitaries" (v8). The focus of these and those whom they influence is on greed, personal profit, and self gratification (v11). They are "grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and...flattering people to gain advantage" V16). Don't be fooled--this is a real problem in our churches today but it is one that God will not stand for (vv5-7). God will judge those involved in such activity. So, how should you and I respond to all of this? Jude tells us to do five things: build, pray, keep, look, and act (vv20-22). We build ourselves up in the faith. We earnestly pray. We keep ourselves walking in God's love. We look towards Christ as we prioritize eternal things. Finally, we act by getting involved in the lives of those we see getting sucked into this false philosophy and ungodly lifestyle. Halloween may be something fun for children once a year, but don't you get caught up in the weekly deception of those who only wear the mask of true Christianity.
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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.

1 Timothy 1-- Herding Cats

Several years ago a commercial debuted during the Super Bowl that showed cowboys herding cats. One cowboy says "herding cats--don't let anyone tell you it's easy." Another one says "being a cat herder is about the toughest thing I've ever done." The commercial then cuts to two more cowboys discussing the injuries received while cat herding. The spot closes telling how this particular company is able to bring things together and make them go where you want. Many times leadership is like herding cats, especially if you are leading other leaders. Paul had some great advice for Timothy, one of the original "cat herders." In chapter 1 he tells Timothy that he has to stand up to those who are teaching false doctrines in the church (vv3-11). Even though these were leaders, as the leader of leaders, Timothy had a responsibility before God to make sure God's word was not distorted by those who really did not understand it. Second, Paul encourages Timothy to stay humble by reminding Timothy of Paul's own background. Even though Paul had become a great leader in the church, he never forgot that it was because he "obtained mercy" (v13) and "the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant" (v14). Finally, Paul says there are times that a leader must go on the offensive and "wage the good warfare" (v18) with "faith and a good conscience" against the Devil and those he would use to destroy the church (v20). Yes, sometimes leadership is like herding cats. And sometimes, like those cowboys, injuries can come. But as one cowboy said at the end of the commercial, "It ain't an easy job, but when you bring a herd into town and you ain't lost a one of them, there ain't a feeling like it in the world." That's leadership.
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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.

2 Thessalonians 1-- And the Award Goes To...

 Have you ever watched one of those awards shows and when they called out a winner thought "he didn't deserve that! No way was he good enough."? In essence, you felt that the person was not worthy of the recognition and benefits they received. Have you ever stopped to think that maybe God feels that way sometimes about us? He saves us from our sin. He gives us eternal life. He fills us with the Spirit. Yet how many times do we not walk worthy of all that we have received? In 2 Thessalonians 1, Paul twice exclaims how he desires the Thessalonians to be worthy of God's kingdom and calling (vv5,11). What does walking worthy look like? We have a growing faith (v3). Our lives are marked by love (v3). We appropriately handle the challenges of life (v4). Most of all, we glorify the Lord Jesus Christ in and through our lives (v12). If we will live like this, then we will act worthy of the benefits that we receive.
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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.

Luke 23-- Power Play

Many people become consumed with power. Sometimes at work a person gets a position of power and wants to "lord it over" others. They focus on themselves and use their power just because they can. Christ, on the other hand, demonstrated what it was like to have ultimate power but purposely limit it for the benefit of others. That was the situation in Luke 23 when Jesus was tried and then executed on a cross outside of Jerusalem. He had the power to silence the false accusations of those who wanted Him dead, but He chose not to use it. He had the power to avoid the humiliating taunts of the soldiers, but He ignored them. He had the power to stop the processional to the execution site, but He pressed on anyway. He had the power to come down from the cross, but He chose to stay. Finally, He had the power to forgive--which He chose (v34). Just because you have power as a boss, parent, business person, etc. doesn't mean that you always have to use it. Sometimes, like Christ, we must put aside what we can do in order to benefit others. And, like Christ, there is a power that we should always choose to use--the power to forgive.
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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.

Luke 13-- Can't See the Forest

You've heard the expression "can't see the forest for all the trees." Maybe you have even been on a hike in the woods when all you saw were trees but you didn't have perspective on the forest. You couldn't tell how big it was, how far into it you were, or what was up ahead. You could only see what was right around you and you had to make assumptions about distance. Many of us spend a lot of our lives "in the trees" and we lose perspective of the big picture of the forest. Luke 13 is a great example of this as Jesus tried to help those He taught get a better perspective. First He deals with two current events where people were tragically killed (vv1-5). The "tree perspective" said they were killed because they were worse sinners than the rest. The forest perspective was that everyone is a sinner and eventually all will die. Those who haven't died yet are left alive at God's mercy so that they have a chance to "bear fruit" or commit their lives to God (vv6-9). Jesus then healed on the Sabbath (vv10-17). Tree perspective said there were other days in the week to heal. Forest perspective said people are more important than projects. Jesus taught about God's kingdom (vv18-21). Tree perspective said it couldn't really see the kingdom and doubted it was real. Forest perspective said great things start small and must be given time to develop. When asked about salvation, Jesus explained that tree perspective looked at what you did and thought that would save (vv22-31). Forest perspective said there was only one way of salvation, and unless taken, God would say"depart from me, all you workers of iniquity" (v27). When told that Herod wanted to kill Jesus (vv31-35), tree perspective said you better run and hide. Forest perspective said everything will take place in God's perfect timing and not a day sooner. So, which perspective do you have? Do you see the trees or do you see the forest?

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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.

Luke 7-- A Life Changing Phrase

Sometimes a simple phrase can change a person's life forever. It may be positive, such as "and the winner is..." or it may be negative, "I'm sorry to have to tell you that...". We see one of those positive phrases coming from the mouth of Christ in Luke 7:28, "but he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." Why was this phrase so life changing? The context was a discussion about John "the Baptist" where Jesus praises John and tells what a great prophet he is. The bulk of the crowd were nodding with agreement because they had been baptized by John. But then, out of no where, Jesus drops the phrase that even the "common" people would be greater than John in God's kingdom. Wow! There was hope and a future for them! They didn't have to become some elite socialite, a religious leader, or anything else. God would accept them just as they were through Christ. But that is what Christ does--He gives hope to the hopeless. In this same chapter, He gave hope to the Roman centurion whose beloved servant was near death (vv1-10).  He restored the life of a widow's son with the phrase "Young man, I say to you, arise" (vv11-16). He forgave a woman with a notorious reputation as "a sinner" with the phrase "Your faith has saved you. Go in peace" (vv36-50). A simple but life changing phrase. Have you experienced the life-changing hope that only Christ can give?
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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.

Luke 4-- On Purpose

Every organization needs to know its purpose in order to be successful. Companies must ask "what business are we really in? Why are we doing what we do?" Having purpose doesn't guarantee success but a lack of it almost certainly guarantees mediocrity at best, and failure at worse. Strategic planning starts with purpose, then addresses vision--where you want to be at a certain point in time. Next it looks at mission--what we are here to do together that will move us towards our vision. Likewise, as individuals we need a clear understanding of purpose and then a vision for our life and an understanding of our mission. Jesus exemplified this in Luke 4. His clear sense of purpose is what enabled Him to overcome the devil's temptations (vv1-13). Jesus would not surrender long-term benefits for short-term gain. Jesus' vision was that no one would perish but all would come to repentance. So He went everywhere--even to those whom He knew would reject Him (vv23-29). His mission was prophesied by Isaiah (61:1-3) and He declared it to those gathered in the Nazareth synagogue--preach good news, liberate the spiritually captive, heal those with physical and emotional needs, and usher in God's age of grace (vv18-20). Jesus begins the fulfillment of that mission in the rest of this chapter as His public ministry gathers momentum. If you are struggling with consistency in your Christian walk, have an emptiness, or feel unfulfilled, maybe it is because you lack purpose, vision or mission. Do you have a clear understanding of why God brought you into this world? Do you have a vision of what you would like to see God do through your life in say the next 10 years? Do you understand the talents, gifts, abilities and callings that God has equipped you with so that you can find and fulfill your mission? If not, I would encourage you to spend some extended time praying about these things and then seek out godly counsel. Let's live our lives on purpose.
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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.

Colossians 4-- Touching All the Bases

It was one of those rare heart-warming stories that made the evening news. During a collegiate softball playoff game, a Western Oregon University player hit a three-run home run then blew out her knee running to first base. Since the rules state that the player must touch all the bases, without assistance from her teammates, the umpires were about the revoke the home run. That's when two players from the opposing team, Central Washington University, stepped up and carried the injured player making sure she touched each base. Nothing against the rules for getting assistance from the opposite team. It cost Central Washington the game and any championship hopes, but in helping their opponent touch all the bases these players touched the hearts of multitudes. In Colossians 4, Paul brings the book to a close by encouraging us to touch all the bases as we seek to live for Christ. At first base we have prayer(vv2-4). It should be something we are "devoted" to, not only praying for ourselves but for others, especially those proclaiming the gospel. Second base is our walk with outsiders--those who haven't come to faith in Christ (vv5-6). We should act with wisdom and love towards these as we seek to demonstrate Christ. Paul reminds us that how we say it is just as important as what we say. Many outsiders have been turned off to Christ by the way in which well-meaning Christians tried to share the gospel. Third base is about caring for those within the family of faith (vv7-18). We see this in how Paul and his team cared for the Colossian people, with one teammember, Epaphras, especially "wrestling in prayer" for them. Prayer, walk, care--touch these bases and your ready to head to home plate!

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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.

Colossians 3-- Powerwash and Stain

It doesn't take long here in Texas for new wooden fences to fade, crack and look ugly. The Texas sun has a way of accelerating the aging process of our fences. My neighbor decided he was gong to restore his fence by himself. So he rented a power-washer to strip off the old stain and get the fence clean and "white" (gray actually). Even though it was clean, it still looked drab. It remained an eyesore until he started applying the new stain which brought out the beauty of the wood and made the fence appealing once again. The project, however, turned out to be more involved than my neighbor had anticipated and he only finished one section of fence (he ended up moving!). This is a great picture of what Colossians 3 tells us to do with our lives. It says there are some things that we need to power-wash off, like immorality, covetousness, anger, bad language, etc. (vv.5-9)  Doing this is important, but it is only half the job. Power-wash leaves us "drab" and gray. We need to be restored to a look that brings out the inner beauty. That happens when we put on tenderness, mercy, kindness, humility, care, love and mutual submission (vv.12-22). But unlike my neighbor restoring his fence, we must give it our all and complete the project in God's power. "Whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not to men" (v.23). So, how's your fence looking? Does it need a power-wash? Be sure to finish the job by putting on the right application to bring out its beauty.
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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.

2 Corinthians 9-- Standing on the Inside

The story is told of a mother who was trying to get her young son to sit down. Several times she told him to sit and each time he defiantly responded "no!" She started to take away his favorite toy when he decided to sit. "Thank you," said the mom, "for finally sitting." The child responded , "well, I may be sitting on the outside but I'm standing on the inside!" The boy had outwardly obeyed (finally) but inwardly was mad about it. The same is true for some people when it comes to giving, which is discussed here in chapter 9. They may give because they feel obligated to do so, or to look good before others, but not with a sincere heart. God, however, loves a cheerful giver (v7) who willingly responds to the needs and opportunities to give as God leads him or her. That cheerful giving starts a beautiful grace cycle. We give, those who receive our gifts joyously praise God, and then they pray for us with deep affection. We are then enriched by God even more as He not only meets our needs but enables us to give more. The whole process brings glory to God and demonstrates our obedience to Christ (vv10-15). So, don't "stand on the inside" next time God gives you the opportunity to launch the grace cycle of giving. Cheerfully give out of gratitude for all the things God has done for 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 www.maxpoint.org/message_board.

2 Corinthians 1-- Staying Positive in the Negative

Let's face it--life isn't always easy. In fact, much of life is spent dealing with difficulties. In the midst of these tribulations, it can be very difficult to remain positive. But if you are a child of God, you can be assured that your suffering will have a beneficial outcome. 2 Corinthians 1 gives us two such benefits as well as three reminders on how to handle the difficulties. The greatest benefit is that we are able to experience the mercy and comfort of God in a real, dynamic way (vv3-5). Nothing draws us closer to God and enables us to see God for who He is like tribulation. Second, suffering gives us a ministry. We are able to touch, encourage, and positively impact others who go through difficult times. Because we have experienced God, we are able to help others come to that experience for themselves (vv6-7). When we find ourselves in troubling times, there are three things we should do. First, don't trust in yourself but in God who "raises the dead" (vv9-10). Second, get other believers praying for you (v11). Finally, conduct yourself in "simplicity and godly sincerity" as you seek God's grace. Yes, tough times are coming, if you not in them right now! But know that something good can come out of them if you will follow the admonitions of this insightful chapter.
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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.

Hebrews 12-- Let's Run!

I ran track when I was a freshman in high school. Actually, to be completely honest, I ran one event at one meet but did manage to come in fifth. That was the start--and end--of my running "career."  Running, even jogging, has never really been my thing. But when it comes to life, Hebrews 12 implores us to run. We are to run smart by abandoning the sin and situations that entangle us and learn from the discipline we receive from our Heavenly Father (vv1-11). We need to run strong by pursuing peace and holiness (vv12-17). Finally, we should run successfully by tapping into God's incredible power (vv18-24), listening to His voice (vv25-27) and serving God with grace (vv28-29). We don't have to be superstars in track and field, but we can excel at the race of life if we will heed the words of Hebrews 12.
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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.

Hebrews 10-- The Bottom Line

Anytime I hear a speech, sermon, presentation, etc. I think to myself "so what..what is the bottom line of what has been said? What can I take away from all that I have heard?" So, I bring that question to the book of Hebrews. For 10 and a half chapters the author of Hebrews has been showing the superiority of Christ, particularly in relationship to the Old Testament law. Now he moves to the bottom line--the "so what" of the message. How are we to respond to all of this? First, if you are outside of Christ he wants you to know that "it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (v31). God is a loving and graceful God but He is also holy and will not allow sin to remain in His presence. Through His Son, God has given you everything needed to receive eternal life and avoid eternal punishment, but it is up to you to accept that or not. For those of us who have accepted Christ as our Savior, the writer tells us to do five things. First, we can and should draw near to God with a true heart (v22). Second, we need to hold fast our confession of hope without wavering (v23). Next, we should be considerate of other believers to love them, encourage them to do good (v24), and to gather together with them for worship and exhortation (v25). Then, we should remember where we came from and the way in which God has guided us to this point (vv32-34). Finally, we should hold to our confidence in the Lord regardless of our circumstances (vv35-36). All of these things are now possible thanks to the complete and superior sacrifice of Christ. That's the bottom line!

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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.

Hebrews 8-- Baby Teeth

I took my 11-year old to the dentist because her tooth started chipping off for no apparent reason. The dentist took an x-ray and told us that it actually was her last baby tooth but it was having trouble coming out. Her permanent tooth was coming in, but unless we pulled that baby tooth, it may not come in properly. So we had him pull the tooth to make way for something permanent, something better. Her baby teeth had serve their purpose for the time being but now it was time for something lasting.  Hebrews 8 describes a process of replacing something temporary with something far better and lasting. It discusses the "old covenant" which was the law and system of sacrifice. The old covenant, like our baby teeth, served a purpose for a time but it was never intended to be permanent. It was preparation for what was to come, the "new covenant." That new covenant came when Christ died and rose from the dead, conquered sin and death, and provided a permanent sacrifice for our sin. The old covenant is now obsolete (v13). The bottom line is that under the new covenant we have a closer relationship with God that doesn't need an intermediary like a priest (vv10-12). We experience God's mercy and presence first-hand. We have something that is permanent and far better than what was before Christ. So, enjoy your new "teeth," the new covenant, and a wonderful, rich and fulfilling walk 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.

Ephesians 3-- Don't Look Down!

My children and I were at an amusement park and decided to climb a rock wall. They put the harness on my 11 year old daughter and I watched as she made her way to the top. Then my nine-year old son made his way up. Next, it was my turn. I did real well until I got about 3/4 of the way up when I started to slow down--and look down. I began to lose heart. "What in the world am I doing" I said to myself. Paul in chapter three encourages the Ephesians, and us, to not lose heart (v13) as we climb this life. To not look down at the struggles around us but look up to God in prayer (vv 14-21). He tells us what to pray when we are in these situations. Pray that your inner spirit would be strengthened (v16). Pray that you would allow Christ complete control of your life through faith (v17). Pray that you will be rooted in love (v17). Pray that you can begin to comprehend the love that Christ has for you (v19). Pray that God would fill every part of your life (v19). Then thank Him for His amazing power that is able to do "exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think" (v20). But whatever you do, don't look down. Keep looking up and you won't lose heart.
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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.

Romans 5-- The Grace Factor

Grace is defined by the American Heritage Dictionary as "a favor rendered by one who need not do so."  Additional definitions given are     "divine love and protection bestowed freely on people.  The state of being protected or sanctified by the favor of God. An excellence or power granted by God."  Romans 5 introduces us to the concept of grace--God's favor rendered to people like you and me who don't deserve it, but are able to access it by faith through Christ's atonement for our sins.  Notice what grace does for us.  It gives us something to stand on and hope in (v2).  It reconciles us to God (v11).  It justifies us before God (v16).  It gives us eternal life (v20).  God gives us an abundance of grace--not just a minuscule amount.  Even in the most depraved situations, grace can abound.  If you have received and live in God's grace, how are you demonstrating grace to those around you?  What favors are you doing for others just because you can, not because you have to or because the person deserves it?

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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 share this blog with your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com.