I’m glad that today was not as busy as it has been the past few days. It was good to take care of my morning conference call and get some office work accomplished. I did have a massage appointment this afternoon, but changed my scheduled fitness workout. Instead, I needed an afternoon nap, before heading off to a late afternoon meeting and an evening meeting.

This has been an interesting test of my endurance. It has also helped me realize that I can’t return to old work patterns, schedules and stress even if I want to.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “We have been unfaithful to our God by marrying women from the peoples around us. But even so, there is still hope for Israel. Now let us make an agreement before our God…” Ezra 10:2,3 NCV

The Israelites were settling back into Jerusalem and the Temple was built. Life seemed to be returning to normal. But for the Israelites a return to their “old normal” was not good. Ezra went into mourning when he heard this report. “…the leaders came to me and said, “Ezra, the Israelites, including the priests and Levites, have not kept themselves separate from the people around us.” (Ezra 9:1)

This may sound odd to the modern day ear. But when God’s people moved into the Promised Land they were told not to intermarry with the Canaanites. The purpose was so that they would remain loyal to the Lord and not be drawn away to worship foreign gods.

We see that King Solomon was one of the greatest offenders in breaking this command. When he grew old his wives drew his heart away from sole devotion to the Lord and altar to idols and foreign gods were introduced among  God’s people. This became the Achilles heel for the children of Israel. Their disobedience and rebellion and idolatry grew over the years until the Lord allowed them to be taken captive by the nations whose idols they worshiped.

Now that there time of judgment was over and they were returning to their home, in the course of time they slipped into the same routines. Ezra’s response to the news was dramatic, “I angrily tore my robe and coat, pulled hair from my head and beard, and sat down in shock. Everyone who trembled in fear at the word of the God of Israel gathered around me because of the unfaithfulness of the captives who had returned.” (Ezra 9:3-4)

Ezra showed strong leadership in calling the people to repentance and in actions to correct the “error of their ways.” The Book of of Ezra interestingly ends with a list of those who had  married foreign women. That’s a public record of wrong you don’t want to be a part of.

We need to pay attention in our lives today. When we are addressing an issue in our life or making a “life change” in a new direction, there will be the temptation to fall back into old patterns. This requires focused attention and not taking life for granted and “letting our guard down.” There is a leadership adage that goes something like this, “un- seized time (and thoughts) flows to the area of our weakness.” You can’t establish a “new normal” by doing what you did before and living life that way you did before.

The good news is that correction can be made. We see in Ezra this meant repentance and confession of sin and taking steps to change. It meant, for the people, obedience to their leaders. They committed to following the advice of the godly leaders.

It also requires, at times, requires strong leaders to step forward. The people spoke to Ezra and said, “Get up, Ezra. You are in charge, and we will support you. Have courage and do it.” (Ezra 10:4 NCV) With the help and encouragement of these other leaders correction was made.

Finally, we can take heart in the Lord’s grace and forgiveness. He stands ready to secure our steps and our destiny in Him,  “The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall,  for the Lord upholds him with his hand.” Psalm 37:23,24 NIV

And if we fall…He will pick us up again!

Today was another busy day in a busy week. I had both a breakfast and lunch appointment with a Chiropractor appointment in between. This afternoon I had a meeting with some legislators on a project that I am working on with Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital. It is good to feel productive, but I’m learning how to pace myself at this point in my life. I’m not sure if I will make it to my evening meeting.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: The Lord, the God of heaven, has given all the kingdoms of the earth to me, and he has appointed me to build a Temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah.  May God be with all of you who are his people. You are free to go to Jerusalem in Judah and build the Temple of the Lord, the God of Israel…”  Ezra 1:2,3 NCV

With the words of this proclamation, the seventy years of captivity for God’s people comes to and end. It at least signals the beginning of the end. The first step in God’s people returning to the land was the rebuilding of the Temple. This was not their plan, it was God’s plan through King Cyrus of Persia. He commanded it to be done and made the provisions and protection necessary to get it accomplished.

What is of interest is who did the work and who supported the work. This was God’s holy Temple, so the work was accomplished under the direction of the priests and levites. But we see that all the people were to have a part in supporting the work, even those who did not immediately return.

Almost 50,00 people total made the return trip to resettle in God’s land. When they arrived the first thing they did was to rebuild the altar. “…[the] priests joined Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and began to build the altar of the God of Israel where they could offer burnt offerings, just as it is written in the Teachings of Moses, the man of God. Even though they were afraid of the people living around them, they built the altar where it had been before. And they offered burnt offerings on it to the Lord morning and evening.“ Ezra 3:2,3 NCV

In their work they made worship to the Lord a priority. Even though their actions may have not been accepted by the people around, they sought to please the Lord and put Him first in their endeavor.

The next thing they did was build the foundation of the Temple. After the foundation was completed they stopped to celebrate and worship the Lord. “The builders finished laying the foundation of the Temple of the Lord. Then the priests, dressed in their robes, stood with their trumpets, and the Levites…with their cymbals. They all took their places and praised the Lord…With praise and thanksgiving, they sang to the Lord: “He is good; his love for Israel continues forever.” Ezra 3:10,11 NCV

After the joyful celebration, the building of the Temple began. Soon others wanted to take part, but they were people who had lived in the land since the Jews were taken captive to Babylon. When God’s people did not allow them to help, they worked to stop their efforts.

“Then the people around them tried to discourage the people of Judah by making them afraid to build. Their enemies hired others to delay the building plans during the time Cyrus was king of Persia…” Ezra 4:4,5 NCV

They finally got the next King, Darius to stop the work. But after a time the Lord’s prophets Haggai and Zechariah began to prophecy that it was time to rebuild the Temple. The people obeyed the Lord and when asked who gave them the authority they said, “God did!” This time when letters were sent to the King the royal records showed the account of Cyrus’ instructions and the rebuilding continued with the King’s blessings and protection.

When the Temple was finished the people celebrated with observing the Passover. The feast that was ignored for hundreds of years under the Kings of Judah and Israel was now the first act of obedience. It reminded them of the Lord’s faithfulness through the generations and that He is the One who delivers and keeps His promises.

We can make several observations. We see the Lord was faithful to fulfill His word and promise through Jeremiah. The Lord moved upon the heart of a pagan King for God’s people to return and to rebuild the Temple. The people “got their priorities right.” We see this in the rebuilding of the Temple, the praise to the Lord for his help with the foundation being finished and the Passover being celebrated when the Temple was completed. They did this out of obedience to the Lord and in spite of any objections by the people of the land. This is in contrast to all their years of disobedience and giving in to the people of the land that lead them into idolatry.

In terms of approach to “a project” we see everyone was called to participate and be involved. From those who returned to those who stayed in Babylon. We see they trust in the Lord ‘s help and they celebrated increments of accomplishment. This can be so important in a big task. Break it into smaller parts and celebrate along the way.

We see that even when “plans were put on hold” that the Lord had not forgot His people. The project was delayed but did not come to an end. We need to remember that even in delays the Lord is till able to work to accomplish His purposes and in His time and in His way He will bring to pass that which He has promised.

This morning I traveled to the Capitol for a Pastors and Legislators Prayer event. It was good to see some of my former legislative colleagues and some pastor friends as well. I kept my trip to Denver short and returned home as soon as possible to continue some work at home. Before an evening commitment, I had my fitness center workout. I’m not sure if it was my walking around the Capitol earlier in the day, but my trainer “put me through the ringer.”

This afternoon I visited with Daniel Petruska who leads Teen Challenge 180 Ministries in Denver. This is the TC program for men. He put together a “Jesus Culture” concert that had just under 3,000 in attendance. The event was last Friday and there were 350 commitments to Christ and the event proved to be a financial blessing to 180 Ministries as well. I recall several years ago when Daniel wanted to put together his first concert event. With some anxiety, I gave him the go ahead and he since then he has shown an incredible amount of  vision, dedication and leadership to makes these types of events possible.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Look closely at yourselves. Test yourselves to see if you are living in the faith. You know that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you fail the test.  But I hope you will see that we ourselves have not failed the test.  We pray to God that you will not do anything wrong. It is not important to see that we have passed the test, but it is important that you do what is right, even if it seems we have failed.”  2 Corinthians 13:5-7 NCV

As Paul writes in this final chapter of 2 Corinthians, we find that he puts out an interesting challenge. The believers in Corinth were facing their challenges in their walk with the Lord. We find that Paul’s first letter was a list of areas that they needed to correct or where they needed more teaching and understanding.

Yet we find Paul also saying how he bragged about the Corinthians to others. In he second letter to this church we see Paul in a more softer, encouraging tone. Yet at the same time he addressed how easy they were to listen to smooth talking “preachers” and to get pulled away from true devotion to Christ.

So, as he brings his letter to a close, his last challenge is “look closely at yourselves” or “examine yourselves.” Self examination is healthy and a sign of maturity. It is one thing to be open to what others have to speak into our lives, but taking a hard look in the mirror at our own life is different. Often that is something we just don’t take time to do.

My life had always been full of a lot of activity and stress and a variety of commitments. I often didn’t stop and ask myself, “why are you doing what you are doing?” I didn’t take time to ask myself the hard questions. But when I was flat on my back in a hospital room, uncertain about what my life might bring, it was a good opportunity to look closely at myself, my life and my relationship with the Lord.

Our faith must be examined. Are we living in a manner that is pleasing and honoring to the Lord? Is our “faith” being reflect in our actions and not just in what we believe? Are we living with divided affections, are we allowing other interests or priorities to soften our devotion to the Lord? These and other questions are good for us to consider.

What we see is that Paul was including himself in this challenge. He says, “I hope you will see that we ourselves have not failed the test.” Paul was not just “talking down” those who were “less mature” in the faith. I believe he realized that “self examination” applied to him and those with him as much as the Corinthians. We also see in his words the understanding the “others are watching.” As he looked at the lives of the Corinthian believers, he knew they were looking at his as well.

What matters most is that we as individuals, “pass the test.” Look at again at Paul’s words, “…It is not important to see that we have passed the test, but it is important that you do what is right, even if it seems we have failed.” The failures of others is not an excuse for the failures in our own lives. That is what Paul wants the Corinthians to understand. They had a responsibility before the Lord regardless of whether Paul remained faithful or not.

It is easy, or at least tempting to allow the actions and direction of our life is influenced by others. I’m reminded of Jesus’ post resurrection breakfast with the disciples on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus had been questioning Peter and talking about his future. Peter turns to Jesus and speaks of John and asks, “Lord, and what about this man?”Jesus said to him, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!” (John 21:21,22 NIV)

There is an old song that relates to this. The words say, “I have decided to follow Jesus, I won’t turn back, I won’t turn back.” The song continues with the words, “though none go with me still I will follow…”

It is a sad day when we find that we or others have “failed the test.” It does have an impact. But we can be confident that when Christ is in us, He will give us the strengthen to continue on, to make corrections, to pick ourselves up when we fall and to continue to move forward in the faith….passing the test.

Today ended up being a good Monday. Much of that is because I made a last minute adjustment in my schedule. I believe a couple of issues are emerging out of my health crisis. I am becoming more realistic in my schedule and I am realizing that even when I have a prolonged time of more intense mental work, that it can be as fatiguing as physical activity.

I had a couple of enjoyable meetings, got some work accomplished outside and was productive with some of my office work. Now, just one more evening meeting.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “I tell you that the “right time” is now, and the “day of salvation” is now.”                             2  Corinthians 6:2 NCV

There are many aspects of life where the “right time” makes a difference. I tell people who are considering running for a political office that often, “timing is everything.” While there is no good time to face a health crisis, I was glad that mine happened when I was older and I didn’t have children at home and the variety of responsibilities that were a part of my life at one time.

The procrastinator’s motto is, “why do today what I can put off until tomorrow?” But we see that it is better to live by the motto, “don’t put off until tomorrow what you need to do today.”  Paul reminds the Corinthians about the words of the prophet Isaiah, “God said, “At the right time I heard your prayers. On the day of salvation I helped you.” (Isaiah 49:8) He goes on and says that the “right time” the “day of salvation” is now!

As the plague of frogs ravaged the land of Egypt, Pharaoh called in Moses to get rid of them. Moses asked an interesting question, “when?” Pharaoh responded, “tomorrow!” (Exodus 8:9,10) That account gave the impetus to a song that I remember from years ago entitled, “One More Night with the Frogs.”

Why do we delay? Why do we delay in seeking the Lord? Why do delay in reconciling a broken relationship? Why do we delay in pursuing a dream or goal? Why do we delay in turning to the Lord and asking for forgiveness?

There may be some good reasons for delay and why with some things in life, we wait for the “right time.” It took me about thirty years before I finally pursued my plans to earn a masters degree in nonprofit management. At times it is life situations, finances, motivation, fear or other factors that cause us to delay.

But when it comes to our spiritual life it is vital that we act promptly and quickly. We can’t “make ourselves better” or more acceptable to God. Delaying putting into practice spiritual disciplines (such as Bible reading and prayer or serving) doesn’t get easier with time. For some reason the “good” we need to do, we can view as difficult and challenging. That may come from ourselves or from the enemy of our souls and we need to recognize it for what it is. The writer of Hebrews reminds us,

“God again set a certain day, calling it “Today.” This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 4:7 NIV)

What has the Lord been speaking to you about lately? What have you been delaying or procrastinating over? You may need to understand that the “time is now!” That always applies to our relationship with the Lord and issues that relate to our spiritual life. But perhaps there are other areas of  your life, that you need to step out and trust the Lord and “just do it!” I’m not talking about random actions, but those that you have been considering for some time. “If not now, when?” Perhaps the Lord is speaking to you and is saying, “now is the time.”

As I look outside at 6:30 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time, the dusk and the cool wet weather has signaled that we are into the fall season. The month of September this year was very pleasant. Very different from two years ago when I was in the hospital and northern Colorado was being ravaged by floods.

I actually had one planned meeting and one unexpected meeting this morning at Timberline Church. I have always enjoyed “coming alongside” others to encourage them in their endeavors. This morning, I trust, provided me that opportunity.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is the Father who is full of mercy and all comfort. He comforts us every time we have trouble, so when others have trouble, we can comfort them with the same comfort God gives us.” 2 Corinthians 1:3,4 NCV

The connection between those who have experienced crisis, suffering or trials is interesting and unique.  When we were returning from our trip to Orlando, there was a woman coming onto the plane looking for a seat and noticed the women in my row with a head scarf? “Are you a survivor?” She asked. The woman responded, “I am, or I’m working on it, I have one more chemo treatment.” The woman responded, “I am too and you will make and you are already a survivor.”

When I was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, I remember the first time visiting with Sherri Harris. Although her fight with MS, has had challenges that are greater than mine. She could encourage me about dealing with life having  a “nuro-muscular” disorder. I have found that same with my overall health crisis experience. I was in a conversation with a gentleman who was on the opposite side of an issue we were discussing. He was using a cane and we began to talk about our similar hospital and disability experiences and it made us feel like comrades.

I am thankful for the comfort the Lord promises and provides for us in times of trouble. Paul said, “He comforts us every time…” I believe I have found it is every time and in many ways.

It is interesting to find the words, “mercy” and “comfort” together. Mercy is just not the Lord staying judgment against those who are guilty, it is relief and comfort for those who are suffering. When in pain, when in despair over the Lord through His mercy comes to our rescue. And yes, that is often through others. The uncle of a college friend of mine, by the name of Donald Stephens founded a nonprofit called, “Mercy Ships.” Its mission is to “provide free healthcare and improve healthcare delivery systems in the poorest nations.”

There is no one who has endured more trouble and suffering than Christ. I believe next to Christ I would name the Apostle Paul. So when Paul says, “much comfort comes to us through Christ” (2 Cor. 1:5) he wasn’t talking theoretically. He knew from personal experience the comfort of the Lord in his many troubles and sufferings.

Once we have received God’s comfort, we are to be a source of comfort for others. I am thankful the Lord can use us all as a source of comfort to those who are going through difficult times. We can encourage faith and trust and pray and serve. But there is always something special about the comfort that comes from “fellow struggler” in the journey of life.

My friend John, who I met at Timberline Church, is one of those. John is a brilliant man who has a better grasp of Latin languages than anyone I know. He has served as an interpreter for our pastor on missions trips. But a stoke has impacted his speech and left its affect on his body. However, he is a constant encouragement and let’s me know, “I can make it.”

Another person I have found in “my corner” is Rich Dixon. Rich has an incredible story of becoming a paraplegic through a fall off of a roof over 30 years ago. I have been very humbled that Rich encourages me in my recovery, knowing that I have prospects for the future, that he will never experience. But the Lord is using  Rich to make an impact on God’s kingdom and others through his bike riding ministry known as “Rich’s Ride” in ways I will never experience.

Finally, it is important to not just declare God as a God of all comfort. But to allow that to be an expression of praise and worship from our lips. Thank you Lord, that you are a God of mercy and comfort. You comfort us in all of our troubles. You allow us to encourage and be encouraged by others who have found you faithful and are experiencing your comfort even in the midst of their present troubles. AMEN!

Last night I enjoyed being a the home of Doug and Pat Powell for a special small group meeting with my long time friends John and Yvonne Childers. My trips to the Philippines were in conjunction with a Pastor’s Conference the Childers’ conducted in northern Luzon. It was good to hear a report of recent developments among the pastors and churches in that part of the world.

I spent the night with Christian and Bridget. This morning, before returning to Fort Collins, I was able to attend Riley and Caed’s soccer game. I also took Riley shopping for his birthday present. Our oldest grandchild is now nine.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Hezekiah invited all these people to come to the Temple of the Lord in Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover for the Lord, the God of Israel…the people in Jerusalem agreed to celebrate the Passover in the second month.  They could not celebrate it at the normal time, because not enough priests had made themselves ready to serve the Lord, and the people had not yet gathered in Jerusalem. This plan satisfied King Hezekiah and all the people.” 2 Chronicles 30:1-4 NCV

We read more details about Hezekiah and more often than any King of Judah. He wasn’t perfect and his pride caused problems at the end of his reign, but he was devoted to serving the Lord. Under his father’s reign the Temple had been shut up and sealed. One of the first things Hezekiah did was to reopen the Temple and have the sacred items replaced.

As an act of dedication and returning to the Lord, he invited all of God’s people from Israel to Judah (Dan to Beersheba) to come to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. The Passover which was the most important feast to God’s people, had not been celebrated since the days of Solomon.

What is interesting to observe is that this event was not at the “perfect” time with “prepared” people. The time of the Passover was delayed because the Priests were not purified according to the Law of Moses and because all the people outside of Jerusalem had not arrived.

This is a good example of how the “perfect and become the enemy of the good.” Celebrating the Passover with the properly prepared Priests and with the people present was more important than being held hostage to the precise time or date.

This celebration was a call to “return to the Lord.” Here is what “invite” said, “…people of Israel, return to the Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel. Then God will return to you who are still alive…Don’t be stubborn as your ancestors were, but obey the Lord willingly...Come back to the Lord….The Lord your God is kind and merciful. He will not turn away from you if you return to him.” (2 Chron. 30:6-9 NCV)

The next issue arose was from people who had not properly “purified” themselves for the Passover in violation of the Law. But we see Hezekiah interceding for these people, much like Moses did for God’s people in the past.

“So Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, “Lord, you are good. You are the Lord, the God of our ancestors. Please forgive all those who try to obey you even if they did not make themselves clean as the rules of the Temple command.”  The Lord listened to Hezekiah’s prayer, and he healed the people.” (2 Chron. 30:18-20 NCV)

Working through all these challenges Hezekiah “got it done.” His desire to honor the Lord in re-instituting the Passover celebration was accomplished. He considered the challenges and made the decisions  that allowed the celebration to take place with as many of God’s people in Jerusalem together. He trust in the Lord’s mercy and this was the result,

“…they celebrated with joy for seven more days...There was much joy in Jerusalem, because there had not been a celebration like this since the time of Solomon son of David and king of Israel. The priests and Levites stood up and blessed the people, and God heard them because their prayer reached heaven, his holy home.” (2  Chron. 30:26,26 NCV)

As the people experienced God’s pleasure in their obedience they wanted the celebration to continue; and so it was extended for seven more days. There was joy, the priests and Levites did what they were called to do. The people were blessed and their prayers were heard.

I believe the Lord showed His faithfulness to Solomon when He said, “If my people…humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked way, then I will hear from heave and heal their land.” (2 Chron. 7:14)

Hezekiah accomplished what Kings before him had never done. He took the action necessary for the good of the people. He realized that their only hope for survival and life was to turn to the Lord. The Lord honored his heart and the hearts of the people and brought them a season joy, peace and prosperity.

What is important is the attitude of our hearts and our willingness to turn to the Lord. Our prayers and our worship don’t need to be perfect. We just need to “get it done” regardless of the timing. We need to take the actions that demonstrate our need for the Lord’s mercy, blessing and provision. When we do, we will experience the Lord’s joy, peace and pleasure in our life.

I am off to an early start with my day. I have a morning workout, a lunch commitment and then a planned trip to Denver. I will spend the night with Christian and Bridget before returning home to Fort Collins tomorrow. So instead of an evening post, I find myself writing first thing in the morning.

I have always enjoyed or been fascinated by reading the accounts of the Kings of Judah and Israel. I believe there are many lesson and observations we can take from their history. I’m not sure what all of those lessons are. So my blog today will hopefully challenge you to consider “lessons learned” from King Jehoshaphat and perhaps come up with your own “take aways.”

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Jehu son of Hanani, a seer, went out to meet him [Jehoshaphat] and said to the king, “Why did you help evil people? Why do you love those who hate the Lord? That is the reason the Lord is angry with you. But there is some good in you.”  2 Chronicles 19:2,3 NCV

These words of the prophet were spoke to Jehoshaphat as he returned from battle with King Ahab of Israel. He had barely escaped with his life and I’m sure his heart was still racing and he was still catching his breathe, when confronted by Jehu.

The reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah has more detail recorded in the Bible than almost any other king. He was faithful to the Lord in most of his activity during his life. We read about him, “The Lord was with Jehoshaphat, because he lived as his ancestor David had lived when he first became king…He obeyed God’s commands and did not live as the people of Israel lived. The Lord made Jehoshaphat a strong king over Judah.” (2 Chronicles 17:3-5 NCV)

What is of interest is Jehoshaphat’s connection and friendship with King Ahab of Israel. Jehoshaphat’s father had been attacked by previous kings of Israel and the relationship between the two countries had been rocky. For some reason Jehoshaphat reaches out to King Ahab and makes an alliance and their families are joined in marriage. This creates an “unholy” alliance that resulted in a chain of events over the next few generations. When Ahab’s son began to rule Jehoshaphat continued in an alliance with Israel which, “was the wrong thing to do.” (2 Chron. 20:35 NCV)

After Jehoshaphat’s death, his son, Jehoram became King. Jehoram was married to Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel. So he followed the ways of Israel instead of following the Lord. After Jehoram, his son Ahaziah became King.

At the same time the Lord had the prophet anointed Jehu as King over Israel to execute judgment on the evil family of Ahab. The included killing Ahaziah who was in Israel visiting his relative the King of Israel. The chaos the ensued allowed Athaliah, the “Queen mother” daughter of Jezebel, to grab power in Judah. She killed all the royal family in an action of evil that was from her mother’s “playbook.” This was the only time the reign of one of David’s son was broken in Judah.

However the dynasty of King David was saved when Joash was saved by his aunt and kept hidden in the Temple for six years, before being anointed as a child King. The dynasty of David was saved and King Joash under the direction of Jehoiada the priest, returned Judah to follow the Lord and repaired the Lord’s Temple.

An interesting history and chain of events. It all started when King Jehoshaphat, while a good and godly King, compromised and made an alliance with one of the most wicked Kings in Israel’s history. Perhaps Jehoshaphat’s intentions were noble. Perhaps they just weren’t out of securing peace, but perhaps in hopes that he could influence Israel’s King and restore peace between the two nations of the Lord’s people. But his actions did not have the direction and blessings of the Lord.

The most basic lesson that I see in all of this is, the importance of guarding the affections of our heart. What we value, what we “love,” what we commit to, is all important in our life. It can impact our obedience to the Lord and not only our lives, but the lives of future generations.

Solomon said, “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10) I recall many years ago hearing a definition of “the fear of the Lord.” It says, “the fear of the Lord is loving what God loves and hating what God hates.” Jehoshaphat was condemned for “loving those the Lord hates.” This has to do with our heart, our actions, our attitudes. Proverbs 6:16 lists six things the Lord “hates.” The issue not just “people” but the character of those we align ourselves with.

The caution Paul writes about is important for us to consider, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14 ESV) Paul as warns, Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:33)

I recall a leadership expert making the comment, “those closest to you determines your success.” This observation tends to reinforce the principles of scripture. We have a call to be an influence for good, but not to partner with “evil.” That is the perspective that is needed for our lives that will keep us on the right track. It not only makes a difference in our lives, but potentially in future generations as well.

I am working on a book, in which I am going to share some of my experiences, lessons learned and some devotionals that I have written over the past two years. I value your prayers as I work through this process. Also, I ask you to pray for some work opportunities that will be finalized in the next day or two. This is in addition to my Energy Action Project work.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “After Rehoboam’s kingdom was set up and he became strong, he and the people of Judah stopped obeying the teachings of the Lord.”  2 Chronicles 12:1

One of the greatest challenges we can observe in scripture, especially the history of the Kings, is being faithful to the Lord for the “long haul.” Many of the Kings were just evil and idolatrous leaders. Others had their times of starting off well, but ending bad. At times some of the evil Kings would show repentance and sorrow and the Lord would be merciful. The smallest group were those that were faithful through all their years.

The reality is how you end up is what makes the difference. Jesus told a parable about two sons (Matthew 21:28-32). The father asked both sons to go work in his vineyard. One said he would go and changed his mind, the other said, he wouldn’t go work, but changed his mind and did go work in the vineyard. Jesus asked which obeyed. The obvious answer is the last one who ended up going and working in the vineyard.

The Lord spoke through Ezekiel and said, “..if a wicked person turns away from all his sins that he has committed and keeps all my statutes and does what is just and right, he shall surely live; he shall not die.” (Ezekiel 18:21 ESV) The Lord also asked the question, “But when a righteous person turns away from his righteousness and does injustice and does the same abominations that the wicked person does, shall he live?” (Ezekiel 18:24 ESV)

This is what we observe in King Rehoboam. Rehoboam had a though start to his rule. Israel became divided into two kingdoms. Jeroboam became the King over ten tribes that became known as Israel. Rehoboam maintained control over Judah and Benjamin. In spite of his lack of wisdom that lead to the kingdom being divided, Rehoboam actually started off good.

“The priests and the Levites from all over Israel joined Rehoboam...There were people from all the tribes of Israel who wanted to obey the Lord, the God of Israel. So they went to Jerusalem with the Levites to sacrifice to the Lord, the God of their ancestors. These people made the kingdom of Judah strong, and they supported Solomon’s son Rehoboam for three years. During this time they lived the way David and Solomon had lived.” (2 Chronicles 11:13-17 NCV)

Rehoboam had many sons and he set them up as leaders throughout the kingdom, thereby solidifying his reign and starting off showing wisdom and strength. But we read that his faithfulness to the Lord was short lived. The people began to reject the Lord and for twelve years they were attacked by both from Egypt and Israel. Rehoboam’s attitude that caused his down fall is summarized in the words, “Rehoboam did evil because he did not want to obey the Lord.” (2 Chron. 12:14 NCV) Rehoboam made his choices; and his choices made him and determined his destiny and that of a nation.

When we make choices that are not in keeping with God’s plan and purpose for our life, it will impact our life. The Lord will call us back and use others and circumstances of life to get our attention, but we must respond with an open heart. When we do, we find forgiveness and mercy. When we refuse, we choose our own destiny.

The blessings of the Lord in our life will often be a test of our faithfulness. At times it is easier to seek the Lord when we are “in trouble.” But when “life is good” – the bills are paid, our health is good, the work is solid and rewarding; that is when the test of faithfulness will come our way. We must always remember our source of blessing and life.

“…if you remain faithful until the end, you will be saved.” (Matthew 10:22 CEV) “…if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life.” (Rev. 2:10 NLT)