January 2020

Selflessness

01-31-2020

Every young student knows of Isaac Newton's famed encounter with a falling apple. Newton discovered and introduced the laws of gravity in the 1600s, which revolutionized astronomical studies. But few know that if it weren't for Edmund Halley, the world might never have learned from Newton. It was Halley who challenged Newton to think through his original notions. Halley corrected Newton's mathematical errors and prepared geometrical figures to support his discoveries. Halley coaxed the hesitant Newton to write his great work, Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy. Halley edited and supervised the publication, and actually financed its printing even though Newton was wealthier and easily could have afforded the printing costs.

Historians call it one of the most selfless examples in the annals of science. Newton began almost immediately to reap the rewards of prominence; Halley received little credit. He did use the principles to predict the orbit and return of the comet that would later bear his name, but only AFTER his death did he receive any acclaim. And because the comet only returns every seventy-six years, the notice is rather infrequent. Halley remained a devoted scientist who didn't care who received the credit as long as the cause was being advanced.

Others have played Halley's role. John the Baptist said of Jesus, "He must become greater; I must become less." Barnabus was content to introduce others to greatness. Many pray to uphold the work of one Christian leader. Such selflessness advances the kingdom.

C.S. Kirkendall, Jr.

“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;”

Romans 12:10

When born-again believers live with a humble spirit, not caring who gets the glory, not only eternal rich rewards beyond our imaginations will be received at the Judgment Seat of Christ but the Lord Jesus will do use each for His glory now.

If you are not one of His, receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Romans 10:13

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

SELF-ABSORPTION

01-30-2020

Clifton Fadiman, in The Little Brown Book of Anecdotes, tells a story about Vladimir Nabokov, the Russian-born novelist who achieved popular success with his novels Lolita (1955), Pale Fire (1962) and Ada (1969).

One summer in the 1940s, Nabokov and his family stayed with James Laughlin at Alta, Utah, where Nabokov took the opportunity to enlarge his collection of butterflies and moths. Fadiman relates: "Nabokov's fiction has never been praised for its compassion; he was single-minded if nothing else. One evening at dusk he returned from his day's excursion saying that during hot pursuit near Bear Gulch he had heard someone groaning most piteously down by the stream. "'Did you stop' Laughlin asked him. "'No, I had to get the butterfly.'" The next day the corpse of an aged prospector was discovered in what has been renamed, in Nabokov's honor, Dead Man's Gulch." While people around us are dying, how often we chase butterflies!

Vernon Grounds.

“Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.”

1 Corinthians 15:34

Born-again Christians who love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30) are not self-absorbed people. The are absorbed with loving lost people and seeking to lead them to Christ before it is too late for those people. Does that describe you?

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Hom NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 Johnn 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Unshakeable Delight!

01-29-2020

Perhaps no composer has captured the musical heart and soul of America as did Irving Berlin. In addition to familiar favorites such as "God Bless America" and "Easter Parade," he wrote, "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas," which still ranks as the all-time best-selling musical score. In an interview for the San Diego Union, Don Freemand asked Berlin, "Is there any question you've never been asked that you would like someone to ask you?" "Well, yes, there is one," he replied. "'What do you think of the many songs you've written that didn't become hits?' My reply would be that I still think they are wonderful."

God, too, has an unshakable delight in what -- and whom -- he has made. He thinks each of his children is wonderful, and whether they're a "hit" in the eyes of others or not, he will always think they're wonderful.

Jim Adams from Buenos Aires, Argentina, quoted in Leadership, Summer 1993, p. 60.

“In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:”

Colossians 1:14

Yes, the Lord Jesus has an unshakeable delight in those who have repented of all their sin (Luke 13:3,5) and received Him as their Lord and Savior! How do I know? Because He has purchased them with His precious blood! You can be assured that you are very special to Him and no one or nothing can decrease His love for you! You are His special treasure (Titus 2:14, etc).

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Self-Defeat

01-28-2020

Back in the early 1930s, C.D. "Bigboy" Blalock of Louisiana State University--a six-foot-six-inch giant of a boxer--was taking on a stocky fellow from Mississippi State. In the second round, Bigboy let lose a roundhouse. The Mississippi man stepped in, and his head caught Bigboy's arm inside the elbow. With the opponent's head acting as a lever, Bigboy's arm whipped around in almost full circle, connecting with haymaker force on Bigboy's own chin. He staggered, grabbed the rope, walked almost all the way around the ring, and then fell flat for the count--the only prizefighter who ever knocked himself out with a right to his own jaw.

L.M. Boyd.

“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

Psalm 119:11

Many born-again Christians defeat themselves because they do not hide God’s Word in their hearts and obey it. We will “knock ourselves out,” experiencing great defeat in our marriages, church ministries, personal relationships, careers, etc., if we fail to obey our Lord and Savior.

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior and, therefore, are living under the wrath of God (John 3:18, 36), repent of all your sin (Luke 13:3, 5), and receive Him as your Lord and Savior, before it is too late!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

The Body Builder

01-26-2020

A while back on "The Merv Griffin Show," the guest was a body builder. During the interview, Merv asked "Why do you develop those particular muscles?" The body builder simply stepped forward and flexed a series of well-defined muscles from chest to calf. The audience applauded. "What do you use all those muscles for?" Merv asked. Again, the muscular specimen flexed, and biceps and triceps sprouted to impressive proportions. "But what do you USE those muscles for?" Merv persisted. The body builder was bewildered. He didn't have an answer other than to display his well-developed frame. I was reminded that our spiritual exercises--Bible study, prayer, reading Christian books, listening to Christian radio and tapes--are also for a purpose. They're meant to strengthen our ability to build God's kingdom, not simply to improve our pose before an admiring audience.

Gary Gulbranson, Leadership, Summer, 1989, p. 43.

Are you being strengthened through the Word of God, by developing a close, intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus, reading Christian books, etc. to do His will in winning lost souls to Christ and helping fellow believers to grow in their relationship with Him? Are you using all that you are and possess from Him to do His will and not your own?

If He is not your Lord and Savior, come to the Lord Jesus NOW! “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Your Value!

01-25-2020

An American tourist in Paris, who purchased an inexpensive amber necklace in a trinket ship, was shocked when he had to pay quite a high duty on it to clear customs in New York. This aroused his curiosity, so he had it appraised. After looking at the object under a magnifying glass, the jeweler said, "I'll give you $25,000 for it." Greatly surprised, the man decided to have another expert examine it. When he did, he was offered $10,000 more. "What do you see that's so valuable about this old necklace?" asked the astonished man. "Look through this glass," replied the jeweler. There before his eyes was an inscription: "From Napoleon Bonaparte to Josephine." The value of the necklace came from its identification with a famous person.

Unknown.

“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;”

Ephesians 1:7

Every born-again child of God is of countless value because Jesus Christ has purchased them from the slave market of sin with His precious blood and made them His very own for eternity, to be joint heirs with Him of everything (Romans 8:17).

Do not yourself down for any reason! People may fail you and ridicule you, etc. but He never fail you! You are His special treasure (Titus 2:14) As you daily develop a passionate relationship with Him, He showers you with special grace, peace and strength!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

Acts 4:12

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Romans 10:13

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

1 in 100

01-24-2020

Charles Leber, a Presbyterian missionary, was in Westphalia, Germany at a clinic for handicapped children. A wealthy businessman came to tour the facilities and said to the doctor, "These are very pathetic children. What ratio of cures do you get? How many go back to normal life?"

"About 1 in 100."

"1 in 100! It's not worth it."

"Yes it is. If that one was your child it would be worth it."

Bruce Larson, commentary on Luke, p. 78.

That is not only true in the spiritual realm as well as the physical!

We may share the gospel with many people and if only one person received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, it would be a worth all the effort and resources we placed into the work. One soul escaping the damnation of hell is worth it! So generously share the truth of His Word with as many people as possible and in as many ways as possible!

If you do not belong to the Lord Jesus, come to Him NOW! “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Confessing Christ!

01-23-2020

During WWI one of my predecessors at Tenth Presbyterian Church, Donald Grey Barnhouse, led the son of a prominent American family to the Lord. He was in the service, but he showed the reality of his conversion by immediately professing Christ before the soldiers of his military company. The war ended. The day came when he was to return to his pre-war life in the wealthy suburb of a large American city. He talked to Barnhouse about life with his family and expressed fear that he might soon slip back into his old habits. He was afraid that love for parents, brothers, sisters, and friends might turn him from following after Jesus Christ. Barnhouse told him that if he was careful to make public confession of his faith in Christ, he would not have to worry. He would not have to give improper friends up. They would give him up.

As a result of this conversation the young man agreed to tell the first ten people of his old set whom he encountered that he had become a Christian. The soldier went home. Almost immediately--in fact, while he was still on the platform of the suburban station at the end of his return trip--he met a girl whom he had known socially. She was delighted to see him and asked how he was doing. He told her, "The greatest thing that could possibly happen to me has happened." "You're engaged to be married," she exclaimed. "No," he told her. "It's even better than that. I've taken the Lord Jesus Christ as my Savior." The girls' expression froze. She mumbled a few polite words and went on her way. A short time later the new Christian met a young man whom he had known before going into the service. "It's good to see you back," he declared. "We'll have some great parties now that you've returned." "I've just become a Christian," the soldier said. He was thinking, That's two! Again it was a case of a frozen smile and a quick change of conversation. After this the same circumstances were repeated with a young couple and with two more old friends. By this time word had got around, and soon some of his friends stopped seeing him. He had become peculiar, religious, and -- who knows! -- they may even have called him crazy! What had he done? Nothing but confess Christ. The same confession that had aligned him with Christ had separated him from those who did not want Jesus Christ as Savior and who, in fact, did not even want to hear about Him.

J.M. Boice, Christ's Call To Discipleship, Moody, 1986, p. 122-23.

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

Romans 10:9-10

Whose favor do you prize? Others or Christ’s?

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Are You Serious?

01-22-2020

It is not so important to be serious as it is to be serious about important things.

Robert M. Hutchins.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”

1 Peter 5:8

It is sad that many born-again Christians are not serious about the most important matters! They are not serious about…..

• Being a student of the Word of God (2 Timothy 2:15).

• A passionate relationship with the Lord Jesus (Mark 12:30).

• Leading lost souls to Christ (Matthew 28:19).

• Discipleship of fellow believers (Matthew 28:20).

• Encouraging fellow believers (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

• Using their natural talents and spiritual gifts for His glory.

(1 Corinthians 12, etc.

• Generously using their possessions for His glory.

(Philippians 4:14-15

Etc.

How serious are you about your relationship with the Lord Jesus?

If He is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

The Little Satellite That Could

01-21-2020

In 1972, NASA launched the exploratory space probe Pioneer 10. According to Leon Jaroff in Time, the satellite's primary mission was to reach Jupiter, photograph the planet and its moons, and beam data to earth about Jupiter's magnetic field, radiation belts, and atmosphere. Scientists regarded this as a bold plan, for at that time no earth satellite had ever gone beyond Mars, and they feared the asteroid belt would destroy the satellite before it could reach its target. But Pioneer 10 accomplished its mission and much, much more. Swinging past the giant planet in November 1973, Jupiter's immense gravity hurled Pioneer 10 at a higher rate of speed toward the edge of the solar system. At one billion miles from the sun, Pioneer 10 passed Saturn. At some two billion miles, it hurtled past Uranus; Neptune at nearly three billion miles; Pluto at almost four billion miles. By 1997, twenty-five years after its launch, Pioneer 10 was more than six billion miles from the sun.

And despite that immense distance, Pioneer 10 continued to beam back radio signals to scientists on Earth. "Perhaps most remarkable," writes Jaroff, "those signals emanate from an 8-watt transmitter, which radiates about as much power as a bedroom night light, and takes more than nine hours to reach Earth.'" The Little Satellite That Could was not qualified to do what it did. Engineers designed Pioneer 10 with a useful life of just three years. But it kept going and going. By simple longevity, its tiny 8-watt transmitter radio accomplished more than anyone thought possible.

So it is when we offer ourselves to serve the Lord. God can work even through someone with 8-watt abilities. God cannot work, however, through someone who quits. Philippians 3:12-14 Hebrews 12:1 Mark 10:45

Craig Brian Larson, Pastoral Grit: the Strength to Stand and to Stay, Bethany.

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Philippians 4:13

You can be mightily used by the Lord for His glory, if you rely solely upon His strength and do not quit (Galatians 6:9).

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Romans 10:13

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Faces to the Coal

01-20-2020

During World War II, England needed to increase its production of coal. Winston Churchill called together labor leaders to enlist their support. At the end of his presentation he asked them to picture in their minds a parade which he knew would be held in Picadilly Circus after the war.

First, he said, would come the sailors who had kept the vital sea lanes open. Then would come the soldiers who had come home from Dunkirk and then gone on to defeat Rommel in Africa. Then would come the pilots who had driven the Luftwaffe from the sky.

Last of all, he said, would come a long line of sweat-stained, soot-streaked men in miner's caps. Someone would cry from the crowd, 'And where were you during the critical days of our struggle?' And from ten thousand throats would come the answer, 'We were deep in the earth with our faces to the coal.'"

Not all the jobs in a church are prominent and glamorous. But it is often the people with their "faces to the coal" who help the church accomplish its mission.

Don McCullough, Waking from the American Dream.

“Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”

1 Corinthians 4:2

Every born-again child of God has been given natural and at least spiritual gift that is extremely important in the service of our Lord and in glorifying Him. Are yours daily surrendered to Him so that you are faithfully using yours to praise and glorify the Lord Jesus?

If you are not one of His, come to Him NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Like a Worm

01-19-2020

Sin, its effects: How does a worm get inside an apple? Perhaps you think the worm burrows in from the outside. No, scientists have discovered that the worm comes from inside. But how does he get in there? Simple! An insect lays an egg in the apple blossom. Sometime later, the worm hatches in the heart of the apple, then eats his way out. Sin, like the worm, begins in the heart and works out through a person's thoughts, words, and actions.

Heaven and Home Hour Radio Bulletin.

“And he (Jesus) said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man

For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,

Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness:

All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.”

Mark 5:20-23

Yes, the heart of every person outside of Christ is desperately (incurably) wicked (Jeremiah 17:9), a sinner in need of salvation, to made a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). We, who have been saved, must be faithful in sharing the Gospel with those who are not! Are you?

If you have not experienced the miracle of salvation, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Silence

01-18-2020

Casey Stengel was a longtime major league baseball manager whose unique way with the English language became known as "Stengelese." He once said, "I've always heard that it couldn't be done, but sometimes it don't always work." That's typical Stengelese.

Casey held a position on the board of directors for a California bank. According to a story that originally appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Casey described his duties this way: "There ain't nuthin' to it. You go into the fancy meeting room and you just sit there and never open your yap. As long as you don't say nuthin' they don't know whether you're smart or dumb."

Daily Bread, June 5, 1992.

“Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.

And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.”

Mark 5:19-20

There are times when silence is the best course to take but not regarding the most important matter of life – sharing the good news of how to be saved and the possess the gift of eternal life. Like the Maniac of Gadara, we must share with everyone that we can that they must repent of all their sin (Luke 13:3,5) and receive Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. He has paid the penalty for all sin and rose victorious over sin to provide forgiveness of sins and the gift of eternal life for all who will come to Him. Are you boldly proclaiming the good news to those who desperately need it as someone did for you?

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved”

Romans 10:13

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

A Proper Hatred

01-17-2020

There's an old story about a man who tried to save the city of Sodom from destruction by warning the citizens. But the people ignored him. One day someone asked, "Why bother everyone? You can't change them." "Maybe I can't," the man replied, "but I still shout and scream to prevent them from changing me!

Lot was a righteous man (2 Peter 2:7) who should have done some screaming. The record of his life reminds us of how our sense of moral indignation can be dulled by the world. Lot chose to dwell in cities where there was great wickedness (Genesis 13:12,13). When Sodom was invaded by hostile kings, he was captured. Even after Abraham rescued Lot, he was still drawn back to that wicked city (Genesis 19:1). And the last chapter of his story is an account of heartache and shame (Genesis 19). What a contrast -- this nephew and his uncle! Abraham trusted God, prayed for the righteous, and lived a moral life. But Lot was "oppressed with the filthy conduct of the wicked" (2 Peter 2:7). Although the sin of his day bothered him, he apparently said little about it.

Our Daily Bread.

“Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.”

Romans 4:25

A proper hatred is that of hating sin! We, who have been saved by the grace of God through the finished work of Christ, ought to hate sin and not willingly let it enter our life, because He died and paid the penalty for all our sins. Our sins nailed Him to the cross! 1 John 1:9 is written to us believers, when we sin, regarding maintaining our fellowship with Him (not the possibility of losing our salvation, because we are secure in Him). “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

If you do not know Him as your Lord and Savior, come to the Lord Jesus NOW! “For whosoever shall call upon the name of th Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Are You a Servant?

01-16-2020

"Servant" in our English New Testament usually represents the Greek doulos (bondslave). Sometimes it means diakonos (deacon or minister); this is strictly accurate, for doulos and diakonos are synonyms. Both words denote a man who is not at his own disposal, but is his master's purchased property. Bought to serve his master's needs, to be at his beck and call every moment, the slave's sole business is to do as he is told. Christian service therefore means, first and foremost, living out a slave relationship to one's Savior (1 Cor. 6:19-20).

What work does Christ set his servants to do? The way that they serve him, he tells them, is by becoming the slaves of their fellow-servants and being willing to do literally anything, however costly, irksome, or undignified, in order to help them. This is what love means, as he himself showed at the Last supper when he played the slave's part and washed the disciples' feet.

When the New Testament speaks of ministering to the saints, it means not primarily preaching to them but devoting time, trouble, and substance to giving them all the practical help possible. The essence of Christian service is loyalty to the king expressing itself in care for his servants (Matt. 25: 31-46).

Only the Holy Spirit can create in us the kind of love toward our Savior that will overflow in imaginative sympathy and practical helpfulness towards his people. Unless the Spirit is training us in love, we are not fit persons to go to college or a training class to learn the know-how or particular branches of Christian work. Gifted leaders who are self-centered and loveless are a blight to the church rather than a blessing.

James Packer, Your Father Loves You, Harold Shaw Publishers, 1986.

“Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,”

Romans 1:1

Yes, unless we are submissive to the Lordship of Christ and the control of the Holy Spirit, we will be a blight to the service of our Lord and Savior. Only as we model His servant attitude and life will we make a difference in peoples lives to bring the lost to salvation in Christ and the building up of fellow believers in their walk with the Lord.

If He is not your Lord and Savior, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR LOOKS!

01-15-2020

A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

Charles Gordy in Thomaston, Ga., Times.

“A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.”

If you are a born-again believer, your face ought to show the outstanding grace of the Lord in your life regardless the situations in your life. Jesus put it this way when He spoke these words to His disciples before going to the cross.

“These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11).

One miracle of our Lord’s grace is that He can put a smile on your face in the midst of the worse situations because the fullness of His joy fills your heart. For this to happen, you must be totally surrendered to the Lordship of Christ and to the control of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:22-23).

Do you want lost people to listen your testimony of salvation and be able to share the Gospel with them? You cannot be effective if you fail to radiate your relationship with your Lord and Savior.

Neither can you be effective in the discipleship of fellow believers!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

No Coddling!

01-14-2020

William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, was brushing his manelike white hair when his son Bramwell stepped into the room. "Bramwell!" he cried. "Did you know that men sleep out all night on the bridges?"

"Well, yes," the son replied. "A lot of poor fellows I suppose do that."

"Then you ought to be ashamed of yourself to have known it and to have done nothing for them!" his father retorted. And when the son began to talk about the Poor Law program, General Booth waved a hand and said, "Go and do something! We must do something!"

"What can we do?"

"Get them a shelter!"

"That will cost money," replied Bramwell.

"Well, that is your affair. Something must be done. Get hold of a warehouse and warm it, and find something to cover them. But mind, Bramwell, no coddling!"

That was the beginning of Salvation Army shelters.

The Wycliffe Handbook of Preaching & Preachers, W. Wiersbe, p. 184.

“Ye shall walk after the Lord your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him.”

Deuteronomy 13:4

If you are a born-again child of God, your Lord and Savior commands you to unconditionally obey Him. There must be no coddling on your part. Regardless how you feel or what your situation is, you should always out of a heart of love for Him and all He is, all He has done, is doing, and will do for you, give Him prompt and faithful obedience. The times when it seems so difficult to do so, He will enable you to obey by His power (Philippians 4:13). You will NEVER regret obeying Him!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Solution

01-13-2020

"Here's the scenario," the instructor announced to his class of novice truck drivers. "You're in an 18-wheeler with a heavy load, barreling down a mountainous two-lane highway. Ed, your co-driver, is asleep. There are six trucks behind you, and as you come over the top of a hill, they pull out beside you to pass. Suddenly, you see several trucks coming in the opposite direction, pulling into your lane to pass. What did you do?"

"That's simple," a student called out. "I'd wake up Ed."

"Why would you do that?" asked the instructor.

"Because," replied the student, "Ed ain't never seen a truck wreck like this before!"

Contributed by Donald Ballar, Reader's Digest.

“Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper withersoever thou goest.

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Joshua 1:7-8

The solution offered by the student certainly was not what the instructor expected!

The solution to all of our needs and problems is the same as that which was given to Joshua by the Lord – the knowledge of His Word and complete obedience to it. The Word of God by direct statements and principles gives us the solutions to every problem that we will face. How much do you know God’s Word and are you completely obeying it?

If Jesus Christ, the Incarnated Word, is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Heirs!

01-12-2020

Watchman Nee tells about a new convert who came in deep distress to see him. "No matter how much I pray, no matter how hard I try, I simply cannot seem to be faithful to my Lord. I think I'm losing my salvation." Nee said, "Do you see this dog here? He is my dog. He is house-trained; he never makes a mess; he is obedient; he is a pure delight to me. Out in the kitchen I have a son, a baby son. He makes a mess, he throws his food around, he fouls his clothes, he is a total mess. But who is going to inherit my kingdom? Not my dog; my son is my heir. You are Jesus Christ's heir because it is for you that He died." We are Christ's heirs, not through our perfection but by means of His grace.

Unknown.

“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”

Romans 8:16-17

Child of God, you are richer than al the riches of this world because you are a joint-heir with Jesus Christ of everything! Since the Lord has made you such, why should you fret about anything because He will take care of all your temporary needs! Therefore, you should be totally focused on enjoying an intimate relationship with Him and serving Him in all areas of you life with all your love and strength!

If you do not belong to the Lord Jesus, come to Him NOW! “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved’ (Acts 4:12).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Only Jesus!

01-11-2020

Not long after arriving in new Hebrides as a pioneer missionary, John G. Paton and his wife rejoiced in the coming of a baby son to gladden their home. But the joy was short-lived. Soon death took both his wife and child, and Dr. Paton had to dig their graves and bury his loved ones with his own hands. In writing of this experience, he testified, "If it had not been for Jesus and the fellowship and grace He afforded me, I am certain I would have gone mad or died of grief beside their lonely graves." Marvelously strengthened from above, the bereaved servant of God found that the promises of the Word were able to sustain him through the heartache and sorrow of his tragic loss.

Our Daily Bread, August 6, 1992

Only Jesus can give comfort, encouragement, every type of grace, and the needed strength in the tough times of life. I love the promise in 1 Peter 5:10: “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”

Only Jesus can give us the strength to be what He wants us to be and to do what He wants us to do. I love the truth of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Only Jesus by His victorious redemptive work on the cross and by His victorious resurrection can get you to Heaven. He said. “…I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). Is He your Lord and Savior? If not, come to Him NOW! “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Sowing and Reaping

01-10-2020

Sir Robert Watson Watt, the inventor of the radar was arrested himself for speeding. He had been caught in a radar trap. Shortly after this irony he wrote this poem:

Pity Sir Robert Watson Watt

Strange target of his radar plot,

And this, with others I could mention,

A victim of his own invention.

Brett Blair, Sermon Illustrations, 1998.

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”

Galatians 6:7

Many born-again believers want to experience the Lord richest blessings but they sow attitudes and behavior contrary to the Lord’s character and instructions in His Word. What attitudes and behavior are you sowing?

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Circulated Rumors

01-09-2020

In 1887 the coffin of Abraham Lincoln was pried open to determine if it contained his body. What makes that act so remarkable is the fact that Lincoln's body had rested in that coffin for 22 years. Yet, even more amazing is that 14 years later a rumor circulated again that Lincoln's coffin was actually empty. The furor so gripped the land that the only way to silence it was to dig up the coffin--again. This was done and the rumor silenced when a handful of witnesses viewed the lifeless body of Abraham Lincoln.

Today in the Word, February, 1991, p. 27.

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.”

Psalm 19:14

Circulated rumors have done a lot of damage along with advancing false information. We, who have been saved by the grace of God ought to be careful about what we say and the so-called information which proceeds from our mouths. If our words are going to be acceptable to our Lord and Savior, we must speak only that which is true. When we submit ot His Lordship and the control of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18), we will not be a participant in spreading circulated rumors.

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW! “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Speed

01-08-2020

"At a snail's pace." The fastest land snail on record is a specimen named Colly, who in 1970 traversed a 2' piece of glass in 3 minutes; a speed of .00758 mph.

Book of Lists, #2, p. 142.

“That thou mayest love the Lord thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the Lord sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.”

Deuteronomy 30:20

As the children of the Israel were instructed to obey the Lord and do so immediately, so we are to do so as well. The Lord tells us the obedience proves our love for Him. “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). We need to swift in our obedience, not moving at a snail’s pace! Some born-again Christians are very slow to obey the Lord and His Word in various areas of their lives and, thereby, experience His chastisement and miss out on many rich blessings. Are you quick to do what the Lord wants you to do?

If you are not one of His, repent of all your sin (Luke 13:3,5) and receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, before it is too late.

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Our Interdependence!

01-07-2020

Several years ago, two students graduated from the Chicago-Kent College of Law. The highest ranking student in the class was a blind man named Overton and, when he received his honor, he insisted that half the credit should go to his friend, Kaspryzak. They had met one another in school when the armless Mr. Kaspryzak had guided the blind Mr. Overton down a flight of stairs. This acquaintance ripened into friendship and a beautiful example of interdependence. The blind man carried the books which the armless man read aloud in their common study, and thus the individual deficiency of each was compensated for by the other. After their graduation, they planned to practice law together.

Gary Inrig, Life in His Body.

“Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit….the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal….But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will….For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.”

1 Corinthians 12:4, 7, 11, 12

The Holy Spirit has given to every genuine born-again child of God at least one spiritual gift, and as the above chapter teaches us, each believer is important and should work together with their gifts (and natural talents) to serve the Lord and glorify Him! We cannot properly do so and exercise our spiritual gifts as we should independently. We must recognize our interdependence!

If you are not a born-again child of God, come to the Lord Jesus NOW! Repent of all your sin (Luke 13:3,5) and receive Him as your Lord and Savior!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

The Condition of Your Torch

01-06-2020

The Greeks had a race in their Olympic games that was unique. The winner was not the runner who finished first. It was the runner who finished with his torch still lit. I want to run all the way with the flame of my torch still lit for Him.

J. Stowell, Fan The Flame, Moody, 1986, p. 32.

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

2 Timothy 4:6-8

In what condition is your torch? Is it lit and shining bright of Christ or is it fading or gone completely out because you have broken fellowship with Him and you are allowing things to come into your life robbing you of spiritual vitality? Are you engaged in sins that are robbing you of His richest blessings and causing you to be ineffective in reaching others for Him. Does His character, the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) characterize your life? Do you have a passionate relationship with Him? If not, come back into fellowship with Him and here is how!

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

If your torch has neve been lit because you do not belong to the Lord Jesus, come to Him NOW, while you can!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life” (1John 5:12).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

A Nonchalant Charade

01-05-2020

Any of us more than twenty-five years old can probably remember where we were when we first heard of President Kennedy's assassination in 1963.

British novelist David Lodge, in the introduction to one of his books, tells where he was--in a theater watching the performance of a satirical revue he had helped write. In one sketch, a character demonstrated his nonchalance in an interview by holding a transistor radio to his ear. The actor playing the part always tuned in to a real broadcast. Suddenly came the announcement that President Kennedy had been shot. The actor quickly switched it off, but it was too late. Reality had interrupted stage comedy. For many believers, worship, prayer, and Scripture are a nonchalant charade. They don't expect anything significant to happen, but suddenly God's reality breaks through, and they're shocked.

Brian Powley.

“Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.”

Jeremiah 33:3

Are you a nonchalant born-again believer going through motions or are you really trusting the Lord to do great things in and through you for His glory?

If you are not one of His, receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Do Not Become Stagnant!

01-04-2020

A close friend of mine was asked back to his forty-year high school reunion. For months he saved to take his wife back to the place and the people he'd left four decades before. The closer the time came for the reunion, the more excited he became, thinking of all the wonderful stories he would hear about the changes and the accomplishments these old friends would tell him. One night before he left he even pulled out his old yearbooks, read the silly statements and the good wishes for the future that students write to each other. He wondered what ol' Number 86 from his football team had done. He wondered if any others had encountered this Christ who had changed him so profoundly. He even tried to guess what some of his friends would look like, and what kind of jobs and families some of these special friends had. The day came to leave and I drove them to the airport. Their energy was almost contagious. "I'll pick you up on Sunday evening, and you can tell me all about it," I said. "Have a great time." Sunday evening arrived. As I watched them get off the plane, my friend seemed almost despondent. I almost didn't want to ask, but finally I said, "Well, how was the reunion?"

"Tim," the man said, "it was one of the saddest experiences of my life."

"Good grief," I said, more than a little surprised.

"What happened?"

"It wasn't what happened but what didn't happen. It has been forty years, forty years -- and they haven't changed. They had simply gained weight, changed clothes, gotten jobs...but they hadn't really changed. And what I experienced was maybe one of the most tragic things I could ever imagine about life. For reasons I can't fully understand, it seems as though some people choose not to change."

There was a long silence as we walked back to the car. On the drive home, he turned to me and said, "I never, never want that to be said of me, Tim. Life is too precious, too sacred, too important. If you ever see me go stagnant like that, I hope you give me a quick, swift kick where I need it -- for Christ's sake. I hope you'll love me enough to challenge me to keep growing."

Tim Hansel, Holy Sweat, 1987, Word Books Publisher, pp. 54-55.

“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”

2 Peter 3:18

Born-again Christians should NEVER be stagnant! We must grow daily in the likeness and character of our Lord and Savior to bring lost people to Christ, to disciple fellow believers, and to glorify our Lord!

If you are not saved, come to the Lord Jesus NOW! “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13).

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

What is Your Standard?

01-03-2020

A factory manager found that production was being hampered by the tardiness of his people returning from the lunch hour. When the whistle blew few were at their machines. He posted a sign by the suggestion box offering a cash award for the best answer to this question: "What should we do to ensure that every man will be inside the factory when the whistle blows?" Many suggestions were submitted, and the one that was selected solved the problem. But the manager, a man with a sense of humor, liked this one best, though he could not use it: "Let the last man in blow the whistle."

Unknown.

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”

2 Timothy 3:16-17

As a born-again child of God, if your standard for your attitudes, actions, and decisions in every area of your life is not the Word of God, you will be a failure in your Christian life and you will not glorify your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, which is exactly what Satan wants. He will entice you to use man’s opinion, etc. to be your standard and will do everything possible to keep you away from God’s Word and obedience to it.

If Jesus Christ, the Incarnated Word is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Romans 10:13

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Our Possessions

01-02-2020

I place no value on anything I have or may possess, except in relation to the kingdom of God. If anything will advance the interests of the kingdom, it shall be given away or kept, only as by giving or keeping it I shall most promote the glory of Him to whom I owe all my hopes in time or eternity.

David Livingstone.

“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”

2 Corinthians 9:7

May everyone of us who have been saved by the grace of God and made new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) possess this attitude regarding our possessions every day of 2020 and the rest of our lives.

If we love the Lord Jesus passionately, we will have the same mindset as David Livingstone. We will experience His richest blessings and be used tremendously for His glory.

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - 1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

01-02-2020

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

Our Possessions

I place no value on anything I have or may possess, except in relation to the kingdom of God. If anything will advance the interests of the kingdom, it shall be given away or kept, only as by giving or keeping it I shall most promote the glory of Him to whom I owe all my hopes in time or eternity.

David Livingstone.

“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”

2 Corinthians 9:7

May everyone of us who have been saved by the grace of God and made new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) possess this attitude regarding our possessions every day of 2020 and the rest of our lives.

If we love the Lord Jesus passionately, we will have the same mindset as David Livingstone. We will experience His richest blessings and be used tremendously for His glory.

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - 1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2020

01-01-2020

Another year is dawning,

Dear Father let it be,

In working or in waiting,

Another year with thee.

Another year of progress,

Another year of praise,

Another year of proving

Thy presence all the days.

Another year of mercies,

Of faithfulness and grace,

Another year of gladness,

The glory of thy face.

Another year of leaning

Upon thy loving breast,

Another year of trusting,

Of quiet, happy rest.

Another year of service,

Of witness for thy love,

Another year of training

For holier work above.

Another year is dawning,

Dear Father, let it be,

On earth, or else in heaven,

Another year for thee.

Frances R. Havergal.

“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.”

Matthew 22:37

May each one of us who belong to the Lord Jesus daily develop a closer and more intimate relationship with Him!

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW! Repent of all your sin (Luke 13:3,5) and receive Him as your Lord and Savior!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”