We Wish to See Jesus

Category: Christian Living

Biblical teaching about discipleship, character, holiness, wisdom, relationships, and daily faithfulness.

  • Bitter Honey or a Joyful Wife?

    The wise man repeatedly warns the young man against the wicked woman. In these chapters, which speak as a father to a son, he also cautions against the path of the evil man. However, he returns to the warning about the wicked woman because it is such a temptation for the young man. 

    In Proverbs 5:3, it states, “For the lips of an immoral woman drip honey, and her mouth is smoother than oil;” Verse 4 continues, “But in the end, she is bitter as wormwood.” Verse 8 advises, “Remove your way far from her and do not go near the door of her house.” This highlights the need to stay as far away from such a temptation as possible. Do not destroy your life for a few moments of pleasure with a wicked woman! 

    Verse 5 warns, “Her feet go down to death; her steps lay hold of hell.” The same chapter goes on to teach the young man that it is enriching to have your own wife, and to work together to build your future based on this wisdom from God. Verse 15 says, “Drink water from your own cistern and running water from your own well.” Verse 18 adds, “Let your fountain be blessed and rejoice with the wife of your youth.” 

    Verse 24 poses the question, “Why should you, my son, be enraptured by an immoral woman and embrace the arms of a seductress?” Remember, God sees everything you do; your time with the wicked woman will not go unnoticed. Verse 21 states, “For the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and He ponders all his paths.” 

    American culture has celebrated promiscuity for far too long, lasciviousness is everywhere, and pornography is more accessible now than ever before. Young men have access to temptations at their fingertips (through cell phones) and many seek then to act on perverted impulses; implulses that society has trained them to accept as “normal.” It is no wonder that the moral degradation of our society is spilling over into more heinous and evil behaviors. 

    That said, there is also an opportunity for the light of God to shine brighter in these dark days (Matt. 5:14-16). May whoever be reading this reflect on what God says about finding actual value in a godly spouse—someone with whom you can build a life together, and enjoy the blessings that God has to offer. 

    I pray that God Almighty will continue to bless my marriage richly, and that anyone reading this will also lay hold of the blessings God provides in a pure relationship between a man and a woman, as He has designed it. May your generation utterly reject the sinful advances that are continually propagated into our homes and lives!! May you reach up to God through Jesus Christ, and may we all grow in the use of sound wisdom!!! 

  • Choosing Wisdom Over Regret

    In Proverbs chapter 4, the fatherly instructor reflects on the teachings of his own father and advises his son to make the pursuit of wisdom his primary goal. Verse 6 states, “Love her, and she will keep you.” Verse 7 emphasizes that “wisdom is the principal thing,” while verse 8 encourages the young man to “exalt her, and she will promote you; she will bring you honor when you embrace her.” 

    In verses 10 through 19, the instructor explains that pursuing wisdom will bring order to one’s life! He warns the young man to avoid the path of wicked individuals, as verses 14-15 instruct, “Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of evil. Avoid it; do not travel on it; turn away from it and pass on.” Verse 19 states, “the way of the wicked is like darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.” 

    Verses 20 through 27 stress the importance of paying attention to instruction. The instructor urges the young man to guide his ear, heart, mouth, eyes, and feet. Specifically, verse 23 advises, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” Verse 26 instructs him to “ponder the path of your feet; let all your ways be established,” while verse 27 further advises, “Do not turn to the right or to the left; remove your foot from evil.” 

    We can learn to avoid pitfalls through the wisdom shared in these proverbs. Reflecting on my own life, I often wish I had heard such teaching when I was younger. God’s word offers guidance that can save us from a world of heartache and regret. There are so many mistakes I’ve made in my youth that I wish I could take back; they still sometimes haunt my memory, memories of missed opportunities and lingering hurt. 

    We also could learn from the mistakes of others, thereby avoiding similar consequences. Often, God’s word teaches us about things to avoid, in order to escape the repercussions of sin. For example, engaging in reckless behaviors like drinking and driving can lead to severe lifelong consequences, such as arrest, being maimed, or killed in car accidents. Moreover, pursuing relationships that God does not ordain can leave lifelong scars, such as the implications of fornication and adultery. Those who commit various crimes may face significant legal consequences, including imprisonment. To put it another way, every sin has its price to pay. And even if God forgives one, some consequences of sin will carry with us throughout the rest of our journey on earth (2 Sam. 12:10-14).

    So, young man, pay attention to the wisdom shared with you. Remember that Satan has long sought to convince us that God is withholding something good, which is a great deception (Gen. 3:4-5; Jn. 8:44). In reality, God aims to protect us from a life filled with suffering and heartache. Make the pursuit of wisdom your principal objective, and it will support and uphold you!

  • Mercy, Truth, and Trust: Keys to Favor

    Much of Proverbs chapter 3 revolves around truisms—statements that are generally true. Following these teachings, one can usually expect favorable outcomes, although there may be exceptions to the rule. This chapter is rich in guidance, especially for the young. 

    Solomon instructs his son not to forget his teachings and to keep his commands in his heart. He writes that following this wisdom will lead to a longer life filled with peace (Prov. 3:1-2). However, this does not guarantee that one will live to a ripe old age; instead, it suggests that making wise decisions based on God’s word generally leads to a more favorable life (through the making of better choices). 

    The author emphasizes the importance of “mercy and truth” (yes, both), urging his son to keep them close, like binding them around his neck and writing them on the tablet of his heart. This means always incorporating God-like values into our consciousness. By doing so, one can find favor with both God and others. 

    A well-known verse in this chapter is, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (vv. 5-6, New King James Version). Acknowledging God in all aspects of life requires a wholehearted commitment. By recognizing Him in every decision, we can trust that He will guide our paths. 

    When we allow God to lead us, we avoid relying solely on our own wisdom. We will honor the Lord with our possessions, and He will continually provide increase for us. Embracing God’s discipline, rather than resenting it, allows us to find true happiness in life, seeing things from God’s perspective (vv. 11-12). 

    God created the universe through His wisdom, and we can find safety and security by pursuing and following it (vv. 18-26). Additionally, we can put wisdom to use while helping others who are in need. Good and right thinking encourages us to act in faith for the betterment of others. 

    Moreover, wisdom teaches that we should not envy the oppressor, but rather, recognize the futility of following their ways. 

    While this chapter offers diverse guidance for young people, there are exceptions to this guidance. However, adhering to these truisms can help individuals make wiser choices, leading to more favorable outcomes (generally speaking). Lord, grant me more wisdom so that I can be a good steward of the many blessings You provide. In Jesus’ name, I ask for an increase in wisdom, and I pledge to put it to use in every aspect of my life.

  • Discretion, Deliverance, and the Fear of the Lord

    Oh God, I desire to receive Your words and, beyond that, the treasures of Your commands within me. Turn my ear to focus on Your wisdom; help me to lift my voice and diligently seek and search for it. This is what I long to do. You said that if I actively seek out wisdom, I will understand the fear of You and find knowledge. I know that You are the source of all these treasures spoken of in Proverbs, and I pray that You will guard my path and preserve my way so that I may understand righteousness, justice, equity, and every good path (Prov. 2:1-9). 

    Father, I want to exercise discretion and possess an accurate understanding. Please preserve and keep me. I also pray that You will deliver me through the wisdom in my heart, mind, and life, protecting me from those who speak perverse things and from those who stray from the path of righteousness to follow wicked ways (2:10-15). 

    I pray not only for myself but for other men as well, that You will grant them wisdom as they seek it. May they attain that abundance and use it rightly. We must be aware of the seductress as a lurking danger; men and women both need to recognize this. There are men, too, who seek to take advantage of women for their own perverse desires (2:16-18). 

    Father, give us wisdom and a strong heart, and grant us moral fortitude. May all Your people see the consequences of those who do evil, and may we abstain from anything that could ensnare our souls. Give us the courage and boldness to cling faithfully to You, even when we encounter enticing, yet evil ways. Please help us remember the consequences that await those who indulge in sinful behavior, so that we may avoid such actions at all costs (2:19-22). Amen.

  • Proverbs for a Generation Under Pressure

    The proverbs of Solomon provide practical wisdom that can benefit everyone, especially young people (Prov. 1:3, 8). Reading this book can help us grow in discerning our current circumstances, allowing us to see things as they truly are. It also helps us avoid being manipulated or controlled by others. Importantly, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; without this reverence for God, no amount of information we acquire will serve us well (1:7). We must respect God, return to His word, and grow through using it in our daily lives. 

    In this first chapter, we are reminded to recognize the ungodly schemes and plots of men (1:8-19). Peer pressure can influence everyone, particularly young people, to engage in behaviors that lead to negative, lasting consequences. It is crucial for all people, but especially the youth, to understand that their actions have consequences that can last a lifetime… and even carry into eternity. Solomon warns, “So are the ways of everyone greedy for gain; it takes away the life of its owners” (Proverbs 1:19). 

    Wisdom, in this chapter, is personified as a woman calling out in the streets, urging us to heed her words. If only we would heed her voice and come to her, we could grow in understanding! We must recognize the importance of accepting wisdom, as refusing her can lead to calamity, embarrassing situations, or compromised circumstances in our spiritual, emotional, and physical lives. When we ignore wisdom, we are responsible for the consequences that follow (1:20-32). 

    There are warnings here, as well as comfort. Wisdom promises that those who listen to her will dwell safely and be secure without fear of evil. To have freedom from fear is the result of possessing true wisdom (1:33). 

    I pray that God Almighty will increase my wisdom, enabling me to discern the circumstances around me. When others plot and manipulate for evil, may I recognize it and turn away. I pray that as I seek to grow in wisdom, I will embrace what God offers and that He will provide for me in every way. Moreover, I ask for boldness and confidence in this pursuit. Oh God, please increase my faith! Amen.

  • Use, Grow, Fulfill Your Potential

    Pictured from left to right: Adam Willingham, Justin Lewis, Bob Waldron, Ian Rice, and Butch Morgan. Seated is the late Jimmy Johnson.

    King Solomon wrote, “Better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for that is the end of all men; and the living will take it to heart.” (Ecclesiastes 7:2). Death became a significant part of Bob Waldron’s life, and one day, our own death will become part of our life story as well. It is wise for us to reflect on this!

    I first met Brother Waldron at the funeral for Sister Rosa Lee Putnel in Ft Meade, FL, where he invited me to a Bible study. The following morning, I drove over two hours to meet him in Dade City. I had been preaching in my first full-time position for five months, but I felt a deep sense of inadequacy regarding my Bible knowledge. I had been fervently praying for God to provide me with what I needed to grow spiritually. During that first Bible study, I opened up to Brother Waldron about my feelings of inadequacy. To my surprise, he did not rebuke me! Instead, he offered to become my mentor and explained that he had some tools that could help me both immediately and in the long term, provided I committed to using them. Just as I began to feel immense gratitude, he admonished me to take our time and efforts together seriously. The tone was set, leading to seven of the most spiritually enriching years of my life! Through his teaching, example, encouragement, and nurturing, Brother Waldron challenged me to bring my best to the table consistently. I am eternally grateful for that! Moreover, he embraced my wife and children as family, enabling our collective growth in ways beyond measure.

    Among the many things I cherish, I always knew I could rely on him for sound counsel during troubling circumstances. I was consistently amazed by his wisdom. On one occasion, after I remarked on how wise he was, he humbly responded that he was taking the information I shared and responding with spiritual principles from God’s Word that best fit the scenario. This revelation was an epiphany for me, and many similar moments left a profound impact.

    After seven years of intense mentorship, Brother Waldron had to scale back due to health issues. By this time, he had become more than a mentor; he had become a father figure to me. I was still blessed to visit him for many years after, drawing on his wisdom and influence through close, personal contact. However, as his health declined, I felt a significant change in our dynamic and struggled mightily with this transition.

    Among Remarkable Men
    Moses was a remarkable man who influenced many in his generation, and his work continues to impact others. He had Joshua to assist him, and eventually, Joshua would lead God’s people into battle. Those years of working with Moses certainly prepared Joshua for such responsibility.

    Elijah was another remarkable man whose influence remains significant. He prepared Elisha to carry on the prophetic work, and Elisha held Elijah in high esteem.

    The Apostle Paul was yet another remarkable figure whose influence continues today. A large part of Paul’s work involved training Timothy to take care of what had been entrusted to him and to commit those teachings to faithful men who would, in turn, be able to teach others.

    Bob Waldron is a remarkable man of our generation. His influence is deeply ingrained, and his work will continue to inspire many. He worked diligently to prepare others for battle, to take up the mantle, and to teach others!

    Yet, there is another common thread among these examples that is paramount! Before Moses died, he commended the children of Israel, including Joshua, to the word of the LORD (Deut. 30:11-14). Before Elijah ascended to heaven, Elisha requested a double portion of Elijah’s spirit, and Elijah guided Elisha to seek God’s will in the matter (2 Kings 2:9-11). Before his departure, Paul encouraged Timothy by directing him to the Lord and His Word (2 Tim. 1:6-7; 3:14-17).

    In his efforts, Brother Waldron too pointed us to the Lord. Consider this quote from Bob and Sandra Waldron’s book, “Go Tell the Good News,” regarding 2 Timothy 3:14-17: “Here in Paul’s last letter, he makes one of the most inclusive, strongest affirmations of the inspiration of the scriptures to be found in the whole Bible. All scripture is inspired. Timothy, you have everything you need in order to be equipped for every good work. Paul would no longer be available to advise Timothy, but he had all the wisdom of God within his grasp. We, too, have that same word of God in our hands – with the same blessings it provided for Timothy. Let us remember to use it wisely.”

    Before his passing, I had an opportunity to visit with Brother Waldron. And at that particular time, I was feeling very weak, grasping for more of his wisdom. Recognizing my situation, he shared words that I hold dear: “Don’t sell yourself short, nor underestimate your abilities. Use your knowledge. Grow your knowledge. Fulfill your potential!”

    Brother Waldron, I will always cherish our friendship.

    May God grant us all the strength to serve the Almighty, and our generation, to the best of our abilities (Acts 13:36).

  • Quiet Blooming of a Pure Heart

    Some people do their good deeds to be seen by others, so that they may gain notoriety from men. They have their reward (Matthew 6:1-2, 5, 7, 16). 

    But then, there are those who have the word of God sown in their hearts. The seed therefore germinates, buds forth, and blossoms out into something so beautiful that others cannot help but notice! 

    13 You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.

    14 You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.  

    15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.  

    16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

    ~ Matthew 5:13-16

  • Memorial Day, the Cross, and the Call to Surrender

    My fellow Americans, neighbors, and loved ones: Many are posting tributes on social media today to honor those who have lost their lives while serving their fellow man. I am very grateful to live in this country and for the freedoms that it provides. Moreover, I am thankful for my fellow citizens’ sacrifices so that I can enjoy the comforts of living in this land. I truly am proud to be an American. That said, while we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for others, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to consider something even more critical. Many fathers and mothers have sent their sons and daughters to die on the battlefield, but God sent his only begotten Son to die for the sins of humanity (John 3:16). Though I do not wish to diminish many Americans’ heavy sacrifices, I want to draw our attention to Jesus. Would you join me in praying to God after reading this reflection? Consider a few comparisons. 

    Sacrifice for Others: Today, we seek to remember the soldiers who gave their lives to protect freedom, peace, and country. With much greater consequence, Jesus gave his life to save humanity from sin and death, offering the gift of eternal life! Christ told His disciples, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.” (John 15:13-14)

    Freedom Through Death: On Memorial Day, we reflect on how the sacrifice of so many soldiers secured our earthly freedoms, such as religious liberty and safety. In contrast, Jesus’ death offers us spiritual freedom—freedom from the bondage of sin, from separation from God, and the ultimate fate of condemnation. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5:1)

    Remembering the Fallen: We honor and remember those who died on Memorial Day, ensuring their sacrifices are not forgotten. Christians also remember Jesus’ death regularly through practices like communion so that His sacrifice remains in our hearts and minds. Jesus instituted His memorial on the night in which he was betrayed, and 1st-century Christians observed that memorial every first day of the week (Matthew 26:26-30; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:23-33).

    Inspiration to Live Better: Contemplating the sacrifices of soldiers may inspire us to live with gratitude, courage, and a commitment to service. In a much more profound sense, remembering Jesus’ sacrifice calls Christians to live sacrificially, loving and serving others with a higher sense of purpose and calling. “By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?” (1 John 3:16-17)

    Hope Beyond Death: Many believe the sacrifices of soldiers contribute to a brighter, more hopeful future for our nation. However, Jesus’ death grants us the ultimate hope—eternal life and victory over sin and death, promising that we will reign with Him forever and escape every heartache (Revelation 21:1-22:21). 

    I must note: While it may be inappropriate to compare secular holidays with Jesus’ death during our time of communion on the 1st day of the week, this Memorial Day, as we reflect on the tragedies of this world and the noble sacrifices made for goodness, it feels fitting to express gratitude. And while it is noble that our fellow man has been willing to die for us, OUR UNDERSTANDING OF TRUE NOBILITY COMES FROM GOD, the creator and sustainer of all things. 

    If this resonates with you, I pray you will look to Jesus and thank Him for dying for you, providing hope for a better life beyond this world. We will each give an account to God for our deeds, and all of us have sinned! Let us demonstrate our thankfulness by surrendering our lives to Him (Matthew 7:21-23), putting our belief in Jesus as Savior and Lord (John 10:31-39), repenting of our sins (Luke 13:3), confessing our faith (Matthew 10:32-33), and being baptized for the forgiveness of our sins (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38). In doing so, the Lord will add you to His church (Acts 2:47), the one He purchased with His blood (Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:25-27)! 

    Just as one day each year is not enough to honor what our fellow man has done for us, a single moment or day is insufficient to commemorate what Jesus has done for me. Let us strive to devote our lives more fully to Him. Amen.

  • Seize the Day—Seek the Lord

    Isaiah chapters fifty-five through fifty-seven contain profound principles. God, through Isaiah, has just foretold the coming of the Suffering Servant, through whose sacrifice Israel will be saved (Isa. 49-54). Thus, Israel is encouraged to seek the LORD (Isa. 55:1-13). By keeping His justice and practicing righteousness, the LORD will bless them (Isa. 56:1). Even the eunuch who feels like “a dry tree” and the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD will be blessed and find mercy (Isa. 56:3-6). The LORD’s patience is remarkable, considering that His people have become “sons of the sorceress, the offspring of the adulterer and the harlot” (Isa. 57:3). They have sinned in various ways, sought other gods, and sent ambassadors everywhere but have not turned to God (Isa. 57:4-13). Nevertheless, the LORD will forgive those with a contrite heart (Isa. 57:14-21)! 

    Amid this discourse, we learn how irresponsible Israel’s leaders had been. One says, “Come, I will bring wine, and we will fill ourselves with intoxicating drink; tomorrow will be as today, and much more abundant” (Isa. 56:12). It is a tragic folly that many take for granted the opportunities afforded to us today, as if material blessings will continue to increase despite ungodliness. There are no guarantees concerning tomorrow, which should serve as a sober warning. May it also inspire us to accept the LORD’s pardon, His ways, His healing, and His guidance today! 

    Consider the angels of Heaven, who dwell in the very presence of God Almighty. They often instill fear in men when sent to minister to those who will inherit salvation. Yet, despite their magnificence, they do not rival the wondrous power of the Lord Jesus (Heb. 1:1-14). Our Lord, who took on human form, is not ashamed to call mankind His brethren and died so that we may receive help during temptation and power over death. Thus, we must pay more earnest attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away (Heb. 2:1-18). 

    The phrase “raise the ante” means to increase the cost or price, which reflects the entire book of Hebrews concerning the Law of Christ compared to the Law of Moses. Sobering lessons can be learned from the faith of Moses and the unfaithful generation that fell in the wilderness (Heb. 3:1-11; Psa. 95:7-11). Believers are warned to beware, lest there be in any of you “an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God” (Heb. 3:12). “But exhort one another while it is called ‘Today,’ lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin” (Heb. 3:13). We become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast until the end: “Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion” (Heb. 3:15). 

    The Hebrew readers were encouraged to heed the lessons from their forefathers who died in the wilderness because they sinned, did not obey, and could not enter the promised rest due to unbelief (Heb. 3:16-19). This message was directed to Jewish Christians who may have been tempted to revert to a form of Judaism out of fear of the persecution that afflicted Christians. It was very appealing for some to return to worshiping Jehovah as prescribed in the Law, which could shield them from suffering. However, this was impossible, as the Law of Christ replaced the Old Covenant. 

    The spiritual depth in this text is remarkable. It is fascinating to consider how David wrote of “Today” by the Spirit (Psa. 95:7; Heb. 3:7; 4:7) and how God spoke of “His rest” during David’s lifetime, foreshadowing the work of Christ. Additionally, the Hebrew writer reveals that Joshua did not provide the final rest for the people. Therefore, a Sabbath of rest remains for the people of God! Let us strive (TODAY) to enter that rest (Heb. 4:1-16)!

  • If You Will Hear, Here We Are, Today

    God presents many valuable lessons to learn from the past. He also teaches us the value of preparing for the future. A future in heaven, yes, but also preparing for the various stages of life on this earth. But what of the present? What about for “today?” What can we take care of “today” in these moments set before us?  

    Here We Are, Servants Today

    In Nehemiah chapters nine and ten, the generation that returned from captivity held a great assembly. On the 24th day of the month, many expressed great remorse for their sins and the iniquities of their fathers (Neh. 9:1-2). While standing in their place, the Book of the Law was read for a fourth of the day, and another fourth, they worshiped the LORD their God (Neh. 9:3-4). Moreover, leaders among them cried out with a loud voice to God. The Levites also commanded the assembly to stand up and bless the LORD. That is when the children of Israel were reminded of their spiritual history: of blessings, opportunities, abilities, responsibilities, failures, and God’s faithfulness (Neh. 9:5-35). The people renewed their Covenant with the LORD (Neh. 9:36-10:39), declaring, “Here we are, servants today! And the land you gave to our father, to eat its fruit and its bounty, here we are, servants in it! And it yields much increase to the kings You have set over us, because of our sins; Also, they have dominion over our bodies and our cattle at their pleasure; and we are in great distress. And because of all this, we make a sure covenant and write it; Our leaders, our Levites, and our priests seal it.” (Neh. 9:36-38) Taking the time to approach God with reverence, humility, and mindfulness of our spiritual heritage with Him, along with rededicating ourselves to Him and His terms of the Covenant – we may do just that TODAY! We may also call upon God to take note of our resolve to serve Him TODAY!! 

    Today, If You Will Hear His Voice

    The call to worship God and obey Him is inspiring but also necessitates responsibility and accountability. Psalm ninety-five implores readers to sing to the LORD, shout joyfully to the Rock of salvation, and come before His presence with thanksgiving! There are excellent reminders of God creating the hills, the sea, dry land, and mankind (Psa. 95:1-5). There is even an extolling of God’s special relationship with His people (Psa. 95:7). But His people were also warned to learn from their spiritual forefathers. “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand. Today, if you will hear His voice: Do not harden your hearts, as in the rebellion, as in the day of trial in the wilderness, When your fathers tested Me; They tried Me, though they saw My work.” (Psa. 95:6-9) The warning continues by telling how God grieved the generation that wandered in the wilderness because they went astray in their hearts. As a result, many of God’s covenant people did not enter His rest (Psa. 95:10-11). So, along with the grand call to worship the Almighty comes a warning against going astray within our hearts. Moreover, “Today, if you will hear His voice: Do not harden your hearts…” We can hear the LORD’s voice TODAY! With blessing and opportunity, accept the responsibility of sober thinking TODAY!!

    God presents many valuable lessons to learn from the past. He also teaches us the value of preparing for the future. A future in heaven, yes, but also preparing for the various stages of life on this earth. But what of the present? What about for “today?” What can we take care of “today” in these moments set before us?