Worry
by Paul R. Schroeder

It is so easy for us to forget who is in charge! We pray, turn things over to Him-and then we worry!

How is that possible? God knows it is due to our weakness, our lack of trust. During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus reminds us of the foolishness of worry. Simple things like birds and flowers can explain it to us (Matthew 6:24-34)!

Perhaps we are not "tested" enough for our faith! I'm concerned that we have compromised too much with this government in China by agreeing to never speak of Jesus outside of our church buildings. Those Christians who have refused to compromise have paid with their lives and persecution! I believe God will bless and "raise up" the underground "house" Christians! Right now they make up over 80% of the Christians in China.

Though in America we do not suffer immediate persecution for bold faith-it could still someday come! Then what? Who would stand? Who would fall? I believe those who have boldly declared their faith in the presence of oppositions would continue to stand!

The early Christian Church led the way. The Martyrs led the way with their blood, people today are dying for their faith. We need to stand with them! No compromise!

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• What most counts is not to live, but to live aright.
Socrates

• God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
Reinhold Niebuhr

• Mark 7:24-30: As Jesus passed through the region of Tyre, a woman came to Jesus to beg for help. She had a daughter that was possessed of a demon.

Jesus, at first, seemed to ignore her. He even spoke harshly to her in offensive language-testing the depth of her faith.

Yet, she persisted and showed her humility by asking only for "leftovers".

Jesus admired her commitment to her daughter and was pleased to see her faith in Him.

He blessed her perseverance and granted her request-her daughter was healed.

Are we indifferent when we pray-or are we totally committed to receive God's answer for us? How fervent are we?

Sincerely,
Paul R. Schroeder

Thursday, October 15, 2009