Shepherd and Sheep Series-Balance between Eating and Exercise

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. On the other hand all play and no work makes Jack a lazy boy. Our God is the God of balance. Satan is the "god" of imbalance. The enemy will climb into the car of life and either tell you to put the pedal to the medal or stomp the brake to the floor. Either choice can wipe you out on the freeway of life. We will see God's desired balance between eating and exercise illustrated in the lives of sheep. If sheep spend too much time eating and ruminating, they will build up layers of fat. Obesity is a dangerous condition, since it is then easy for the sheep to roll over during a time of rumination. Rolling over is called casting. When a sheep is in this condition its center of gravity shifts so that it cannot right itself. Stomach gasses begin to swell the sheep’s stomach. The bloated stomach cuts off circulation to the feet, and the sheep is no longer able to stand upon them. The ultimate consequence of casting is death. God has placed significant warnings in Scripture for us to maintain a balance between the study of the Word and its application. The imbalance caused by study without application is strongly condemned in James 1: “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror: For he beholds himself and goes his way, and straightway forgets what manner of man he was. But whoso looks into the perfect law of liberty, and continues therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed” (James 1:22-25). Many pastors of local church have affirmed that the two groups of members who cause the most trouble are those who get too little spiritual food and those who get too much spiritual food (knowledge without application). Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Shepherd and Sheep Series-Sheep Must Be At Rest Before They Can Chew Their Food

Have you noticed the effect distractions and irritations have on your devotional life? We can learn a great deal about meditation from sheep. Distractions and irritations will stop sheep from ruminating on their food. One source of irritation is insects which are naturally attracted to sheep. Insects are especially bothersome to the head and face of sheep. In order to free his sheep from this damaging distraction, the shepherd will pour a specially prepared oil mixture over the head of the sheep. This mixture contains oil, tar, and herbs. The tar repels insects, while the oil and herbs brings healing to the sheep when they have been scratched by thorns or bitten by insects. There is nothing more damaging or disruptive to the process of meditation than worldly cares and irritating distractions. Our Chief Shepherd has given us the Holy Spirit, Who instructs us not to worry over anything, but to tell God every detail of our needs in earnest and thankful prayer. The peace of God, which transcends human understanding, will then keep guard over our hearts and minds as we rest in Christ Jesus (see Philippians 4:6-7). We need to be preparing for quietness. During the day, get alone in your “prayer closet.” By shutting out the distractions of the world, we can bring up the Word which we have read, studied, and memorized, and use it for prayer, intercession, supplication, and thanksgiving before the Lord. God has promised that those who do this secretly will be rewarded openly. Daniel had major responsibilities as the leading president of a world empire. Yet, three times a day he resorted to his “prayer closet” and worshiped the Lord. The resulting success in Daniel’s life and ministry is a living testimony of the importance of following his example. Further instructions for meditation are contained in Deuteronomy 6:7 “Talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise up. In order to meditate we are going to have to become intentional about doing so. Perhaps the most important of these four occasions occurs while you are going to sleep at night. This observation is based upon the fact that God designed the day to begin in the evening. “The evening and the morning were the first day” (Genesis 1:5). Furthermore, the last thoughts on our minds before we go to sleep will be on our subconscious mind throughout the night and will set our mental attitude for the next day, either consciously or unconsciously. It is for this reason God gives special commands to meditate on His Word during this time. “Stand in awe and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed and be still” (Psalm 4:4). One of David’s responses to this command is found in Psalm 63:5-6 “My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise you with joyful lips: When I remember you upon my bed, and meditate on you in the night watches.” Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Shepherd and Sheep Series-Passages to Memorize for Meditation

The following are some basic Scripture passages to be memorized for meditation. Matthew 5-7, the Sermon on the Mount. This is a summary of Christ’s message during His earthly ministry. It is rich with foundational principles in all aspects of Christian living. Its significance was further emphasized by Paul when he said that he based sound doctrine on two things: Christ’s own words and that which leads to Christ like living. (See 1 Timothy 6:3). Romans 6-8, tell us how to have victory over sinful habits. Romans 6 explains how we are to reckon ourselves dead to sin and alive to God by entering into our victory in Christ and daily yielding the members of our bodies to God. Romans 7 describe the law of sin which operates much like the law of gravity; however, Romans 8 explains how we can live above the law of sin by the power of the Holy Spirit. Exodus 20-22, gives us the principles of God’s Law. The law is a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, and the righteousness of the law is to be fulfilled in us by the Holy Spirit. This passage summarizes the law and supplies related case studies. It explains the cause-and-effect sequence of the law of the harvest spoken of in Galatians 6:7-10. James 1-5, tell us how to apply faith to practical living. Chapter 1 instructs us how to overcome temptation. Chapter 2 emphasizes the importance of putting our faith to work. Chapter 3 teaches us how to tame our tongue. Chapter 4 explains how to conquer pride and resulting contentions. Chapter 5 gives practical business principles and direction for healing. Hebrews 11:1-6, 12:1-7, 13:1-8, teach us how to understand God’s purposes of chastening. Chapter 11 establishes the absolute importance of faith. Chapter 12 describes the discipline required of us so that we might produce “the peaceable fruit of righteousness,” Chapter 13 lists the vital relationships that Christians must maintain. I Corinthians 13, teaches us how to develop genuine love. This vital chapter defines the love that every Christian must develop by the grace of God. The entire Old Testament is summed up in the command to love the lord and to love our neighbor. By engrafting this chapter and relating it to other sections of Scripture, we will learn how to fulfill the greatest commandment. Romans 12, teaches us how to discover our spiritual gift. Every Christian has a spiritual gift; By using it properly we experience joy, fulfillment, and fruitfulness. This chapter identifies the prerequisites for gifts and the practical use of them in ministering God’s love to others. Romans 13, tells us how to understand and properly respond to authority. Only as we see authority figures in the perspective of this chapter will we be able to respond properly to them and to gain God’s protection and direction through them. Every Christian needs to understand and to apply the essential concepts of power and influence. Ephesians 5-6, tell us how to be equipped for warfare. The first chapters of Ephesians establish our position of victory in Christ. Chapter 5 identifies the works of darkness and the resulting relationships that grow out of being filled with God’s Spirit. Our ability to carry out these relationships depends upon how faithful we are in putting on the whole armor of God listed in chapter 6. 1 Peter 1-5 is teaching on how to suffer victoriously. By engrafting this book, we can be prepared when fiery trials overtake us. We will view them as opportunities to follow in the footsteps of Christ. The practical instruction of this book is essential for every Christian who wants to influence his or her world, since all those who live Godly lives will suffer persecution. Galatians 5:13-6:10, teach us how to experience the fruit of the Holy Spirit. The works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit are both defined and clarified by this passage. It also provides clear instruction on how we can demonstrate the law of love to fellow Christians. Psalms 1,15,19,25,34,37,112,139, instruct us on how to be one after God’s own heart. God called David as man after His own heart. The more the Psalms become ours, the more God can say the same of us. Learning the Psalms will teach Christians to pray, to sing, to rejoice, to praise, and to know the God who cares deeply about every aspect of their lives. Proverbs 3 teaches us how to enjoy the treasures of wisdom. Mastering the entire book of Proverbs is essential for Christians who desire to gain wise counsel for daily decisions. Every effort to memorize in this book will be greatly rewarded. Chapter 3 gives practical instruction on how to “find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man.” When you begin meditating (ruminating) on the Word of God you will enjoy success. “This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; but you shall meditate therein day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall have good success” (Joshua 1:8). Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

You Are a Possibility

“That according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breath and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:16-20). Paul is saying as believers we must be rooted and grounded in love. In other words, to seek God's love in its fullness, we must in some way know and experience that love already in our lives. Just as in real life, we must have a solid base to jump from. We do not jump from nothing to everything. We need a sure foundation before we go on. Paul was most aware of this principle, as seen in the above passage, this is most evident as he is praying for the believers in Ephesus. This was no mere formal prayer but a prayer that would greatly impact their daily lives. Paul knew what a Christian needs for a productive, joy filled life in Christ, and his prayer reflects exactly that. First, the blessings that are possible. God tells us that we have spiritual power available to us (v. 16). The Holy Spirit must be relied on to furnish the power we need for victorious Christian living. Here are a couple of questions to meditate on. How much spiritual power do you need daily? How much are you using now? 1. Noteworthy is the fact that spiritual power is imparted to the inner man. In the New Birth we were given a new inner man (Christ). However we still have our old outer man, which consists of sin habituated flesh. That is why we are exhorted to "put off the old and put on the new". We tend to live out of the outer man more than we would like to admit. The outer man tries to keep the inner man in check. Christ, who is our life, wants to live through us, in order to do so He must break through the outer man. 2. Paul, when asking God to "strengthen us in our inner being", is speaking of the fullness of the Holy Spirit. “Where the Spirit is Lord there is liberty.” 3. This is the Holy Spirit power God desires to give to the meek and humble. We are warned often that “God resists the proud" on the other hand we can rejoice in the fact that "He gives more grace to the humble.” Paul is praying that we might understand the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit (v. 17). This is the result intended from the strengthening of v.16. 1. To "dwell" means to live in, to be at home. We, by the power of the Holy Spirit of God are to make our lives a place where the Lord Jesus can feel at home. Man is the dwelling place of God, we are His temple. 2. We are to invite Christ to be at home in our lives, this is accomplished by faith, as we appropriate the truth of God’s Word and present our lives to His control. Biblical living teaches us that we don’t give in order to get, that is simply an exchange. We are to give because “Christ is worthy.” God desires that we develop stability of character (v. 17). This takes place as we are rooted in love. Then we become securely settled and grounded in Him. This love comes from the Holy Spirit, He is the only one who can produce genuine love in our lives. In doing a quick study of the fruit of the Spirit, we will note that the first three "fruit" affect our emotions, they are love, joy and peace. Paul is praying that we will have an enlarged comprehension (v. 18), "with all Saints", that includes you and me. 1. We can lay hold on God’s love, I may not always be demonstrating the love of God but I always have His love available in me. 2. That love is my permanent possession. A look at God's love will change our lives, because it's Calvary love. We will experience complete and abiding satisfaction (v. 19). Paul wants us to know this is knowledge gained by experience. 1. To be filled with God requires us to be empty of self. The Lord calls us to “Deny self, take up our cross daily and follow Jesus.” 2. To be God filled is to be Master controlled. Our flesh will battle for control because that is the nature of flesh. Flesh will always yield to the cross. Second, the source of power (v. 20). God can do anything, His power is exhaustless. We can be anything that God wants us to be if we are willing to pay the price. The believer can make great requests when he knows he is coming to a Great God “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things” (Romans 8:32)? This verse ought to effect our prayer life. The measure of our receiving is according to the power that works in us (v. 20). The power is unlimited, but we limit the working of God when we do not, by faith, comprehend all He has for us. "Without faith it is impossible to please Him." Third, the measure of God’s giving (v. 16). By the riches of His grace we know His salvation. By grace we can know an even larger measure of His eternal glory. This very clearly speaks about the largeness of knowing Christ's love. Evidently, it speaks of a revealed love greater than we encounter during our time of salvation. The breadth, length, height and depth are the dimensions of Christ's love. No matter the largeness of Christ's love, we should note that we can by God's grace reach a fair comprehension of this love. Knowing Christ is not a mere intellectual knowledge of Christ's love. It is the ultimate experience of experiencing His love. It is as if our eyes are opened, the flood gates of our hearts are totally down, and our heart is surrounded with the very love of Christ. The goal is to be so filled up with Christ that there is no room for anything besides Him. There is no other object or person that would catch our heart's attention. We would be so enraptured with His love that we would be "filled up to all the fullness of God." There is a mystical aspect of Christianity. This is called the deeper life, it is that which brings heaven to the soul. We learn about the deeper life as we abide in Christ and let Him live His life thought us by the Power of the Holy Spirit. As we grow in the Lord we learn that we can have all of Him we want. We get more of Him as we give Him more of ourselves. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Growing in Christ is a Choice

A key arena in which we have the power to make real choices is in growing spiritually. Spiritual growth follows repentance. The enemy will do his worst to keep us from getting saved, but if that happens, he changes his tactics. Now he will do everything to keep us from growing in Christ so that we can be effective in building His kingdom. He hates what the theologians call "progressive sanctification," and what the Scriptures tell us is becoming more like Christ as we seek to know Him more and, by the Spirit, sin less. See, for example, these Scriptures: John 17:17,; 2 Corinthians 3:18: Romans 12:2; Ephesians 5:26; Philippians 1:6. Elaine received Christ as Savior when she was sixteen; for the next two years, however, her spiritual growth was slow and sporadic. When she entered college she almost forgot she was a Christian. She earned her master's degree in education and landed the teaching position of her dreams. However, being an educator didn't bring the satisfaction she desired. She came to my office within weeks of being "dumped" by the man she was engaged to. "I know I'm a Christian," Elaine stated in the first session, "but the Christian life doesn't work for me." She freely admitted that she did not read the Bible and rarely prayed. She also revealed that she struggled with bitterness toward her ex-fiance and was addicted to cigarettes. As I shared principles of freedom with her, the Lord opened her eyes and heart. She repented of pride (running her own life) and bitterness. She sought the Lord's forgiveness for harming the Lord's temple through tobacco abuse. She asked the Lord to take back the ground she had given to the enemy. Back home, she made Bible reading and prayer a daily part of her life. The Lord led her to a local church with a dynamic singles ministry. "I have been walking with the Lord for three years," she later told me," and He is changing my life. I am like an onion-He is peeling off the old life a layer at a time. But with each layer He removed, He's added to my life Christian virtue, increased godly desires, and greater knowledge of Himself. The Lord is doing what I am not capable of doing myself. He is causing me to grow into His likeness." Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

What's Hope all About

"So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. Then Job took a piece of broken pottery and scraped himself with it as he sat among the ashes. His wife said to him, 'Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!'" (Job 2:7-9). Yesterday I was visiting with a Bank Manager. He said the economic situation is more difficult than he could have ever imagined. This level of stress in the economy puts tremendous stress on those affected by it. I know several individuals who are unemployed and are not receiving unemployment benefits. Some were fired from their jobs unfairly, others were pushed out of their jobs because of decreased production due to less consumer demand. I know a newly married young man, with an engineering degree, that has not been able to find a job of any kind. I learned yesterday his car is being repossessed. On top of this I know people with serious illnesses who have no health insurance. As a believer what can you do? During these seasons, you can only do one thing. You must hang onto whatever faith you have to get through each day and entrust your life to Him. "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior" (Hab 3:17-18). When faith doesn't see results it challenges what you believe. You must pray as Job prayed: "Teach me what I cannot see" (Job 34:32). God says there is a purpose in everything you go through. God is going to reveal things to you through this season of adversity that you would never receive had you not gone through this. There are lessons learned in the dark that only make sense in the light. In Isa. 45:3 the Lord promised to "Give you the treasures of darkness, the hidden riches of secret places." Seasons of adversity and darkness come in every believers life. This is part of your calling, even though Satan may be the instrument. The Sovereign God of heaven is always bigger than Satan's afflictions." Your greatest tests come when you cannot see positive results from your faith and obedience (darkness). In such cases you must die to your expectations and entrust them to the Lord. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Where The Spirit Leads

"Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil" (Matt 4:1-2). Would our heavenly Father ever allow one of His children to be tempted by the Evil One? After Jesus experienced John's baptism he was lead by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness, for the purpose of being tempted by the Devil. Jesus was being tempted as a man, not as God. Jesus came to earth as a man to live His life with the same limitations that you and I have. Satan tempted Jesus to use His divine power as God to satisfy His human hunger. This seems to be Jesus' first real test as a human being. Some people think God would never lead His people into the desert to be tested. Some would even say this is the devil's doing. The fact is, both statements are true. God actually uses Satan to test His servants to help develop patience and obedience in their lives. One purpose of the testing was for Jesus to tap into the power of the Holy Spirit, just like we must do in order to have victory over temptation. This would be true for the rest of His life. Every miracle He performed was done by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Jesus said we would do even greater (in number) works than He did because we are indwelt with the same Holy Spirit and we have the same access through prayer to the Father as He did. God led the people of Israel into the desert to learn something about themselves. They learned about their level of obedience when life became difficult. "Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands" (Deut 8:2). When God leads you into the desert, He is allowing you to learn something about yourself. We all need to learn how we will respond to temptations in our lives. As we draw closer to God during these times the roots of our faith are forced deeper and deeper into the soil of His grace. Jesus went into the Desert, in the fullness of the Spirit, He came out of the Desert in the Power of the Spirit. Do not fear being led into the desert. The desert can be a real faith builder. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

The Non-Growing Church

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him" (Col 3:17). Have you noticed that much of our training in the local church focuses on areas where we spend very little time. The fact is we spend over 70 percent of our time in the workplace. This is where we confront the greatest mission field in our lives. Because the work place is the greatest opportunity for Biblical transformation we must be taught how to effectively integrate faith into our work life. The time has come to tear down the wall between Sunday and Monday and understand that all of life is spiritual, every bush is a burning bush, all ground is holy ground. Studies show that 90 percent of believers do not feel they've been adequately trained to apply biblical faith in their work life. Its time to take the focus off the fringes and place it on the center where most people spend most of their time. I heard a commentator talking about Sarah Palins statement that she has been saved. He stated that "She is a religious fanatic." Then he asked with a tone of sarcasm 'What is being saved all about anyway?" Someone in his "Work place" is letting him down. Some day that "Enlightened" commentator will know all about the meaning of "Saved". Lets hope he finds out before its eternally to late. Here are some ideas being tried in various local churches. Some churches are ordaining their workplace believers for their calling to the workplace. Some are committed to integrating training for their workplace believers on the theology of work. Some are integrating Sunday school programs specifically geared to help workplace believers understand their workplace calling. Lets change the 80/20 rule in the 9 to 5 window from 20% doing ministry to 80% doing ministry. Are you burdened for the workplace? Let pray that the Lord will help local church leaders understand and affirm this calling. This would slow down transfer church growth, and start building churches with new converts. That happened in the New Testament and it needs to happen today. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

The Fruit is in the Valley

"O Lord, when you favored me, you made my mountain stand firm; but when you hid your face, I was dismayed" (Psalm 30:7). Looking from a valley of adversity, its really easy to miss the hand of God. How often do we feel He has hidden His face from us? We know the grass grows greener in the valley. But when we are in the valley its really hard to visualize the fruit of the valley. The valley has the power to create change in more than our habits, it can change our very nature. The size of the valley is often an indicator of the level of our calling, and will help shape our future influence. Knowing this gives little comfort when we are in the valley. When we are lifted out of the valley we begin to see our valley experience was as much for others blessings as for our development. This is consistent with Kingdom truth. For life is lived forward, but understood backward. King David often looked backward at God faithfulness as we was walking forward. The backward look gave him confidence in the forward walk. Valley fruit is best viewed from the mountain. "He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings deep shadows into the light" (Job 12:22). "And there came a man of God, and spake unto the king of Israel, and said, Thus saith the LORD, Because the Syrians have said, The LORD is God of the hills, but he is not God of the valleys, therefore will I deliver all this great multitude into thine hand, and ye shall know that I am the LORD ." (1 Kings 20:28) Beyond a doubt our God is the God of life's valleys. Just as He proved to the Syrians He is the God of the valleys, so He will show us the same. When you begin to realize this, you sit back and breathe a sigh of relief because you know that God was in control all along. It didn't seem like it at the time, but He was. Do you find yourself in the valley? Now is the time to fully trust Him for in His time He will guide you to higher ground. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

The Lord of the Desert

"Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil" (Matthew 4:1). There is a feeling (almost a doctrine) among conservative evangelicals that goes like this, "If you do right and act right, you will be blessed with a nearly trouble free life." Such teaching is flat out heresy. Should you, for some reason believe this, I would advise you to check in with the Apostle Peter. Reading several chapters from one of his two books will set anyone straight on the matter of troubles, trails and suffering. We know Jesus was led by the Spirit of God into the desert, but why? To be "Tempted by the devil" is the answer. Why would God lead his Son, or you or me into the desert? Answer, there is a whole lot of learning that takes place in the desert. "Though He were Son, He learned obedience by the things He suffered." "Desert Theological Seminary" is where we learn about ourselves. Hey, I can handle life when everything is going my way. Desert living is the place where we choose to commit to living by every Word of God, and not by bread alone. Its where we learn to respond to every temptation by citing what the Word of God says about the temptation. Its where we learn to separate the wheat from the chaff of life. The desert is a place of forging convictions and shaping character. As Christians we have a great need, the Scriptures must be written on our hearts, that we might know how to respond to any given situation. Its typically our reactions, not our actions that kill us. The Word says, "The truth shall set you free." Knowing and doing the will of God allows us to live free even when we are tempted by that which is evil. have you noticed that deserts are very quiet. There is little to no activity in the desert. However it is often the place where the devil speaks the loudest, because the desert is our place of weakness. When I am in the desert I don't have the comforts of the "Normal" to cling to. In the desert I'm not in control, if I was in control I wouldn't choose to be in the desert. I have also noticed when I am in the desert the heavens often seem to be made out of brass. God is frequently silent in the desert, however it can also be a place where God (when He chooses) speaks the loudest. The word desert comes from the Hebrew word "Dahbaar" which means "To speak." He usually speaks to me when I finally shut up and am ready to listen. I have spend a lot of time in the desert, desert living isn't so bad, (in time it kind of grows on you), its a great place to meditate on the Word. Its God's classroom to teach us how to withstand the unique temptations that come to us in the desert place. Desert is where we learn the importance of spiritual warfare. Its a great place to draw on the grace of God, which is operative even when He is silent. And its the place to take our stand with God. He and He alone is Lord of the desert. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Do You Love the Light

“Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God" (John 3:20-21) I grew up on a farm in central Minnesota. We had some unusual creatures living among us. We always had an ample supply of snakes, our farm house was built with a rock foundation and the openings in the rocks would allow snakes access to the house. My mother had a phobia concerning snakes and her screams sent me rushing to her rescue many times as a youngster. Another creature we had in abundance was the rat. It was said that if you ever spotted a rat in the day light you could be assured you had 100 rats living in or around the barn and out buildings. I saw quite a few rats in the daylight, rat counting on our farm would have been a daunting task. I remember as a boy going into the granary at night with a large flashlight. I would shine the light toward a mountain of ground corn and watch the rats scatter. They hated the light and would scamper away from it as fast as their little rat legs could take them. The same principle applies to people who hate the light. The Light of the world is Jesus. Biblical light also speaks of truth. The Word of God gives light. "The Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." Those who delight in evil hate the light because their evil acts are exposed by it. The Church of Jesus Christ is to be a light bearer. "But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lamp stand from its place, unless you repent " (Revelation 3:4-5). On the other hand those who love Jesus, love truth. They come to the light and as they walk in the light they receive more light. These light walkers realize its God who is working through their lives. They realize the good that flows from their lives finds its source in the Lord Himself. Seems to me there are two kinds of people. Light lovers, they receive more light, and light haters, their darkness continues to deepen. We as God's children are called to be light lovers and light bearers. To be a light bearer is really a life and death matter. We are called to bear the truth of the Gospel to a fallen world. "To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things" (II Cor. 2:16)? The question God the Father poses to a fallen world is still "What will you do with my Son Jesus"? Rejection of the Savior has eternal consequences. "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life though Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23). When I was a child, I attended Sunday School, there I would sing "This little light of mine, I'm going to let to shine," Along with all the other little kids, I would stick my finger in the air and wave it around as I sang. Whatever the light was we were going to let it shine all over Little Falls, Minnesota. I really never figured out what that light was all about until I became a Christian years later, that's when the light song started to make sense. The words "Hide it under a bushel, NO, I'm going to let it shine." Points out that sin in ones life hides the light, refusing to tell others about Jesus hides the light. Living like the world hides the light. Jesus said "You are the light of the world." Lets let Jesus shine through our lives today. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Growing Your Faith

"But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:16-17). For a number of months I have been struggling with the subject of faith. I have strongly sensed the Lord saying "trust Me, believe in Me, I am in control. As I prayed about my struggle the Lord brought to mind a very familiar verse (Romans 10:17). However, as He is so gracious to do, He is teaching me a deeper understanding of the principles taught in this verse. The verse says we build our faith by reading and living the Word of God. As we "renew our mind we will be transformed." I am now beginning to see in a new, fresh way that as I saturate my mind and heart with the Word of God, it washes away the lies of the enemy. "You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free." God's Word is absolute truth. Spiritual warfare is a very real part of our Christian lives. Just because we try to ignore the enemy, doesn't mean he will ignore us. He really isn't a gentleman, and you can't bargain with him. Thus we must choose to see the battle as God sees it. He says "Our adversary the devil walks around like a roaring lion seeking who he can devour." We need to put on the whole Armour of God. It starts with the "Belt of truth." This is the Word of God. Here are some statement of truth to meditate on. Each statement come from the Scriptures. Apart from Jesus, I can do nothing; but in Jesus I can do all things. I choose to see myself as He sees me according to His living Word. My life is hid with Christ in God. I l choose to believe the same things that God believes and He has revealed Truth in His Word. How can two walk together if they don't agree? I choose to trust God. His Word will be the final authority in my life. I base my entire life upon God and His living Word. Because I meditate upon His Word day and night and carefully do all that is written in it, I will prosper as He chooses to prosper me. I'm a child of the living God. I'm an heir of God and a joint-heir with Jesus Christ. I'm not just a sinner; I'm a new creation in Jesus. I'm part of a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. I'm one of God's chosen people. Jesus has declared me not guilty. I refuse to be discouraged. God is the God of all encouragement. There is no condemnation for me because I'm in Christ Jesus. Satan is the father of lies. I won't listen to his accusations. I am cleansed by Jesus' blood. No weapon formed against me will succeed. I will disprove every tongue that rises against me in judgment. My mind is being renewed by the word of God. I will pull down strongholds and cast down imaginations. I will bring every thought captive to the will of Christ. I am accepted by God. If God is for me, who can be against me? Greater is He that is within me than he that is in the world. Nothing can separate me from the love of Christ. As the Father loves Jesus, so Jesus loves me. I have the righteousness of God through Christ. I am not a slave of sin, I'm a slave of God and a slave of righteousness. I will continue in God's word. I know the truth and the truth has set me free. I am free indeed because Jesus has set me free. I have been delivered out of the kingdom of darkness. I'm now part of the kingdom of God. I will submit to God. When I resist the devil, he has to flee. No temptation will overcome me which is not common to man. God is faithful. He will not let me be tempted beyond my strength. With any temptation He will also provide me with a way of escape, so that I can endure. Jesus always causes me to triumph. I'll reign as a king in life through Christ Jesus. The Word of God lives in me. I am more than a conqueror through Christ who loves me. I am an over-comer. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. God gives me the victory through Jesus Christ my Lord. I am a success to the glory of God. All His blessings will come upon me and overtake me because I obey the voice of the Lord, my God. I am confident that those who seek the Lord will lack no good thing. I will not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. The Word of God is a truth builder. The more I interact with the Scriptures the stronger my faith will grow. My faith is no better than the object of my faith. And my faith is growing in the Promises of God which never fail. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

On Fire For God

"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." ( Phil. 3:13-14).Paul says he is determined to "Press on toward the goal." To press gives us the picture of going on the track of something, like the hounds pursuing the fox. This was his lifelong commitment, it gripped his heart and guided his life. David Livingstone, pioneer medical missionary to Africa upon returning to Great Britain was asked, "Where do you want to go now?" Without hesitation, like the good Christian pioneer he was, Livingstone replied "I am ready to go anywhere provided it be forward." When we speak of our acceptance with God, we are complete in Christ, as soon as we believe. The work of Christ on our behalf is has been finished, but the work of the Holy Spirit in us is not complete. The work of the Holy Spirit goes on from day by day. The Scriptures speak of our new birth lives in the context of progress. Nearly every term used to describe the believer speaks of growth and change. We are plants in the Lord's field, but we are sown so we may grow. We are born into the family of God, where there are babes, little children, etc. We are pilgrims, warriors, wrestlers. These terms connote the very opposite of idleness. Here are a few quotes on zeal that might stimulate us to ponder what it means in our personal life to truly press on toward the goal."It's easier to cool down a fanatic than warm up a corpse." Brother Andrew"Attempt great things for God; expect great things from God." William Carey" As well a chariot without its steeds, a sun without its beams, a heaven without its joy, as a man of God without zeal." C.H. Spurgeon"I cared not when or how I lived, or what hardships I went through, so that I could gain souls for Christ." David Brained"It is better to wear out than to rust out." Richard Cumberland"A zealous man in religion is a man of one thing. He only sees one thing, he cares for one thing, he is swallowed up in one thing; and that one thing is to please God." J.C. RyleWe need an outbreak of holy heartburn, when hearers shall be doers, when congregations shall go out from meetings to do things for God." Vance Havner" One live coal may set a whole stack on fire." John TrappGet on fire for God and men will come and see you burn." John WesleyO Lord, make me an extraordinary Christian." George Whitefield"Zeal is like fire; in the chimney it is one of the best servants, but out of the chimney it is one of the worst masters." Thomas Brooks The church of Jesus Christ needs to take a hard look at what she is reading and singing. There has been quite a bit of trite fluff (as well as some great books and songs) produced in recent years. Certainly we need books and songs that lift up our Lord and glorify Him. We also need songs and Christian books that speak of total surrender, humility, repentance, sacrifice and fervent prayer. We need to sing and talk about holiness, the fullness of the Holy Spirit and Christian love. We so often live shallow Christian lives, and wonder why we are always in spiritual crisis. Could it be due to our retarded spiritual growth? Maybe we have forgotten that the prize is Christ likeness. We must remember the works that assure maximum productivity in Christ. "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing." (John 15:5). The year was 1023, and the competing track teams of Scotland and France were neck and neck. But among the events remaining was the 440. As the runners, clad in traditional 1920s white, came to the first turn, they were bunched tight, shoulder to shoulder, when one of them was pushed to the ground and off the track. For a second he was down, and then up again, running (though twenty meters behind), his knees high, his head back, flying. As the leaders sprinted toward the finish line, he emerged ahead to win. It was a famous win, immortalized in the movie Chariots of Fire. What would most runners have done? Most would have waved a fist, dusted themselves off, and watched the outcome. Perhaps there would have been a few words exchanged after the race. But the athlete in question was beyond the ordinary. It was as if he had been reading this passage "Forgetting what is behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I focus all my energy on the race; and seeing the goal, I fly to the finish." (Hughes, R. K: The Fellowship of the Gospel. Crossway Books). Years ago, a group of Englishmen tried to conquer Mt. Everest. They pressed on against cold, wind, blizzards, and avalanches. when they came within 2,000 feet of the peak, they set up camp. Two men, Mallory and Irvine, eagerly pressed on, expecting to return in about 16 hours. They never returned. The official record said simply" "When last seen, they were heading toward the summit." Whatever the obstacles in our lives, let's keep pressing on. At life's end, may it be said of each one of us "When last seen, they were heading toward the summit." When the pressure is on, press on. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Changeless Truths in a Changing World

Please read Hebrews 13:8-16. In these eight verses we find several changeless truths that will impact our world of superficiality. Each truth revolves around Christ, the immutable One who is the changeless Rock of stability and faithfulness. First, the doctrine of immutability. We live in a world that knows nothing but accelerating change. God is not fickle; His moods don't swing, and His dealings with us are not subject to cancellation or redefinition. He always deals with us on the basis of His revealed Word. Second, a warning against heresy. The word "Divers" comes from the same Greek word from which we get the term "Polka dot." False teachings come in many colors, they are pleasing to the eye and they sound good to the ear. However, heresy is always destructive to the soul. The text mentions one source of weakness, food, our "Hearts are to be established with grace not meats". The writer is saying "Do what is right and Scriptural." No person is ever benefited by following a heresy. Third, our involvement for spirituality. The writer gives us a list of four specifics that touch the lives of those who embrace grace and the person of Jesus Christ. We have an altar to use. This is a reference to the cross, where Christ's sacrificial offering was made. Those who seek fulfillment in form rather than substance have "No right to eat" from this altar. We also have a reproach to bear. There is a price to pay for identifying with Christ. There is a separation stigma with which we must live. This is part of the curriculum of grace. God has given us a city to seek. This city is on the horizon which God Himself has designed and built. It is in no way earthly. And we have a sacrifice to offer. Although we have no sanctified earthly altar, we still have a sacrifice of praise to offer, that of doing good and giving. Forth, we have a means to practicality. Three perspective-shaping lessons come to light in the above passage. A changing world emphasizes my need for a changeless Christ. A changeless Christ redirects my desire toward a grace relationship. And a grace relationship strengthens my hope in a secure eternity. Are you feeling the need for a Rock to which you can cling? Are you desperate for that which is Unchanging? I encourage you to run to Jesus, "For there's room at the Cross for you!" Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

The Problem With the Familar

In the book of Exodus 33:7-8, we learn that "Moses took the tabernacle and pitched it without the camp, far off from the camp and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation. And it came to pass, that every one who sought the Lord went out to the tabernacle of the congregation which was without the camp." We also must pitch our tent a good distance from the camp, the camp of familiarity. When Jesus told His disciples to follow Him, He called them to leave the familiar pattern of their lives for extended periods and be alone with Him (Matthew 19:27; Luke 14:33). The Lord knows that men, by nature are unconsciously governed by the familiar. In I Corinthians 3:3, Paul rebuked the church at Corinth because they walked "like mere men." Most people pass through life umbilically tied to the familiar. Where have you pitched your spiritual tent? Hebrews 13:12-13 says "Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate. Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach." If we are going live holy, productive, spiritual lives, we must sever the chains and restraints of the bondage of desiring just an average life. We must choose to leave the camp of familiarity and place our tent in the Presence of God. The will of God will never lead you where the grace of God cannot keep you. We serve Adonai, He is the one who must be obeyed. The name implies that all those who submit to Him can enter Christ's perfect rest, expecting to receive God's direction, supervision, and provision. Walking with Him will take you outside the camp of the familiar. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Heart Check Up

We all need an occasional check up. Here is a heart check up that might reveal some spiritual deficiency's. 1. Emotions, have you cried lately? Or have you really laughed? A healthy heart is fully aware of deep emotions, and can name them. 2. Moments, are you present or preoccupied? Ask your spouse, children, or friends if you're "All there" when you're with them. They can say whether your "Skimming key relationships. 3. People, do you resent phone calls and people seeking you out? Or do you see them as opportunities for ministry? If you're running for cover, trying to dodge people you're overextended. 4. Whispers, how long has it been since you heard the still, small voice of God? One of the first signs of a hardening heart is a deafened ear to the quiet promptings of God. As long as we are doing a check up, here are four categories of pride. 1. When I begin to assume responsibilities that belong to God. A. My protection. Psalm 18:2 B. To be critical or judgmental of others. God is the Judge. Romans 2:1-3. C. To take control of my life and situations. I Timothy 6:15; Proverbs 3:5-6. 2. Looking to someone or something to give me only what God can give. A. Worth, value, significance, acceptance. B. Because of the death of Jesus Christ, I have all these in Christ. Ephesians 1:3-6. 3. Holding on to things that rightly belong to God. A. My life, physical body, time, plans, secret desires. Romans 12:12; Galatians 2:20; colossians 3:2. B. Possessions, they belong to the Lord. If you think you own something, you don't own it, it owns you. 4. Neglecting or rejecting what God has clearly told me to do. James 4:6-10. Remember, to be prideful and half hearted is to get the worst of both worlds. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

God's Overlay

A thought I received from a book by Henry Blackaby has intrigued me. Henry said "At times God will overlay your heart with His heart." When I was a pastor I would use an overhead projector (that should date me). In using overlays, I would at times lay down a simple map, and then overlay that map with a another overlay, the second overlay would add dimensions not seen in the first. The idea of God's heart overlaying my heart fleshes out new aspects to my Christian life and this brings hope. I have prayed many times "God break my heart with the things that break your heart." I believe every child of God wants to know the heart of God. God often allows pain to ignite purpose and destiny in our lives. That is why he said "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" (James 1:2-5). Without motivation, many of us would never fulfill the purposes for which God created us. Oftentimes a measured assault invades our life and creates a depth of pain that all we know to do is snuggle up to God with all our being. The closer we get into God's heart the more we experience God. When we cry out to Him in absolute abandonment, and He is faithful to walk through the trial with us. I am certain you remember the poem dealing with the footsteps in the sand. The upshot was only one set of footprints meant God was carrying the writer of the poem. How many times has God carried us when we were void of strength to carry on? God and God alone is the source of life, and He is in charge of igniting purpose in our lives. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Walking Humbly with God

In Micah 6:8 our Lord says "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do Justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God." the subject of humility is a difficult one in our world where personal pride rules the day. This outline is taken from Chuck Swindoll's book a life well lived. I would highly recommend this book. You may purchase it for just over $10.00 by going to www.amazon.com. The final chapter closes on this note, "A life well lived honors the Lord and inspires others, but it also produces rewards for the one who lives it. He then lists six of the rewards: -The sustained cultivation of exemplary character -The continued relief of a clear conscience -The personal delight of intimacy with the Almighty -The high privilege of being a mentor -The crowning reward of finishing well -A priceless, lingering legacy for those we love. I am going to attempt to expand each of these rewards. 1. The sustained cultivation of exemplary character. We are daily building what we are becoming. Someone said "We are not human beings as much as human becomings." We will be forever what we are becoming today. Each choice we make builds our character. Our walk with the Lord, is a huge factor, in considering what we will become. We are to become like Jesus.2. The continued relief of a clear conscience. Learning to ask forgiveness. Being quick to forgive. Bitterness grows in the soil of an unforgiving heart. Strive to quickly make things right with everyone you wrong. Being careful with the use of your tongue, check to be sure your attitude would glorify Jesus. Keep very short accounts with God. 3. The personal delight of intimacy with the Almighty. God created us that we might "Glorify Him and enjoy Him forever." Someone said that we glorify Him by enjoying Him forever. To walk in fellowship with the Lord is the greatest privilege we will ever have. I personally enjoy fellowship. My father is in his late 80's and if I call him and fail to visit with him at least an hour it, in his mind, doesn't really qualify as a call. Our Father in Heaven loves us and delights in our fellowship. He has His plan for our lives all worked out. He has never made a mistake and he never will. My personal experience has been that the closer I get the the Lord the greater the attack from the enemy. However, we are given strength in the time of attack, and there is no better place to remain than in fellowship with our Father.4. The high privilege of being a mentor. When we walk with the Lord others around us will follow. That is what discipleship is all about. We make disciples by teaching other to follow Christ. We teach them to obey all that Christ taught. Others use us as an example to follow. Paul said "Be followers of me, as I am a follower of Christ." Who is following you? How well are you doing as you seek to follow Christ? 5. The crowing reward of finishing well. Not all who begin the race well, finish well. I remember a young man in Bible College who bragged to all who would listen that he was going to be the next great evangelist of our time. He didn't last a full semester. Many go up like a rocket and come down like a rock. How often are we prone to distraction or discouragement. I have seen believers just plain quit because something in their life fell apart or didn't go the way they told God it should go. Let's determine that we will run and finish well. The words "Well done, good and faithful servant" coming from the lips of Jesus will more that make it worth while. Actually it's worth it all right now. 6. A priceless, lingering legacy for those we love. What are you leaving for those you love? Do those close to you delight in what the Lord has passed to them through you? I believe every family has a "Hush". There are things in all of our pasts that we would rather not be there. However God's grace is far greater than our past. Ask the Apostle Paul, the former Christian killer, about God's grace. His Epistles are full of writtings about the grace of God. What are you going to leave for others, that will help build lives, and the kingdom of God? What does the Lord want you to do today? Is there anything in your life He wants to help you change? Let's all strive to finish with a life well lived. Dr. Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

Walking In The Light

Have you ever tried working in the dark? A simple job can become quite a chore when you lack light. Do you remember walking in the dark? I grew up on a farm, for a number of years we did not have in door plumbing. We had an outhouse about a hundred yards from the house. We used to say "If you want to use the bath, take the path." Because the outhouse was located in the woods, walking the path at night without a light was a daunting task. More than once I fell on my face due to a lack of light. The same happens in the spiritual realm. The Bible tells us that "The unfolding of your word gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.”- Psalm 119:130. When we drink from the Word of life we receive light. God unfolds His light at the same rate as we are ready to receive light. Truth and understanding come through the Word. Are you walking in the Light today. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

The Importance Of Wisdom

Someone defined wisdom as the right use of knowledge. Our world is replete with knowledge but painfully short on wisdom. The book of Proverbs is filled with wise sayings. We read "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." (Prov. 1"7). Many are those who simply grow old rather than growing wise. The Word of God is filled with wisdom for it gives us the thoughts of God. One may be wise and young or it's possible to be foolish and old. God gives wisdom to us as we seek Him and learn His ways. There is practical wisdom that comes by living life according to God's principles. Recently my 19 year old son traveled to Ice Land, he went alone and proceeded to make friends in every town he visited. He got caught in an ice storm in the mountains and lived in a tent for two days until the danger passed. He has a lot of practical wisdom along with a lot of fortitude for trying new things. However he left his (really my) car in a church parking lot while he was gone. He parked it with the emergency brake on. When he returned the right rear brake had rusted and when he tried to drive the car the wheel slid. Backing the vehicle up did not break it loose. Good old dad had the car towed to his drive way and spent an hour beating on the brake drum to get it loose. My wife reminded me our son is only 19. Which reminded me that God said I am dust and that I have feet of clay. However God is my Father and He takes care of me, and is there to help me when I lack wisdom and make poor choices. God is the God of Providence. The word providence comes from two Greek words. One means to see (video) and the other means before hand (pro). Thus the Lord sees to it before hand. He already has it worked out, knowing what we need before we ask Him. That is why He said "Before you call I will answer you." How many times do we fret over circumstances when God has seen to it already. The Scriptured tell us that "Our Lord is an ever present help in the time of need." The Hebrew language carries the idea of "in the nick of time". I believe wisdom grows best in the soil of trust, it is always wise to trust the Lord. The Word tells us "We have the mind of Christ." The mind of Christ is a peaceful mind, it is also a pure mind, a purposeful mind, a single mind, and a disciplined mind. Our minds are renewed as we saturate them with the wisdom of God. David said because he meditated on the Scriptures he was "Wiser than all his teachers." The Word of God is "Able to make us wise unto salvation." Abraham Lincoln said "Many times I am driven to my knees because the wisdom of those around me seems insufficient for the the day." One may be intelligent but not wise. Martin Luther said "If we educated our youth apart from the truth of the Scriptures we will create clever devils." Where are you getting your "Wisdom" from. There are many wells, drink from the one that is not polluted. "If the ax is dull and it's edge unsharpened, more strength is needed but wisdom will bring success" (Eccl 10:10). Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling appointments, and local church meetings.