Testimony | THE BIBLE VIEW

The BIBLE VIEW #948 — Quitting

In This Issue:
Marching On
Don’t Quit!
Loyalty

Volume: 948 March 11, 2024
Theme: Quitting

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Marching On
Bill Brinkworth

In respect to the many unidentified, fallen soldiers, there is a monument to their honor at the Arlington National Cemetery. It is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. There, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the elite guards of the 3rd U. S. Infantry watch over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier through all weather conditions.

Many visitors go to watch the precision of the guards, especially at the time of the changing of the lone guard. It is a precision exchange of the patrol. During one such change, the relief Commander, inspecting the Tomb Sentinel’s weapon, dropped the rifle for a split second. During that time, the bayonet speared through the Sentinel’s shoe. Both, trained to be respectful and to finish their task, never let it be known what had happened.

A bystander’s filming of the event showed the quick slip and a quick grimace on the soldier’s face as the sharp blade pierced his foot. As the Commander regained control of the weapon, the exercise was continued. Most did not know what had happened as the two soldiers continued. Their duty was completed, rhythm was never lost, and the two continued their task. They marched on. Except for the blood from the one man’s foot injury and a quick grimace, bystanders never knew what had transpired.

The same should be said of faithful believers. They may face trials, tribulations, and tremendous testing, but their testimony should still be upheld, and their mission should be continued. They have hope and guidance no matter what befalls them. With the confidence that whatever happens in their life, no matter what pain, suffering, stress, or discomfort they face, they are on the winning side and will ultimately be victorious.

I have been at a funeral where a wife had lost her husband of 50+ years. There was peace in her handling such a tremendous loss, and her biggest concern that day was more for the hardships of some who gave her their condolences than her loss. She marched on.

In the hospital room of a man suffering the ravages of a dreadful and sometimes painful disease, the godly patient was more concerned about the hardships an unsaved hospital roommate was facing than his own. He was more burdened for the soul of the lost person than his difficulty. He marched on, and his anguish was barely noticeable as he dealt with his trial.

The generosity of the aged woman was tremendous. The one who visited her had tremendous needs for her family and out-of-work husband. The widow saw the need and was burdened for her young visitor. She loaded the visitor up with goods she had preserved earlier that year and many other necessities she found on her mostly empty shelves. She gave almost all she had, and the needy visitor never even knew that she was being given almost the last the elderly woman had to eat. The aged widow marched on knowing that the good Lord, who had always provided in the past, would again help her in her time of need.

Some Christians go through trials and testing poorly, kicking, screaming, and blaming God. Others are confident that their God knows of their situation, trust wholly in His control, and have peace in their valley of tribulation. When you face difficulties, do you trust that God’s grace through the trial will be enough, or are you a “kicker and a screamer”? Are you a good testimony for the cause of Christ, or not? Do you march on to complete your task, no matter what happens in your life?
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” II Cor 12:9-10 Also: I Peter 4:14.

“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And that which I can do, by the grace of God, I will do.” — D. L. Moody

Don’t Quit!
Bill Brinkworth

Too many quit or desire to when the going gets rough. In most cases, one never really quits the problem; one just runs away from it. The dilemma is still there.

Quitters are everywhere:

Husbands feel they cannot handle the “burden” of being a husband and father and run away. Although he is distant from his family, he is still a father and husband. His running away has not changed that. The problem he ran away from usually gets far bigger than it originally was because he failed to deal with the situation.
Wives run off, abandoning families and husbands. However, she is still a wife and mother. She’s just missing in action.
Children sometimes do not like their parents’ rules. They run away, but they still have the same parents. They just put space between the unsolved problem that will probably haunt them the rest of their lives unless they stay and work out the difficulty.
Students quit school but usually spend their lives without training and education. The rest of their lives are stalled because they never learned the lessons needed to improve their lives.
Friends quit long-term friendships because of arguments.
Employees quit when they do not like what is happening at the workplace.

It usually is easy to walk away from an uncomfortable situation. It does not take character, intelligence, or common sense to run away when the way gets tough. Rarely is anything solved by quitting, however.

There will always be problems in life. Unsolved problems have a way of following us wherever we go.

Many take their quitting lifestyle and try to apply it to their spiritual lives. Here are several reasons why one cannot quit on God:

You cannot quit being a Christian. Once a true Christian, always a Christian. You did not earn it. Salvation was a gift if you trusted Jesus’ finished work on the cross as payment for all your sins. You cannot lose that, if you really trusted Him in the first place. However, too many quit being Christ-like, and that is why this world is flooded with persons professing to be Christians, but their lifestyles and testimonies do not look any different than a lost person’s.
“And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” John 10:28-29

You cannot quit because the enemy has nothing to offer. There are only two sides – Satan’s and God’s. If you are truly saved by faith, you cannot get unsaved and be on the loser’s side. You can, however, have a life that looks like the losing side and have little peace in this life.
“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13

You cannot quit because victory may be just around the corner. Troubles and tribulations are part of the school of life. You may be very close to passing the “test” and completing life’s next lesson. Do not quit now.
“And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” II Timothy 4:18

You cannot quit when you make a mistake. Just get back in the saddle and try again.
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:35-39

You cannot quit now; you will miss the harvest. Maybe one day, your problem will be over, and you will reap a blessing from the tribulation. Perhaps it will be tomorrow or the day after. Spiritual fruit does not come the day it is planted.
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15:58 Also: John 15:4.

Life always has difficulties. If you are a Christian, you are on the winning side. Do not quit now. Victory is possible, and it is a blessing when it is achieved.

“Don’t think you get nothing from quitting. You get guilt, anger, depression, confusion, etc. … You never said they were feelings you wanted.”
— Nicholas O’Callaghan

Loyalty
Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, March 5

“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” Acts 20:24

Joy means the perfect fulfillment of that for which I was created and regenerated, not just the successful doing of a thing. The joy of our Lord was in doing what the Father sent Him to do, and He said, “Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.” John 20:21

Have I received a ministry from the Lord? If so, I have to be loyal to it, to count my life precious only for the fulfilling of that ministry. Think of the satisfaction it will be to hear Jesus say, “… Well done, thou good and faithful servant: …” (Mat. 25:21); to know that you have done what He sent you to do. We have all should find our niche in life, and spiritually we find it when we receive our ministry from the Lord. In order to do, this we must have companied with Jesus. We must know Him as more than a personal Saviour.
“… lovest thou me? … Feed my sheep.” (John 21:16)

There is no choice of service, only absolute loyalty to our Lord’s commission, and loyalty to do what you discern when you are in closest contact with God. If you have received a ministry from the Lord Jesus, you will know that the need is never the call; the need is the opportunity. The call is loyalty to the ministry you received when you were in real touch with Him.

“O Father, may it never be said of us that having come to an open door, we closed it; having come to a lighted candle, we quenched it; having heard the voice of a neighbor begging bread, we made denial.” — Mc Kenzie

The BIBLE VIEW #947 —Your Testimony

In This Issue:
Be A Bright Light
New Things

Volume: 947 March 4, 2024
Theme: Your Testimony

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Be A Bright Light
Bill Brinkworth

Christians should avoid being pooch-lipped and sad. They should do their best not to display looks of hopelessness and despair seen on the faces and in the lives of unbelievers because:

We are on God’s winning side no matter what happens around or to us! We should have peace and be comforted!
“But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
I Corinthians 15:57
“For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?” I John 5:4-5
“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
“Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” Romans 8:37
Believers can be victorious here on Earth, no matter their situation. One day, however, we will be in a place the unsaved will never experience — Heaven!
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36
“He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” Revelation 21:7
We must show the world that, although we are troubled by the sin surrounding us and circumstances we may battle, we have confidence that the Lord is in control!
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” Colossians 3:15
We have hope. The unsaved do not!
“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15:13
“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;” Rom. 12:12
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31
We should represent God’s blessing that the world should see. May our example be a godly, encouraging one.
“O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. 2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;” Psalms 107:1-2
“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” I Timothy 4:12
“Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” I Corinthians 11:1
“Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” Philippians 4:9
Our testimony must be one of peace, victory, and godliness, not sadness and without hope, as the unsaved often display.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
“Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul.” Psalm 66:16
“Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:” Luke 12:8
God loves us!
“And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Romans 5:5
“Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Rom. 8:39
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.” I John 3:1 Also: II Cor. 13:11, Eph. 3:19.

Be a shining Christian. You may be the only exposure to Christianity others know. Is your testimony a bright, godly beacon that others desire to follow, or is your example further evidence to observing unbelievers that being a Christian does not change anything?

“Count your blessings, not your troubles.” — Author Unknown

New Things
Bill Brinkworth

Living a biblical lifestyle is undoubtedly the old way — the way much of mankind has lived for over 6,000 years. Living that way may be “old-fashioned,” but there are many new things that obeying and living for the Lord can offer.

Here are some of the new things God still gives and desires all to have and experience:

A new birth. When one becomes a child of God, he has a new spiritual birth. He is a new, different creature.
“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3
“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” I Peter 1: 23
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” II Corinthians 5:17

A new joy, happiness, and purpose. Being born again is wonderful. It comes with new chances in life with great joy and happiness.
“O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods” Psalms 96:1-3
“And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.” Psalms 40:3 Also: Psalms 98:1.

A new heart. God gives, along with salvation, a new heart that has new desires, purposes, and hopes.
“A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.” Ezekiel 36:26
“Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even gather you from the people, and assemble you out of the countries where ye have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel. And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh: That they may walk in my statutes, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11: 17-20 These verses were written about the people of Israel, but the principle can be applied to us.

A new outlook. Life is seen differently. When one is saved, educated from the Word of God, and obedient to it, life looks a lot different. Activities and actions of the past now may appear contrary to God’s commands and harmful rather than “fun.” The “old, dead” Bible now becomes alive and helpful.
“Thou hast heard, see all this; and will not ye declare it? I have shewed thee new things from this time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them.” Isaiah 46: 6

A new, changed life (a new mind). Along with other new blessings comes the “mind of Christ” which thinks much differently than before the new birth.
“And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” Colossians 3:10
“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.” Ephesians 4:22-27

A new day filled with second chances and other opportunities. Just as a new day brings fresh opportunities and expectations, God gives the born-again soul a second chance in life.
“It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

A new testament. A new covenant. A “testament” is a document declaring the will and desires of a person. The New Testament God gave man is not only part of the Bible, but it is His will and the new covenant (commitments or promises) He made with man. It tells of God’s will for man in this church age.
“And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” Mat. 26:27-28
“And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.” Mark 14: 24

A new world. One day, God will destroy this world and create a new one.
“For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered.” Isaiah 65:7
“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.” Revelation 21:1 Also II Pet. 3:3.

“I can’t help thinking of the old woman, when the civil war started, who started out with a poker in her hand. When asked what she would do with it, she said, “I can’t do much with it, but I can show which side I’m on.” My friend, even if you can’t do much for the cause of Christ, you can show the world whose side you are on.” — Author Unknown

The BIBLE VIEW #941 — Our Speech

In This Issue:
But, You Promised!
Mind Your Speech
Your Words

Volume: 941 January 22, 2024
Theme: Our Speech

Update

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But, You Promised!
Bill Brinkworth

“For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? 4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.” Romans 3:3-4

There was a time when one’s promise would usually be upheld and trusted. Four copies of notarized signed documents were not needed.

A person’s handshake and words of commitment were substantial no matter what happened. Even if there were problems after the agreement, those who gave their promises would uphold their obligations, no matter what. It was their promise, and it had great value to them and others.

Today, one’s word and signed legal documents are no guarantee that one’s promise will come to fruition. One’s oral commitment means little in many transactions.

What went wrong? Why are the promises of politicians, business partners, friends, and other associates of little value many times?

For most, the standard for moral values, the Bible, has lost its importance, and its teachings have never been instilled in lives. God’s Word defines right and wrong, and many wander through life without godly advice, direction, or conviction.

Without instilling the Bible’s moral commandments and remembering God’s firm reprisals when one breaks them, there will be no knowledge of them and certainly no fear when God’s ordinances are violated.

Little guilt or embarrassment is experienced when a commitment is broken. Sometimes, conscienceless excuses are justified when one’s promises are broken. “Well, he was dumb to trust me. That’s his problem,” “It’s not written and legal, so I don’t have to honor what I told her,” or even “I lost my job. I promised I’d pay, but I can’t afford my rent anymore, so what does the landlord expect of me?” Those are just a few excuses one hears when one’s commitments are not upheld.

Without one’s upheld promise, transactions and the trust of others will disappear. Society will change as characters will not be relied upon. Additional laws will attempt to force people to honor their words and commitments.

However, unbiblical immorality will constantly challenge laws and attempts to do what at one time was natural to do. Promises will not be upheld.

There needs to be value in what one says. If one says one will do something, it should be done. When someone says, “I will be there at 5:00, all efforts to meet that time should be made.” If not, it will be quickly realized by others that one’s word cannot be trusted.”

Because of unkept promises and valueless words, society will breed untrusted generations. That danger can be stopped by values, including the keeping of promises.

Keep your word. If you said you would do something, do it. Your character is at stake, and it is important.

Others are watching and remembering. Be the trustworthy example others need to hear.
“He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.” Luke 16:10

“Promises may get thee friends, but non-performance will turn them into enemies.” — Benjamin Franklin

Mind Your Speech
Bill Brinkworth

God gave man the ability to speak. The purpose of speech is for His creation to communicate with others and to bring glory to Him. However, man’s sinful, self-centered nature does not always use one’s lips for the intended purpose.

Here are some of God’s wisdom of what to do with the gift He gave us, as is revealed in Proverbs 15:

To squelch nasty arguments, lower your voice in heated discussions, and it will diffuse anger.
“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” Prov. 15:1
Purpose to present facts and not popular answers or opinions.
“The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.” Proverbs 15:28
Be wise and not hurtful in what you say. Use the truth to inform others and to help them, not just opinions and assumptions.
“The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.” Proverbs 15:2 Also: Prov. 15:7.
“A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4
Be kind and considerate when speaking to others.
“The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.” Proverbs 15:26
There is a time to say certain things. Wait patiently for the right moment to share your thoughts, experiences, and suggestions.
“A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!” Proverbs 15:23

Use the God-given gift of speech to help others, not to separate, hurt, deceive, or sway others in areas that are not right or helpful. Your testimony, especially if you are a child of God, often rides on what you have said. Speak carefully.

Oh, be careful, little tongue, what you say,
Oh, be careful, little tongue, what you say.
There’s a Father up above looking down in love,
So be careful, little tongue, what you say. — Child’s Song, Author Unknown

Your Words
Bill Brinkworth

God’s words, as preserved in the Bible, are always honest and can be trusted (Prov. 30:15). Our words, however, are not always truthful and not as reliable as His. Everyone sins with their mouth.

“Word” is used at least 704 times in the King James Bible. Although it often refers to God’s Word, we can see by many references that our speech is important to God. Some of those verses show us what God thinks about what comes out of our mouths.

In Romans 1, at least 30 sins are mentioned. At least fifteen of those sins involve what was said. Some iniquities mentioned are unthankfulness, debating, deceitfulness, gossiping, backbiting, pride, boasting, disobedience to parents, and covenant-breaking.

Although there are over 600 commandments in the Old Testament, the popularly known “Ten” includes at least three commandments that can involve our tongue. It should be evident to all that our tongue can be used for good, or it can be used to sin.

Here is some of what the Bible says about the words that can come out of our mouths:

Many sins are with the tongue. Our tongues can be behind some of our iniquities.
“Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.” James 3:5-6
“But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” James 3:8
Thy tongue deviseth mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully.” Psalms 52:2
“Who whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows, even bitter words:” Psalm 64:3 Also: Isa. 6:5, Prov. 30:5, Mat. 12:32, Job 15:5, Psa. 15:3, Psa. 73:9, Prov. 6:17. Prov. 15:2, Prov. 17:4, Prov. 18:21 Prov. 21:6, Prov. 26:28.
Be careful what the tongue says. It can and should be controlled!
“Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.” Psalm 34:13
“Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.” Ecclesiastes 5:2
“Teach me, and I will hold my tongue: and cause me to understand wherein I have erred.” Job 6:24 Also: Job 27:4, Proverbs 10:31, I Peter 3:10.
We will be accountable for every word we say!
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” Matthew 12:36
“The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things:” Psalm 12:3
“For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether.” Psalm 139:4
“If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.” James 1:26

There were times when Jesus, our example, knew to say nothing. Sometimes, following His example and saying nothing in certain situations would be best.
“And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.” Matthew 27:14
The tongue can be used for good.
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” Colossians 3:17
“And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long.” Psalm 35:28
“The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth.” Proverbs 10:20 Also: I Timothy 4:12, Proverbs 15:4, Proverbs 14:15.
There will be a time when we should speak what God wants us to say. Use your tongue for His glory.
“And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:11

Like the rest of our body, our tongue was part of God’s creation. Its creation was not intended for us to use it to sin against our Creator.

A saved person should strive to control what is uttered by one’s tongue. Some of the best advice for those desiring to please God and wanting to control their tongue comes from the adage, “If you can’t say anything good, don’t say anything.”

“The tongue is more to be feared than the sword.” — Japanese Proverb

The BIBLE VIEW #890 — Christian Example

In This Issue:
It Could Have Been Me
A Child of God Should Be…
I Am A Soldier

Volume: 890 January 1, 20239
Theme: Christian Example

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It Could Have Been Me
Bill Brinkworth

Thank you, Lord. I am grateful for your mercy, love, and all the “second, third… hundredth…” chances you have given me.

I was saved. So many had the opportunity, did not trust Christ as their Saviour, and sooner than they expected, they died. As far as anyone knows, they are in Hell! It could be me that died lost!
I did many terrible things, and many horrible events happened to me, but I did not die. It could have been me that perished because of my foolishness! God protected me so that I could get saved and serve Him. So many did fewer dumb things than I did and perished.
I am glad after I got saved that I took my salvation seriously. I studied the Bible, attended church, did my best to obey what God showed me to do, and served Him with all my heart. So many also got saved, did nothing for the Lord, died, and now they must surely be regretting their mistakes.
I am overwhelmed that God gave me opportunities and used me to do His will. There are many more intelligent, talented people that could have done so much for Him but did not. They wasted much of their life when they could have done great things for the Lord and society. It could have been me that was useless to the cause of Christ.
I am so appreciative that I learned proper biblical doctrines. God allowed me to have excellent Bible preachers, teachers, and friends. So many, brighter than I, believed unbiblical teachings, followed the wrong doctrines and did not please the Lord. Because of their ignorance of His truths, they were, often unknowingly, disobedient to His Word. It could have been me that followed the wrong Spirit and false teachings.

My realizations are not meant as boastings. I recall that God even used a donkey to do His bidding by talking to a man of God (Number 22:28). So, if He can use a donkey, He can certainly use me. We both were willing, and you?

“He that turneth from the road to rescue another, turneth toward his goal; he shall arrive by the footpath of mercy; God will be his guide.” — Henry VanDyke

A Child of God Should Be…
Bill Brinkworth

Christians are often the only source the unsaved see that glorifies our God, His will, and His way. Godly men and women should represent Him by living differently than those not born again.

Here, in this study on the “man of God,” men, and in most cases women, can see how their lifestyle should be. A saved person should be:

A Christ-like example.
“But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” I Timothy 6:11
“That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” II Timothy 3:17

A blessing to others, as was Moses.
“And this is the blessing, wherewith Moses the man of God blessed the children of Israel before his death.” Deuteronomy 33:1

A praying person and a leader, as was Moses.
“A Prayer of Moses the man of God. Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations.” Psalm 90:1
“Pray without ceasing.” I Thessalonians 5:17

Honorable, knows the mind of God, is known from afar, and someone to go to when there’s a problem, as was Samuel.
“And he said unto him, Behold now, there is in this city a man of God, and he is an honourable man; all that he saith cometh surely to pass: now let us go thither; peradventure he can shew us our way that we should go.” I Samuel 9:6

Able to “hear” and be obedient to God, as was a man of God during Jeroboam’s day.
“And, behold, there came a man of God out of Judah by the word of the LORD unto Bethel: and Jeroboam stood by the altar to burn incense.” I King 13:1
“The altar also was rent, and the ashes poured out from the altar, according to the sign which the man of God had given by the word of the LORD.” I King 13:5

Speaks and knows the truth, as did Elijah.
“And the woman said to Elijah, Now by this I know that thou art a man of God, and that the word of the LORD in thy mouth is truth.” I Kings 17:24

Speaks for God.
“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.” I Kings 20:28

Trusts God, as did Elijah.
“And Elijah answered and said to the captain of fifty, If I be a man of God, then let fire come down from heaven, and consume thee and thy fifty. And there came down fire from heaven, and consumed him and his fifty… 14 Behold, there came fire down from heaven, and burnt up the two captains of the former fifties with their fifties: therefore let my life now be precious in thy sight….” II Kings 1:10-14

Obeys God’s commandments (“law”), as did Solomon.
“And he appointed, according to the order of David his father, the courses of the priests to their service, and the Levites to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required: the porters also by their courses at every gate: for so had David the man of God commanded.” II Chronicles 8:14

Able to discern what to do in many situations.
“But there came a man of God to him, saying, O king, let not the army of Israel go with thee; for the LORD is not with Israel, to wit, with all the children of Ephraim.” II Chronicles 25:7

Chastised by the Lord when necessary.
“And when the prophet that brought him back from the way heard thereof, he said, It is the man of God, who was disobedient unto the word of the LORD: therefore the LORD hath delivered him unto the lion, which hath torn him, and slain him, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake unto him.” I Kings 13:26

“If you want your neighbor to see what the Christ spirit will do for him, let him see what it has done for you.” — H. Beecher

I Am A Soldier
Author Unknown

“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” II Timothy 2:3

I am a soldier in the army of my God. The Lord Jesus Christ is my commanding officer. The Holy Bible is my code of conduct. Faith, prayer, and God’s Word are my weapons of warfare. I have been taught by the Holy Spirit, trained by experience, tried by adversity, and tested by fire.

I am a volunteer in His army, and I have enlisted for eternity. I will either retire at the rapture or die in His army, but I will not get out, sell out, be talked out, or be pushed out. I am faithful, reliable, capable, and dependable. If my God needs me, I am there. If He needs me in the Sunday school to teach the children or work with the youth, if He needs me to work with the adults, He can use me because I am there.

I am a soldier! I am not a baby. I do not need to be pampered, petted, primed up, pumped up, picked up, or pepped up. I am a soldier!

No one has to call me, remind me, write me, visit me, entice me, or lure me. I am a soldier! I’m not a wimp. I am in place, saluting my King, obeying His orders, praising His name, and building His kingdom. No one has to send me flowers, gifts, food, cards, candy, or give me handouts. I do not need to be cuddled, coddled, cradled, cared for, or be catered to. I am committed. I cannot have my feelings hurt bad enough to turn me around, and I cannot be discouraged enough to cause me to quit.

When Jesus called me into this army, I had nothing. If I end up with nothing, I will still come out ahead. If I win, my God is the reason, and He will continue to supply all my needs.

I am more than a conqueror. I will always triumph. I can do all things through Christ. The devil cannot defeat me. People cannot disillusion me. Weather cannot weary me. Sickness cannot stop me. Battles cannot beat me. Money cannot buy me. Governments cannot silence me, and Hell cannot handle me. I am a soldier! Even death cannot destroy me.

When my commander calls me from His battlefield, He will promote me to captain and then allow me to rule with Him. I am a soldier in His army, and I am marching and claiming the victory. I will not give up. I will not turn around. I am a soldier marching Heaven bound. Here I stand! Will you stand with me?

“Loyalty that will do anything, that will endure anything, that will make the whole being consecrate to Him, is what Christ wants. Anything else is not worthy of Him. — Burdett Hart

The BIBLE VIEW#889 — Christian Examples

In This Issue:
Wet Wood
The Keeper’s Light
Gone and Missed
Bad Choice
Start Doing

Volume: 889 December 19, 2022
Theme: Christian Example

Wet Wood
Bill Brinkworth

Like many, we try to avoid using the house furnace to heat our house in the winter and try to heat it as much as possible with our wood stove.

Every summer, I cut, split, and stack wood for winter’s use. In the cold months, I use the oak that was split back in July. It burns hot, starts quickly, and does a wonderful job of heating the house. It seems, however, that I never split enough.

In early fall, I continue to split more, but it has not dried enough when I use it in December or January. Yes, it burns, but the heat is half as much as seasoned wood produces. It needs more attention, or it will go out. As it burns, it is not hard to hear the water still in the wood, bubbling and sizzling.

As I was burning the wetter wood at the end of this season, I thought about how much it was like many Christians. Because of their involvement in sin, lack of spiritual growth, or decisions to not give their utmost to the Highest, they never totally achieve God’s full potential for them.

Yes, they had gotten saved, but that is about where it ends. Unfaithfully, they attend church or start reading their Bible, but soon their attempts fizzle out. If someone visits them, they may go to church that one time.

It seems they are high-maintenance Christians. They require a lot of attention to keep living the way they should. They’re like the wet wood; they do not burn hot for the Lord. They constantly need “stoking.”

Like the sap-soaked green wood, it will not be long until their little light flickers out. They will not lose their salvation, but it will not be long until their church pew is empty, or they will be one of the countless that are saved but not doing anything with their salvation.

What a waste of a precious, spiritual life they are. God had such grand plans for them. It is a shame their light is close to flickering out; if they would only “dry out.” No one can do it for them. They have to do it for themselves.

They must decide on whom they will serve and how fervently. It is they that have to obey the commands God has already laid on their hearts through reading Scripture or convictions laid there from a Sunday sermon. The choice must be theirs. This world desperately needs seasoned, mature Christians to warm this dying, cold world with fervent, godly heat!

“To walk on water, you first have to get out of the boat!.” — Author Unknown

The Keeper’s Light
Author Unknown

A traveler once, visiting the lighthouse at Calais, said to the keeper, “What if one of your lights should go out at night?”

“Never. Impossible!” the lighthouse keeper cried. “Sir, yonder are ships sailing to all parts of the world. If tonight one of my burners were out, in six months, I will hear from America, or India, saying that on such a night the lights at Calais lighthouse gave no warning, and some vessel had been wrecked. Ah, sir! Sometimes I feel, when I look upon my lights, as if the eyes of the entire world were fixed upon me. Go out! Burn dim! Never! Impossible!”

What a lesson to the Christian! It is not just good intentions that make the Christian a spiritual lighthouse for the world. Let then his example be full, bright, and clear. The moment he neglects it, and leaves his “lamps” untrimmed, some poor soul, struggling amid the waves of temptation, will be dashed upon the rocks of destruction for lack of a good, Christian testimony to draw them to safety.

“If you want your neighbor to see what the Christ spirit will do for him, let him see what it has done for you.” — H. Beecher

Gone and Missed
T. Cuyler – edited

We missed him when he was gone. When he went home to Glory, he left something more than a tomb behind him. He left a goodly heritage of holy deeds. There is a fragrant perfume yet lingering about his precious memory; a trail of light that followed his luminous pathway has not yet died away from his saddened disappearance from this earth.

He was a legible Christian. There was no mistaking him. He never stood upon debatable ground. He never required one to search the church records to see if he was only a professor of “religion.” We felt and saw his “religion.”

You might have followed him by the fragrance of his Christ-like deeds of well-doing. You might enter the house of sorrow and see that he had been there by the weeping eyes once more dried and the broken hearts he encouraged. You might enter an abode of poverty and know that he had been there by the plentiful stores he had left behind. If you saw a group of children gathered by the wayside, you might have conjectured that he was there already giving out packages of little booklets and New Testaments. We all felt him in every good enterprise: in the prayer circle, Sunday school, and church. His mark was left pretty much everywhere.

But now there is a great blank in our meetings and gatherings. We wait in vain for his beseeching, tremulous voice that well we knew had the ear and heart of God. The teachers’ prayer meeting is not the same now that he is gone. The little Bible class that met at Widow Mear’s house is now without a shepherd.

It was a little time since a long procession wound its way, with many weeping eyes out of the village churchyard. That grave, beside which you may sometimes see an aged woman in black bending over it, had a stone with a touching date engraved on it. It reads, “aged twenty-four years.” His slight form and boyish expression made him look younger than that, but his testimony and work for the Lord surpassed most of those that were older than 60 years.

When it is our time to go to Glory, will we leave such a testimony behind?

“The path may lead, but examples draw.” — H. G. Bohn

Bad Choice
F. W. Robertson- edited

Lot chose wisely by the world’s standards. Well, if this world be all, he got rich soil, became a prince, and had kings for neighbors. It was nothing to Lot that “the men of the land were sinners before the Lord exceedingly.” It was more important to him that the land was well-watered everywhere.

But his wife became addicted to her city’s glitter and enticements, and his children were tainted with ineradicable corruption. Warnings from God finally got him and his family to leave. All they gained for their time in that community was left behind. It was a wasted time for Lot and his family.

Lot’s wife looked back with lingering regret upon their splendid home and was turned into encrusting salt. His children carried with them into a new life the plague-spot of sin they “caught” from their exposure while living in the city devoted to wicked living. All that he had built in their life in Sodom was buried by the wrath of God. The remainder of his life was spent in shame. He did not make a good choice of friends and lifestyle after all.

“Where one man reads the Bible, a hundred read you and me.” — D. L. Moody

Start Doing
Harry Todd

He that goes forth weeping,
Bearing precious seed.
Shall doubtless come rejoicing,
Bringing sheaves, indeed.

But too many Christians
Are standing idle today,
Telling others to take it easy
Instead of telling them “The Way.”

Christ commands us, “Go,”
And the rich man in Hell
Still echoes, “I have five brethren,
Won’t someone go and tell!”

James said to be not only hearers,
But be ye doers too,
You’ve heard many times,
When are you going to do?

We are saved to serve;
There is a job to do,
A few are serving Christ,
What excuse have you?

Christ is coming soon,
To catch His bride away.
Now it is the time to work,
Christians, start today!

The BIBLE VIEW #873 — Your Testimony

In This Issue:
He Says He’s a Soldier
What Others See
“It Will Always Shine!”

Volume: 873 August 29, 2022
Theme: Testimony

Theme: Drifting Away

Printable versions (bulletin insert, large print, and e-mail versions) of this Bible View and many others can be found at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html.

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He Says He’s a Soldier
Bill Brinkworth

“You’re sure you’re a soldier?” I queried.

“Yes, sir,” quipped the slovenly dressed young man in civilian clothes.

“Where’s your uniform?”

“Well,” he explained, “I don’t wanna be like everyone else. I never even bought one.”

“Hmm,” I scratched my head. “If you’re a soldier, certainly you must have read the soldiers’ training manual.”

“No, never read it at all.”

“You’re a soldier, don’t have a uniform, and never even read the training manual?” I was really perplexed now. “Certainly, you’ve attended boot camp?”

“No, never had the time. I always had something to do when the Army wanted me to go.”

“And you’re sure you’re a United States Army soldier?”

“Yes, sir. I’m very proud to serve my country. Whenever they need me, they can count on me,” was his proud answer.

“I’m a little confused. You say you’re a soldier but never wore the uniform, read any procedure manuals, or attended training. Did you ever fight in any battles?”

“Oh, no. They wouldn’t let me because I never attended boot camp. But when they have a war, I’ll be there.”

“Hmmm.” I just had to ask, “Well, what makes you so sure you’re a soldier?”

“I must admit, it seems strange that I haven’t done things most soldiers do. But, you see, my father was in the service. His father was also in the Army, and I believe even his father was. So everyone just knows I’m a soldier, too.”

This fictitious scenario is echoed thousands of times through a similar testimony of professing Christians. They claim they are a child of God, but do not think, believe, dress, or behave like one. They never read God’s training manual, the Bible, never faithfully attend church, and are not observed doing anything spiritual. They are in the battle and have lost, but they do not know it has even started.

God’s Word clearly teaches one way to be saved. It is not my method or yours that will get one into Heaven. It is His Heaven, and there is only one way there; His way.

That way is to know we are sinners, as Romans 3:23 clarifies: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” Because of our sin, none of us has pleased God, and an eternal punishment awaits them. Romans 6:23 states: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

There is good news, however. Although we are sinners and heading for Hell, Christ died for our sins and paid for them (Romans 5:8). The proper way to get to Heaven is to accept His payment for all our iniquities. After believing that, we have God’s promise that we will go to Heaven: “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved (Romans 10:13).” That is God’s way to be with Him forever.

Being a Christian will soon be a public affair. People will see that the Holy Spirit has made some changes in one’s life. Family and friends will see moral practices replacing old wicked routines and habits. It will be evident where the Christian will be on Sunday. His Bible will also no longer be dusty.

It will no longer be a guessing game to determine if one is a Christian when one is genuinely saved. The changes in his life and lifestyle will make it clear that he is “born again.” He will be proud to be enlisted in God’s army and will make it evident by looking and acting like a real Christian soldier.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

What Others See
Bill Brinkworth

One of the most valuable assets a Christian can have is his testimony. What others think of him is often what they see him do, how he reacts in certain situations, and how they believe a Christian should live (although their view may not always be accurate). Paul gave some advice in Ephesians 4 on how to preserve that testimony. Some of his advice included:

Do not live like the rest of the world and put the wrong value on things that are really unimportant (Eph. 4:17-18).
Do not lust after things of this world and be consumed with greed for them (Eph. 4:19).
Do not let your conversation with others be about lust for this world’s things (Eph. 4:22).
Live a righteous life and strive to be a good example (Eph. 4:24).
Let your conversation be honest and do not lie (Eph. 4:25).
If you get angry, get it right with those involved before the sun goes down (Eph. 4:26).
Do not get close to sin and allow the devil to destroy your testimony (Eph. 4:27).
Do not steal, but work hard for what you want (Eph. 4:28).
Be careful of the words you utter, making sure what you say helps others (Eph. 4:29).
Do not sadden the indwelling Holy Spirit by sinning (Eph. 4:30).
Do not allow the sins of bitterness, violence, anger, and evil speaking to be part of your life (Eph. 4:31).
Be kind to others (Eph. 4:32).

As hard as we try, some will always see our example as wrong, no matter how we adhere to the above advice and other godly principles. Although it is impossible to please all the people all the time, we have a responsibility to have the best testimony possible.

Our example is not so much about what others think about us, but what others think about Christ by our example. We are often all the unsaved will ever see about Christ. Will they determine they do not want to be a Christian because of what they observed in our behavior, or will they consider being one because of how we live our lives?

“Your walk talks louder than your talk talks.”

“It Will Always Shine!”
Author Unknown

A traveler once visiting the lighthouse at Calais said to the keeper, “What if one of your lights should go out at night?”

“Never! Impossible!” he exclaimed. “Sir, yonder are the ships sailing to all parts of the world. If tonight one of my burners went out, in six months, I would hear from America, or India, saying that on such a night, the lights at Calais lighthouse gave no warning, and some vessel had been wrecked. Lives could be lost because of my neglect. Ah sir, I sometimes feel, when I look upon my lights, as if the eyes of the entire world are fixed upon me. Go out! Burn dim? Never! Impossible!”

What a lesson that man’s commitment and fervor should be to the Christian! The Christian must remember he is a spiritual lighthouse for the world to observe. Let then his “light” be full, bright, and clear. The moment he neglects it and leaves his “lamps” untrimmed, some poor soul, struggling amid the waves of temptation, for lack of a beacon of example to light his way, may be dashed upon the rocks of destruction.

“I have ever deemed it more honorable and more profitable to set a good example than to follow a bad one.” — Thomas Jefferson