2 Sam 22:17-20
17 "He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. 18 He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. 19 They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the LORD was my support. 20 He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me. NIV
Claustrophobia is typically thought to have two key symptoms: fear of restriction and fear of suffocation. A typical claustrophobic will fear restriction in at least one, if not several, of the following areas: small rooms, locked rooms, tunnels, cellars, elevators, subway trains, caves, and crowded areas. Additionally, the fear of restriction can cause some claustrophobics to fear trivial matters such as sitting in a barber’s chair or waiting in line at a grocery store simply out of a fear of confinement to a single space. However, claustrophobics are not necessarily afraid of these areas themselves, but, rather, they fear what could happen to them should they become confined to said area. Often, when confined to an area, claustrophobics begin to fear suffocation, believing that there may be a lack of air in the area to which they are confined. Any combination of the above symptoms can lead to severe panic attacks. However, most claustrophobics do everything in their power to avoid these situations. Wikipedia
Have you ever experienced a fear of being closed in? I don't believe that I fit the description given above of a claustrophobic. There have been some times of being in cramped spaces that I was not comfortable or very happy. Some flights have been as long as 15 hours between take off and landing. Trauma during childhood may result in this type of problem later in life. A friend's mother would not go shopping until late a night when there were few people in the supermarket. I too have been uncomfortable in large crowds especially in Japan. Riding a subway so crowded that there are "pushers" on the train platform to get passengers inside the door is not my idea of a pleasant train ride.
There is a similar spiritual circumstance that is sometimes experienced by believers. In Exodus 14 we read the account of the Children of Israel being trapped between the chariots of Pharaoh and the yet unopened Red Sea. The spent the entire night separated from the Egyptian army only by the pillar of fire and cloud. (Exodus 14) This situation may have given rise to the phrase, Between the devil and the deep blue sea. Disobedient Balaam was trapped on the back of his donkey in a very narrow place between the animal and a wall. An angel was waiting to slay this wayward man. God put him in a narrow place to get his attention and to speak to him. (Numbers 22:23-31)
So, we too, as believers get into narrow places. It may be our own doing for following the path we think is best. It may come at times of great distress and trials. Satan would love to fence us in to destroy us or to limit our ministry or range of movement. Then God may allow us to be in narrow places in order to get our attention and to speak to us. Recently it seemed I was in one of those narrow places with few choices or any way to turn or move very far.
I would love to write a blog that gives the answer to this dilemma in a few simple steps. Sorry! All I can tell you is that I cried a lot! I praised God when it was not easy to do. I read His Word and spoke it out loud. I contacted some friends that I have confidence in and asked them to pray for me. Then suddenly something lifted today! Some doors began to open in directions that were not expected. Clouds lifted and the "sonshine" came through again! Praise God!
In my spirit I could see me in a large green field. There was plenty of room to move around. I felt free in my spirit and that it was up to me to run, walk, rest or do whatever came natural. I still remember living on a dairy farm in Ohio. Due to the cold winters the cows were kept locked up in the barns for several months with room only to stand up or lay down to rest. Finally, Spring came. We opened the restraints that bound their necks. The barn doors were opened and the cows rushed outside into the fresh air and pasture with deep green grass. It was amazing to watch large dairy cows running and frolicking outside like young calves.
May God bless you today and place in a large place!
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Fought Finished Kept!
2 Timothy 4:6-8 (Amplified Bible)
6For I am already about to be sacrificed [my life is about to be poured out as a drink offering]; the time of my [spirit's] release [from the body] is at hand and I will soon go free.
7I have fought the good (worthy, honorable, and noble) fight, I have finished the race, I have kept (firmly held) the faith.
8[As to what remains] henceforth there is laid up for me the [victor's] crown of righteousness [for being right with God and doing right], which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me and recompense me on that [great] day--and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved and yearned for and welcomed His appearing (His return).
Later on the Elder Apostle Paul said that his "departure was at hand". When I first read that it struck me like Paul was a man ready to board an airplane to a tropical island for a long vacation. No dread or fear or remorse! A long fruitful life of ministry and toil was soon to be over. It was not smooth sailing for Paul. His relationship began by being knocked off his feet. He was struck blind for three days. He started off his relationship with Jesus Christ with three days of fasting. Very fast start! Many of us quietly prayed in a prayer meeting, revival service or summer youth camp to receive Jesus Christ as our personal savior.
Fought! Clear indication that the Christian Life is not intended to be a proverbial "walk in the park"! He faced unfair trials, kings, angry mobs, and traitors who stabbed him in the back. He had to deal with wimpy ministers who abandoned him and turned back when he needed them the most. He fought with his own pride and personal will. (Rom 6-7) He fought demons, literally. He fought the elements in storms, ship wrecks, poison snake bites. He fought battles with finances having to work with his own hands to support his missionary journeys. He fought church leadership stuck in their old traditions and pride. Judging himself he concluded that he had "fought a good fight". He was knocked down but was never forsaken by the One who called him.
One of the most significant utterances of the New Testament from Jesus Christ came from the Cross of Calvary. Jesus declared, "It is finished". He followed the will of His Father. He walked, taught, healed and finally suffered as an obedient son. Paul had been given an assignment from God. He was to take the Name of Jesus Christ to the nations. This old apostle was able to make the same declaration as his Savior. "I have finished my course". Earlier he wrote and encouraged others to run the race that God had set before them. He knew who he was in Christ and where he was going. Sometimes he ran. At times he walked and other times he rested. But always he kept the task given by God before him.
Kept! He could declare that he kept the faith. There were numerous times he was attacked verbally and physically for his faith in God. It must have been tempting at times to just give up and to give in to those who attacked him. Why not just compromise a little? After all the Bible says to live at peace with all men! No, he preferred prison rather than denying God and the faith that he embraced with all his strength. Yes, we need to share our faith with all we meet. But, we must keep and hold on to the faith we have in God or we will have nothing to share with a dying world in need of the Truth and a Savior.
I am writing today as it appears that Sharon's father, Carl Settles may be nearing the end of 84 years of life. There is not space here today to tell you all about his life. A very quiet and unassuming man. You could easily miss him in a crowd of people. He lost three brothers in WW II and his father before that. He was never rich or famous as the world considers. I believe that we can say of him that he fought, finished and kept the assignment given him by his Heavenly Father. He loved his wife and two children. Served as a pastor in small country churches, sang on the radio with his wife years ago. He always was ready when asked to sing, My God is Real.
How about you and me? Where are we on our course? Are we still fighting the good fight of faith? After serving God for 55 years I am finding it a struggle to maintain my faith and joy as I know to. There is much that I feel still needs to be done. In fact, there is a lot I still am not sure about in respect to my calling and purpose on earth. I am feeling so incomplete and unsure about so much after all these years. Is this a healthy place to be at in my Christian Life? Some seem so sure on the outside, but when around them for a while a lot of that seems to be a shell. I want to be real in Christ without hypocrisy. Good, bad, or ugly - I do know that God loves me and He also loves all the others that are that way too. He will tell us when it is enough and when we can finally enter our final rest. But until then my heart shall go on singing!!
Have we kept the faith? That may be the final question that can only be answered by the Father who judges our works. At this time I am more concerned about knowing Jesus Christ than being able to quote a statement of faith by a denomination. Once I really know Jesus Christ and seek to be like Him through His Grace then my life should demonstrate His Doctrine and character. I think it is better to live it on a daily basis than to just repeat tenets of faith from a book of man.
Please keep Sharon and her family in your prayers.
Remember! Fight, Finish, & Keep!
May God bless you as you walk with Him
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
Sunday, June 21, 2009
I Fell Today!
Nope! This is not a confession of sin and moral failure. This is not a juicy and sordid tale of a minister falling into sin. This is just a simple report of physically falling down today.
Have you every taken a fall or tripped over something? I had a paternal grandmother who fell down every set of stairs in her home in the final years of her life. That was five sets of stairs by the way! I am not confessing or claiming any generational curse, by the way. She never broke any bones as I recall. Just yesterday I wrote about claiming and praying Psalms 91 every day the blog titled, Lead Me to the Rock! I mentioned NOT turning problems over to God and that His holy angels may have been standing nearby waiting for me to let them help.
Today’s Fall Examined!
I thought about that today as I went tumbling to the ground earlier. You see, I just returned home from seeing
Amazingly I did not fall on the tiled cement sidewalk in front of me. Instead I fell to the side with both hands hitting the gravel covered ground. Only my right knee struck the cement sidewalk. It seemed like my verbal reaction was something like a roar. Within seconds after a fall you begin to take stock of your situation and give a quick physical examination. To my delight the skin on my hands was not broken nor the skin on my right knee. Later I realized that my face did not hit the ground and my glasses did not even fall off. Praise God!
That is exactly what I began to do. I praised God for His Protection! At one point I thought of Psalms 91 wondering where the angels were at that time. Personally I believe they helped direct my fall into the gravel which cushioned my weight. I am convinced that God’s angels were witnesses to my fall today. Why didn’t they prevent it, you might ask? I am not sure why.But, I have not doubt they were there standing nearby preventing serious injury.
Analysis of My Fall
1. I was distracted reading an electric bill not watching where I was going.
2. There was a sense of overconfidence. Been here before! Already done this!
3. Lost my direction. I was turning around not noticing where I was stepping.
4. I was just plain careless. Too relaxed and too much at home! Vulnerable!
5. Poor judgment as to position and height of the two steps.
6. Carrying too much baggage. Books, papers, water bottle, brief case etc.
7. Not on guard and had no sense of impending danger or harm.
Scriptural Basis
Psalms 91:11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; 12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. NIV
Is the Bible true or not? Why do we fall, have accidents, and experience illness? Why don’t the angels provide protection so that we are not touched by these problems? Is that really God’s Will that we do not experience problems, trials or tragedy?
Stumble kashal; to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); to falter, stumble, faint or fall: KJV - fail, fall, to be weak. (Strong's Numbers & Concordance)
It would appear that even before the actual fall that there are conditions or situations which may provide the circumstances or opportunity for the fall to take place. In other words, I was an accident waiting to happen today. I was tired, distracted, overconfident, loaded down withextra baggage - too much to carry and be able to safely negotiate my path today. When someone stumbles it is likely there was some form of weakness or wavering taking place prior to the actual fall.
Spiritual Application
The comparisons between a spiritual fall and natural fall are numerous. I can imagine the Jew walking along a dark path and stubbing their foot against an unseen rock that had fallen into their way. Wearing a sandal type of shoe would afford little protection against injury from stray stones. The Bible often speaks of the fall of mankind in the Garden of Eden. We read of the Fall of Israel as God’s chosen people (Rom 11:11-12)
Prov 4:18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. 19 The way of the wicked is as darkness:they know not at what they stumble KJV
Isa 40:30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: KJV
2 Samuel 11:2-27 is the account of the tragic fall of King David as he took another man’s wife and caused the death of her husband.
1 Kings 11:1-11 The Bible records the spiritual fall of Solomon because his many foreign wives led him into practicing idolatry.
We all can speak from experience of personal examples of spiritual falls. If we are honest, most of us have fallen spiritually at some time in our lives. Many believers have even “fallen” into a pattern of spiritual failure that seems to run in cycles. The repetition may vary in length or frequency. This repeated plunge into rebellion and sin indicates a deep seated problem that is not solved when the individual goes forward in a church meeting repenting with tears. Are they forgiven and are their sincere in their repentance? The Bible is clear on the issue of God forgiving a repentant soul. In the fact, Jesus warned the disciples what their responsibility was in forgiving a brother who sinned against them. Matt 18:21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. KJV 1 Also read John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. NIV
It is a great temptation to spend more time of this aspect of falls. As I prayed today about this blog my mind kept going back to a minister I met in the
Preventing Falls
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. How true this expression is today. If we could just “prevent” cancer then billions would be saved in health care and thousands of lives would be spared. If divorce could be “prevented” how much healthier the American society would be today. The list goes on and on. Is it possible to prevent spiritual falls? In my opinion the answer to this question is yes. God created man and has provided the means for man to serve God upon this earth. To say God cannot save and preserve a righteous seed on the earth is to diminish His Sovereign Power. From our perspective this is a tough balancing act. God has all power, but He made man with free will. He does not force us to serve Him or to obey His Word. We have the ability to either live for God or to “blow it”! Some how God is able to respect our will, yet influence us to choose to serve Him.
So much in the Word of God is available to fallen mankind that will make us victorious during our sojourn on earth. Let’s take a few minutes to recount the blessings and benefits that are ours!
1. God’s Love. John 3:16 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. KJV
2. The Blood of Jesus. 1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
3. Power of Prayer. Matt 21:22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. KJV
4. Jesus Intercedes for us. Rom 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. KJV 1 John 2::1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: 2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
Jude 24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, KJV
5, The Word of God. Psa 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. KJV Ps 119:11Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. KJV Psa 119:133 Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. NIV
6. Brotherly Love & Care. James 5:14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. 16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. KJV
7. The Holy Spirit. Rom 8:26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. NIV John 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. KJV Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in
Conclusion
Rom 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; KJV Every person born upon the face of the earth has a sin problem. The sin nature of Adam has been passed down to each of us. We are all in need of forgiveness and redemption. We must realize that each of us has the potential to fall and to fail to obey and serve God as He intends for us. Just to realize there is a possibility of failure should cause us to be more cautious as we travel our Christian path.
What about us or others, when we actually have sinned and fallen hard? It might interest you to know that this blog is being written three days after I fell down. Notice I am not still on the ground. Elementary my Dear Watson, some might say! For Heaven’s Sake, when you fall get up! I learned from my past fall. Today I walked into the yard again carrying two bags and even a medium sized bag of cans and bottles to be thrown out. Too much baggage again? No, this time I was on guard and took time to look where I was going. I stopped by the place that marked my previous fall. There are two areas visible where my hands dug deep into the gravel that cushioned my fall. Then I gave a brief, but sincere praise to God who protected me.
God protected me during a fall and today He protected me from another fall. It may sound radical, but I believe God is with His children when they fall! He doesn’t want us to sin or disobey Him. The Bible warns us to not grieve the Holy Spirit. Some may accuse me of being too soft on sin and the sinner. But, I further believe, that if we refuse to repent that we can be lost! Oh God help us to literally hate sin, but still love the sinner! How hard the church has been in years past, especially on young people. They were criticized for their clothes, hair and told what they could not do and where all they could not go. A long list was read to us at least once a quarter. Older people who in the past had also fallen spiritually treated the younger people who had fallen as if they had never done so themselves. What hypocrisy!
I, for one, am very thankful that God forgave King David of murder and adultery. I hope Solomon repented before he died. I am so glad that denying cussing Peter went out and repented after denying his Savior. I am so glad that the persecutor of the early church Saul met and recognized Jesus who he had persecuted. How many more wonderful fallen people are waiting for someone to give them a hand and help them get up again? Sure, discipline is a biblical principle and should be used as long as it leads to redemption and restoration! It is best to NEVER fall, but when or if it happens remember one thing. Get up and repent!
Jude 1:23-25 (NIV)
23 snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. 24 To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
May God bless you as you walk with Him!
Dan Corbett
“Reaching One Among Millions”
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Lead Me to the Rock!
Psalms 61:1-3
1 Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. 2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I. 3 For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. KJV
It has only been a few days ago I wrote on Mountains and Valleys. This blog is being written from another one of those valleys. Yesterday was totally filled with wonderful ministry and positive relationships. It continued until after 2:00am. So much kindness and good will came from many directions and by different means.
Hos 10:12
12 Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will reap a crop of my love; plow the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the Lord, that he may come and shower salvation upon you. TLB
The verse in Hosea seemed to be an apt description of the entire day. We were sowing simple good righteous seeds and there was an overflowing crop of love that both Sharon and I reaped all day long late into the night. There was a clear understanding that good things were just around the corner in many aspects. But, this morning I actually thought of a possible blog entitled something like, "Satan's Helpers". These are people who we may be related to or working with on the job or in ministry. They can be so negative! There seems to be a determination to make sure that others around them feel as badly as they do. If they are in pain they want you to feel the same pain. If they are sad you dare not smile or laugh in their presence. If they are depressed one dares not speak in an encouraging or positive manner.
I promised to be honest in the JPN Blogs and this is one of those days. Overwhelmed! The word seems to fit so well. Family, finances, illness and death. Wow! Those are issues that we all are faced with at some time in life and they come again and again showing up at times when we least expect it.
Aren't you glad that Jesus is our Rock. He is shelter that we can run to. Each day I read Psa 91 and ask God to hide us and to cover us with His wings. He promised to give His angels charge over us to keep us in "all our ways". Too many times I would not turn my circumstances over to God. Just think! His holy angels were probably standing nearby waiting for me to give up and to accept their help. Duh! After all these years as a Christian you would think I learned already.
Thanks for listening for these few minutes. I pray that God blesses you and yours and that you will not make the same mistakes as me trying to handle problems yourself. I also am not ashamed to ask for your prayers for us and Sharon as she travels to be with her parents. We have been gone so far away for so many years. May God bless their time together.
God bless you richly!
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
1 Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. 2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I. 3 For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. KJV
It has only been a few days ago I wrote on Mountains and Valleys. This blog is being written from another one of those valleys. Yesterday was totally filled with wonderful ministry and positive relationships. It continued until after 2:00am. So much kindness and good will came from many directions and by different means.
Hos 10:12
12 Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will reap a crop of my love; plow the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the Lord, that he may come and shower salvation upon you. TLB
The verse in Hosea seemed to be an apt description of the entire day. We were sowing simple good righteous seeds and there was an overflowing crop of love that both Sharon and I reaped all day long late into the night. There was a clear understanding that good things were just around the corner in many aspects. But, this morning I actually thought of a possible blog entitled something like, "Satan's Helpers". These are people who we may be related to or working with on the job or in ministry. They can be so negative! There seems to be a determination to make sure that others around them feel as badly as they do. If they are in pain they want you to feel the same pain. If they are sad you dare not smile or laugh in their presence. If they are depressed one dares not speak in an encouraging or positive manner.
I promised to be honest in the JPN Blogs and this is one of those days. Overwhelmed! The word seems to fit so well. Family, finances, illness and death. Wow! Those are issues that we all are faced with at some time in life and they come again and again showing up at times when we least expect it.
Aren't you glad that Jesus is our Rock. He is shelter that we can run to. Each day I read Psa 91 and ask God to hide us and to cover us with His wings. He promised to give His angels charge over us to keep us in "all our ways". Too many times I would not turn my circumstances over to God. Just think! His holy angels were probably standing nearby waiting for me to give up and to accept their help. Duh! After all these years as a Christian you would think I learned already.
Thanks for listening for these few minutes. I pray that God blesses you and yours and that you will not make the same mistakes as me trying to handle problems yourself. I also am not ashamed to ask for your prayers for us and Sharon as she travels to be with her parents. We have been gone so far away for so many years. May God bless their time together.
God bless you richly!
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
Monday, June 15, 2009
I Don't Regret A Mile
I don't regret a mile I've traveled for the Lord. I don't regret a time I trusted in His Word. I've seen the years go by, many days without a song. But I don't regret a mile I've traveled for the Lord.
These are part of the lyrics of a song by the Happy Goodman Family.
Over the past two weeks Sharon spent long hours going over old photos until late in the night. Now she has them somewhat organized I have begun to go through them. Recently a friend opened up a new Face Book group that is about church youth camps in Ohio. In our stacks of photos we found some group shots that go back 50 years. A discussion board has opened up to discuss some of the older ministers that took part in those camps and have ministered in the lives of many of us. There are several who have gone on to be with the Lord. Others in their 70's and 80's are still going strong in the ministry.
Today another friend posted up a recent youth camp photos that just took place. There are children and grandchildren of our friends from 50 years ago. What a joy to see the generations of believers going on with the Lord! We have a wonderful heritage in Christ! There have been failures, faults, frauds and other negative situations, but God still reigns in the hearts of His children.
As I worked on old photos and wrote a few memories of my own I began to listen to an album that was a Tribute to Howard and Vestal Goodman. I cried as I listened to Howard sing, I Don't Regret a Mile. After that song Vestal sang I Would Do it All over Again. It became clear that I also, would be willing to do it all over again. I also told God that I don't regret a mile I traveled for Him and I surely do not regret a single time I trusted in His Word. Finally, there was a time of rejoicing to hear them sing out, We'll Soon Be Done With Troubles and Trails!
It is worth it! It pays to serve God! We are blessed beyond all people, those of us who know Him and trust in His Word! We may be pilgrims on the earth in our society and in the nations we are living and ministering. But we are God's chosen children. We are saved by Grace! Not by our goodness or holiness. We just cannot give up. We have to hold on to His strong Hand. He Walks The Dark Hills of our lives and families. He has not and never will forsake us and our loved ones!
So many are living around us with no idea of what they are missing! In our case, living in Japan we are often the only Bible that many will ever read. We are the only person on the earth holding their name up to the Father to save them. How can we give up? How can we quit? Who will tell them? Who else will pray for them? Who else will be here to share God's Love with them or give them a Bible?
How about you? Do you regret making a decision to follow Christ? Have you been hurt and wounded by those who were supposed to love and nurture you? Jesus was wounded in the house of His friend. (Zech 13:6) I suggest it worth getting up and starting again. No one can fall too far or sink too low that God's Hand will not reach down to you. He loves you and me. He gave His only Son to die for us! Jesus did not fail in His mission of redemption. He died for our sins. We are saved by Grace through His Blood. If we confess our sins and repent He is faithful and just to both forgive us and cleanse us of ALL unrighteousness! Get up my friend! Let's keep walking! Do you need a hand? Let me help you and pray for you. God loves you so very much.
God bless you as you keep walking with Him!
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
These are part of the lyrics of a song by the Happy Goodman Family.
Over the past two weeks Sharon spent long hours going over old photos until late in the night. Now she has them somewhat organized I have begun to go through them. Recently a friend opened up a new Face Book group that is about church youth camps in Ohio. In our stacks of photos we found some group shots that go back 50 years. A discussion board has opened up to discuss some of the older ministers that took part in those camps and have ministered in the lives of many of us. There are several who have gone on to be with the Lord. Others in their 70's and 80's are still going strong in the ministry.
Today another friend posted up a recent youth camp photos that just took place. There are children and grandchildren of our friends from 50 years ago. What a joy to see the generations of believers going on with the Lord! We have a wonderful heritage in Christ! There have been failures, faults, frauds and other negative situations, but God still reigns in the hearts of His children.
As I worked on old photos and wrote a few memories of my own I began to listen to an album that was a Tribute to Howard and Vestal Goodman. I cried as I listened to Howard sing, I Don't Regret a Mile. After that song Vestal sang I Would Do it All over Again. It became clear that I also, would be willing to do it all over again. I also told God that I don't regret a mile I traveled for Him and I surely do not regret a single time I trusted in His Word. Finally, there was a time of rejoicing to hear them sing out, We'll Soon Be Done With Troubles and Trails!
It is worth it! It pays to serve God! We are blessed beyond all people, those of us who know Him and trust in His Word! We may be pilgrims on the earth in our society and in the nations we are living and ministering. But we are God's chosen children. We are saved by Grace! Not by our goodness or holiness. We just cannot give up. We have to hold on to His strong Hand. He Walks The Dark Hills of our lives and families. He has not and never will forsake us and our loved ones!
So many are living around us with no idea of what they are missing! In our case, living in Japan we are often the only Bible that many will ever read. We are the only person on the earth holding their name up to the Father to save them. How can we give up? How can we quit? Who will tell them? Who else will pray for them? Who else will be here to share God's Love with them or give them a Bible?
How about you? Do you regret making a decision to follow Christ? Have you been hurt and wounded by those who were supposed to love and nurture you? Jesus was wounded in the house of His friend. (Zech 13:6) I suggest it worth getting up and starting again. No one can fall too far or sink too low that God's Hand will not reach down to you. He loves you and me. He gave His only Son to die for us! Jesus did not fail in His mission of redemption. He died for our sins. We are saved by Grace through His Blood. If we confess our sins and repent He is faithful and just to both forgive us and cleanse us of ALL unrighteousness! Get up my friend! Let's keep walking! Do you need a hand? Let me help you and pray for you. God loves you so very much.
God bless you as you keep walking with Him!
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
First Day of the Rest of Our Life
I have heard this expression for many years. Today in searching for the phrase I learned this is the title of a song written in 2003 and sung by a "Punk Rock Band" in the USA. The lyrics are quite interesting as the writer seems to be searching for someone. He questions his life and the direction he is heading in. Obviously, he is referring to someone he loves. As I read those words I realized we could easily put God into the picture. So many searching for something, someone and they just don't know what will fill that void.
The plan was to restart the Japan Prayer Network Lite Bytes on June 1st, but many other things got in the way. For 10 months - Sept 07 through July 08 a daily journal/blog was posted on the JPN web site. It took some effort to keep it up on a daily basis. (Past Lite Bytes) I did, though enjoy it thoroughly! It seems that many others enjoyed the posts also since many months were read over 2,000 times each. So, by the Grace of God, I take up the proverbial pen again.
I searched for similar daily Internet journals, but found few to none. Many write blogs that are carefully crafted and written in somewhat of a protected manner. Some deal with a specific subject in which that writer is an expert. I used to write an article/blog every 3 days or so on the JPN site. Those were not a personal journal. The journal is much more personal in nature. I felt very exposed or vulnerable. At one point I considered making them available only to those who registered on the JPN web site. I am not sure how the Lite Bytes have helped anyone. There were truly "bad" days. I spoke openly of what was taking place on those days. There were days of victory along with some funny and comical things which transpired. Anyhow, here goes again!
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Kinda quiet melancholic day. Sharon is making preparations for return to the USA again due to her father's illness. This is three times in less than two years. In 40 years of ministry in Asia we rarely had to make special trips back due to family circumstances. It was amazing how God took care of us and our families. Once we had a three day church convention in Japan. We then flew to Korea for another three day convention. At the close of the Korea meeting we flew to the USA and arrived just in time to take part in Sharon's grandfather's funeral. I made it to the states three days before my mother's death. I was able to spend the last night alone with her in a coma. I talked to her, prayed for her, read the Bible and sang to her. Finally I told her if she was tired and wanted to go home with the Lord that I would agree with her. She quietly went home to be with the Lord just a few hours later. We just "happened" to be in the states for weddings, funerals, college football games. We have found the promise of Mark 10:29-30 to be true. We have left our houses, brothers, sisters, children, mothers and fathers for the sake of the Gospel. God has taken care of us and those we had to leave behind. I have no regrets in that aspect.
It is a serious issue to contemplate the death of a parent. We remember the good times and the comfort received from them. To be honest, there are also painful and negative memories too. We need to be sure that we have forgiven all those who have hurt us. That includes those who should be near and dear, but have instead caused pain. It also is important for us to ask forgiveness from those who have been hurt and harmed by us. I had a step uncle who was physically abusive to me. I admit at one time hating him very much. As a youth I learned how to strike back with words. My vocabulary was much better than his and my verbal jabs found their mark causing him emotional pain which he could not deal with. He died while we lived here. There was never an opportunity for total closure. Several years ago I had a very realistic dream. I was a young teenager in the dream and asked him to forgive me for the pain I caused him with my unkind biting words. That was only a dream, but it helped give me closure.
This journey of Sharon's comes at a time of great personal financial testing. God made the way for her ticket with frequent flyer miles of a close relative. PTL! I pray God bless them greatly for giving up the miles for her ticket. A close friend in Japan gave a nice personal offering to help Sharon with some of her initial expenses when she arrives. Another friend in the USA is giving up a van for her to drive for free. Each one who is showing kindness at a time like this will reap a reward from their Heavenly Father. There are also those who are praying faithfully and powerfully for God to intercede in each aspect of the journey. Thank you and God bless you each one!
Lord willing, I hope to write some on a daily basis. This should be a better presentation than on the JPN site which does not have a good archive function like blogspot offers. Feel free to comment or contact us through the JPN site Contact Us.
May God bless you and your loved ones richly!
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
The plan was to restart the Japan Prayer Network Lite Bytes on June 1st, but many other things got in the way. For 10 months - Sept 07 through July 08 a daily journal/blog was posted on the JPN web site. It took some effort to keep it up on a daily basis. (Past Lite Bytes) I did, though enjoy it thoroughly! It seems that many others enjoyed the posts also since many months were read over 2,000 times each. So, by the Grace of God, I take up the proverbial pen again.
I searched for similar daily Internet journals, but found few to none. Many write blogs that are carefully crafted and written in somewhat of a protected manner. Some deal with a specific subject in which that writer is an expert. I used to write an article/blog every 3 days or so on the JPN site. Those were not a personal journal. The journal is much more personal in nature. I felt very exposed or vulnerable. At one point I considered making them available only to those who registered on the JPN web site. I am not sure how the Lite Bytes have helped anyone. There were truly "bad" days. I spoke openly of what was taking place on those days. There were days of victory along with some funny and comical things which transpired. Anyhow, here goes again!
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Kinda quiet melancholic day. Sharon is making preparations for return to the USA again due to her father's illness. This is three times in less than two years. In 40 years of ministry in Asia we rarely had to make special trips back due to family circumstances. It was amazing how God took care of us and our families. Once we had a three day church convention in Japan. We then flew to Korea for another three day convention. At the close of the Korea meeting we flew to the USA and arrived just in time to take part in Sharon's grandfather's funeral. I made it to the states three days before my mother's death. I was able to spend the last night alone with her in a coma. I talked to her, prayed for her, read the Bible and sang to her. Finally I told her if she was tired and wanted to go home with the Lord that I would agree with her. She quietly went home to be with the Lord just a few hours later. We just "happened" to be in the states for weddings, funerals, college football games. We have found the promise of Mark 10:29-30 to be true. We have left our houses, brothers, sisters, children, mothers and fathers for the sake of the Gospel. God has taken care of us and those we had to leave behind. I have no regrets in that aspect.
It is a serious issue to contemplate the death of a parent. We remember the good times and the comfort received from them. To be honest, there are also painful and negative memories too. We need to be sure that we have forgiven all those who have hurt us. That includes those who should be near and dear, but have instead caused pain. It also is important for us to ask forgiveness from those who have been hurt and harmed by us. I had a step uncle who was physically abusive to me. I admit at one time hating him very much. As a youth I learned how to strike back with words. My vocabulary was much better than his and my verbal jabs found their mark causing him emotional pain which he could not deal with. He died while we lived here. There was never an opportunity for total closure. Several years ago I had a very realistic dream. I was a young teenager in the dream and asked him to forgive me for the pain I caused him with my unkind biting words. That was only a dream, but it helped give me closure.
This journey of Sharon's comes at a time of great personal financial testing. God made the way for her ticket with frequent flyer miles of a close relative. PTL! I pray God bless them greatly for giving up the miles for her ticket. A close friend in Japan gave a nice personal offering to help Sharon with some of her initial expenses when she arrives. Another friend in the USA is giving up a van for her to drive for free. Each one who is showing kindness at a time like this will reap a reward from their Heavenly Father. There are also those who are praying faithfully and powerfully for God to intercede in each aspect of the journey. Thank you and God bless you each one!
Lord willing, I hope to write some on a daily basis. This should be a better presentation than on the JPN site which does not have a good archive function like blogspot offers. Feel free to comment or contact us through the JPN site Contact Us.
May God bless you and your loved ones richly!
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Prayer For America!
Psalm 33:10-22 (NIV)
10 The LORD foils the plans of the nations;
he thwarts the purposes of the peoples.
11 But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations.
12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD,
the people he chose for his inheritance.
13 From heaven the LORD looks down
and sees all mankind;
14 from his dwelling place he watches
all who live on earth-
15 he who forms the hearts of all,
who considers everything they do.
16 No king is saved by the size of his army;
no warrior escapes by his great strength.
17 A horse is a vain hope for deliverance;
despite all its great strength it cannot save.
18 But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,
on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,
19 to deliver them from death
and keep them alive in famine.
20 We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
21 In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
22 May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD,
even as we put our hope in you.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Mountains and Valleys
Over the past two years I often have written about mountains. It comes easily since our home is surrounded by mountains on three sides. The tallest are about 3000 ft (1000 meters) high. I can look out a second story window from my bed and see some of the beautiful mountain scenery that God has prepared for us. We can read the word mountain over 300 times in the Bible. Much of Israel is dotted with mountains. We often read of Jesus praying on a mountain. We all know of the Sermon on the Mount. He went up into a mountain to call the 12 disciples and send them forth to preach the Gospel. The Old Testament is filled with significant references to mountains. We see pictures of Moses coming down from the mountain with the Ten Commandments in his hands.
Frequently mountains represent barriers or challenges in life. I still remember someone singing Climb Every Mountain at my high school graduation. In Japan Prayer Network blogs mountains are mentioned quite often. I have also posted many photos of the mountains surrounding the large valley that we live in.
Today I would like to refer to mountains as a God ordained part of our Christian life. As we move forward in our walk with God each one of us will encounter mountains that will need to be scaled. In fact, over the past few days I have prayed and pondered finally concluding that our path will be filled with both mountains and valleys. They just cannot be avoided. Some spend long periods of wasted time sitting at home rather than stepping out of our comfort zones to face the challenges of our personal mountains. Some mountains may represent physical illness or emotional turmoil that must be overcome before we can grow and accomplish God's Will for our lives. At times we face financial challenges that are as formidable as any towering mountain! There are times of social or family opposition to our Christian life or ministry.
As we live and move forward we will encounter a continuous cycle of mountains to be climbed and at times deep valleys to be walked through. Apostle Paul said that he "pressed toward the mark" indicating that he would have to overcome obstacles in order to reach the goal that God had placed before him. We too, can expect similar resistance if we make any serious effort to live for God sincerely or to work in His harvest field of ministry. Living for God and working in true ministry is just not a "walk in the park"!
Mountains are scaled and valleys are traversed one step at a time. We can search for short cuts or an easy way around our trials and challenges. I believe that method only prolongs the tests. In James 1:2-4 we read, "Dear Brothers, is your life full of difficulties and temptations? Then be happy. For when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow, and don't try to squirm out of your problems. For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete." TLB
Wow! The Word of God is Spot On! What is there left to say about the situation? Guess we need to start walking! God is with us. There are a couple old Gospel songs that ensure us that God Walks the Dark Hills and that He is with us in the valleys too. David wrote that he walked through the Valley of Death, but that he feared no evil because God was with him. Jesus promised that He would never leave us or forsake us.
So wherever you are -on the upward climb, sitting on the beautiful peak, slipping and sliding down a rocky path or in a deep valley, God is there with you! He has not left you for a moment. We often get caught up in our troubles and fail to notice that God has been at our side all of the time. A quick sincere prayer of repentance may be in order. I have found myself do that often especially as I have faced my challenging financial mountains. David reminds us in Psa 23 that God is our shepherd and that we shall not want! I must repent and get up from the valley of despair and start climbing my mountain again just one day and one step at a time. That is how we overcome and move forward with victory in our Christian life and ministry of the Gospel.
May God bless you as you move forward in Jesus' Name Amen!
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
P.S. Recently Sharon shot a video of the drive over our mountain. It is posted on YouTube if you are interested in viewing it. It is just for fun, no preaching involved. Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBBX4dL_JNs (you can copy & paste it into your browser)
Frequently mountains represent barriers or challenges in life. I still remember someone singing Climb Every Mountain at my high school graduation. In Japan Prayer Network blogs mountains are mentioned quite often. I have also posted many photos of the mountains surrounding the large valley that we live in.
Today I would like to refer to mountains as a God ordained part of our Christian life. As we move forward in our walk with God each one of us will encounter mountains that will need to be scaled. In fact, over the past few days I have prayed and pondered finally concluding that our path will be filled with both mountains and valleys. They just cannot be avoided. Some spend long periods of wasted time sitting at home rather than stepping out of our comfort zones to face the challenges of our personal mountains. Some mountains may represent physical illness or emotional turmoil that must be overcome before we can grow and accomplish God's Will for our lives. At times we face financial challenges that are as formidable as any towering mountain! There are times of social or family opposition to our Christian life or ministry.
As we live and move forward we will encounter a continuous cycle of mountains to be climbed and at times deep valleys to be walked through. Apostle Paul said that he "pressed toward the mark" indicating that he would have to overcome obstacles in order to reach the goal that God had placed before him. We too, can expect similar resistance if we make any serious effort to live for God sincerely or to work in His harvest field of ministry. Living for God and working in true ministry is just not a "walk in the park"!
Mountains are scaled and valleys are traversed one step at a time. We can search for short cuts or an easy way around our trials and challenges. I believe that method only prolongs the tests. In James 1:2-4 we read, "Dear Brothers, is your life full of difficulties and temptations? Then be happy. For when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow, and don't try to squirm out of your problems. For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete." TLB
Wow! The Word of God is Spot On! What is there left to say about the situation? Guess we need to start walking! God is with us. There are a couple old Gospel songs that ensure us that God Walks the Dark Hills and that He is with us in the valleys too. David wrote that he walked through the Valley of Death, but that he feared no evil because God was with him. Jesus promised that He would never leave us or forsake us.
So wherever you are -on the upward climb, sitting on the beautiful peak, slipping and sliding down a rocky path or in a deep valley, God is there with you! He has not left you for a moment. We often get caught up in our troubles and fail to notice that God has been at our side all of the time. A quick sincere prayer of repentance may be in order. I have found myself do that often especially as I have faced my challenging financial mountains. David reminds us in Psa 23 that God is our shepherd and that we shall not want! I must repent and get up from the valley of despair and start climbing my mountain again just one day and one step at a time. That is how we overcome and move forward with victory in our Christian life and ministry of the Gospel.
May God bless you as you move forward in Jesus' Name Amen!
Dan Corbett
"Reaching One Among Millions"
P.S. Recently Sharon shot a video of the drive over our mountain. It is posted on YouTube if you are interested in viewing it. It is just for fun, no preaching involved. Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBBX4dL_JNs (you can copy & paste it into your browser)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)