How so?

A few years ago, a friend had set out to do some major yard work. His backyard was covered with colorful autumn leaves. Rick had a beautiful house with a decent sized backyard. The job would prove quite daunting; especially since my friend had limited strength and endurance.

On the first day, he was prompted to call for help. “You need help. This job is too much. Call Barry and he’ll help.” “Barry? He’s nearsighted! How can he help?” argued the friend. He resisted it; as a result, he was totally exhausted. The job has proved too much. Yet, it needed to be done.

On the second day, the Holy Spirit repeated the idea. “Call Barry.” This time, my friend listened and followed through. How do I know this? My friend told me. It seems my poor vision scared him.

“I can see the leaves on the ground! You don’t need great vision to rake leaves.” I probably sounded a little exasperated; however, I was perfectly willing to help. We raked the yard and my friend treated me, to pizza. Rick did apologize. 

Why was I so willing to help? It would have been easy to leave my friend stranded; however, it would not have been right. I don’t doubt my Father was telling my friend to call me. My Father knew I’d help without being prompted. If anything, I needed to learn to think before jumping in to help.

Why am I sharing this story? Rick and I were practically mirrors of each other. Though severely disabled, we were both very independent. The difference is, Rick suffered from Crohn’s Disease and kidney failure. My disabilities are not life threatening.

Here is another similarity. We were determined to not be a burden to anyone. No one wants to be a burden to their friends and family. For a person with disability, this feeling can be a source of deep pain, shame and fear.

For years, I’ve struggled with the idea of needing to prove myself. What was I seeking to prove? I sought to show that I wasn’t weak or a failure. It’s why I had difficulty in admitting that help is warranted.

For me, it wasn’t okay to do the same thing and not get similar results. Yet, I fought against the very real physical limitations imposed by my poor vision and severe hearing loss. Talk about a rollercoaster! Truth is, I was dealing with a false perception of myself and other people.

How did I break free from this false perception of myself? The credits must go directly to my Father. I’ve heard it said, “God will not change your mind; however, God will change your attitude.” This quote has been attributed to Bill Johnson. I suspect others have said the same thing.

I’d would make one modification to that quote. My Father did not directly changed my mind; however, God did help me with seeing the need for change. He didn’t leave me, alone. Once I agreed with my Father; the Holy Spirit went right to work on my heart.

My Father brought the right people and circumstances into my life. Through them, I came to see the real truth. This helped to change my view of myself and the world around me. Yes, it is true of Romans 8:28-29:

²⁸ And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. ²⁹ For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren;

How shall I wrap this up? Here is something that may help you. I wished that I learned these beattitudes when I was young. It’s amazing what one can discover on the Internet. I’m not the author and I wish that I could give credits:

Beatitudes for Friends of People with Disabilities

Blessed are you who take the time to listen

to difficult speech, for you help me to know

that if I persevere I can be understood.

Blessed are you who never bid me to “hurry up”

and take my tasks from me and do them for me,

for I often need time rather than help.

Blessed are you who stand beside me as I

enter new and untried ventures, for my failures

will be outweighed by the times I surprise myself

and you.

Blessed are you who asked for my help,

for my greatest need is to be needed.

Blessed are you who understand that it is

difficult for me to put my thoughts into words.

Blessed are you who, with a smile, encourage me to try once more.

Blessed are you who never remind me that

today I asked the same question two times.

Blessed are you who respect me

and love me as I am, and not like you

wish I were.

Just visit a political blog like Alan Colmes‘ site. Alan is not the only one; he’s just a little nicer about it. It would be easy to do; however, I would ask you this question. What would it solve by ganging up on the poor guy?

While I certainly have my disagreement with Pat Robertson and I’ve even written a blog post on the issue. “Pat Robertson?? Here We Go, Again” is one example. However, there is a difference between disagreeing with someone and verbally attacking the person.

I’ll debate an issue; especially if it may interest the readers. However, this is not to be confused with attacking someone. From my own experiences, I have never derived any benefits from sites using such tactics. How about I get real specific?

Several years ago, I was desperately seeking a few good Bible teachers. I was hungry to know more about my faith. I desired to go beyond what the Catholic church taught me. In the late 90s, I went online to see what I could discover. What did I discover?

I found a dizzying array of opinion sites that claim to be defending the faith. Who are they kidding? Though there are legitimate apologetic sites; however these guys were not it. I would often feel confused and fearful, after a visit to their web site. It got to the point, where I didn’t know what to think.

I asked my Father, “What should I do?” An idea came to mind. “Do a search on Charles Stanley.“ I was an avid viewer of Dr. Charles Stanley’s program. I thought, “What kind of negative things could there be about him?” I was in for a shock! Here’s a current search result for Dr. Stanley.

It seems no one is immune. These clowns profess to know Jesus and act like they don’t. Have they not read what Paul says of those who would devour one another?

¹⁴ For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” ¹⁵ But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.

¹⁶ But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. [Galatians 5:14-16]

These people were not engaging in an honest debate about the issue. They were more interested in exposing their opinions; rather than actually helping people. How am I helped when reading an attack style blog post?

I was never helped by such sites. This is why I don’t engage in such explicit writings. I want the readers to benefit from my writings. Here is what Paul says in Ephesian 4:29:

²⁹ Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.

The above Scripture contains some great pearls of wisdom for any blog writers. Am I opposed to differing opinions? Not! It’s okay to disagree; however, it’s not okay to maliciously attack someone.

I don’t hate Pat Robertson; I simply disagree with his politics. I am not afraid to admit when Pat Robertson is right.When I visited those attack sites, a question came to mind. Can they admit when Bill Johnson is right? Wold they acknowledge Frank Viola has a point?

What should we do? Here is what John says in 1 John 2:26-27:

²⁶ These things I have written to you concerning those who are trying to deceive you. ²⁷ As for you, the anointing which you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you abide in Him.

Believers are given a precious gift, the Holy Spirit. Over the years, the Holy Spirit has helped in my reading of Scripture. The Spirit has shined a light on what a Bible teacher has said. He will expose when a teaching is of human origin, of God or demonic.

The Holy Spirit was a big help when listening to Joyce Meyers. The Spirit guided my understanding of biblical authority when reading Frank Viola’s book. All it takes is an ear that’s willing to listen.

As I have been saying, “I’d rather encourage and build up my readers. I’m not into tearing down people.” I’d prefer to speak the truth with sincere love. Am I not supposed to love my neighbors; as myself.

I won’t pretend to be great at hearing the voice of the Holy Spirit. I’d be an arrogant fool in doing so. There have been times I did hear from my Father; however, I’ve also blown it, quite a few times. I have some wonderful friends, who have walked with Jesus, far longer than I. Though they have a better track record, my friends have the same struggles.

Did you think you’re the only ones? You’re not alone.

There is hope. We can learn to listen and become better. You really don’t stop learning. Where to begin? It starts with Jesus. There is more to abiding in Christ then just reading Scripture.

In John 15:6-8, Jesus says this:

⁶ If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned. ⁷ If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. ⁸ My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.

How does one remain in Jesus? There is more to it than memorizing your favorite verses of Scriptures. It’s about applying it, to our daily lives. The Bible has a ton of wonderful gems; however, they’re not always easy to find, understand or apply.

For this, we need a very good Teacher. Here is what Jesus says:

¹² “I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. ¹³ But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. ¹⁴ He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you. ¹⁵ All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you. [John 16:12-15]

 

This promise is not just for the early Church. Even today, we desperately need the guidance and instructions of the Holy Spirit.  Especially, when it comes to applying the Word of God to our modern day lives.

In college, I had to take Critical Thinking. I was blessed by a wonderful professor who taught that class. I was blessed because I chose to listen to Prof. Cabot and ask question. I could not have benefited; if I chose not to listen or ask questions. The same holds true when it comes to listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit.

When I read the Scripture and relied on my own strength; I’d often struggle to understand or totally misinterpret things. I did not know the Holy Spirit would show the correct meanings and the underlying principles.  I needed to ask the Spirit, for help. I had to learn to listen.

How do I know, if it is the Spirit? How do I know, if I’m just hearing myself? How do I know, if it’s the voice of the Accuser? Yes, there are three distinct internalized voices that one can hear. Here is something to remember.

The Holy Spirit will never contradict the principles of Scripture or compromise the Word of God. It’s okay to ask questions; when something doesn’t sound right. The Spirit will convict us of the need to repent. Over the years, the Spirit has helped me with changing my attitudes and behaviors. 

Guess who’s not interested in you changing your behavior? In fact, he’d be happy to leaving you in a miserable state of condemnation.

How do I know; if I’m being mislead? This is why believers need each other. It is not the only reason and it shouldn’t be the main one. Here is what the Scripture says in Acts 2:42:

^41-42 That day about three thousand took him at his word, were baptized and were signed up. They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers.

 

There is more to fellowship than a traditional Sunday church service. It’s about doing life together and trusting the Spirit to guide us, in our daily walk with Jesus. The above Scripture is a good illustration of what it means to abide in Christ. I’ll wrap it with the following Scripture:

²⁴ And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities,

²⁵ Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching. [Hebrews 10:24-25]

 

Right now, I’m stuck for I don’t know where to end. This is one post that barely scratch the surface and could be turned into a book.

How does this post play with being “led by the Spirit? Is there more? What’s your take?

I was just reading Frank Viola’s “The Agony over God’s Will“. This short fictional story brought back memories of my own struggles and seeming regrets. I felt left out; as I did not have a grand vision or dream for my life. My heart was filled with regrets about my college experiences and the time spent learning basic web design.

I have been told that God has a plan and a destiny, for me. I had difficulty seeing and believing it. I thought, “They are just being nice. They just want my butt warming the pew.” I asked, “What is God’s Will for me?” They couldn’t answer.

Here is what Scripture says:

¹¹ For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. [Jeremiah 29:11]

Truth is, my Father does indeed have a plan for my life and yours. Years ago, my Father gave me, an intriguing vision. In the vision, I was shown three distinct scene.

The first scene is a partially written book. In the second scene, I am in a dark room. In that room, I am typing on a computer. The last scene shows two symbols: a Cross and the Star of David.

Did you notice the room was dark? There is a reason for the room being dark. It has nothing to do with my eyesight or spiritual darkness. I was shown a glimpse and nothing more. I was not given the details of what to write. What of the two symbols?

I had this vision, fifteen years ago. At the time, I have written a few articles and they appeared in online computer magazine. I could have easily jumped the gun and vainly write religious articles. If I had done so, I would have failed miserably. Why?

I had poor writing skills and a poor understanding of Scriptures. I’m not afraid to admit it. Thankfully, I was blessed with Trevor. He was the Editor of OS/2 Ezine. He saw my potentials and graciously encouraged my writing. In June ’97, I got my first full time job and stopped writing computer related stories.

Was my Father angry with me? No. I know that my Father loves me:

¹⁷ This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. ¹⁸ There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

¹⁹ We love because he first loved us. [1 John 4:17-19]

It is easy to quote this Scripture and it’s a lot harder to internalize it totally believe it. I’m still working on it. It begins by knowing Jesus and what the Father has done through Jesus. Keep asking God for help on this!  It’s not wrong to ask for help. After all, the Father loves you, before you ever knew Him.

Five years later, I picked up the proverbial pen and wrote. What did I write? I wrote Christian themed stories. Sadly, I could not get anything published. There was a problem and I knew it, not. I was never told of my poor writing skills and the needs to improve it.

Thankfully, my Father knew the problems and took steps to help me. How? In 2004, I met someone, who told the real truth, about my writing skills. It’s good that Rod me; even if he’d awaken a kennel of doubts within me.

I’m thankful that the Commission for the Blind provided the opportunity to do something about it. I, soon discovered Gotham Writers and took some online classes. While taking classes, I discovered how to improve my writing.

²³ The Lord makes firm the steps
of the one who delights in him;
²⁴ though he may stumble, he will not fall,
for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

²⁵ I was young and now I am old,
yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken
or their children begging bread. [Psalm37:23-25]

Years ago, I learned basic web design. What do you supposed happened? Was it wasted? What of that role playing group? I took some psychology and political science classes. Did I waste time in taking these and other college classes?

My Father has provided the vision and the tools for accomplishing the work. Yet, I am not a robot and I choose to participate. I have desires and I surrender them, to my Father. Did you notice that I said “surrender” and not “sacrifice”. Do you suppose there’s a difference?

Thank you for your patience. My long term goal has been to create an online magazine that’s enjoyable by all. I’m still planning on writing encouraging and inspirational stories from a Christian world view.

God Bless.

As a blogger, I need lively conversations to occur. It’s the conversations that draws interests and increases site traffic. Would you go to a site that’s quiet and seemingly dead? Why do you think political blogs do so well?  Yet, this brings up a question.

Why are some Christians intimidated when it comes to the social media? By social media, I am including Facebook, blogs, Twitter and YouTube.  Is it a fear of those who’d disagree? It’s a prideful person, who thinks “I’m always right!” It’s a prideful fool who thinks this way. 

Here is what Proverbs 15:31-33 says:

³¹ Whoever heeds life-giving correction
will be at home among the wise.

³² Those who disregard discipline despise themselves,
but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.

³³ Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord,
and humility comes before honor.

We should not be afraid of what someone will say. I am thankful for Michael saying “Someone needs a timeout and an attitude adjustment!” Michael is not a Christian; rather an agnostics. He’s right!

I did act like a fool. Thanks to his correction and help; I changed my behavior and learned a new tool. Would I have done so; if I was afraid of conflict? Conflict is a wonderful problem. It’s how we respond to the situation that makes a difference.

I asked my Facebook friends about Christians and social media. An old friend says, “Some folks are just too afraid of rejection or confrontation. ” Mercedes is quite right. Don’t be afraid! Courage is not the absence of fear. It’s what is done; in spite of it.

I could easily give a ton of Scriptures that are designed to empower you. I just did a check and guess what? The phrase “Be Not Afraid” appears over 366 times.  There are other Scriptures that say similar things. However, there is just one problem. We need to act on it.

What if I make a mistake or say the wrong thing? Guess what? It happens. I had my fair shares of saying something wrong or being on the receiving end. Yet, I still keep going. Here is what Psalm 37:23-25 says:

²³ The Lord makes firm the steps
of the one who delights in him;
²⁴ though he may stumble, he will not fall,
for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

²⁵ I was young and now I am old,
yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken
or their children begging bread

Does the above Scriptures say “I won’t make a mistake or stumble”? No, it does not. It’s okay to make mistakes. Here is the question, though. Where are you placing your trust? Don’t be afraid.

What if they think poorly of me? I have an unfair advantage over many Christians in America. Being born with disabilities, I don’t have a choice in this matter. People are going to have opinions. It is not hopeless, though.

I can’t control what people think; they are responsible for their own thoughts. However, I can encourage a change in mindset. It’s done through our words and behaviors. The two need to line up. Don’t be afraid!

Do I struggle with acceptance? Who doesn’t? If I write to please Man then I’d be all over the map. Nothing would get done; if I live in fear of negative opinions. I am saying that to myself, too. Don’t be afraid.

How then shall I share? It begins by building bridges and acting in wisdom. Be forewarned, there are two types of wisdom. Here is what James says in James 3:14-18:

¹⁴ But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. ¹⁵ Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. ¹⁶ For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.

¹⁷ But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. ¹⁸ Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

Seek the common grounds and look for ways to build bridges. When visiting Alan Comes’ site, I am not obligated to agree with everyone. It would be boring; otherwise. However, I do look for places of agreement. I’m also not afraid to disagree in a respectful fashion.

Did you notice the last verse? It has to do with peacemakers. Are not Christians called to be peacemakers? Yes, we are called to be peacemakers. However, this does not mean I should roll over and play dead. This is why wisdom from the Father is sorely needed.

Don’t be afraid!

Guess who came to visit? I don’t think the person intended evil; however it did bring to light, an important issue. I thank God, for the encounter; even if I did not like it.

The issue is, “How to deal with critics?” After the initial set of visits, I decided to seek help with the problem. I went over to Frank Viola’s Beyond Evangelical site features a wealth of information on blogging. That’s right. Did you think Frank only writes about Christianity and the organic church?

After talking, Frank directed my attention to Three Kinds of Critics. I would highly recommend reading Frank’s article. He gives some great insights about the three kinds of critics. They are supporters, objectors and trolls.

I’m not going to repeat what Frank covered in the article. I will say this, “Don’t be afraid of the word, critics”. They are not all bad news or carriers of negativity. There are good critics and there are bad critics. By their fruits, you will know the difference between the good and the bad.

The supporters are often your real friends and definitely not your enemies. I am thankful for the friends who point out my spelling errors and offered suggestions on improvement. Some have even helped by suggesting story ideas or pointing to potential weakness.  They don’t engage in attacks or ridicules.  Thanks for the help, guys.

When visiting Alan Colmes’ site, I’ve met all kinds of objectors. What is an objector? Objectors are those who have an honest disagreement with you. They are not your friends and certainly not your enemies. Objectors don’t hate you; they just disagree with you.

Alan’s site is combins social issues and political issues. As expected, the debates can get heated. Yet, the objectors don’t engage in personal attacks directed at fellow bloggers. They are not out to destroy and ridicule the other person.

Yes, you will get confronted and your facts called into question. This is a good thing. I am not always right and the same goes for the objectors. How can one deal with someone who disagree with you?

Build a bridge!Both, Frank and Michael have suggested this. Michael is from Alan’s site. I’ve emailed him, a few times. Here’s what Michael said “Find the common ground and build a bridge of understanding.” If you want to resolve disagreement then this is a good tactics.

Here is a further thought on objectors. God may have brought this person to shine a light on an error. Remember: They are not your enemies. They don’t engage in malicious behavior. You can tell by their fruits. 

Is the person being verbally abusive or acting maliciously? If so, then this person is not an objector. It’s one thing to disagree; however, it’s not an excuse to dehumanize the person.

Who engages in such attacks? Trolls. They have one purpose and it’s all about attention. They do it, by causing trouble. I don’t think all trolls operate out of hate. Some are simply bored and looking to cause trouble. Unfortunately, there are trolls that love to engage with insults and vitriolic attacks.

I have known about these people, for years. Yet, I do sometimes fall for their baits. I’ve seen them on Alan’s site and elsewhere. Yet, I fail to expect one to show up on my blog. Unsurprisingly, Scripture provided a remedy, thousands of years before the Internet

Here’s what Proverbs 26:4-5 says:

⁴ Don’t respond to the stupidity of a fool;
you’ll only look foolish yourself.

⁵ Answer a fool in simple terms so he doesn’t get a swelled head.

A friend read my blog post and asked “What about the other suit?” He was talking of the real super suit. A real super suit? What am I talking about?

Did you think the super suit is a high-tech suit of armor? No. Is it a set of enchanted armor? No. Yet, it is quite powerful and real. So, what is this suit? It is what Paul calls “the Armor of God”:

¹³ Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. ¹⁴ Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, ¹⁵ and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷ Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [Ephesian 6:13-17]

A few years ago, I was praying for a friend. While praying, my Father showed me, an incredible scene. In my mind’s eye, I saw a powerful warrior standing in front of me. The warrior is dressed in full battle armor.

In my heart, I knew it to be the armor of God.

The warrior could be seen wearing the Belt of Truth. What truth? It is not my truth or some other person’s truth. It was God’s Truth. As long as the warrior is willing to walk in the light of Truth; he would see clearly and be guided by the Spirit.

On the chest, the warrior wore a fabulous metallic breastplate. The breastplate appears to have been made of adamantium. What is adamantium? It is a super hard metal that is far stronger than tempered steel. There is nothing that can penetrate this metal. The warrior’s breastplate is called the Breastplate of Righteousness and it was not his own. He is covered by the righteousness of Christ.

My attention is then drawn to the heavily insulated boots that he wore. I am left with the distinct impression that the boots would weather anything. I could easily the warrior walking through mud, snow, rivers or through a rolling plain.

When I originally shared this vision, I repeated what Paul said. Today, the following Scripture comes to mind. It seems Isaiah says it better:

⁷ How beautiful on the mountains
are the feet of those who bring good news,
who proclaim peace,
who bring good tidings,
who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion,
“Your God reigns!” [Isaiah 52:7]

The next piece is the helmet. The helmet protects the warrior’s head. If the head is hurt then the warrior is in for a world of trouble. The “Helmet of Salvation” is no ordinary helmet. With this helmet, the voice of the enemy is blocked out. Only the voice of the Shepherd is heard.

There is only one way for the adversary’s voice to be heard. The warrior has to choose to listen to it.

On the left arm, I could see a large body shield. A body shield affords a great deal of protection for the warrior. As with the other armor pieces, this is no ordinary shield. It is the Shield of Faith. With this shield, the enemy’s flaming arrows are extinguished.

For some people, the shield is just for defense. This is not entirely correct. Though it’s mainly used for protection; it also used in offensive manner. How so? Did you ever heard of shield bashing?  Another tactic is to push aside obstacles and let the warrior advance forward. The same is true of the Shield of Faith.

What of the sword in the warrior’s right hand? It has a name, the Word of God. As I consider the Sword of the Spirit; I am recalling Hebrews 4:12-13:

¹² For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. ¹³ And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.

I’d love to continue; however I must wrap this up. I will end by pointing to what Paul says about the armor’s use [Ephesian 6:10-12:]

¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹ Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

As I listened to the friend’s concerns, a scene from the Wizard of Oz came to mind. I could still hear Dorothy, Tin Man and Scarecrow singing “Lions, Tigers and Bears! Oh my!” Was there a lion? Yes, it was the Cowardly Lion. Guess who was more afraid of whom? Yes, there is a connection between the two.

The connection is one of fear, both imagined and real. As I consider what to write, a familiar Scripture comes to mind. It’s from 1 Samuel 17:22-27:

²² Then David left his baggage in the care of the baggage keeper, and ran to the battle line and entered in order to greet his brothers. ²³ As he was talking with them, behold, the champion, the Philistine from Gath named Goliath, was coming up from the army of the Philistines, and he spoke these same words; and David heard them.

²⁴ When all the men of Israel saw the man, they fled from him and were greatly afraid. ²⁵ The men of Israel said, “Have you seen this man who is coming up? Surely he is coming up to defy Israel. And it will be that the king will enrich the man who kills him with great riches and will give him his daughter and make his father’s house free in Israel.”

²⁶ Then David spoke to the men who were standing by him, saying, “What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the armies of the living God?” ²⁷ The people answered him in accord with this word, saying, “Thus it will be done for the man who kills him.”

Did you notice David’s reaction to Goliath; as opposed to the Israelite? The soldiers saw Goliath, as a terrifying giant. David took one look and said “Who’s the loud mouth, over there? Is anyone going to kick his sorry butt? What’s the king offering for this clown?” 

Everyone was yelling, “Giant!” and the Israelite were terrified. Yet, David didn’t see a giant; he saw someone who needed to be taken down. He simply was not afraid of the bully.  David’s confidence came from knowing the Father.

Goliath did pose a real threat; he was the Philistines’ champion.. You don’t become a champion by sitting in a pew and doing nothing. The same is true of David. You don’t become a spiritual giant by sitting in a pew and doing nothing

David stood up for Israel. In doing so, David became their champion. There is one key difference. Goliath walked in his own natural power and natural strength.  David walked in the might and power of God, Almighty.

³¹ What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? [Romans 8:31]

Do you recall who stood up to the Cowardly Lion? It wasn’t the Tin Man or Dorothy. Please remember, there were 4 that ventured into the forest. Do you remember?

How does this relates to the Internet and social media? If you listen to the media then you may wonder “Why would anyone go there?” Though it’s good to be aware of potential dangers on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube; it’s not all terrible.

One popular commentator  compared YouTube to Sodom & Gomorrah. Sodom & Gomorrah? Oh really? Have not these guys heard of the good things happening? They have filled the hearts with images of giants and ferocious lions. There’s just one problem; it’s not based on the truth.

Truth is, there are amazing people doing good on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and the blogosphere. Here’s one example. There’s a gentleman, who creates video tutorials for kids and adults. The man’s name is Paul Soares Jr.

What’s the tutorial about? How to play a game called Minecraft? It’s not the only thing that Paul does. He engages the audience in good clean storytelling. Guess what? It’s all done on YouTube.

Paul’s storytelling is in the context of the gaming environment. Paul, also shares snippets from his own life. By the way, Paul Soares is not a kid. In reality, he’s a father of three kids and runs his own business.  You can find out more by visiting his site, punchwood.com

People are hungry for good clean storytelling. I know of some wonderful storytellers in the Christian community. You know who you are! They would be a great addition to YouTube or the blogosphere. They have tales that could easily engage many viewers on YouTube.

Listen up. If people can sit and watch a guy play a game; while he is telling stories then they will listen to you. The best part is, you don’t have to be an actor. Paul is not an actor. He’s just a plain and simple storyteller. Don’t be afraid of the giants.

Storytelling isn’t the only medium that’s used. Music, photography and arts can be readily shared on the Internet. I repeat. There are some wonderfully talented musicians, artists and photographers in the Christian community. I know who some of you are.

Ready for this?

⁶ But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, “God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” ⁷ Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. ⁸ Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. [James 4:6-8]

Facebook and YouTube are great ways to share your talents and insights. Don’t be afraid of the lion that’s prowling about. Do you recall the Cowardly Lion? He was more afraid of Dorothy and her friends than they of him. The only one not afraid was the little dog, Toto.

Be of good courage and do not be afraid.

Last week, I was visited by a person with an intriguing handle. The gentleman apparently liked what’s on this site; as he chose to follow it. My curiosity is piqued by the handle and I paid him, a visit.

It seems Christians are not the only ones visiting.

As I survey the site: prophetbrahmarishi.me, I took note of the references to Hinduism and Buddhism. I immediately thought “Did Obewon just pay me, a visit?” As I read further, it became clear. Though Obewon is a Buddhist, the site owner was not him.

How can I tell? In reality, I never met Obewon. My only dealings with the man is through Alan Colmes’ website. It helped to know that Obewon is an American citizen and speak fluent English. Plus, Obewon has a clear passion for politics and progressive thinking.

When it comes the issue of faith, I don’t recall Obewon engaging in a positive way. It seems Obewon was private on his personal faith. I’ve seen more demonstrated passion from other regulars than Obewon. It’s worth noting that not all are Christians.

On Brahmarishi’s site, the gentleman indicated that he’s from India and speaks humbly about his English. He claims to have learned English, from a 5th grader. Really? From what I saw, he did a very good job. There is also a clear demonstration of passion for one’s faith on Brahmarishi’s site.

Because I spent time interacting with Obewon and others, I came to know and respect Obewon; even though I don’t always agree with him. Because I spent time, it became easy to guess what he’d likely say. Of course, it helps to ask and not assume.

As expected, here is the spiritual tie-in. The same principle applies to God, the Father. If I spend time and listen; I will come to know the Shepherd’s voice. I will come to recognize his voice and not a stranger’s voice.