A good decision. Leaders, lets be and act selfless like Christ--like servant leaders. (a life long study)

Choose to take the high humble way by the Spirit.. even when some church leaders repeatedly opt for the low arrogant road in the completely opposite direction. Your flesly nature won't feel like it, but die to the worldly way.

The Bible says: "Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be like minded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: 6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God." Rom. 15:5-7 kjv

What's this whole chapter 15 of Romans about? This...

A believer has a debt to the weak (1–6). The strong Born again Christian is to bear the weak up and help them grow, and that takes love and patience. If we live to please ourselves, we will not follow the example of Christ who lived to please the Father and help others.

A believer has a debt to the lost (7–21). God saved the Jews so that they might reach and win the Gentiles and lead them in praising the Lord. God has saved us so that we might win others. We have a debt to pay (1:14).

A believer has a debt to Israel (22–33). The Gentiles are indebted to the Jews (John 4:22). And that debt is paid by praying for them (Ps. 122:6), witnessing to them in love, and sharing our material gifts to assist them.

“To consider persons and events and situations only in the light of their effect upon myself is to live on the doorstep of hell.” ~ Thomas Merton

It is such a strange and sorrowful thing when the fellowship of believers, a local church—meant to be a garden of love and grace—in some pockets turns into a power struggle and battlefield of egos. 

There are a lot of very decent, healthy churches teaching the Bible with exemplary leaders, but not all leaders are what they appear to be in public.

Too often, we find not servants but self-appointed monarchs in our midst, small-souled emperors eager to rule their tiny hill of influence. They smile in the hallway and quote Scripture in the classroom, but behind closed doors their tongues become swords, cutting down those who might threaten their little kingdom. This is not the Spirit of Christ.

God’s vision for His Church is far higher, holier, and humbler. “Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be like-minded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: that ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God” (Romans 15:5–7). The Church was never meant to be a stage for ambition. It is the living body of Christ, where every member is to work in harmony so that Christ Himself is seen—not our petty rivalries.

But what do we do when unity feels impossible? When the person beside us in the pew acts more like Diotrephes—“who loves to be first” (3 John 1:9)—than like Christ? The answer is not to mimic their behavior, nor to abandon the call to unity, but to remember that our conduct is measured not by their carnality but by God’s commands. We are to “overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21), to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), and, if necessary, to “mark those who cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine” (Romans 16:17) without becoming divisive ourselves.

And as for leadership, Scripture leaves no room for hypocrisy. Those who serve as deacons—and by extension anyone who leads in Christ’s name—must live by the standard God sets, not their own ambitions. Paul lists the qualities clearly (1 Timothy 3:8–13):

• They must be dignified—men and women of genuine respect.

• Not double-tongued—honest and consistent, not two-faced.

• Not given to much wine—disciplined and sober-minded. (I say that your leader ought not to drink at all, cuz people need Him to consistently make wise evaluations and decisions)

• Not greedy for dishonest gain—free from selfish motives.

• Holding the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience—deeply rooted in sound doctrine and integrity.

• Tested and proven—faithfulness demonstrated over time.

• Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded and faithful.

• They must manage their children and households well.

Such leaders do not fight to be kings of small hills. They stoop low to wash feet. They do not smear their brethren but bear their burdens. They do not grasp for power but pour themselves out in service. This is the way of Christ—and anything less is not leadership but theatre.

The believer and the church’s witness in the world depend on the difference.

It is one of the great griefs of the Christian life: sometimes, those who bear Christ’s name wound more deeply than those who deny Him altogether. Liney and I have been treated with more kindness, respect, and honesty in certain secular workplaces than in a few church halls that claimed to be houses of grace. That should never be. The local church—Christ’s bride—is meant to be a refuge of love, not a field of competition. And yet, even among those who open Bibles on Sunday, we sometimes find hearts that are closed on Monday.

A.W. Tozer once warned, “The church that can’t weep over its own sin is too blind to weep over the sins of the world.” Sadly, too many fellowships are poisoned not by false doctrine, but by fleshly ambition. 

Elders and pastors are called to set the spiritual temperature, modeling humility, accessibility, doctrinal soundness, and above all, Christlike love. Paul’s charge remains: “An overseer must be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach… not quarrelsome, not a lover of money” (1 Timothy 3:2–3). If the shepherds are proud, dismissive, or cold, the flock will mirror them.

The wounds inflicted by lost “religious” leaders are not small. Dishonest, competitive, self-promoting deacons do more than offend—they corrode trust and deform the witness of the gospel. Charles Spurgeon put it bluntly: “Of all men, we who serve at God’s altar should be the humblest. Pride is doubly monstrous in the pulpit.” Some love their titles more than their Lord. They crave recognition, make promises they never intend to keep, and speak piously in public while gossiping in private. 

They position themselves for influence, stepping on others as they climb the church ladder. And when they do, the result is often tragic: disillusioned volunteers, embittered servants, and cynical hearts that want nothing to do with “church” again.

But hear me: Christ is not like them. If you confuse the failures of men with the character of God, you will stop praying, stop trusting, and eventually stop gathering. Jesus warned that “tares” would grow among the wheat (Matthew 13:24–30), and that not everyone who says “Lord, Lord” truly belongs to Him (Matthew 7:21–23). 

Hypocrites among God’s people are not new. Think of Diotrephes, “who loves to be first” and refused to welcome fellow believers (3 John 1:9–10), or the Pharisees, who “honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me” (Matthew 15:8). God records these stories not to embitter us, but to warn us—and to teach us what never to become.

What is spiritual abuse?

What is a real spiritual leader?

Why are there so many religions with all the various so called "leaders"? Do all religions lead to God? Nope.

What is the definition of a cult?

What is the difference between a sect and a cult?

How can I help someone to leave a toxic cult..or toxic group?

What can we learn from the laws that God gave for the kings of Israel?

What does it mean to be a godly husband?

Got some general questions about the Church?

What is spiritual abuse? How can I recover from it?

How should conflict in the church be handled?

What is the spiritual gift of leadership?

Are we supposed to obey our pastors? 

I have been burned and hurt by the church in the past..so now what?

What is gaslighting?

What does the Bible say about emotional abuse?

Is it wrong to be a solo Christian?

What should you do if you have been burned and hurt by the church? Ask, was a real crime committed? If so, first go report it to the police..DUH!

What are some signs of spiritual abuse?

The pastor and leaders in a church are to be good examples, setting the tone for a healthy situation for all. What are the qualifications of elders and deacons?

What is spiritual manipulation?

I really want you in a safe place, in Christ, and in a safe church as well. God the Father wants that for you as well.

Even the injustices we suffer can become teachers. I’ve been promised platforms only to have the microphone snatched away. I’ve watched others jockey for visibility while claiming to “serve.” Yet even here, God whispers: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). Bitterness is a prison we build for ourselves. “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

There will be a reckoning. “Each of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12). At the Judgment Seat of Christ, every hidden motive will be laid bare (1 Corinthians 4:5). At the Great White Throne, every false profession will be exposed (Revelation 20:11–15). 

The goats will be separated from the sheep (Matthew 25:32), and the wheat from the tares (Matthew 13:39–43). Until then, we press on—not becoming bitter, but better.

So forgive people and God. He's never done you wrong. Be encouraged and comforted in Christ's Spirit and His word.

Choose to be spiritual, and the encouraging voice in a cynical room. Be the gentle presence among the harsh. Be the Christlike servant when others seek the spotlight. 

As Corrie ten Boom said, “Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hatred.” And never forget: the failures of the Church’s people cannot undo the faithfulness of Christ Himself. God delights to use people in both evangelism and biblical discipleship. He is still building His Church—and the gates of hell, nor the pride of hypocrites, will prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18). Read more.. Fish4souls.org

Thomas Sowell said, "When you want to help someone, you'll tell them the truth. When you want to help yourself, you'll tell them what they want to hear."

Please tell em what's really so.. as much as they can handle at that moment.

What questions do you like to ask as you read the Bible?

Do you regularly check out and  believe the Bible or find it irrelevant for our world today? Man I still, after thirty three years, find it very interesting and relevant. In fact I can’t seem to get to the bottom of this Book. And Oh, what peace I enjoy when reading or listening to it via MP3s!

People have questions today. The Bible has answers!  People have problems today. The Word of God is our Solution. It doesn't even mater what the question or need is, the Word of God is the Answer. He addresses it. Jesus Christ, the living Word, can meet all your needs! 

Do we believers ever outgrow the need to memorize or internalize God’s Word? No way! Putting God’s Word in your heart is kinda like planting seeds that will eventually bear the fruit of a righteous life. This is so important!  

If you are faithful in reading God’s Word, you can be sure that you’re growing thereby; and if you’re hiding His Word in your heart, you’ll be rejoicing to meet Him on high. ~Hess

Do you have questions for when you study that can help you think deeply and grow spiritually? The Bible may be way old, but its truths are always new.

Fresh!!!

We don’t study it for mere head knowledge. Who wants to become puffed up like a religious Pharisee who doesn’t do what Scripture says?

We dig in because we desire to worship the Lord better, to mature spiritually and to practically help others with God’s truth as they apply it. So many people lack understanding. Too many preachers are unclear. We need to be ready to explain the Scriptures in terms people can understand.  

Ask for wisdom and ask God to use you to fish with His Word!

Perhaps in this high-tech world that we live in, there is a new application of an old truth that God will show you as you pursue Him and meditate upon His Scrptures?

One thing to remember… the Bible wasn’t written to us but it was written for us. So with that in mind here are some good questions for any fisher of people to ask as you prayerfully read your Bible.

1.    Who is the author of this letter, book, or passage?

2.    When was it written and who was it written to (the recipients)? Why?

3.    What can I find out about the historical context, the location and background of this book?

4.    Can I see a general outline or structure emerging in this passage?

5.    How many repeating words can I find and without over spiritualizing the text.. is there any significance to this repetition?

6.    Can I discover any prominent theme or unusual words here that call for deep, closer, better investigation?

7.    How does the passage fit into the surrounding paragraph? Chapter? Book?

8.    What is the reason for the author placing this passage or verse here and not in some other context?

9.    In a nutshell, what does the author want us to know and do? Can you put these in two sentences?

10. What is the main point of this passage?

11. Can I see intercession or personal evangelism ..or anything that reveals the missionary heart of God in this text (if you can, perhaps this verse could become the main nugget as you appeal in whatever sort of altar call that God leads to present, pastor/study leader)?

12. How do I think this passage would have touched or affected the original audience?

13.  Is there an eternal truth or principle that can be applied to my own culture where I live?

14.  How does this text reveal the urgency, compassion, burden or holiness of Jesus Christ our Savior?

15.  How does God desire to see this passage function in my life?

16.  What kind of response does this passage call for from you?

17. Can I see ministry happening in the text as a natural outgrowth of spiritual strength from a person’s walk with Jesus? How specifically did the person get so strong in the Lord? Did they put personal worship ahead of ministry service to others? How do you do that in your own life?

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” ~2 Timothy 2:15

Give me the insight, Lord, as I hear Your Word today, so I will truly understand Your Message and Your way. ~Monroe

Now we have received.. the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. ~1 Corinthians 2:12

Come to Jesus today. Do you ever tweet the Word, or inject God's truth into a Facebook conversation? Why not? Do you ever ask for permission to share a Bible verse when you are telling some fellow student or work friend about what Christ has done in your life? 

Maybe there are some more questions to ask that you’d like to add to this list? Feel free.

A West Coast Life Was Rescued And Commissioned By Christ, It Was Mine!

I grew up on sand.. along the many beaches of Southern California. I was lost as a lizard chasing after gated community beach parties, after glassy waves, and after the worldly things most surfrats go after. Did we resist our fleshly nature? Nope. Didn't know about that, or even care. But in the 1970s, amid the swell of the Jesus Movement, Jesus Christ rescued me from destroying myself. He gets all the credit.  

As a senior at Dana Hills High School, I made the most important decision of my life one evening in a Bible study: I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and Lord. 

That decision to turn/repent and believe.. and that miracle of salvation soon took me back into the ocean at the Dana Point Harbor for my real baptism—fully immersed in that Pacific sea again on purpose. Yes, it was in obedience to the Bible, and to tell the whole world who I love most. (It was my outward declaration of the inward reality of regeneration that came from Christ!) 

I look back on that So Cal Great Awakening of the 70s with deep gratitude! The Spirit of God was moving mightily from there across the entire nation now. 

But until then, I didn't think I needed to be baptized again (yeah after my mandatory Catholic baby sprinkling), but doing so was only right and brought about a new season of yielding and spiritual growth for me! So exciting! 

The Roman organization merely gave me a wet head, more sacraments to do, and smiley-faced lost parents, but after getting saved in '77 that full dunk in the sea put a smile on my heavenly Father! We can't earn salvation by any works, not even by sacraments! 

Wanna do your will with your way, God! 

I like what Jonathan Edwards said: “The Spirit of God may be moving among His people for revival at any time; our job is to yield fully to Him.”

During that time, I was attending Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, sitting under the verse-by-verse teaching of Pastor Chuck Smith. Man, I think he went through God's Book 8 times for all of us. Greg Laurie taught there on Monday nights, and all those teachings lit a fire from God inside of me. It happened for countless surfer kids like me. Even for my dad, who personally hated our long hair.  

I kept falling in love with Him (Jesus), over and over, and over and over again! I still do and am in love! I fell in love with the Word of God and the God of the Word. He has changed everything.

"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:36 esv

Out of that one-time manumission and biblical foundation being laid.. came a burden for the lost. (for unregenerate people headed for a real place called hell). There's not 3 destinations, only two and God wants you to join him at the other place. His home in heaven.. entering through His Son! 

Jesus felt and feels that concern for lost people! You can too! Not naturally, but it can start in you supernaturally! 

I couldn’t keep quiet. Had a bad case of the can't help its.. can't help but share the truth with people desperately needing Him!  

I began sharing my testimony straight and simple, the Scriptures, and inviting my surfing and volleyball buddies to Jesus, Bible studies and church. By God's grace, some of them also gave their lives to Christ. 

As D.L. Moody once said, “There is no better evangelist in the world than the Holy Spirit.” 

And I simply wanted to make myself available where He wanted me to be. I still want to follow wherever.. His way. He does the work, but He totally delights to use any of us for His purpose and glory. Be and stay willing to be used of God--I dare you to be! Please be!  

What a great moment being born again was.. and still is! The Greatest One makes it great! Hey, you must be born agin because Jesus said you must be born again! That was literally a time of Great Awakening in the USA here! Let's together pray in a 5th great awakening here! Americans need that more than ever before!  

I did’t think I needed the Lord, or church, or to be rebaptized (by full immersion this time) but this all was biblical!  

These happenings brought about some good decisions in me and a spiritual growth season too. Yes, and it was while attending Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa with Pastor Chuck Smith. Greg Laurie taught there on Monday nights. A crowd went up into the altar every single night after the altar call because Christ was working. Greg and the rest never failed to cast a hook or a net in every situation! 

The out-growth of their Bible teaching was that God gave me (Kurt) a real love for the lost. That had to be from him and I believed God started using me because my surfing and volleyball buddies came to Christ when I would share Scripture, when I would share my story, when I would invite them to Christ, or I would invite them to a study or church with me.  

After high school, Kurt (me) sold real estate at the Tarbell San Juan office for some years (my dad was a broker up the road at the Mission Viego office, and later he worked as a Broker for Caldwell Banker office, and at the ReMax ofice across from Salt Creek).  

But I (Kurt) would often find myself respectfully questioning, inquiring about, and addressing the spiritual needs of my Sea Bright farm of homes clientele. I enjoyed living for and talking about Jesus more than anything else. Then I believed that I was called to Gospel ministry in 1980.

Kurt then drove to North Texas in his VW bus with the flowered curtains and Aloha Surf Racks to prepare for missionary outreach. He studied at a couple Bible colleges in the Dallas area during the 80’s and it was during this time that I met my beautiful wife at the City Hall.. Liney, who was also a Bible school student at my school. Separately, they were involved with the Lord and in summer mission trips.  

After their marriage in August (14th) in 1982 Kurt continued to make mission trips into Western Europe and Eastern Europe (even went through Checkpoint Charlie into East Berlin witnessing with a German tract I made). Yes, this was an exciting time for Kurt before the wall fell in Berlin. I was there with communist solders on the streets. The East Germans would get off work daily and disapper into the unground kneipe eateries and bars to be left in peace.. but they needed the Prince of Peace!   

We both participated in short-term mission trips, and I later made some trips into Western and Eastern Europe—even crossing through Checkpoint Charlie into East Berlin. Kurt had been serving for over a the decade in the eighties as a U.S. Pastor over East Dallas home groups at the eleven-thousand-member, Church on the Rock in Rockwall, Texas. This place wasn't a Calvary Chapel but it seemed like the closest thing to one that I could find. The Southwestern Sem style preaching and altar calls there had many lost people coming to Jesus in their altars. There was an evangelistic gift and that church grew spiritually.. and numerically from 13 to 11K in 7 short years. The pastor was a hippie that had gotten saved due to the 70's Jesus Movement from Costa Mesa. It was God simply blessing His word expounded–Jesus alone saves! They were doing a lot of contempory concert evangelism with the Word of God in Dallas as well.

In 1990 Stephan, Nathan, Christian (our three boys), Liney and Kurt von Schleicher were (not went out of the church, but were ordained and) sent out to Germany where we served as independent missionaries. We were involved in helping to establish five new local churches (basing from one in Augsburg near Munich. All glory to God--we were simply enjoying fellowship Him and his people there).  

As a missionary, Kurt taught for some four years in Harvest (German) Bible School in Bavaria, he oversaw what was called “a thriving German youth ministry” and traveled extensively doing itinerant evangelism work throughout the European Union and Eastern Europe. 

After the von Schleichers finally returned to America to serve under David Shibley at Global Advance in Rockwall we had to find a local church, and Kurt was then invited to be an assistant pastor at another ten-thousand-plus-member Church in Carrollton (I love local church ministry more than para-church ministry).  

I enjoyed teaching through differnt Bible books and assisting new believers with water baptisms, basic foundations, basic spiritual disciplines.. but after four years (in spite of the excitement and pay), Kurt knew it was time to head back to his roots in what we discovered to be more biblically sound churches. The one where we’d been serving was drifting way off into left field and they were pressuring Kurt and Liney to come with them. No thanks, we'll stick with Christ and the Essentials! 

In their travels, the von Schleicher’s have learned a lot about differnet winds of doctrine, denominational constraints, prevelent spiritual abuses related to offerings, and the good nuances of many different streams of Christendom. Bible doctrine that’s 100% sound is vitally important for us all!  They (Kurt and Liney) still desired to remain non-sectarian in their attitudes and hearts and are still open to evangelistic gifts (if the bait is also clean) with in their approach, but they absolutely refused to put up with the Charismainia that has turned off so many people longing for the genuine from God.

Since April 6, 2013 Kurt started working at GMO and then teaching in small groups at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano Texas. Wonderful people. It's a spiritually healthy church.  

Kurt gladly served as a Global Media Outreach Community Leader responsible for 16 Online Missionaries while coordinating some follow-up and discipleship efforts for Greg Laurie’s Harvest America that came to Dallas for three years (these groups, including Prestonwood all worked together in followup). I love Jesus most! I'll petistalize Him alone, but I enjoy helping reapers to reap.. and afterwards with the harvest (like we saw on June 6, in 2016, and June 10, 2018 here). We had 3 cost-free nationwide simulcasted events that were held in the AA Center downtown, and one in Cowboy Stadium that featured top name Christian bands (effective bait) and a very clear Gospel message given by my former California pastor, Greg Laurie. God blessed!  

Yes, the last one was at AT&T Stadium—with the gospel also being presented in literally thousands of host locations, including churches, theaters, civic halls, and even living rooms.

Tentmaking too? Yes, there’s been lots of hospitality work to support the family. Kurt has done concierge work for Hilton Hotels, Marriott Int’l, Aimbridge at high-end hotels in Dallas. If I could find work that worked with churches better, I'd go with this. Liney and I didn't relocate to Texas for secular work, but for the Kingdom's sake.  

The VIP Services Department was formed to better serve Hilton’s Diamond and Gold level guests when in town and I sure get to dialoge with a lot of people! The Ritz-Carlton has other ways of rewarding loyalty. I seek to make friends for life.  

This type of work includes both face to face and preparatory coordination for company outings, business meetings, sporting events, the guest’s personal travel needs, Dallas shows, group dining and even ceremonies like weddings. Liney has done a lot of weddings.  

A couple has got to do what it takes to pay the bills right? Liney and I are determined to be involved with our top passion. It’s for Christ, His church, and His Kingdom! (Liney has served Ken Cooper and other Dallas doctors in the medical field. We've both have these combinations of work for decades here as we've seen the moneygrubbers fall. Yes, it’s because we’ve seen too much of how TV preachers regularly fleece God’s flock rather than simply feed His flock. We don’t want any part of that weird overemphasis and fleecing.  

Liney has done a lot of weddings (with the flower arrangements, big cakes, dress designs) domestically and in different countries. With Bible lesson prep, hospitality work and her medical field with doctors (work with people), it’s always been quite interesting and challenging. It's always a joy to hear the people’s own stories and to serve them. 

I met my beautiful wife and fellow Bible school student friend, Liney at the City Hall in Dallas. This was the second-best decision of my entire life after receiving Jesus by faith. She's still my 2nd best friend today and we still love to pray together for our each other, for our fam, for Dallas and for the nations. God called us both separately, but He united us in mission together after August 14, 1982.

As A.W. Tozer warned, “We must not think of the Church as something that is to be dragged through the world, weak and begging for recognition. The Church must be as God intends: pure, powerful, and full of truth.”

We individuals in His Church are either evangelizing or fossilizing. Daily we must choose. Let Him be Lord more than in theory!

"..for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10 nkjv 

“The evangelistic harvest is always urgent. The destiny of men and of nations is always being decided.” ~ Billy Graham

In our journeys together, we’ve seen God doing His work through the church (Bible teaching is predominantly for the saved as He sanctifies, and Bible preaching is predominantly for the Lost as He justifies them.. yes, so we'll eventually be glorified together with Him). 

We've seen firsthand the highs and lows of so-called church life (real church life as well as mere religious church business). We've seen real blessings, real spiritual abuses, and all. We want to be real blessings for the Lost and saved as God uses us. We all can be--you can be used of God too! 

"God often goes to the gutter to find the recipient for His grace. He lifts him out, washes him and transforms him - making him into a child of God fit for His kingdom. That is God’s grace." ~ Chuck Smith Sr. 

Still, Liney and I choose to remain committed to the Jesus of the Bible, and to sound doctrine, to open-hearted candid evangelism, and a Christ-centered life. AI and computers are good with words these days, but with no emotions, or empathic heart, or feelings for people in their need..they can't minister like that. 

Do I have a ways to go spiritually? Uhh yes, I ain't there yet. I have a ways to go with Him. He ain't finished with Liney and I yet. Glad about that. 

Since April 6, 2013, I've had the privilege with Global Media Outreach as a Community Leader overseeing 16 online missionaries, and then teaching at Prestonwood Baptist Church in the years followibng. I had the privilege of coordinating some follow-up and discipleship three times for Greg Laurie’s Harvest America crusades in Dallas..THRILLING TIMES.. but what matters most isn't what any of us have done, it's who we know and walk with. It's about heading home with our Lord, worshipping Him acceptably. Bringing others with us is important just like all good works are, but these are still secondary.   

"Prayer and worship are the most important activities a born-again Christian can perform. They should head your list of priorities, for certainly the world around us desperately needs prayer. Prayer will open the door for God to do a glorious work in these last days. Prayer will stem the tide of evil." ~ Chuck Smith Sr.

To worship Jesus biblically is our top priority, then we like to nurture saints and win lost people. To help support our ministry life, Liney and I have worked hard like so many Christians. We're all full-time ministers if we are saved. 

Where God guides, he generously provides. Where He leads, He graciously feeds. Where His finger points, His loving hand of provision opens.. just as long as we are willing to go. Where will you go? 

Liney works in the medical field and in children's church, and I have as a concierge with Ritz-Carlton, but we want to be Christians first.. that are rapture-ready before all else.. before being teachers or workers. What has God called you to be?   

"For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences." 2 Corinthians 5:7-11 nkjv

“Only one life, ‘twill soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last." ~ C.T. Studd

It’s been a joy to serve and hear people’s stories inside the church and outside, lost or saved. God loves us all and He has a good plan. It's been a joy to meet people where they are, to hear them, and to try and lift them up in love with the word if they are willing. Where is God leading you? 

Godly wisdom versus worldly wisdom acquisition. A look at Proverbs.

God's Type of Wisdom: It's About a Way Towards a Life That Works

God has not been silent about how we are to live well.. in His will with Christ leading as Lord. 

His wisdom is worth gobs! 

“Wisdom is supreme—get wisdom,” Proverbs 4:7 commands. 

It’s not optional for us believers—it’s essential for us to adhere to God and His Bible essentials. 

But wisdom, in the biblical sense, isn’t just about head knowledge acquisition. It’s seeing life through God’s eyes and living in reverent awe of Him (it's about perfect biblical application for your specific situation). 

Where does it start for you and me? Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Godly wisdom begins in us when we repent of sin, and humble ourselves before Jesus as Lord. It starts as we walk with Him, submitting to His direct authority (biblically) with a heart full of reverence and love.

The fear of the Lord isn’t some nervous dread but a deep respect for Him and all authorities under His—it's a holy awareness that God is watching, that there can be consequences for our decisions, that there is a weighing of motives as He leads us home. 

The fear of the Lord is to shape our attitudes and how we view things, how we speak, act, and think. When we live with that awareness, our choices start to align with the Word of God and heaven’s wisdom. 

Just as a child behaves differently under a parent’s watchful eye, we live more carefully, more purely, when we remember our sovereign God is near.

God hasn’t left us in the dark. His mysteries are for revealing to His children, not for religiously keeping us wondering with ignorance. 

He has used people to write down His wisdom for us in His Word. Psalm 19:7 says His Word “makes wise the simple.” 

Psalm 119 declares that even the young can outthink their elders in a good way if they are wise—not through mere cleverness, but through knowing God and obedience to His Word. The Bible doesn’t just inform—it transforms. The Living Word convicts and regenerates humans on the inside (He justifies us one by one) so we can then be sanctified and one day be glorified. It gives us insight for relationships, finances, temptation, health, trials, leadership, and even the words we speak or keep from speaking.

But wisdom doesn’t stop at knowing—it demands smart doing too. Fools hear the truth but ignore it and then their hearts grow harder. 

They repeat mistakes, hoping for different outcomes, but they didn't first change inside. Proverbs compares them to dogs returning to their vomit (See 26:11). The wise (children in the Kingdom) learn and grow spiritually. They repent, and do that again when they need to. They admit it and quit it (the wrong-doings. Talkin' course correction from being cleansed). They change course biblically, honestly, and humbly as Jesus leads them. They don’t just "regret mistakes"—they ditch the sinful habits and intentionally grow up into spiritual maturity. True wisdom is teachable, humble, and helps us ..always adjusting to God’s truth.

God’s wisdom calls us to see beyond ourselves. Life is not merely about our comfort zone or worldly success—it’s about glorifying the Lord. 

A wise heart prays, “Lord, help me see this from Your perspective.” When we put His glory first, our steps become steadier and our lives become fuller. "Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31).

We don’t expect applause from the world or any humans. We don't try to draw attention to ourselves, but to the Word of God who deserves the applause and all the glory. God’s wisdom often looks like foolishness to the world's human reasoning. 

Saving intimacy for marriage, rejecting gambling, carousing, drunkenness etc, while giving generously (what's good and helpful)—these are strange choices to worldly minds. But we’re not called to love or fit in with the world; we’re called to be faithful to Christ. As Jesus said, the world will misunderstand and oppose those who biblically walk in God’s ways (John 15:18).

If you lack wisdom, don’t worry. James 1:5 promises God gives it freely—to anyone who asks in faith. But don’t ask just to consider it. Ask with the intent to obey. Trust God, even when His way challenges your instincts. “Lean not on your own understanding,” Proverbs 3 urges, “but in all your ways acknowledge Him.”

Proverbs has never been some dusty collection of nice clichés—it’s God’s divine blueprint for life here. Penned mostly by King Solomon around 900 B.C., this book speaks across the centuries, addressing everything from parenting and finances to discipline, relationships, and leadership. Many of us like to read the proverb chapter of the day of the month cuz there are 31. Its truths are timeless (if properly applied) because its Author is the wisest and eternal.

And ultimately, all of Proverbs points to the wise Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the wisdom of God the Father in human flesh. 

1 Corinthians 1:30 states, "But because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who for us became wisdom from God—and righteousness, sanctification, and redemption—".

Need a breakdown?:

"But because of him you are in Christ Jesus":

This highlights that believers are united with Christ through God's grace and are no longer separated from God, but rather in a relationship with him.

"who for us became wisdom from God":

Jesus is presented as the source of God's wisdom, providing guidance and understanding. "and righteousness":

Christ's sacrifice and atoning for sins make believers right with God.

"sanctification":

Jesus makes believers holy, setting them apart for a life of service to God.

"and redemption":

Jesus' death and resurrection purchased freedom from sin and all its consequences, offering a path to eternal life with God the Father.

In Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. The Bible speaks of this:

"..in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Colossians 2:3 nkjv

 "In him lie hidden all the mighty, untapped treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Colossians 2:3). 

Fearing God rightly will drive us to Jesus over and over again, where we find grace, truth, life, love, and the power to live differently..not under the circumstances but overcoming.

So get God's wisdom. Seek the Lord and with all that get His wisdom for life. Do this with a sense of urgency. Apply it with His courage. Treasure it above riches. And live in such a way that your life becomes a living testimony to the greatness of God’s wisdom—reflecting and shining His light in a world darkened by foolishness and error.

“Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:3–6).

The primary way we gain godly wisdom is by learning God’s Word (Psalm 119:169). “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” (Psalm 119:130). 

No one is born wise; we must acquire wisdom from God if we are to be truly wise: “Your commands are always with me and make me wiser than my enemies. I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes. I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your precepts” (Psalm 119:98–100). 

Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” 

Immersion in God’s Word produces a heart of worship and thanksgiving. That heart of worship becomes fertile soil for seeds of wisdom to grow. Jesus prayed to the Father: “Sanctify them by your truth; your word is truth” (John 17:17). 

He wants His followers to be set apart from the world, making godly choices and living godly lives (1 Peter 1:15). We can only do that when His Word lives in us. We can also develop godly wisdom by carefully selecting those who journey through life with us: “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm” (Proverbs 13:20). Paul instructed the Corinthians to “imitate me as I imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 4:16; 11:1). 

Who are your close friends? Those who want godly wisdom over the world's type will choose for their heroes those who exhibit this type of superior wisdom in their personal lives. 

Scripture tells us to ask for godly wisdom: “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). God wants us to have His wisdom. He is delighted to give it to us when our hearts are set to receive it. However, James goes on to say, “But he must ask in faith without any doubting.."

But What Even Is Godly Wisdom?

Can we talk about that some more? Godly wisdom in Christ is a treasure far more precious than gold. He is the best blessing and gift for us, but wisdom is also a good gift. Proverbs 16:16 declares, “How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!” 

The Bible consistently urges us to pursue wisdom as life’s highest aim (Proverbs 4:7), but not all wisdom is equal. The world peddles a counterfeit: “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight” (1 Corinthians 3:19). That’s because “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile” (v. 20).

James 3:13–17 sharply contrasts godly wisdom and worldly wisdom. One is pure, peace-loving, gentle, and full of mercy. The other is boastful, envious, and ultimately demonic. Godly wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). It honors God and results in a holy life. Worldly wisdom honors self. It is clever, strategic, and self-serving—useful perhaps for “winning” at life’s game, but utterly bankrupt when eternity comes into view.

Godly wisdom is seeing life from God’s perspective and choosing to act accordingly. It means trading the values of earth for the values of heaven (1 John 2:15–16). We live as citizens of another kingdom (Philippians 3:20), and our decisions should reflect that allegiance (Philippians 1:27). In the words of Elisabeth Elliot, “The heart set to do the will of God will know it.”

The book of Proverbs—part of Scripture’s “wisdom literature”—contrasts the way of the wise with the way of fools. “Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright” (Proverbs 14:9). In our age, foolishness is often glamorized, while humility and wisdom are mocked. Yet Scripture warns: “As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly” (Proverbs 26:11). In contrast, the wise learn, repent, and grow.

Jesus, the embodiment of godly wisdom, shocked the world in His Sermon on the Mount. He said: “You have heard.. ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…” (Matthew 5:43–44). This is the upside-down nature of the Kingdom—self-denial over self-defense, forgiveness over vengeance, humility over pride. To live with godly wisdom is to walk a narrow road, crucifying the flesh and walking by the Spirit (Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 5:16).

As the old hymn says:

“Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word,
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.”

Godly wisdom is acquired through the Word of God: “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” (Psalm 119:130). It’s not inherited. It’s learned. The Psalmist says, “I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes” (Psalm 119:99). That means we must soak in Scripture—letting it dwell in us richly (Colossians 3:16)—until our thoughts, desires, and actions are shaped by God’s truth.

Barna research shows that only 6% of Americans hold a biblical worldview. Even fewer allow Scripture to shape their ethics and daily decisions. That reveals a crisis—not of information, but of transformation. As Romans 12:2 urges, “Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Christian community also plays a key role: “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise” (Proverbs 13:20). Paul told the Corinthians, “Imitate me as I imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). We gain godly wisdom by walking with those who reflect God’s light.

And we must ask for wisdom. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given.” But that promise hinges on faith. “He must ask in faith without doubting…” (v. 6). If we harbor a heart that’s double-minded—wanting wisdom but unwilling to obey—it will not bear fruit (James 1:7–8). God doesn’t grant heavenly insight for casual curiosity. He gives it to those who seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

Consider Solomon. He asked God for wisdom and received it in full measure (2 Chronicles 1:10–11). Kings, queens, and nations came to learn from him. But later, Solomon disobeyed God, turned to idols, and forsook the very wisdom he had received (1 Kings 11:1–11). It wasn’t knowledge he lacked—but obedience. His story warns us: acquiring wisdom is one thing. Living by it is another.

As Proverbs 2:3–6 beautifully reminds us:

“If you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
then you will understand the fear of the Lord
and find the knowledge of God.
For the Lord gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

How might I sum this up?:

• Godly wisdom honors God, begins with reverence for Him, and results in holy living.

• It is contrary to worldly wisdom, which exalts self, pleasure, and temporary success.

• It’s cultivated through Scripture, prayer, community, and obedience.

• It’s a gift from God, given to those who seek it with surrendered hearts.

God's wisdom, just ask for it. Cry out to Him for it. And when it comes, treasure it—and obey it. Don't exchange it away from an inferior wisdom from the world like Solomon sadly did. 

For in the end, “those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the heavens” (Daniel 12:3).

We all need the wisest one--Jesus Christ. Please be forgiven and know Him in a personal way. Come to Him just as you are. Right here and now. 

Remember this. King Solomon received godly wisdom when he asked the Lord for it (2 Chronicles 1:10–11). He became known for his great wisdom, yet, in his later years, he turned away from following the wisdom he’d been given. He disobeyed the Lord and even began to worship idols (1 Kings 11:1–11). Receiving wisdom did not insure that Solomon would follow the path of wisdom. Sadly, he exchanged his godly wisdom for worldly wisdom, and he suffered for it. The rest of 1 Kings 11 details Solomon’s downfall as the Lord removed His hand of blessing from a man who was once great.