The Trombone Moment

I had something I wanted to share at our Christmas Musical on December 15, 2019. We were running short on time, though no one complained. I wanted to keep it short, so I told them I’d write it on my Facebook page.

I guess I’ve been reflecting lately because of all the wonderful people I’ve been spending time with these last few weeks and beyond through our Christmas Musical Program. I hope this isn’t taken as strange, weird, overthought, or overly sentimental. But, so much of what God has done in my life has hinged on one decision many years ago to take an opportunity that was offered me to play my trombone in a small ensemble at church. Anyway, here is a short testimony.

I’ve been reflecting on my life and have come to the realization that GOD has done a major work in my life…that HE started with my TROMBONE and the band. There’s one particular decision made many years ago that I can now trace back and see how GOD not only used then – but HE still uses to this day! Now, that’s deep! But, when I took an opportunity offered to me, GOD used it as an “IN” to kingdom work – which is the pathway I was walking when I met Beth, served churches, ministered, taught, met people, went places, all the way until today. One decision – just one! You never know which could be your TROMBONE MOMENT!  

As I have written this, I still reflect on all those all the wonderful folks I’ve known and many that I’m still surrounded by today. God has blessed me immensely through you. The musical is always a great time to reconnect and remember.  Great moments and memories can be made every day.

I must say that while the decision to accept an simple invitation to play was a key moment.  However, the greatest moment of my life came when I accepted Christ as my Savior and Lord!

To God be the glory!

 

Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell

Me and Her

Devotion written for February 13, 2017

 

First, my apologies to every English teacher I’ve ever had for the “Me and Her” title.

Valentine’s Day holds special significance to Beth and me because this is the anniversary of the day I first “broke the ice” in our relationship.  I literally dealt with “the ice” as it was any icy day in Gainesville, GA on February 14, 1986.  The story is that my boss called from Australia with instructions to secure one dozen roses for his girlfriend and deliver them to her office on his behalf.  While picking up the roses for his girlfriend, I decided – do or die – that I would get roses for Beth as well.  Beth was in the choir at First Baptist Church of Flowery Branch where I was the “new” Minister of Music.  While I did hang out with and made many friends  at Flowery Branch, there was something particularly intriguing about Beth…mostly how quiet she was.

 

To make a long story short, 31 years ago I did brave the ice, present her with roses, and asked her out on a date…which thankfully she accepted.  We were married the following October 18, 1986 (I didn’t mess around…) at FBC of Flowery Branch with Rev. Paul Wade officiating and the church absolutely full.  As a side note, 1986 was referred to as “The Year of The Wedding” at FBC as several of the other young couples were also married in 1986…just about every month including December.  There must have been something in the water.

 

I wanted to write this because I want to share a foundational principle for me in our marriage.  Our marriage isn’t perfect – none are.  But, it’s a great one in my book.  There are many scriptures that speak to marriage – from Genesis to the many references of “the Bride of Christ” in Revelation.  We are told to “leave and cleave”, we vow to “keep only unto her/him”, and abide “’til death us do part.”  It is clear and plain what breaks the vows and there’s instruction on how to handle that.  We ALL know this and should affirm that with our lives.  But, for me, I’ve taken Ephesians 5:25 to heart and made it my focus as a husband.

 

“Husbands, love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy….”  There are several things here, but I want to focus on the phrase “just as Christ loved the church.”  This is simple for me and I apply it simply by being PROACTIVE in my love for Beth.  1 John 4:19 says “We love because He first loved us.”  Jesus Christ made the first move for our redemption.

 

I have spent the past 31 years doing everything humanly possible to express the very depth of my love for Beth.  Ephesians 5:33 says, “However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”  I love her more than my own life and I’ve stated in a prior writing that I’d gladly die for her and my girls.  Those are the extremes, but what about day-to-day?  I make an effort to be both courteous and thoughtful: I get her lunch ready each day, warm her car and see her off….I text her during the day to see how her day is.  As far as courtesy, a pet peeve of mine is that I don’t like for her to “wait on me” as a servant would.  I can fix my own plate at supper and I know where the sink is.  I help with dishes, laundry, and I help clean the house.  Another pet peeve is that I don’t excuse myself for a nap…or sit in the recliner while she’s trying to do housework.  I offer to bring her things from the kitchen, I cook when I can, and I’m involved with what she’s doing.  I remember special days…and, there are back and foot rubs.  I listen to her…intently!  All of the above are things I do…and more.  They cost me very little, but they mean the world to her.

 

Christ set the highest standards for our love relationships.  I’m far from perfect, but I try.  Will you try?

 

And, no, I’m not trying to “butter her up…..”

 

May God’s blessings be yours!

 

Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell

 

 

Do You Ever Tire of Hearing the Word “Love?”

Devotion written for January 25, 2017

The word LOVE seems to have lost its luster in the world we live in today.  I’ve spent well over 30 years of singing, teaching, and preaching about love.  Of course, we know that the ultimate example of love is that of a pure, holy, sinless Christ carrying the very cross on which He would also offer Himself as the sacrifice for my sins – and your sins, for all who would accept that gift. Jesus, the Son, gave Himself in willing obedience for me.  “FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD, HE GAVE…”

 

Why is it that our view of LOVE seems to be so much about receiving? We do read in the scriptures so much about the love given for us.  How do we not see God’s directives for us to be the GIVERS of love?  Nothing can diminish the fact God is the first giver of love.  He expects to give love as well.

 

The “LOVE CHAPTER” in God’s Word is 1 Corinthians 13.  It is shared at most wedding ceremonies – especially the ones I have presided over.  I encourage you to read the entire chapter.  The first section speaks of love in the context of being our motivation for the good we do for others: “ If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. …..  If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”  In other words, good deeds or actions mean nothing if not backed up and covered with love.  It’s like a gift that’s given begrudgingly…it means nothing…so, why bother?  There’s a lot of that going around.

 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 is what is on my heart and mind today. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”  I especially seem drawn to two statements here – they speak volumes.  First is “love is kind.”  Friends, somewhere along the way we have lost the ability to be kind to one another.  Kindness is an action that seems to have been replaced by animosity toward others and you see that shortly after this phrase are the words “is not easily angered”.  There are so many around all of us who are craving just a little kindness, but are receiving anger and wrath.  Secondly is the phrase, “it (love) is not self-seeking.”  What a powerful thought, yet so foreign to us.  Our culture seems to be based on “self-seeking” and overall selfishness.  We are in the world of “me”, “my”, and “mine.”  Yet, we have to return and look at Jesus as our example of giving.  Looking in our own hearts today, what do we most embody?  Kindness or cruelty? Self-seeking or…sacrifice?  How do we line up with 1 Corinthians 13 in general?

 

I’ve said many times that I would certainly die for Beth and our girls if ever called upon to do so.  There are probably others I’d do the same for – no doubt or reservation.  And, I believe many would do the same for their loved ones.  John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”  Jesus did just that, He laid down His life for us!  How much is enough love?  Look to Jesus!

 

I have to be honest with you.  These verses have been on my mind because I’ve been reflecting a lot lately on relationships we have with one another and all of the sadness we see around us.  Very simply, I see so many folks who are destitute of love in their lives.  I work in the world of ignored kids, troubled teens, and broken family relationships. Loneliness and despair abound and are in abundance.  Sadness and hurt have pierced many hearts.  Where is love?  We have it and should dispense it.  I would encourage everyone who reads what I’ve written today to be proactive with love and to offer it in word…and in action.  Someone needs kindness today – someone needs encouragement. And, many need the Gospel – the ultimate love

I love you!

Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell

 

Disappointment…insert “sigh” here

Devotion written for January 12, 2017

What is the GREATEST DISAPPOINTMENT that you’ve experienced in life?  What about your life has been a “let-down”?  Such a question is very personal and may strike a nerve with you.  There are trivial things in life that can let us down – things like NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS (just had to throw this in), missed opportunities, losing something important, or making a wrong choice.

We’ve all heard those statements about the “best laid plans” and “good intentions” whenever something doesn’t go our way.  And, at times, things will not go our way.  As I think about this, I’m wondering how many times our disappointments are tied to rain – rain or any other circumstance that are totally out of our control?  These are those small disappointments that will come our way.

I realize that I’m blessed beyond measure.   Beth and I are fortunate to have an amazing marriage with three wonderful daughters who bring us great joy.  The blessings are countless and they are truly from God!  There are no disappointments as far as my family life.  I have had some regrets in life, but they were all my doing.  Thankfully, God is truly merciful as I don’t deserve the good that I have.  I am not disappointed in him.

But, today I’m burdened.  I know many folks who are living in disappointment: poor financial circumstances, inadequate employment, bad marriages, issues with children, family problems, and for some even the feeling of being insignificant.  At its extreme points, there are those who have just lost hope for life.  And, at this point the “d” word takes over.  It’s a dangerous place and the proverbial “slippery slope.”  As a kid, I remember old movies that would depict quicksand as a highly dramatic peril – sinking into the abyss to never be seen again.  Depression can seem like quicksand, but thankfully there is a hero that can come to our rescue!

There is a wonderful passage of scripture that brings great hope into this disappointing and depressing situations that we find ourselves in.  There is hope, there is that hero that reaches into our lives – he is our rescuer!  Psalm 40:1-3 says, 1 “I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. 2  He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.”

You may be asking if there’s any way to avoid those disappointments in our lives?  Not entirely as God uses our struggles and disappointments to shape our lives into what He wants us to be.  But, we can find peace in the words of Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  We have such value to God that He developed a specific plan for us individually!  Follow this up with Romans 8:28 where Paul says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who^[a] have been called according to his purpose.”  Are you saved?  If so, YOU are called according to His purpose and He holds the circumstances of your life – bad or good – in His hands!  Make your focus on identifying God’s specific prayer for your life…you are HERE for a purpose!!

Disappointment is inevitable in life.  But, it doesn’t have to take over.  Take hope in God’s love for you.  Don’t give up!  He can bring you out of that miry clay.  Take hold of the hand of God that is extended to you.

May God’s blessings be evident to you today and everyday.

 

Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell

Hand Me a Tissue

Devotion written for January  5, 2017

What makes you cry?  It takes a lot to make me cry.  I’m known to be reserved with my emotions and able to “hold it together” in most circumstances…sometimes the word ‘stoic’ fits.  But, again, what makes you cry?  In a rare occasion Sunday, I reached the tipping point when Brooke shared with the church about how she’d lie in her bed and listen to me sing and play praises to God from the keyboard downstairs – beneath her room…she started crying, I started crying, the church started crying. Get the picture?  While I did not early on, I’ve cried at several of the graduation videos I produce for our seniors each year…especially the last one.  I cry when Jason sings “I Bowed on My Knees and Cried ‘Holy’.”  I cry at the end of “It’s a Wonderful Life.”  I cried when mom and dad died.  I’ve cried at Father’s day.  Well, I guess it doesn’t take as much for me as I thought.  I do know that as I get older it seems that emotions are not as tightly held.  Again, what makes you cry? I could be anything, even an old truck-driver song by Red Sovine called “Giddy-Up-Go” or “The Christmas Shoes” song….thanks, Andy.

So, why the tears?  There is a good reason: as laughter expresses happiness and glee without words, so tears express so many of our emotions – from sadness to “tears of joy.”  Even Jesus Christ, the King of King and Lord of Lords cried.  The shortest verse in the bible is John 11:35, “Jesus Wept.”  Tears speak.

Instead of making a run to the familiar scripture Psalm 30:5 about “weeping may remain for the night, but joy comes in the morning”….which is true and applicable, I offer to you a simple truth for the Child of God: WE DO NOT CRY ALONE.  While tears are so much a part of our emotions for both happy and sad, they are also a “cry” from the standpoint of calling out for help, relief, rest, and peace.  There are so many times where we see this, especially in the Psalms.  Psalm 18:6 is one of many, “In my distress I called to the Lord; I cried to my God for help.  From His temple He heard my voice; my cry came before Him, into His ears.”

I know of many folks in many situations who may be crying.  There are friends dealing with loss of loved ones, sicknesses, hurts, pains, broken hearts, stresses, and beyond.  Today, there is joy in my heart to be able to share with you that you’re not alone in your tears.  So, go ahead and cry.  And, may it be there that you find strong fellowship with God.  As the old song says, “Tears are a language God understands.”

 

May God’s richest blessings be yours today.

 

Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell

 

Who? Me!

Devotion written for January 4, 2017

Throughout the course of my ministry, I’ve dealt with folks who struggle with issues of self worth. Looking at the world we live in, it’s no stretch to see many are suffering because they are unable to recognize their value before and to God.  Very simply, this morning, I find the greatest of affirmation of my worth before God in one familiar verse. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16)

Here is a great hymn with an affirming message:

“Whosoever Meaneth Me”

I am happy today, and the sun shines bright,
The clouds have been rolled away;
For the Savior said, whosoever will
May come with Him to stay.

Refrain:
“Whosoever” surely meaneth me,
Surely meaneth me, oh, surely meaneth me;
“Whosoever” surely meaneth me,
“Whosoever” meaneth me.

All my hopes have been raised, oh, His Name be praised,
His glory has filled my soul;
I’ve been lifted up, and from sin set free,
His blood has made me whole.

Oh, what wonderful love, oh, what grace divine,
That Jesus should die for me;
I was lost in sin, for the world I pined,
But now I am set free.

I’ve had a thought these past few days and I believe it sums up everything on my heart this morning: THE VALUE OF MANKIND WAS DECLARED FULLY WHEN JESUS CHRIST GAVE HIS LIFE ON THE CROSS.

Today, YOU are valuable in GOD’S eyes. “Greater love has no man than this, that He’d lay down His life for his friends.”

Have a great day. Walk in victory!

 

Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell

 

 

 

Your Heart’s Desire

Devotion written for December 9, 2016

What do you want…now, especially “the sooner the better?”  What do you want for Christmas?  What do you want out of life?  What is that one thing that will make you HAPPY?  That is a question that requires thought.  I guess I’ve arrived at this question as a “branch-off” of the GRIEF devotional.  Because of the emptiness we go through with loss, we look for ways to fill the void.  For me, I spent money – decided to “get it while I could.”  So, I bought a full-sized, four-valved Besson Tuba.  Yes, somehow or another that Tuba was supposed to fill the void.  I also bought tools, some furniture, and any number of other trinkets.  At the end of the day, it didn’t work.  (As a side note, the aforementioned Tuba is the one that Johnny Ballard plays each Sunday at NHBC.  In addition to that, I AM a Tuba player…didn’t just wake up and decide on it.)

I was going to speak on John 14:6 today, but felt redirected – and I love when God does that.  We’ll get to THE WAY, TRUTH, and THE LIFE later.  But, today, we’re going to talk about the desires of our heart.”

Psalm 37:4, “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart” speaks volumes with only a few words.  The challenge is wrapping our mind around what the HEART desires versus material or relational desires.  We easily become confused and classify wealth, fame, fortune, or even just a Mustang (Camaro for you Chevy folks), a bass boat, or motor home as DESIRES OF OUR HEART.  Some desire power, others look for fullness from relationships…friendships, courtships, and marriage.  While all of these “things” we desire can bring some measure of pleasure, none are able to bring us the lasting joy, hope, or comfort.  No, the Tuba didn’t fill the emptiness that was in my heart.  The grief and hurt remained.  And, I must say that even as deeply as I loved my family at that time, even they were unable to fill my empty soul.

How do we delight ourselves in the Lord and receive “the desires of our heart?” You MUST have a relationship with God through Christ Jesus.  Do you?  Most who read my posts are born-again believers, but if you are not…FB MESSAGE me and we’ll talk.  I would love to talk to you about God’s gift to us!

Back to the question: How DO we delight ourselves in the Lord?  Easy.  We examine our life and priorities and see where God actually sits in relation to those priorities.  And, after that, we establish that, above all, God comes first and put our lives in an order that reflects our desire for HIM!  If we do this, we will find that God will begin to change our hearts and those other “things” that seemed to promise joy, hope, comfort, and fulfillment are no longer important.  As I write this, I can sense that some may fear such a change.  But, considering all of this, is there anything more wonderful than a life governed and guided by God?  Where else can we go?

I deeply love my wife, children, family, and friends.  We enjoy our home and the possessions we have.   I feel pleasure making music, conducting the choir, playing the piano, trombone, and tuba.  I enjoy nice relaxing rides in the my ’71 F100.  All of these folks and these things do bring pleasure to me – certainly they do! But, I also recognize that none of the above can bring true, lasting happiness apart from God’s blessing and provision in the first place!  It is HE who is my delight and desire.  He takes care of the rest.  James 1:17 says that, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.”  It is GOD!

Where do you stand with this?  What in your life says “I DELIGHT IN THE LORD?”  Are you weary of the futile efforts to find the joy and abundance of life on your own?  Are you ready to give-in yet?  Or, at the moment, are you seeking the “desires of your heart” through a Christmas list?

This one is personal and I can proclaim and testify to the TRUTH of this scripture.  Heed these words and you, too, will finally have that fullness you’ve been searching for all along.  You know there’s MORE…and God’s told you how to receive it!

Don’t hesitate to call on me!  Need prayer, let me know?  I can pray for you or with you!

 

Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jesus Holds the Key

Devotion written for December 6, 2016

I’ve been in jail several times. Not as a resident, but in a pastoral role. If you’ve never worked in this type of ministry, it can be somewhat unnerving – especially the security “checks”, metal detectors, doors, and the long, long hallway that leads to the actual jail area. I can’t (and hopefully never will) know what it’s like on the “other side of the glass.” By the way, did the “I’VE BEEN IN JAIL” grab your attention? Now, I’m hopeful that everyone reads the entire devotional…we don’t need any rumors getting started.

Jesus states in Luke 4:18-19 what His mission was. “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim FREEDOM for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the OPPRESSED, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

I’ve put two words in all caps because I want our focus to be on Jesus mission to set captives free. Being terribly claustrophobic as I am, I can’t imagine what it would be like to have to spend any time in jail where  every move you make is dictated and scrutinized. Yet, every day we encounter folks who are held captive in prisons without walls. There’s no need for me to be specific as there are many different sins that hold people captive, but sin IS sin. The truth here is that Jesus holds the keys to set the captives free! As I read His words, you can sense that He speaks with compassion for those in bondage to sin. Do we share that compassion? Think about that.

As I read this morning, I also encountered Jesus words in response to the Pharisee’s question as to “Why does He eat with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus response to this was (Mark 2:17) “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” While this could be a devotional all by itself, I want our consideration today to be that we treat those who are captive (lost) and sin-sick with compassion. Jesus’ mission is also our mission. Are we offering freedom to the captive and healing to the sick? Are we agents of redemption?

How would God have you act on this today? Proclaim freedom in Jesus Christ!

Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell

Loss, but not Lost.

Devotion written for December 8, 2016

Until you have experienced loss, it’s difficult for most people to understand the sadness and grief that accompany the holiday season – in particular Thanksgiving and Christmas.  These are the “prime times” for family gatherings and fellowships, times when families go to great lengths to visit and “renew old acquaintances.”  Most of this involves good food and a table…but for many this year there may be an empty chair at that table.

Even though my mom passed away 16 years ago, it remains fresh on my mind.  My dad passed in 2004.  And, Beth’s mom passed most just a few years back.  With that there have been cousins, aunts, uncles, and dear friends who have passed away as well. Regardless of the amount of time that passes, you never forget and you never cease to miss them.  Honestly, I still think of mom and dad each and every day.  And, that’s ok.  I find great comfort and joy in the memories I have.  To some, however, the memories cause pain and the renewed feeling of loss.  Grief is very real!

Many have experienced the loss of loved ones in 2016.  With the advent of social media we’re able to see this up-close.  Social media can also provide a great source of support and comfort as we’re able to interact with words of sympathy and encouragement instantly.

If I might offer anything to encourage you as you cope with loss, it would be to look at the entire experience from our perspective as believers in Jesus Christ.  I have come to peace with the losses I’ve experienced because my outlook has become an “uplook”.  Only one day before my mother’s passing 16 years ago, God gave me a thought that I’ve never forgotten: WE DON’T GATHER HERE, WE GATHER THERE!  From our perspective as believers, our life on earth is TEMPORARY – it’s just a short amount of time before we reach our ultimate goal of being in the presence of Christ in our permanent home.  We sometimes use the word phrase that  “we’ve lost a loved one”,  but this is not true for born-again Christians as our loved ones have only changed residence.  And, we will join them in God’s timing!

At this point, I’d refer you to the beautiful picture of Heaven we see in Revelation 21.  While we certainly love to visualize what Heaven will be like, I find great comfort in verse 4, “He will wipe every tear from  their eyes. There will be no more death’^a or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”  There’s also a great passage that affirms that we’ve spoken of as our “gathering place.” John 14:1-4 says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me. In my Father’s house are many rooms (KJV: mansions); if it were not so, I would have told you.  I am going there to prepare a place for you. I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be WHERE I AM.  You know that way to the place where I am going.” 

“Sweet Beulah Land”, “Go Rest High on that Mountain”, and “I Can Only Imagine” are great songs of comfort when dealing with grief.  However, I have another favorite that I’ll share.  It was written by Pat Terry many years ago.

HOME WHERE I BELONG

Verse 1

They say that heaven’s pretty and livin’ here is too.  But, if they said that I would have to choose between the two I’d go home, goin’ home where I belong.

Chorus

While I’m here I’ll serve Him gladly, Sing Him all these songs I’m here but not for long.

Verse 2

Sometimes when I’m dreamin’, it comes as no surprise that, if you’ll look, you’ll see the homesick feelin’ in my eyes.  I’m goin’ home where I belong.

Verse 3

When I’m feelin’ lonely and when I’m feelin’ blue, it’s such a joy to know that I am only passin’ through. I’m headed home, I’m goin’ home where I belong.

Verse 4

One day I’ll be sleepin’ when death knocks on my door.  And I’ll awake to find that I’m not homesick anymore.  ‘Cause, I’ll be home – I’ll be home where I belong.

It is my hope that God will encourage your  Spirit today and through the coming days.

 

 Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell

 

 

 

We KNOW we should, but….forgive? Really?

Devotion written on December 7, 2016.

When thinking about the subject of forgiveness our minds probably go immediately to Simon Peter’s question to Jesus about how many times we should forgive a brother. Of course, Jesus’ answer of “seventy times seven” is very familiar to us. And, in most cases the point is taken and the admonition is accepted. But, that’s not where we’re going this morning. We KNOW that we’re supposed to offer forgiveness as many times as needed. But, there are other issues.

Paul says in Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV) “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: FORGETTING WHAT IS BEHIND and straining toward WHAT IS AHEAD, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” I believe some of the saddest situations I’ve seen in ministry (and life in general) involve folks – good folks, who are UNABLE TO FORGIVE THEMSELVES for some sin they’ve committed or some hurt that they have caused. Regardless of what the scriptures say, they seem unable to release GUILT for past sins. even though God offers forgiveness and the offended party has long since forgiven them. As well, we have to include in our discussion those who find themselves UNABLE TO FORGIVE OTHERS the first time, let alone “seventy times seven.” We just can’t seem to embrace the “FORGETTING WHAT IS BEHIND” of the scripture above. This is a sad situation as well. Both situations can lead to pure misery.

Now we know that 1 John 1:9 says that “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” With forgiveness we are SET FREE from sin. Why, then, would we choose to continue in bondage? The danger here is that UNFORGIVENESS ultimately leads to the “BITTER ROOT” mentioned in Hebrews 12:13. According to the scripture, bitterness “grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” In other words, our holding on to unforgiveness causes us to live defeated, miserable lives which is certainly NOT GOD’S INTENT. And, I hope you have noticed the “defile many” statement at the end of the verse. Our UNFORGIVENESS also affects others. The damage is widespread. Why do we choose to live in defeat when we’re offered victory?

I don’t mind telling you I’m a little frustrated with the small scope of our forum here. I can’t go into tons of detail as there’s just not room and there’s also the fear that I may hit the wrong key and delete the entire devotional. But, I want to share briefly that some of the most extreme cases I’ve seen of EMOTIONAL MISERY and PAIN are tied to UNFORGIVENESS OF SELF AND OTHERS. By the way, a lot of times the “OTHERS” mentioned there is family. Oh my, how things become magnified with family. I’ve seen friendships that have been lost, marriages destroyed, families split, churches divided, deterioration of health, all while providing a stronghold for Satan. All because we refuse to forgive. How many hours of sleep have been lost? How weary do we become wrestling with guilt from our past? Who are we hurting? This one may sting…how much anger and frustration are present in our lives because of the bitterness growing out of unforgiveness? Do we have a cruel, vindictive spirit where joy used to live? Are we sad, depressed, and easily stressed?

I have a statement then a question. There’s a false statement we hear from time to time: TIME HEALS ALL THINGS. It doesn’t. We may forget and even think we’re moving forward, but guilt and pain are still there. We may even tell ourselves that we’ve moved on…it’s dealt with. But, it’s still there. Before long, we start to embrace the unforgiveness and it becomes a part of who we are. Then, we find a false security in it…misery becomes our “norm” and we hold on to it like a security blanket. It is a life without joy.

Is this what you want? Is this where you’re at now?

1 John 1:3-4 “We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ. We write this to make OUR JOY complete.” Again, if we ask He will forgive our sins and at the point….IT’S DONE!

Do you want to walk in JOY again? FORGIVE. And then,”FORGET WHAT IS BEHIND” and then “PRESS ON TOWARD THE GOAL TO WIN THE PRIZE!”

My hope is that today someone will pray as David did in Psalm 51:12, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.”

Need help with this? IM me…we can talk. I’d be glad to pray for and with you!

 

Written by and personal property of Rev. R. Mark Russell