Blog https://www.lakesidechapel.com Wed, 13 May 2026 17:53:58 -0400 http://churchplantmedia.com/ Pastor's Pen 4/7/2021 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen- https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen-#comments Wed, 07 Apr 2021 14:00:00 -0400 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen- THE PASTOR'S PEN

4/7/21

 

To My Dear Beloved Lakeside Family,

 

The Apostle Paul said that we are not ignorant of Satan’s schemes (2 Cor. 2:11). One of the devil’s schemes is to disrupt church unity, and he will do everything in his power to accomplish this. I am writing you because I see the Evil One attempting to disrupt the unity we enjoy at Lakeside.

As you might recall, back in May of last year I wrote to you as we were on the verge of returning to church after the two month lockdown. At that time I warned you of the potential danger we faced of being divided over wearing masks in church and other issues related to the covid virus. Quoting Costi Hinn, I wrote,

I believe one of the ways that the enemy will seek to divide our ranks within the church is by tempting us to use our opinions against each other. If the Devil has his way, we’ll be throwing stones of accusation from all sides, calling the cautious people “soft,” labeling the optimists of being “reckless.” More than that, the enemy especially loves when we cement ourselves in political corners; adding opinionated fuel to the already tumultuous fire of conflict. (Costi Hinn)

And now, almost a year later, these words by Costi Hinn sound almost prophetic. Mask wearing has indeed become a contentious issue among many people – not only in our society, but also in many churches. Recently, some people in our church have written respectful letters to our elders, encouraging us to make mask wearing an option, rather than a requirement. Others in our congregation have expressed their frustration to our elders that some in our congregation aren't wearing masks in church, as required by the County ordinance. This letter is my attempt to explain the position of the elders on this matter.

Like many in our congregation, the elders of your church have varying opinions concerning the effectiveness of wearing masks in curbing the spread of this virus. However, regardless of our personal views on this matter, the primary issue for us is whether or not we are biblically bound to obey the Pinellas County Commissioners’ mandate to wear masks during a church service.

Some of your elders hold to the view that Christians are always to obey the government (including local government authorities), unless they tell us to violate a clear biblical truth. Therefore, since mask wearing is not mentioned in Scripture, they believe that we must continue to wear masks until the mandate is lifted. However, there are other elders who believe that by requiring local churches to wear masks, the government has overstepped its God-given authority and entered a realm (the local church) God never ordained it to be involved in. Therefore, those who hold to this view believe that since the government has no God-given jurisdiction in the church, that mask wearing should only be an option, rather than a requirement.

I can assure you, that while the elders may disagree on the role of government in relation to its involvement in the local church, they are not disagreeable. There continues to be a spirit of great unity and love among the elders, even as they hold to differing opinions on this matter. I can also assure you that, while fear of getting ill and politics are two of the forces that have driven many in determining whether or not to wear masks, neither of these issues factored into the decision of the elders. Our sole consideration is to honor the Lord by doing what we believe He wants us to do.

At a recent elders’ retreat, after much discussion, we decided to continue the policy of wearing masks in church unless seated in your chair. While I know that some of you will disagree with this decision, I appeal to you not to make this a divisive issue. To do so would be to fall prey to the devil’s desire to disrupt our unity in Christ. Mask wearing comes under the biblical category of a ‘liberty issue’ (an issue not commanded or condemned in Scripture). This being the case, means that we are responsible to respect those who view things differently than we do and to love them enough to not allow these differences to divide us. It was in light of the liberty issues that threatened to divide the Christians at Rome that Paul told them, “Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification” (Rom. 15:2). In other words, no one was to insist on his view being the right view, while being intolerant of others who held to a differing view. The objective is always to please and edify others, rather than hurting them by demanding our own way.

I would also encourage you to be mindful of what you post on social media concerning the issue of mask wearing. Without realizing it, these posts can contribute to division within our church. In all areas of life – including social media – we are responsible to do all we can to edify others, rather than tear down and criticize them over personal disagreements.

In addition, the elders recognize that many in our congregation have decided to no longer wear masks during Sunday services. For some, this has been a decision based on their conscience. Therefore, the elders will be continuing their policy of not enforcing the wearing of masks. The last thing we want to do is to drive a wedge between the leaders and members of the church over masks. We are your shepherds, and not government enforcers.  

Scripture commands us to love one another and to esteem others more important than ourselves (Phil. 2:3). Therefore, my objective in sending this letter is to encourage you to humbly respect the opinions of others concerning the wearing of masks in church. Regardless of how you view this matter, there is nothing more important than demonstrating Christ’s love towards each other, and in doing so, preserve the unity that we have in the Lord.  

Someday the mandate to wear masks in church will be over. And when that time comes, what will be most important is that we weathered this challenging time by not allowing meaningful relationships to be disrupted. In the meantime, I urge you to choose to be humble, respectful of the opinions of others, and to do everything in your power to contribute to the unity of your church. 

In Christ’s love,

Pastor Steve

]]> THE PASTOR'S PEN

4/7/21

 

To My Dear Beloved Lakeside Family,

 

The Apostle Paul said that we are not ignorant of Satan’s schemes (2 Cor. 2:11). One of the devil’s schemes is to disrupt church unity, and he will do everything in his power to accomplish this. I am writing you because I see the Evil One attempting to disrupt the unity we enjoy at Lakeside.

As you might recall, back in May of last year I wrote to you as we were on the verge of returning to church after the two month lockdown. At that time I warned you of the potential danger we faced of being divided over wearing masks in church and other issues related to the covid virus. Quoting Costi Hinn, I wrote,

I believe one of the ways that the enemy will seek to divide our ranks within the church is by tempting us to use our opinions against each other. If the Devil has his way, we’ll be throwing stones of accusation from all sides, calling the cautious people “soft,” labeling the optimists of being “reckless.” More than that, the enemy especially loves when we cement ourselves in political corners; adding opinionated fuel to the already tumultuous fire of conflict. (Costi Hinn)

And now, almost a year later, these words by Costi Hinn sound almost prophetic. Mask wearing has indeed become a contentious issue among many people – not only in our society, but also in many churches. Recently, some people in our church have written respectful letters to our elders, encouraging us to make mask wearing an option, rather than a requirement. Others in our congregation have expressed their frustration to our elders that some in our congregation aren't wearing masks in church, as required by the County ordinance. This letter is my attempt to explain the position of the elders on this matter.

Like many in our congregation, the elders of your church have varying opinions concerning the effectiveness of wearing masks in curbing the spread of this virus. However, regardless of our personal views on this matter, the primary issue for us is whether or not we are biblically bound to obey the Pinellas County Commissioners’ mandate to wear masks during a church service.

Some of your elders hold to the view that Christians are always to obey the government (including local government authorities), unless they tell us to violate a clear biblical truth. Therefore, since mask wearing is not mentioned in Scripture, they believe that we must continue to wear masks until the mandate is lifted. However, there are other elders who believe that by requiring local churches to wear masks, the government has overstepped its God-given authority and entered a realm (the local church) God never ordained it to be involved in. Therefore, those who hold to this view believe that since the government has no God-given jurisdiction in the church, that mask wearing should only be an option, rather than a requirement.

I can assure you, that while the elders may disagree on the role of government in relation to its involvement in the local church, they are not disagreeable. There continues to be a spirit of great unity and love among the elders, even as they hold to differing opinions on this matter. I can also assure you that, while fear of getting ill and politics are two of the forces that have driven many in determining whether or not to wear masks, neither of these issues factored into the decision of the elders. Our sole consideration is to honor the Lord by doing what we believe He wants us to do.

At a recent elders’ retreat, after much discussion, we decided to continue the policy of wearing masks in church unless seated in your chair. While I know that some of you will disagree with this decision, I appeal to you not to make this a divisive issue. To do so would be to fall prey to the devil’s desire to disrupt our unity in Christ. Mask wearing comes under the biblical category of a ‘liberty issue’ (an issue not commanded or condemned in Scripture). This being the case, means that we are responsible to respect those who view things differently than we do and to love them enough to not allow these differences to divide us. It was in light of the liberty issues that threatened to divide the Christians at Rome that Paul told them, “Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification” (Rom. 15:2). In other words, no one was to insist on his view being the right view, while being intolerant of others who held to a differing view. The objective is always to please and edify others, rather than hurting them by demanding our own way.

I would also encourage you to be mindful of what you post on social media concerning the issue of mask wearing. Without realizing it, these posts can contribute to division within our church. In all areas of life – including social media – we are responsible to do all we can to edify others, rather than tear down and criticize them over personal disagreements.

In addition, the elders recognize that many in our congregation have decided to no longer wear masks during Sunday services. For some, this has been a decision based on their conscience. Therefore, the elders will be continuing their policy of not enforcing the wearing of masks. The last thing we want to do is to drive a wedge between the leaders and members of the church over masks. We are your shepherds, and not government enforcers.  

Scripture commands us to love one another and to esteem others more important than ourselves (Phil. 2:3). Therefore, my objective in sending this letter is to encourage you to humbly respect the opinions of others concerning the wearing of masks in church. Regardless of how you view this matter, there is nothing more important than demonstrating Christ’s love towards each other, and in doing so, preserve the unity that we have in the Lord.  

Someday the mandate to wear masks in church will be over. And when that time comes, what will be most important is that we weathered this challenging time by not allowing meaningful relationships to be disrupted. In the meantime, I urge you to choose to be humble, respectful of the opinions of others, and to do everything in your power to contribute to the unity of your church. 

In Christ’s love,

Pastor Steve

]]> Pastor's Pen 5/14/2020 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen--- https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen---#comments Thu, 14 May 2020 10:00:00 -0400 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen---
THE PASTOR'S PEN


MAY 14, 2020

 

 

It has been almost two months since we have been able to meet as a church congregation. During that time we have all faced challenges that have stretched us. But the time is drawing near when we will be able to return to gathering as a church body on Sundays (May 31).

Hopefully, we will all return with a renewed love for the church and a new appreciation for our fellowship in Christ. Although we are grateful for the ability to have stayed somewhat connected during this time period through live-streaming and zoom meetings, there is no substitute for being physically together for corporate worship and fellowship.

In light of being able to soon be reunited as a church, I have some important pastoral thoughts that I want to share with you. The primary thing that I want you to be aware of is that when you return to church not everyone in our congregation will agree on how to socially conduct themselves. Some will be very concerned over the risk of getting the coronavirus, and will want to wear a mask and gloves. Others won’t share the same concern, and will choose to not wear a mask or gloves.

In addition, due to the new configuration of our auditorium of individual chairs instead of pews, some will no doubt object to these changes, while others will welcome them as needed improvements.

Regardless of what your personal views are concerning these matters, what’s most important is that we respect each other’s opinions and concerns (or lack of concerns) and that we make sure that we don’t look down upon those who view things differently than we do.

In an article I recently read, the author expressed a likely scenario facing Christians as they return to church. He wrote,

           I believe one of the ways that the enemy will seek to divide our ranks within the church is by tempting us to use our opinions against each other. If the Devil has his way, we’ll be throwing stones of accusation from all sides, calling the cautious people “soft,” labeling the optimists of being “reckless.” More than that, the enemy especially loves when we cement ourselves in political corners; adding opinionated fuel to the already tumultuous fire of conflict. (Costi Hinn)

The Apostle Paul said that “we are not ignorant of Satan’s schemes” (2 Cor. 2:11), and he was absolutely right. We know that one of the devil’s schemes is to divide Christians by inciting them to voice strong opinions over non-biblical issues. The problem is not that we hold to these opinions, but rather that we feel that anyone who doesn’t agree with us is wrong.

All of our views related to the coronavirus and social distancing come under the category of ‘liberty issues’ (issues not commanded or condemned in Scripture). This being the case, it means that we are responsible to respect those who view things differently than we do and to love them enough to not allow these differences to divide us. It was in light of the liberty issues that threatened to divide the Christians at Rome that Paul told them, “Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification” (Rom. 15:2). In other words, no one was to insist on his view being the right view, while being intolerant of others who held to a differing view. The objective is always to please and edify others, rather than hurting them by demanding our own way.

How sad it would be if, in the name of holding to our strong opinions over things related to the coronavirus, that we ended up with a new kind of social distancing based on conflict rather than safety, that hindered our fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ.   

And so, in light of Christ’s love and the unity of His Church, I appeal to you to make sure that when you return to church, you love one another enough to accept those who see differently than you do in relation to the coronavirus. I encourage you to take to heart these wise words from the above mentioned article.  

        In the end, these attitudes prepare our hearts and minds to do one thing above all else: choose love. Preserving valuable relationships and developing healthy teams, churches, and families is more important than winning arguments, or being (more) right. (Costi Hinn) 

I look forward to welcoming you back on Sunday, May 31. It will be a joy to finally see you again, and to worship with you.

In Christ’s love,

 

Pastor Steve

]]>
THE PASTOR'S PEN


MAY 14, 2020

 

 

It has been almost two months since we have been able to meet as a church congregation. During that time we have all faced challenges that have stretched us. But the time is drawing near when we will be able to return to gathering as a church body on Sundays (May 31).

Hopefully, we will all return with a renewed love for the church and a new appreciation for our fellowship in Christ. Although we are grateful for the ability to have stayed somewhat connected during this time period through live-streaming and zoom meetings, there is no substitute for being physically together for corporate worship and fellowship.

In light of being able to soon be reunited as a church, I have some important pastoral thoughts that I want to share with you. The primary thing that I want you to be aware of is that when you return to church not everyone in our congregation will agree on how to socially conduct themselves. Some will be very concerned over the risk of getting the coronavirus, and will want to wear a mask and gloves. Others won’t share the same concern, and will choose to not wear a mask or gloves.

In addition, due to the new configuration of our auditorium of individual chairs instead of pews, some will no doubt object to these changes, while others will welcome them as needed improvements.

Regardless of what your personal views are concerning these matters, what’s most important is that we respect each other’s opinions and concerns (or lack of concerns) and that we make sure that we don’t look down upon those who view things differently than we do.

In an article I recently read, the author expressed a likely scenario facing Christians as they return to church. He wrote,

           I believe one of the ways that the enemy will seek to divide our ranks within the church is by tempting us to use our opinions against each other. If the Devil has his way, we’ll be throwing stones of accusation from all sides, calling the cautious people “soft,” labeling the optimists of being “reckless.” More than that, the enemy especially loves when we cement ourselves in political corners; adding opinionated fuel to the already tumultuous fire of conflict. (Costi Hinn)

The Apostle Paul said that “we are not ignorant of Satan’s schemes” (2 Cor. 2:11), and he was absolutely right. We know that one of the devil’s schemes is to divide Christians by inciting them to voice strong opinions over non-biblical issues. The problem is not that we hold to these opinions, but rather that we feel that anyone who doesn’t agree with us is wrong.

All of our views related to the coronavirus and social distancing come under the category of ‘liberty issues’ (issues not commanded or condemned in Scripture). This being the case, it means that we are responsible to respect those who view things differently than we do and to love them enough to not allow these differences to divide us. It was in light of the liberty issues that threatened to divide the Christians at Rome that Paul told them, “Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification” (Rom. 15:2). In other words, no one was to insist on his view being the right view, while being intolerant of others who held to a differing view. The objective is always to please and edify others, rather than hurting them by demanding our own way.

How sad it would be if, in the name of holding to our strong opinions over things related to the coronavirus, that we ended up with a new kind of social distancing based on conflict rather than safety, that hindered our fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ.   

And so, in light of Christ’s love and the unity of His Church, I appeal to you to make sure that when you return to church, you love one another enough to accept those who see differently than you do in relation to the coronavirus. I encourage you to take to heart these wise words from the above mentioned article.  

        In the end, these attitudes prepare our hearts and minds to do one thing above all else: choose love. Preserving valuable relationships and developing healthy teams, churches, and families is more important than winning arguments, or being (more) right. (Costi Hinn) 

I look forward to welcoming you back on Sunday, May 31. It will be a joy to finally see you again, and to worship with you.

In Christ’s love,

 

Pastor Steve

]]> Pastor's Pen 9/12/2019 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/sample-post-2 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/sample-post-2#comments Thu, 09 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0400 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/sample-post-2 THE PASTOR’S PEN

SEPTEMBER 12, 2019

 

 

This last May was my 38th year as the pastor/teacher of Lakeside Community Chapel. And in all of those years it never occurred to me that I should write a newsletter to the people of this church. But on a recent vacation (with plenty of time on my hands as I drove through the hills of North Carolina and Tennessee) the thought crossed my mind that it would be a great thing for me to write a letter to you from time to time, informing the congregation of various happenings affecting our church. In addition, this newsletter could include some personal thoughts from me, as well as important information from one or more of our elders concerning their respective ministries. And so, here it is – my first newsletter to you, which I have official named, “THE PASTOR’S PEN” (I realize that with the use of computers these days, most people don’t write with pens as much as they used to, but it didn’t sound right to call this newsletter “CLICKS FROM THE PASTOR’S COMPUTER”).   

While there are always new things taking place in a church our size, the recent changes in the children’s ministry is what I want to share with you in this letter. As most of you know, Wes and Brittany Andrews have recently moved away to relocate in the Denver area. For the last few years Wes has served on our staff as the director of our Children’s Ministry. He did a wonderful job, and he (and Brittany) will be greatly missed.

However, change also provides new opportunities to evaluate a ministry, and to seek ways to improve it and make it more effective. And that is the case with our Children’s Ministry. We believe that the needs of this ministry are better served going forward by having multiple individuals rather than just one person fill these roles. Therefore, under the leadership of Pastor Jason Bruns, there will now be three individuals carrying out the various responsibilities of the Children’s Ministry. I am delighted to report that Stephanie Bruns will be in charge of the curriculum, Kacie Segovia will oversee all scheduling, and Chris Denault will manage all of the logistics (supplies, set up/tear down of classrooms, etc.) Transitions are usually filled with unique challenges, but I believe that these three individuals will do a fantastic job with caring for the Children’s Ministry. I know they would appreciate your prayers as they seek to carry out their new responsibilities.

Jesus made it clear that children hold a special place in His heart, and therefore we cherish them at Lakeside. It is my desire that the children of Lakeside have the finest teachers, helpers, and Bible curriculum available. If you have any questions or concerns about the Children’s Ministry, feel free to contact Pastor Jason Bruns, the elder responsible for overseeing this work. He would welcome the opportunity to sit down and talk with you.


Warmly in Christ,

Pastor Steve

]]> THE PASTOR’S PEN

SEPTEMBER 12, 2019

 

 

This last May was my 38th year as the pastor/teacher of Lakeside Community Chapel. And in all of those years it never occurred to me that I should write a newsletter to the people of this church. But on a recent vacation (with plenty of time on my hands as I drove through the hills of North Carolina and Tennessee) the thought crossed my mind that it would be a great thing for me to write a letter to you from time to time, informing the congregation of various happenings affecting our church. In addition, this newsletter could include some personal thoughts from me, as well as important information from one or more of our elders concerning their respective ministries. And so, here it is – my first newsletter to you, which I have official named, “THE PASTOR’S PEN” (I realize that with the use of computers these days, most people don’t write with pens as much as they used to, but it didn’t sound right to call this newsletter “CLICKS FROM THE PASTOR’S COMPUTER”).   

While there are always new things taking place in a church our size, the recent changes in the children’s ministry is what I want to share with you in this letter. As most of you know, Wes and Brittany Andrews have recently moved away to relocate in the Denver area. For the last few years Wes has served on our staff as the director of our Children’s Ministry. He did a wonderful job, and he (and Brittany) will be greatly missed.

However, change also provides new opportunities to evaluate a ministry, and to seek ways to improve it and make it more effective. And that is the case with our Children’s Ministry. We believe that the needs of this ministry are better served going forward by having multiple individuals rather than just one person fill these roles. Therefore, under the leadership of Pastor Jason Bruns, there will now be three individuals carrying out the various responsibilities of the Children’s Ministry. I am delighted to report that Stephanie Bruns will be in charge of the curriculum, Kacie Segovia will oversee all scheduling, and Chris Denault will manage all of the logistics (supplies, set up/tear down of classrooms, etc.) Transitions are usually filled with unique challenges, but I believe that these three individuals will do a fantastic job with caring for the Children’s Ministry. I know they would appreciate your prayers as they seek to carry out their new responsibilities.

Jesus made it clear that children hold a special place in His heart, and therefore we cherish them at Lakeside. It is my desire that the children of Lakeside have the finest teachers, helpers, and Bible curriculum available. If you have any questions or concerns about the Children’s Ministry, feel free to contact Pastor Jason Bruns, the elder responsible for overseeing this work. He would welcome the opportunity to sit down and talk with you.


Warmly in Christ,

Pastor Steve

]]> Pastor's Pen 11/1/2019 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/sample-post-3 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/sample-post-3#comments Thu, 09 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0400 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/sample-post-3 THE PASTOR’S PEN

NOVEMBER, 2019

 

Tim Keesee is a man that I would like everyone at Lakeside to know. He’s someone that I have come to greatly admire and love. Although I have never met Tim personally, I feel as if I know him as a dear friend and brother through his videos and books. For over 25 years, he has helped to advance the gospel in some of the most dangerous places in the world. He is best known for producing a series of documentaries entitled Dispatches from the Front, in which he reports from some of the world’s most hostile mission fields about the courageous men and women who live in those places, risking their lives to share the gospel.

Lately I have been reading Tim Keesee’s most recent book, A Company of Heroes. Appropriately named, the book is about stories of Christian heroes – both past and present – who have experienced the grace of God and whose longing for others to know Christ have taken them to the front lines in the battle to advance the gospel.  As a missions journalist, Tim Keesee records how ordinary believers have become heroes by their obedience and trust in their Risen Savior. Two of these heroes are a married couple, Aaron and Jillian, who minister in north Africa. Writing in his journal, Tim records the following about Aaron and Jillian:

“Set out from Casablanca early for the drive to this mountain village, the ancestral home of a Moroccan brother named Sayid. He and our friends, Aaron and Jillian, are letting me travel with them in this corner of North Africa along the western edges of the Sahara. Aaron and Jillian have served Christ in this region for nearly a decade. I love this couple’s simple trust in their God’s sovereign care and control in all things, even when – especially when – things are out of their control. In their straightforward obedience to go and make disciples in hostile territory, they don’t overanalyze or overestimate what can’t be done. Rather, they focus on what can be done – and do it.” (pages 25-26).

In light of our study of the Book of Acts on Sunday mornings, it is encouraging to

to know that there are men and women today, heroes like Aaron and Jillian, who, like Paul and Peter before them, are willing to sacrifice everything to make the gospel known because of their love for Jesus Christ. We all need heroes like this – ordinary people who do extraordinary things for the kingdom – because they inspire us to follow their example.  

Having just recently completed our church’s annual missions conference, I hope you have benefitted meeting and hearing from some of the missionary heroes associated with Lakeside. And I hope that their example has inspired and motivated you to share the gospel with others. You see, the purpose of our missions conference is not only to keep you informed about the work of our missionaries. It’s also meant to stimulate your interest in missions and to encourage you to share the gospel in the environment the Lord has placed you.

 

It is my hope that you will get to know as many missionary heroes as you can. Some you will come in contact with through your connection to Lakeside. But other missionary heroes you can meet on the pages of biographies about them. I would encourage you to read the biographies of heroes like William Carey, John Paton, Amy Carmichael, Adoniram Judson, J. Hudson Taylor, Samuel Zwemer, Gladys Aylward, Jim Elliot, and others. Of them it could be said, that like the great men and women of faith who lived during OT times, they were “…men of whom the world was not worthy (Heb. 11:38a). May God give us more heroes like them.

Warmly in Christ,

Pastor Steve

]]> THE PASTOR’S PEN

NOVEMBER, 2019

 

Tim Keesee is a man that I would like everyone at Lakeside to know. He’s someone that I have come to greatly admire and love. Although I have never met Tim personally, I feel as if I know him as a dear friend and brother through his videos and books. For over 25 years, he has helped to advance the gospel in some of the most dangerous places in the world. He is best known for producing a series of documentaries entitled Dispatches from the Front, in which he reports from some of the world’s most hostile mission fields about the courageous men and women who live in those places, risking their lives to share the gospel.

Lately I have been reading Tim Keesee’s most recent book, A Company of Heroes. Appropriately named, the book is about stories of Christian heroes – both past and present – who have experienced the grace of God and whose longing for others to know Christ have taken them to the front lines in the battle to advance the gospel.  As a missions journalist, Tim Keesee records how ordinary believers have become heroes by their obedience and trust in their Risen Savior. Two of these heroes are a married couple, Aaron and Jillian, who minister in north Africa. Writing in his journal, Tim records the following about Aaron and Jillian:

“Set out from Casablanca early for the drive to this mountain village, the ancestral home of a Moroccan brother named Sayid. He and our friends, Aaron and Jillian, are letting me travel with them in this corner of North Africa along the western edges of the Sahara. Aaron and Jillian have served Christ in this region for nearly a decade. I love this couple’s simple trust in their God’s sovereign care and control in all things, even when – especially when – things are out of their control. In their straightforward obedience to go and make disciples in hostile territory, they don’t overanalyze or overestimate what can’t be done. Rather, they focus on what can be done – and do it.” (pages 25-26).

In light of our study of the Book of Acts on Sunday mornings, it is encouraging to

to know that there are men and women today, heroes like Aaron and Jillian, who, like Paul and Peter before them, are willing to sacrifice everything to make the gospel known because of their love for Jesus Christ. We all need heroes like this – ordinary people who do extraordinary things for the kingdom – because they inspire us to follow their example.  

Having just recently completed our church’s annual missions conference, I hope you have benefitted meeting and hearing from some of the missionary heroes associated with Lakeside. And I hope that their example has inspired and motivated you to share the gospel with others. You see, the purpose of our missions conference is not only to keep you informed about the work of our missionaries. It’s also meant to stimulate your interest in missions and to encourage you to share the gospel in the environment the Lord has placed you.

 

It is my hope that you will get to know as many missionary heroes as you can. Some you will come in contact with through your connection to Lakeside. But other missionary heroes you can meet on the pages of biographies about them. I would encourage you to read the biographies of heroes like William Carey, John Paton, Amy Carmichael, Adoniram Judson, J. Hudson Taylor, Samuel Zwemer, Gladys Aylward, Jim Elliot, and others. Of them it could be said, that like the great men and women of faith who lived during OT times, they were “…men of whom the world was not worthy (Heb. 11:38a). May God give us more heroes like them.

Warmly in Christ,

Pastor Steve

]]> Pastor's Pen 3/15/2020 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/sample-post-4 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/sample-post-4#comments Thu, 09 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0400 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/sample-post-4  

THE PASTOR’S PEN

MARCH 15, 2020

 

To my dear precious Lakeside flock,

 

Jesus said, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me.” (Jn. 14:1). Those words were intended to bring comfort and encouragement to our Lord’s fearful disciples, as they would soon be facing life without His physical presence. In light of the difficult days ahead, He was commanding them to trust Him. How appropriate those words are for us today, as we find ourselves in the throes of this global epidemic of the Coronavirus. It is an unprecedented time for not only Americans, but for all the citizens of the world.

How easy it is to be fearful and troubled of heart during these days. But Christ’s words to His first disciples are still applicable for us. He commands us to trust Him, regardless of how challenging our circumstances might be or what the future might hold. In light of how insecure we might be feeling right now because of the uncertainty of the days ahead of us, I want to encourage you to trust the Lord, even when it feels like our world has been turned upside down. In these times of uncertainty, these are some truths about God that are certain – truths we can count on and anchor our souls to.


I.  HE IS SOVEREIGN

Over and over we read in Scripture that God is sovereign, and therefore in control of all events. God says of Himself, through the prophet Isaiah, “Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things which have not been done, Saying, ‘My purpose will be established, And I will accomplish all My good pleasure’”. (Isa. 46:10). In Lamentations, Jeremiah asks the question, “Who is there who speaks and it comes to pass, Unless the Lord has commanded it?” (Lam. 3:37). In other words, God has commanded, or decreed, everything that happens, and that includes viruses. As Augustine said many years ago, “Nothing, therefore, happens unless the Omnipotent wills it to happen: He either permits it to happen, or He brings it about himself.” For whatever reason God has brought about this virus, we can rest in the truth that He is still in control of everything that is going on in the world, and He will accomplish His own purposes.

 II.   HE IS UNCHANGING

The Bible teaches that God does not change in His character or His attributes. James 1:17 says, “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.” In terms of God’s nature and character, there is never any variation with Him. Nothing will ever alter His attributes. He is always good, always wise, always sovereign, always holy. Regardless of how the world’s scene will vary and fluctuate in the coming days, you can take comfort in the fact that God does not – and will not - change.

 

III.  HE IS OMNISCIENT

Our God knows everything. David wrote in Ps. 139, concerning God’s intimate knowledge of him: “O LORD, You have searched me and known me. 2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. 3 You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are intimately acquainted with all my ways. 4 Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O LORD, You know it all.”  God does know it all, and therefore we can rest in the wonderful truth that God knows everything that is going to happen in relation to this virus. Nothing will take Him by surprise. So, be encouraged, and resist the temptation to worry. He is aware of everything, and He is your heavenly Father who knows what you need and has promised to care for you (Matt. 632).

IV.   HE IS LOVING

At a time like this many are fearful, not knowing what the future will bring. But, as believers in Christ, we are assured of God’s unending love. For He who demonstrated His love for us at the cross, securing our eternal salvation, will never stop loving us during the difficult times of life. As He said to His people in the first century, so He says to us today, “Casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7). So, I exhort you to cast every care and concern you have on the Lord, and let Him carry your burdens.

 

Knowing and believing these precious truths about God should bring great comfort to you. In addition, I would like to offer these practical suggestions to you during these unusual days.

  • Look and pray for opportunities to share the gospel with people. This is a time when men’s hearts are failing them because they have no hope, and they fear death. Many unsaved people will be much more open to hearing what you have to say about Christ and salvation. So, I would urge you to redeem the time and witness to others.
  • Try to stay connected to your brothers and sisters in Christ as much as possible. Use social media, your cell phones, emails, and other ways to keep in touch with one another. Even though, for the time being, we can’t meet as a congregation on Sundays, we are still a church family and we can communicate and serve one another in a host of creative ways.

 

  • Plan to use your time wisely. While we may not be able to participate in any public events or watch pro sports on tv, we can use this time to do a host of constructive things – like reading a good book, getting together for meaningful times of fellowship with individuals, spending more time in prayer and Bible reading, and listening to some edifying sermons online.

 

  • Be alert to the needs of others. Resist the temptation to become self-absorbed over the many inconveniences you might be experiencing. Paul tells us to “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; 4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Phil. 2:3-4) These days provide great opportunities for us to show forth the love of Christ by ministering to those who are hurting.

 

  • Keep your focus on Christ, and not your circumstances. At some point, this epidemic will be over and life will return to some semblance of normalcy. But until that happens, there will be daily challenges and fluctuating circumstances. But you can always count on Jesus – because He remains our loving Savior and Lord. This is the time to draw close to Him who said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.”

 

I want to assure all of you that our Lakeside staff is available to be of any service to you. At this time the church is keeping normal office hours, so please feel free to contact us as the need arises. I will be preaching to you by livestream until this crisis is over, and eagerly await the day we can all be together again.

 

Yours in Christ,


Pastor Steve

]]>  

THE PASTOR’S PEN

MARCH 15, 2020

 

To my dear precious Lakeside flock,

 

Jesus said, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me.” (Jn. 14:1). Those words were intended to bring comfort and encouragement to our Lord’s fearful disciples, as they would soon be facing life without His physical presence. In light of the difficult days ahead, He was commanding them to trust Him. How appropriate those words are for us today, as we find ourselves in the throes of this global epidemic of the Coronavirus. It is an unprecedented time for not only Americans, but for all the citizens of the world.

How easy it is to be fearful and troubled of heart during these days. But Christ’s words to His first disciples are still applicable for us. He commands us to trust Him, regardless of how challenging our circumstances might be or what the future might hold. In light of how insecure we might be feeling right now because of the uncertainty of the days ahead of us, I want to encourage you to trust the Lord, even when it feels like our world has been turned upside down. In these times of uncertainty, these are some truths about God that are certain – truths we can count on and anchor our souls to.


I.  HE IS SOVEREIGN

Over and over we read in Scripture that God is sovereign, and therefore in control of all events. God says of Himself, through the prophet Isaiah, “Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things which have not been done, Saying, ‘My purpose will be established, And I will accomplish all My good pleasure’”. (Isa. 46:10). In Lamentations, Jeremiah asks the question, “Who is there who speaks and it comes to pass, Unless the Lord has commanded it?” (Lam. 3:37). In other words, God has commanded, or decreed, everything that happens, and that includes viruses. As Augustine said many years ago, “Nothing, therefore, happens unless the Omnipotent wills it to happen: He either permits it to happen, or He brings it about himself.” For whatever reason God has brought about this virus, we can rest in the truth that He is still in control of everything that is going on in the world, and He will accomplish His own purposes.

 II.   HE IS UNCHANGING

The Bible teaches that God does not change in His character or His attributes. James 1:17 says, “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.” In terms of God’s nature and character, there is never any variation with Him. Nothing will ever alter His attributes. He is always good, always wise, always sovereign, always holy. Regardless of how the world’s scene will vary and fluctuate in the coming days, you can take comfort in the fact that God does not – and will not - change.

 

III.  HE IS OMNISCIENT

Our God knows everything. David wrote in Ps. 139, concerning God’s intimate knowledge of him: “O LORD, You have searched me and known me. 2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. 3 You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are intimately acquainted with all my ways. 4 Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O LORD, You know it all.”  God does know it all, and therefore we can rest in the wonderful truth that God knows everything that is going to happen in relation to this virus. Nothing will take Him by surprise. So, be encouraged, and resist the temptation to worry. He is aware of everything, and He is your heavenly Father who knows what you need and has promised to care for you (Matt. 632).

IV.   HE IS LOVING

At a time like this many are fearful, not knowing what the future will bring. But, as believers in Christ, we are assured of God’s unending love. For He who demonstrated His love for us at the cross, securing our eternal salvation, will never stop loving us during the difficult times of life. As He said to His people in the first century, so He says to us today, “Casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7). So, I exhort you to cast every care and concern you have on the Lord, and let Him carry your burdens.

 

Knowing and believing these precious truths about God should bring great comfort to you. In addition, I would like to offer these practical suggestions to you during these unusual days.

  • Look and pray for opportunities to share the gospel with people. This is a time when men’s hearts are failing them because they have no hope, and they fear death. Many unsaved people will be much more open to hearing what you have to say about Christ and salvation. So, I would urge you to redeem the time and witness to others.
  • Try to stay connected to your brothers and sisters in Christ as much as possible. Use social media, your cell phones, emails, and other ways to keep in touch with one another. Even though, for the time being, we can’t meet as a congregation on Sundays, we are still a church family and we can communicate and serve one another in a host of creative ways.

 

  • Plan to use your time wisely. While we may not be able to participate in any public events or watch pro sports on tv, we can use this time to do a host of constructive things – like reading a good book, getting together for meaningful times of fellowship with individuals, spending more time in prayer and Bible reading, and listening to some edifying sermons online.

 

  • Be alert to the needs of others. Resist the temptation to become self-absorbed over the many inconveniences you might be experiencing. Paul tells us to “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; 4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Phil. 2:3-4) These days provide great opportunities for us to show forth the love of Christ by ministering to those who are hurting.

 

  • Keep your focus on Christ, and not your circumstances. At some point, this epidemic will be over and life will return to some semblance of normalcy. But until that happens, there will be daily challenges and fluctuating circumstances. But you can always count on Jesus – because He remains our loving Savior and Lord. This is the time to draw close to Him who said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.”

 

I want to assure all of you that our Lakeside staff is available to be of any service to you. At this time the church is keeping normal office hours, so please feel free to contact us as the need arises. I will be preaching to you by livestream until this crisis is over, and eagerly await the day we can all be together again.

 

Yours in Christ,


Pastor Steve

]]> Pastor's Pen 3/22/2020 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen-03-2 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen-03-2#comments Thu, 09 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0400 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen-03-2 THE PASTOR’S PEN

MARCH 22, 2020

 

To my dear precious Lakeside flock,

I miss you. Not being with you on Sundays, and preaching to a camera in an almost empty auditorium is not natural. However, it is the situation we find ourselves in these days. And by God’s grace I will continue to preach to you over livestream, in order to feed you God’s Word and to encourage you in your walk with Christ.

I recently read a missionary report from a friend of mine who lives in Italy. As you know, the nation of Italy is in complete lockdown. In spite of this situation, my friend has found a way to find some beneficial things as a result of the Coronavirus (like spending more time with his wife and children, and catching up on some much needed sleep).

Although our situation is not the same as our Italian brethren, in the spirit of my friend’s attitude, I want to give you some reasons to be thankful – not for the Coronavirus, but for what God is doing as a result of this virus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “In everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” And so, with this in mind, I offer the following 10 things to be thankful for you as we go through this crisis. Be thankful to the Lord…

  1. For what you do have, instead of what you don’t have. This includes your health, your family, and the ability to stay in touch with each other.
  2. For the opportunity to draw closer to the Lord, because that is why God’s sends trials into our lives. (James 1:2-4)
  3. For the advancement of the gospel around the world, as people are fearful and are looking for hope.
  4. For showing us the priorities of life, and how many trivial things we can do without.
  5. For the opportunity to trust Jesus to sustain us during these extraordinary days.
  6. For livestream, the internet, and the availability to hear biblical sermons.
  7. For allowing us to see how important church life is, now that it has been removed from us.
  8. For giving us the time to read a good book and have meaningful conversations with other believers.
  9. For putting us in a situation where we can demonstrate God’s peace and love to others.
  10. For making us appreciate the fact that we are citizens of heaven, and that there is a better world for us in the future.

Please be assured of my continued love and concern for you. Once again, I want you to know that as of now our church office is open Mondays through Fridays. Please don’t hesitate to let us know how we can assist.

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Steve

]]> THE PASTOR’S PEN

MARCH 22, 2020

 

To my dear precious Lakeside flock,

I miss you. Not being with you on Sundays, and preaching to a camera in an almost empty auditorium is not natural. However, it is the situation we find ourselves in these days. And by God’s grace I will continue to preach to you over livestream, in order to feed you God’s Word and to encourage you in your walk with Christ.

I recently read a missionary report from a friend of mine who lives in Italy. As you know, the nation of Italy is in complete lockdown. In spite of this situation, my friend has found a way to find some beneficial things as a result of the Coronavirus (like spending more time with his wife and children, and catching up on some much needed sleep).

Although our situation is not the same as our Italian brethren, in the spirit of my friend’s attitude, I want to give you some reasons to be thankful – not for the Coronavirus, but for what God is doing as a result of this virus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “In everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” And so, with this in mind, I offer the following 10 things to be thankful for you as we go through this crisis. Be thankful to the Lord…

  1. For what you do have, instead of what you don’t have. This includes your health, your family, and the ability to stay in touch with each other.
  2. For the opportunity to draw closer to the Lord, because that is why God’s sends trials into our lives. (James 1:2-4)
  3. For the advancement of the gospel around the world, as people are fearful and are looking for hope.
  4. For showing us the priorities of life, and how many trivial things we can do without.
  5. For the opportunity to trust Jesus to sustain us during these extraordinary days.
  6. For livestream, the internet, and the availability to hear biblical sermons.
  7. For allowing us to see how important church life is, now that it has been removed from us.
  8. For giving us the time to read a good book and have meaningful conversations with other believers.
  9. For putting us in a situation where we can demonstrate God’s peace and love to others.
  10. For making us appreciate the fact that we are citizens of heaven, and that there is a better world for us in the future.

Please be assured of my continued love and concern for you. Once again, I want you to know that as of now our church office is open Mondays through Fridays. Please don’t hesitate to let us know how we can assist.

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Steve

]]> Pastor's Pen 4/3/2020 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen-4- https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen-4-#comments Thu, 09 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0400 https://www.lakesidechapel.com/blog/post/pastors-pen-4- THE PASTOR’S PEN

APRIL 3, 2020

 

It started in May of last year – May 17th to be exact. That was the day Michele told me that she wasn’t feeling well. Little did either of us realize at the time, but this was to be the start of a journey that would involve numerous doctor appointments, a visit to the hospital emergency room on July 4th, and three very tense times of awaiting test results to determine if she had cancer or not. Several months ago a colonoscopy revealed that Michele had a mass growing in her colon. On Monday, March 23 she underwent surgery to remove the mass, and I am thrilled to report that it was benign!

Hopefully with the removal of this mass, Michele’s health will improve and return to normal. But as I reflect back on this past year, I realize that there are some very meaningful lessons that the Lord has taught me in relation to Michele’s health problems. In this Pastor’s Pen letter I would like to share with you those lessons, with the hope that they will be helpful to you.

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED FROM MICHELE’S ILLNESS

  1. GOD GIVES HIS GRACE ONLY WHEN WE NEED IT FOR A REAL CRISIS

I wish I could tell you that I handled Michele’s health problems with great faith and confidence in the Lord. But, that was not the case. Once I realized that that her health issue was a serious problem, I struggled with anxiety and often found myself walking down the forbidden path of worry. Part of the problem was that I made the mistake of trying to diagnose her illness by looking up her symptoms on the internet, and then concluding that she had ovarian cancer. While it turned out that she did not have ovarian cancer, my initial reaction to my foolish ‘internet diagnosis’ was to dwell on the thought that she was going to soon be dead and that I would be left to navigate my life alone, without my precious Michele.

Needless to say, this was a very difficult time in my life. Not only were my anxiety-filled thoughts sinful, but they were a waste of valuable energy. However, something I learned through all of this is that the Lord doesn’t give His grace for situations that don’t actually exist. The reason that God did not give me His grace to handle Michele’s looming death was because she wasn’t going to die from her illness. God only gives His sustaining grace when it is needed, and it is needed when we are going through a real crisis, and not an imagined one. This is the point of our Lord’s statement in Matt. 6:34 - “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”I.e. “We are not to borrow tomorrow’s problems today, because God only gives His grace for problems on the day we need it.”Eventually, I recognize this truth and applied it to my situation, but not before going through a great deal of emotional pain. Hopefully, knowing this will spare you the unnecessary pain that I experienced. The lesson I learned is that God gives His grace only when we need it at the time of a real crisis, and not a crisis we fear might be coming sometime in the future.

 

  1. IT IS VERY EASY TO REACT TO A LOVED ONE’S HEALTH PROBLEM WITH SELFISHNESS

While it was very difficult for me to see Michele in pain and discomfort, I found myself thinking far too much about myself and what my life would be like without her. Eventually I found myself totally absorbed with myself and my potential woes. And then one day Michele said to me, “You know, I’m the one who isn’t feeling good – not you. All you are thinking about is yourself and how my illness affects you.” Ouch. That hurt, but she was absolutely right, and I am thankful she told me the truth.

Selfishness and self-absorption are natural tendencies in all of us because of the Fall of man. We are all, by virtue of our fallen flesh, self-centered beings. It is only by the indwelling power of Christ that we have the enabling strength to die to our self-interests and lovingly serve others – putting their welfare and needs ahead of our own (Philippians 2:3-4).  It took a trial like Michele’s health problem to show me how selfish I was, and how easy it was for me to have a pity-party. Eventually, I realized this truth, and fought back against the sinful urge to think about how Michele’s health – and possible death – would affect me. It’s been a good lesson to learn because I have seen how deep and ingrained my fleshly selfishness really is. Hating my sin of selfishness has only made me long to be more Christlike in my love and unselfishness. The lesson I learned in all of this is to think more about the person who is suffering, instead of dwelling on how their suffering is affecting me.

 

III. IT IS EASY TO MAKE SOMEONE YOU LOVE AN IDOL

Corrie Ten Boom, a believer who survived the Holocaust, once said, “Hold everything in your hands lightly, otherwise it hurts when God pries your fingers open.” What a profound and true statement, and one that is especially applicable when it comes to those we love. This May Michele and I will celebrate 45 years of marriage. Over those years my love for her has grown and matured. But there’s always the danger that one’s love for their spouse can turn into sinful idolatry. I’m afraid that out of fear of losing my wife I was guilty of making her an idol, so that in the words of Corrie Ten Boom, “I held on to her too tightly”.  An idol is something (or someone) who we feel we must have or else we can’t be content or happy. It is something (or someone) who we cherish to the degree that should be reserved only for the Lord. In the name of love I was guilty of making an idol of my wife.  

Eventually I realized my sin, repented, and received the Lord’s peace. Something that I have learned during this ordeal is that, while there is no one who means more to me on earth than Michele, she cannot be a substitute for the Lord. Only He can satisfy the deepest longings of my heart. Only He is worthy of my adoration. Only He is to be the object of my worship.

I’m thankful that the Lord, in His kindness, did not “pry open my fingers” and take Michele from me. I know that eventually that will happen because death is inevitable for all of us, and those we have loved dearly will be taken from us. But for those who know Christ as their Savior that separation is brief. Until then, we should enjoy, to the fullest degree, those special relationships the Lord has given us with others, while we guard our hearts from making them idols. This is the lesson I have learned, and one that I pass on to you.

 

PS – While this letter is not about the Coronavirus, I would like to recommend that you listen to a 5-minute video on YouTube by Joni Eareckson Tada by the name of A CALMING WORD DURING THE CORONAVIRUS. I think you’ll find it very encouraging and comforting.

  

Yours in Christ’s love,


Pastor Steve

]]> THE PASTOR’S PEN

APRIL 3, 2020

 

It started in May of last year – May 17th to be exact. That was the day Michele told me that she wasn’t feeling well. Little did either of us realize at the time, but this was to be the start of a journey that would involve numerous doctor appointments, a visit to the hospital emergency room on July 4th, and three very tense times of awaiting test results to determine if she had cancer or not. Several months ago a colonoscopy revealed that Michele had a mass growing in her colon. On Monday, March 23 she underwent surgery to remove the mass, and I am thrilled to report that it was benign!

Hopefully with the removal of this mass, Michele’s health will improve and return to normal. But as I reflect back on this past year, I realize that there are some very meaningful lessons that the Lord has taught me in relation to Michele’s health problems. In this Pastor’s Pen letter I would like to share with you those lessons, with the hope that they will be helpful to you.

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED FROM MICHELE’S ILLNESS

  1. GOD GIVES HIS GRACE ONLY WHEN WE NEED IT FOR A REAL CRISIS

I wish I could tell you that I handled Michele’s health problems with great faith and confidence in the Lord. But, that was not the case. Once I realized that that her health issue was a serious problem, I struggled with anxiety and often found myself walking down the forbidden path of worry. Part of the problem was that I made the mistake of trying to diagnose her illness by looking up her symptoms on the internet, and then concluding that she had ovarian cancer. While it turned out that she did not have ovarian cancer, my initial reaction to my foolish ‘internet diagnosis’ was to dwell on the thought that she was going to soon be dead and that I would be left to navigate my life alone, without my precious Michele.

Needless to say, this was a very difficult time in my life. Not only were my anxiety-filled thoughts sinful, but they were a waste of valuable energy. However, something I learned through all of this is that the Lord doesn’t give His grace for situations that don’t actually exist. The reason that God did not give me His grace to handle Michele’s looming death was because she wasn’t going to die from her illness. God only gives His sustaining grace when it is needed, and it is needed when we are going through a real crisis, and not an imagined one. This is the point of our Lord’s statement in Matt. 6:34 - “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”I.e. “We are not to borrow tomorrow’s problems today, because God only gives His grace for problems on the day we need it.”Eventually, I recognize this truth and applied it to my situation, but not before going through a great deal of emotional pain. Hopefully, knowing this will spare you the unnecessary pain that I experienced. The lesson I learned is that God gives His grace only when we need it at the time of a real crisis, and not a crisis we fear might be coming sometime in the future.

 

  1. IT IS VERY EASY TO REACT TO A LOVED ONE’S HEALTH PROBLEM WITH SELFISHNESS

While it was very difficult for me to see Michele in pain and discomfort, I found myself thinking far too much about myself and what my life would be like without her. Eventually I found myself totally absorbed with myself and my potential woes. And then one day Michele said to me, “You know, I’m the one who isn’t feeling good – not you. All you are thinking about is yourself and how my illness affects you.” Ouch. That hurt, but she was absolutely right, and I am thankful she told me the truth.

Selfishness and self-absorption are natural tendencies in all of us because of the Fall of man. We are all, by virtue of our fallen flesh, self-centered beings. It is only by the indwelling power of Christ that we have the enabling strength to die to our self-interests and lovingly serve others – putting their welfare and needs ahead of our own (Philippians 2:3-4).  It took a trial like Michele’s health problem to show me how selfish I was, and how easy it was for me to have a pity-party. Eventually, I realized this truth, and fought back against the sinful urge to think about how Michele’s health – and possible death – would affect me. It’s been a good lesson to learn because I have seen how deep and ingrained my fleshly selfishness really is. Hating my sin of selfishness has only made me long to be more Christlike in my love and unselfishness. The lesson I learned in all of this is to think more about the person who is suffering, instead of dwelling on how their suffering is affecting me.

 

III. IT IS EASY TO MAKE SOMEONE YOU LOVE AN IDOL

Corrie Ten Boom, a believer who survived the Holocaust, once said, “Hold everything in your hands lightly, otherwise it hurts when God pries your fingers open.” What a profound and true statement, and one that is especially applicable when it comes to those we love. This May Michele and I will celebrate 45 years of marriage. Over those years my love for her has grown and matured. But there’s always the danger that one’s love for their spouse can turn into sinful idolatry. I’m afraid that out of fear of losing my wife I was guilty of making her an idol, so that in the words of Corrie Ten Boom, “I held on to her too tightly”.  An idol is something (or someone) who we feel we must have or else we can’t be content or happy. It is something (or someone) who we cherish to the degree that should be reserved only for the Lord. In the name of love I was guilty of making an idol of my wife.  

Eventually I realized my sin, repented, and received the Lord’s peace. Something that I have learned during this ordeal is that, while there is no one who means more to me on earth than Michele, she cannot be a substitute for the Lord. Only He can satisfy the deepest longings of my heart. Only He is worthy of my adoration. Only He is to be the object of my worship.

I’m thankful that the Lord, in His kindness, did not “pry open my fingers” and take Michele from me. I know that eventually that will happen because death is inevitable for all of us, and those we have loved dearly will be taken from us. But for those who know Christ as their Savior that separation is brief. Until then, we should enjoy, to the fullest degree, those special relationships the Lord has given us with others, while we guard our hearts from making them idols. This is the lesson I have learned, and one that I pass on to you.

 

PS – While this letter is not about the Coronavirus, I would like to recommend that you listen to a 5-minute video on YouTube by Joni Eareckson Tada by the name of A CALMING WORD DURING THE CORONAVIRUS. I think you’ll find it very encouraging and comforting.

  

Yours in Christ’s love,


Pastor Steve

]]>