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Nothing is Secret

Barry Braun — Thu, 03 May 2012 22:14:06 +0000

After studying the “fall” of David in 2 Samuel 11 & 12, I have been thinking about the impact and relevancy of his demise. The aspect that caught my attention was the response of the people. Actually, it was the lack of response. There was obviously a “spirit” of tolerance for what David did. He had an adulterous affair which got complicated with a pregnancy. Then there was the conscientious husband who would not go home to be “with” his wife, Bathsheba. He pledged to honor his fellow soldiers as they were fighting and he would not rest or have pleasure because of his loyalty to them. I wanted to fill you in on the situation first. So David sends Uriah back into the battle with orders for him to be on the front line. He’s killed in battle and David takes Bathsheba as his wife. To some, his gesture seems even noble to help the grieving wife have a place in the palace.

People seem to accept the whole thing. David ignores the “sin” and lives on as if all is well. The evaluation of others gives tolerance to David’s mistake and he serves as King without blemish. But that is not how it is with God. The cultural norms may speak acceptance and personal freedom similar to the norms we see all around us. However, if society says “OK,” that doesn’t mean God does. “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” (Hebrews 4:13) David would learn that even more succinctly through the prophet Nathan. The message on my heart is the significance of God’s view point even when the culture portrays tolerance. A “yes’ from society is nothing if for the same issue God says “no.” Don’t overlook God’s “NO!” It can ripple out into many lives. Ask David.

A Story

Barry Braun — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 01:08:20 +0000

A woman received a phone call that her daughter was very sick with a fever. She left work and stopped by the pharmacy for some medication. Upon returning to her car, she found she had locked her keys inside.

She had to get home to her sick daughter and didn’t know what to do. She called home, and the sitter told her that her daughter was getting worse. The sitter suggested that the woman get a coat hanger to unlock the door.

The woman found an old, rusty coat hanger on the ground. Not knowing how to use it, she bowed her head and asked God for help. An old rusty car pulled up, driven by a dirty, bearded man with a biker skull rag on his head. The woman thought, “Great, God, this is what you sent to help me?” But she was desperate and hopeful.

The man got out of his car and asked if he could help. She said, “Yes, my daughter is very sick. I must get home to her. Please, can you use this hanger to unlock my car?”

He said, “Sure.” He walked over to the car and in seconds had it opened. She hugged him and through tears said, “Thank you so much. You’re a very nice man.”

The man replied, “Lady, I’m not a nice man. I just got out of prison for car theft.”

The woman hugged the man again and cried out loud, “Thank you, God, for sending me a professional!”

There’s nothing like reading a good story. I enjoyed the humor and the message of this story. Why would I include it as a blog? It was time to lighten up. Plus, I believe God sometimes answers prayers in an unusual way. Joshua 6 records the walls of Jericho crashing down after people march and trumpets are blown. Don’t put God in a box. His ways are not your ways.

I hope this put a smile on your face!

God of the Old Testament

Barry Braun — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 00:01:36 +0000

There seems to be a renewed interest in the Old Testament (OT). As I have been studying the events of the OT in my sermon series, The Story, I can see why. The OT has been teaching me the fact that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. But the unique part for me is the powerful message that points to the grace of the New Testament at every turn. God’s affection for mankind in creation, for example. Obviously, that is based on grace. The victory announced in Genesis 3:15 that the serpent would be crush by the woman’s offspring. Jesus would be that one to give us victory. But it doesn’t stop there. Every event portrays our pursuing God who saves. No event gives a stronger message about the intentions of God than the Passover. The blood of a lamb without defect should be smeared over and around the door frame of every believing household and they would be saved (Exodus 11 & 12). Who says there is little evidence of grace in the OT? I am observing it with every event I study.

Numbers 21 is another example of God showing us his heart to forgive and his desire to offer grace. The people complained again and were overtaken by venomous snakes. They cried to God for mercy and the Lord said, “Make a snake and put it on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live.” (21:8) Of course, that is exactly what happened. In John 3:14-15, Jesus explained that just as the Israelites were healed of their sickness by looking at the snake on the pole, all believers today can be saved from the sickness of sin by looking to Jesus’ death on the cross. It was not the snake that healed the people, but their belief that God could heal them. This is one more example in the OT of our gracious God rescuing and redeeming people by faith. Do you see grace in the OT like I do? How does this encourage you? What does it say to us about God’s character?

Family

Barry Braun — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:35:46 +0000

Do you think “family” is a good word to describe the church body? At our annual meeting I presented this description as one of the strongest characteristics of New Harvest. People have confirmed this with me many times. I referred to our fellowship as a mixture of grandparents, parents and children as well as brothers and sisters. I invited Elvon Kauffman, the chairman of our Elder Board, forward to present the 2012 ministry budget and he said, “Thank you, son!” It sounded funny but was also accurate. I Timothy 5 teaches that we should treat older men like fathers and younger men like brothers; it also tells us to do the same with women in our church family with absolute purity (verses 1-2).

My heart is drawn to a loving family. Growing up my family had strengths and weaknesses just like yours. In my case, my family of origin was not very close. From that experience I have lived more independently and self-sufficiently. This has helped me grow in some ways but also kept me from risking the vulnerability of close relationships. This means I have missed out on God’s best as He invites me to share deeply with my spiritual family. Close relationships are God-ordained and encourage me to love and risk and grow. I am thinking of New Harvest as family more so these days and it is giving me hope and anticipated depth as we share our lives with each other more closely. How does that sound to you? Do you agree that family is the right description for a church body? What draws you to the idea and what keeps you away? I would love to hear from the family of God on this one!

Mindset

Barry Braun — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 17:51:18 +0000

The conclusion of our study in Philippians continues to stir my heart because of a new insight from the Book. The concept is not new to me but the application seems more important this time. When I began the series on Philippians, I was sure of the main subject – JOY. In fact, I titled the series “Lasting Joy.” The word joy or rejoicing is mentioned 16 times. Philippians is such a short letter that anything mentioned that frequently would have to be the subject. But that’s where I was wrong. Joy is actually the object of the letter; that means the result desired. But mindset is the subject.

There is another word that is used several times by the Apostle Paul in writing to the Philippians. It is the word “thinking,” but it might be translated attitude, same-mind, dwell on or think about. This word is mentioned 10 times and it sets everything in motion. The strongest reference for me is Philippians 2:5, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” Literally, the word could be translated “think like Jesus.” That is obviously a mind-full of truth.

Since a blog is more about interaction I want to invite you to share about the importance of mind-set, which pertains to your thinking throughout the day. There is nothing more active than your brain. How you think will dictate your life! Is that what you think? Romans 8:5 says, “Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.” With thousands of thoughts circulating through your mind, how you think has a huge impact on your life. How has this been true for you? If you would take a minute to respond, I would like to share your thoughts with New Harvest next Sunday. In meantime, may the Spirit direct your thoughts. I read it leads to JOY!

Envelop of Emotion

Barry Braun — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 23:48:46 +0000

Referring to someone as emotional definitely has a negative connotation. It means unpredictable, sentimental or high-strung. But it could mean enthusiastic, affectionate or spontaneous. Emotions have been viewed with a certain distaste, it seems to me. So when I am told I have a large envelop of emotions, it doesn’t make me feel good. The reference seems demeaning or at least questionable. But what if I said Jesus was emotional? You might think I am irreverent. But what if I mean full of emotion? Obviously Jesus had an envelop of emotions when he walked the earth 2000 years ago. The Bible says he felt compassion, anger, disappointment, sadness, love, grief, etc. I guess emotions are normal, even necessary.

This may not seem like something I have to prove; emotions are necessary. But what if I were to say, “Emotions are a gift!” I think emotions help me understand how I am responding; what is going on inside my soul. They are like indicators on the dashboard of my heart. That makes them especially necessary, even valuable. But not all emotions are helpful. Some emotions reveal the shrinking of my soul. They expose my weakness; they show me my need. But that is also valuable. I have learned that even the heavy emotions I feel prepare me to want and need the emotions that fill and sustain me. Emotions like love, joy, peace and hope.

Proverbs 17:22 reads, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Maybe I need to feel the crushed emotions so I long for the blessing of joy and the fullness of hope. This Sunday I have the privilege of pointing to joy as it says in Nehemiah 8:10, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” I want what the Lord has to offer – JOY. That is sure to fill my envelop of emotion!

How do you understand emotions? I would love to hear your reply!

Marriage

Barry Braun — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 01:19:17 +0000

There’s a lot of great advice on marriage but marriages keep dissolving time and again. In one hour I am going to officiate a wedding. What will I say to the couple that will last? I have done several sermon series on Marriage and Family, so I have many ideas on the subject. I also have a burden for the health and strength of marriages within our church body; any chance I get I want to promote the God made relationship between husbands and wives. Tonight the Scripture for the wedding comes from Ecclesiastes. That means Solomon wrote it. He had some wise thoughts about relationships and marriage. Check these words out from chapter 4 verses 9 to 12:

9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:
10 If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!
11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

What do you think? Do these words apply to marriage? Obviously, I think so. In fact the 3 C’s that have proven to lead to satisfaction and longevity in marriage are found in this passage. I will list them in the opposite order of importance but still these three represent the most important ingredients to marriage.

1) Closeness – “If two lie down TOGETHER, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?”

2) Communication – “If one falls down, his FRIEND can help him up!”

3) Christ – “A cord of THREE strands is not quickly broken.”

You might question whether the passage is clearly teaching the 3 C’s but I am sure you can see how they fit. The partnership of marriage will be meaningful and satisfying if it is a partnership of closeness, communication and Christ-centered. What are your ideas? Why is marriage so crucial and yet so weak?

Thanks for letting me work out my wedding message for tonight! May God bless you marriage!

Speak the Truth in Love

Barry Braun — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 17:50:02 +0000

After writing my weekly email this morning I felt compelled to open the conversation. I have become convinced that this is one of the wisest statements about communication in history. So it is not surprising that the phrase is presented in the Bible (Ephesians 4:15). The key words say it all: Love motivates, speaking communicates and truth creates connection, honesty and freedom. If you want to evaluate the health of your communication skills this phrase will give you the right perspective and challenge any unhealthy aspects of what you say. In the same chapter of Ephesians we read, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their need.” (4:29) In other words, have their best in mind. Isn’t that the posture of God toward us?

This leads me to my definition of “speaking the truth in love” with the most important characteristics. I will give you a list and ask you to add you thoughts as well as add other characteristics that make sense to you: 1) have their best in mind; 2) be led by the Spirit (follow God’s whispers); 3) plan your words beforehand; 4) express the truth graciously; 5) be quick to listen; 6) maintain humility; 7) use Scripture in a helpful manner; 8 ) give wise counsel; 9) leave the results to God; 10) ____________. Number 10 is for your answer. Communication is at the heart and soul of relational health. The wiser you communicate the better your relationships. Here’s to applying one of the wisest principles I know – SPEAK THE TRUTH IN LOVE.

Where has all the prayer gone?

Barry Braun — Sat, 21 May 2011 21:15:00 +0000

I am writing this blog on the “so called” Judgment Day predicted by Harold Camping of Family Radio. There has been more interest in this subject because of the times we live in. I will make reference to that subject tomorrow in my sermon, but the thing that has my heart concerned pertains to the most repeated activity in all the Bible – PRAYER. On a road trip this past week I was listening to a pastor I respect as he addressed the topic of praying less and expecting more.

What distinguishes a Christian the most? There are several answers that come to mind: love, peace within the storms of life, morality, assurance of heaven, kindness…but the answer I thought of would be “dependence on God.” Maybe that is why prayer in the most prevalent topic in the Word of God. Why prayer? My thoughts are about how prayer delights the heart of God. He promises strength, protection, hope and all things working out for the good of those who depend on Him, who love Him. Prayer is the connection that our Father God desires from us and with us. We can error in many ways but the person who depends upon the Lord will be blessed.

Then, the question I have for us, “Why so little prayer?” There might be several answers like busyness, spiritual apathy, “been there, done that,” etc. But, for me, the main reason is a lack of dependency on God. Do I really need the Lord’s help? A response of “yes” may just be wanting to answer the question with the right answer rather than the heartfelt sincerity of actually needing God. Think about your own prayer life: What motivates you to pray? Ask yourself some honest questions about prayer and give some honest answers as well. I appreciate any input you might have on the weakening emphasis of prayer in American Christianity.

I Need a Whisper

Barry Braun — Thu, 05 May 2011 22:06:19 +0000

One of my greatest joys and most challenging tasks is preparing sermons. But the theme for the next six weeks has my heart beating a bit faster than even normal. Preparing sermons on God’s whispers is an honor as well as something that causes me to tremble. This time the feelings are tipping the scale toward the positive – I’m jazzed. That does not mean I have this subject cradled in the palm of my hand. In fact, this topic is pretty much over the top for me, which is a good thing. I need to seek, stay humble and see what God does.

My premise is that God does whisper because it’s in the Bible. I think of it like 1 Samuel 3 when God whispers to Samuel. In verse 1 the Bible says, “The boy Samuel ministered before the Lord under Eli. In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions.” That sets up Samuel’s encounter with the whisper of God. The Lord whispers his name. Since the word of the Lord was rare, no one had explained to Samuel the reality of God’s heart to communicate with his children. But that didn’t change the ability of God to speak.

God’s whispers may be rare in our day as well. But that does not change the truth about God’s desire to communicate with us. How are we to understand God’s ability and willingness to lead us and teach us? That is my pursuit these days and that is why I’m jazzed. How have you experienced our communicating God? What do you think about the “whispers of God?” Do you have any experiences or ideas that you would share with me?

I experienced God’s nudge in my life recently. It was this impression, “tough love.” I am a soft-hearted man and tough love is not my favorite approach. But that’s why it seemed even more like God’s whisper; I needed to hear it. With His inspiration and courage, I followed through with the leading from Him. You know the result already, the person responded in a totally receptive way to my tough love. Thank God that he cared about a relationship in my life enough to nudge me in a direction I might avoid.