Only the Good Die Young? (2/20/09)

This video address an age old question: Is it more or less fun to live the Christian life? Actually, I think most people assume it’s less fun regardless of what they think about God. I don’t have surveys to prove that, but it’s just my opinion. It’s certainly what Billy Joel advocated in his classic hit song, Only the Good Die Young.

Had you heard of Pascal’s Wager before? You probably have. Even under different names, it seems to keep resurfacing as the years go by. Apparently, C.S. Lewis promoted a version of it as well. Well, we talked about how some people criticize its simplicity. In Pascal’s defense, though, he absolutely knew this. In fact, he never intended the matrix to be a perfect exercise that answers and solves all questions. He just wanted to get people thinking.

And since his matrix is still discussed nearly 400 years later, I’d say he did a pretty good job!

David & Bathsheba: Part 2 (2/10/09)

One quick comment on “confronting” other people. As I mentioned, this can be a very delicate situation. How you say things is crucial….and when you say them….and how well you know the person….and what the specific topic is. There are a lot of variables to consider. So, yes, it’s important that we sometimes do this….but we need to pray for God’s help and wisdom when we do.

OK, I’m done writing because I want to make sure you read Psalm 51. I think it’s better if you pull out your own Bible and find a quiet place to read. But if you can’t wait, here’s a link:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm%2051&version=31

David & Bathsheba:Part 1 (2/1/09)

What a relevant story for today. While David’s sin involved sexual temptation, the fact is this story can apply to us in all kinds of ways.

There was another lesson that I didn’t have time to include. David had led the Israelites in battle many times in the past. But this time, he decided to remain at home and apparently wasn’t working too hard. In this story, it looks like he was enjoying an afternoon nap when this incident occurred. Which leads to the point…..if he had been busy or productive, maybe this wouldn’t have happened.

Have you ever noticed this in your own life? You’re more likely to get into mischief when you’ve got time on your hands. I hear a lot of parents of teenagers say how important it is for their kids to stay busy. Perhaps this is a positive benefit of the busy lifestyles that many of us lead.

Anyway, here’s one more thing to ponder. What if David would have confessed his sin when Bathsheba found out she was pregant. In other words, don’t cover it up. In this case, a lot of pain would have been spared. As we tell kids, it usually just makes matters worse when we try to deceive and cover up our mistakes. It’s better to come clean and confess….to God and whoever we’ve wronged.

Hey, be sure to come back for Part 2 on February 10!