What is the greatest gift God gives His creation, man? We all know it is eternal life. The soul and the spirit of man can live forever with God in heaven. This goes without question and every born again Christian understands this teaching from God. We know our life here on earth is a very short time compared to eternity.
Knowing what our greatest gift is, what is our second greatest gift from God? Is it success or good health, or many other things I could mention? No, I believe our second greatest gift that God gives mankind is our mind or potential.
Every human being of sound mind has great potential. We can think and we can act on our thoughts and ideas. We can be creative and productive. We can write stories and write beautiful music. We can do so many wonderful things with the gift of potential God gives us.
As Christians, think of the potential for the church. We can sing and praise and worship. We can read God's Word. We can teach God's Word. We can lead others to a saving knowledge in Jesus Christ. We can become disciples who disciple others. We can become missionaries, preachers, and great musicians. We can do these things all because God gives us the great gift of a sound mind that has potential.
Just think if every born again Christian would use their gift to its greatest potential. Just think if every born again Christian would be bold and witness for Jesus Christ. Just think if every born again church member would use their gifts and talents daily for Jesus Christ. What potential that would be for God's Kingdom!
Here is the question then; why don't we? There are probably many excuses as we have people. But what is the real reason?
We have become so consumed with self that we use our potential only to survive in this world. We are desperate to make money and have nice things. These are not bad in themselves. However, our potential as Christians is not being used, but in fact it's being wasted. Another reason might be that we human beings are too lazy to do the extra things that God wants to do through us.
Here is something I want you to think about as we begin a new year. Ask yourself some hard questions. What do I have to use for God? Why am I not doing it? What do you think your greatest potential is for God's Kingdom? What are your gifts and talents? What are your dreams for the future? Do you have a vision for yourself, your family, and your church?
Please think about these things. Then, leave your comfort zone and activate your dreams and potential. God has a plan for every born again believer. Have you found yours yet? Why not? Why wait, do it now. God is counting on you. Your church is counting on you. Your family is counting on you.
Let the Holy Spirit spark your potential. Let the Word of God guide you. And let the world know you are for real. You can do it, do it now!
See ya in church,
Bud
People do not like to be told what they must do. We are just rebellious about rules and regulations. But rules and regulations are a fact of life.
What would this world be like without some kind of order? We would have total chaos and confusion. We could not drive on the highways without rules. We could not have sports without rules. Life would be like living in the jungle where it is the survival of the strongest.
Every country, town, and village needs people to enforce the rules. That is why we have the local police forces, the FBI, the US Marshall, and every other organization that enforces the rules.
Our police department in Williamsport is a very important part of the life of every citizen. They enforce the rules and protect people from acts of violence. They are prepared to serve our community at all times for any situation that might come. They risk their lives on a daily basis. At any minute they might encounter violence.
Our police department is prepared to arrest the law breakers and protect the law keepers. This is a constant on-going responsibility, 24 hours a day. They are on the job day and night, holidays and weekends, in good weather and bad. The men and women in blue are doing their job.
No community, town, or city could exist without these dedicated men and women who provide law and order to a thankless society. Yes, it is a thankless job and very little recognition or thanks is given by the general public. However, the men and women in blue do their job anyway.
So why do people choose to be in law enforcement? Is it the money, power, or position? Is it just so they can carry a gun and go out and arrest people? No! I believe it is far more than that. Maybe for people in law enforcement who are egotistic or have bad motives. But the good police that I have gotten to know have a pure motive for choosing this career. They believe they can make a difference. They truly help other people by being a policeman. They take their job and training seriously. They know the value of being a good team player. They know they must live by rules and regulations.
To wear a uniform and represent a police department is a very important honor. It takes strong determined, dedicated, people to be good officers. Not all officers are the best, but most are. Not all officers are dedicated and are 100% committed, but most are.
We are the Williamsport Police Department and we are here to make a difference. As Chaplain, I am proud to serve with this department to keep our city safe. Keep up the good work.
Clain Bud