saturndev, Author at C-Suite For Christ

If You’re Drowning, Humble Yourself

“And he said: Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:3

Did you ever, as a child, jump into a lake or pool … and suddenly realize it was deeper than you expected?

Your feet, used to solid ground, felt nothing beneath. Serious alarm, even panic, set in. Could you stay afloat? Could you keep your head above water?

You might have kicked wildly. Thrashed your arms. Been ready to yell for help … when Mom’s or Dad’s comforting arms plucked you to safety.

You were never in real danger. Your parent knew this. But YOU didn’t.

All you knew was the emptiness beneath your feet … and fear.

As adults, we don’t worry about literally drowning. Most of us know how to swim, or rarely get near water.

Still, are you “drowning” in a metaphorical sense? Too many obligations overwhelming you? Financial challenges? Fractured family relationships? Wandering through life with no sense of purpose?

This “drowning” might not kill us. Yet it manifests itself in other ways: stress and anxiety. Accumulating material goods. Drinking or substance abuse. Lying awake at night.

Be strong, and ask for help

As young children, we are dependent on our parents for everything. We have no choice.

As adults, we pride ourselves on independence. But if we’re drowning, we need help. Asking for help isn’t a bad thing.

For many, though, it’s humbling – which again, isn’t a bad thing. Scripture proves the worth of humbling oneself. Consider these passages:

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” – James 4:10

“The Lord lifts up the humble; he casts the wicked to the ground.” – Psalm 147:6

“Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor.” – Proverbs 3:34

“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” – Matthew 23:12

Finally, entrance into Heaven itself relies on humbling oneself like a child:

“… but Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 19:14

Enter the Kingdom, humbly

News flash (if needed): Entering the kingdom of Heaven isn’t about accomplishments or possessions. It’s not a meritocracy. Forget your resume.

Finding favor with God is about admitting our faults, our sins, our shortcomings, and asking for help. It’s humbling yourself in the most humble way possible. Fall on your knees, bare your soul and admit you can’t do it alone.

When we allow ourselves to be wholly dependent on God, His arms lift us from the pit we were drowning in. The ground beneath our feet is solid again. His warm embrace fills us with safety and security.

It only happens, though, when we humble ourselves … totally and completely.

Are you drowning? It’s easy to quickly feel “underwater.” Don’t panic. Don’t thrash. It’s OK, though, to yell to the heavens, to tell God you’re letting go, and asking Him to take charge.

The path forward might not be clear. So, like a child trusting a parent, rely on God to lead you. Walk in faith, and you’ll never feel the emptiness beneath again.

(If you’re ready to embrace Christ, He’s ready for you. Visit C Suite for Christ to join in Christ-centered fellowship with other professionals. Submit a prayer request for a pressing need in your life. Participate in a virtual prayer session to ask God to be with those who have submitted requests. Follow C Suite for Christ on LinkedIn and Facebook. Questions? Contact Paul M. Neuberger at (414) 313-8338 or pneuberger@csuiteforchrist.com.)

Are You Capping Your Markers?

“God has given each of you a gift from His great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.” – 1 Peter 4:10

We all know him (or her): the guy (or gal) who gets all the breaks. They enjoy success after success. Doors just seem to open. Opportunities are never in short supply.

Human nature, being what it is, would incline us toward jealousy. Why aren’t we as fortunate as them? Why does everything go right for him (or her)?

Except, we aren’t just anyone. We are God’s people. We look at situations through God’s lens … and a different perspective emerges. Often, it’s one that deepens our faith, and improves us as people.

God blesses us all with unique talents and abilities. We are his works of art, filled with brilliant master strokes and a palette like no other. His gifts to us are beyond number.

Are you a good steward of what God has entrusted to you? Are you using his blessings to create success, and glorify His name in the highest?

Is it possible – even just a little – that the person for whom you’re feeling a twinge of jealousy is doing a better job?

Use your talents

In the Parable of the Talents, recited in Matthew 25:14-30 (and a different version in Luke 19:11-26), Jesus tells of a man who, before leaving on a long trip, entrusted three servants with sums of money.

Two worked and invested, growing the money. One buried his share, fearing his master’s wrath if he lost some.

The master, upon his return, lavished praise on the first two for their industriousness.

He chastised the third, calling him “wicked and lazy,” and gave his money to one of the other two servants.

The master explained his actions:

“To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.” – Matthew 25:29

At first glance, this seems like a very un-Jesus-like thing to say. Wasn’t he the protector of the poor, a devotee to the downtrodden?

Western biblical scholars have interpreted this, though, as Jesus instructing us to not let our God-given abilities lie fallow. Doing so results in having less than before. If one was of menial means to start, the impact is even more devastating.

If someone is doing better in life, could it be they’re using God’s endowments more fruitfully?

Cap it off

Consider a box of markers. You open a new package. Each marker draws deep, vibrant lines. It’s a joy to use them. Once finished, you replace caps to keep the markers fresh.

Except, you drop a couple. You don’t notice, because your phone is ringing, or it’s time for dinner, or the dog is dancing at the door. The markers roll under the couch.

You find them a week later. No caps in sight. The markers are dried out. Useless. Done.

God’s gifts to us are like these markers. Left unused, they go to waste. Their once-great potential is never realized. A work of art that might have been made, and changed the world, is never created.

Are you putting caps on your markers?

Recognize the skills God has provided you. Use these talents to honor Him. Step out in faith. The time is now.

What chances can you take to fully use your unique abilities? Is God calling you to do so, and you haven’t paid attention?

It’s never too late. Even a little faith can go a long way. It renews us, heals us and energizes us. God has blessed all of us with the power to do great things.

The guy (or gal) who seems to have it all together? Maybe they’re just better at capping their markers.

You, though, might discover a whole new set. Who knows what you’ll create? Do so to the glory of God, and never worry about losing another marker again.

It’s No Game – The Outcome is Certain

“Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever.” – Psalm 136:2

The technological revolution of recent decades has brought countless changes to our lives. Most have been positive – for example, those that allow us to manage time better.

Many sports fans have taken full advantage. Rather than set aside three hours (or more) for a scheduled game, they record it. Now, they can watch at their convenience.

The challenge is what comes next. Most fans don’t want to know the game’s outcome in advance. So, unless they can watch it soon after recording, they have to dodge any related chatter.

Think of all the dangerous places this could come up: at work. In a conversation with a friend. In the grocery store line. On social media, radio, TV …

Cover your ears?

One would almost have to hide in a cave to avoid spoiling the surprise. All it takes is one nearby person exclaiming “Wow, can you believe the last-second play the (FILL IN YOUR FAVORITE TEAM) made to win the other day?”

Obviously, if you already know the game’s result, you’re much less interested in watching it. Why would you be? Isn’t suspense part of the fun?

Similarly, for many business executives, the fulfilling part of running a company is the many challenges. Is their vision the right one? Are their decision-making skills on point? Can they steer the organization through rough times? Do they have what it takes to be a leader?

If they already know ahead of time that everything will turn out OK (or otherwise), well, to quote the great B.B. King, “the thrill is gone.”

Everyone, regardless of what they do for a living or amusement, faces uncertainty in their lives. Maybe it’s the score of a football game. Maybe it’s the course of business. Or perhaps it’s something far more ominous, such as waiting on critical health test results.

The one certainty

We, as Christians, can only be certain of one thing in life: God loves us.

Consider Psalm 52:8: “But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love forever and ever.”

Or Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

We know the ultimate outcome. Jesus conquered death. He granted us eternal salvation.

Our lives are like a recorded football game. Nothing will separate us from God’s love – no dropped passes, or fumbles, or interceptions, or missed field goals.

God always wins. Take solace in this, especially during life’s upheavals – whether job losses, bad business decisions or unwelcome medical news.

True, when we struggle with hard times, God’s presence might seem distant. It’s not. He’s with us. God has fought endless hard battles before we knew the fights even existed.

Keep in mind the words of Nehemiah 2:4-5: “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions – it is by grace you have been saved.”

Christ has power over what overpowers us. His sacrifice was the ultimate proof of God’s endless love.

God wins. He’ll keep doing so. We win, too, by trusting Him and proclaiming His glory.

It’s no game. You know the outcome. Rather than a conversation to avoid, this is one you should be shouting for all to hear … because your team will always win.

Who You Are? Or Whose You Are?

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17

Ever had one of those dark, frustrating days, when nothing goes right, and you dwell on times past, and end up thinking “I wish I could just start all over again!”

Sure you have. We all have. The human spirit, while indomitable in many ways, is still very prone to questioning itself.

These thoughts often lead to pondering a “restart,” and how it could supposedly make everything better. Wipe the slate clean. Begin again, fresh and new.

It’s not hard to understand. We are all sinful, broken creatures. Every day we fail to meet expectations, whether others’, our own, or God’s. Fortunately, we know at least one of the three will forgive us.

So how do we get better? How do we “fix” ourselves, if such a thing is possible?

The “self-help” industry has thrived on this for decades. Every year, tens of thousands of books are sold, all supposedly holding the secrets to a better life. Motivational speakers criss-cross the U.S. offering their take. And, of course, the business of psychology and mental health has never been stronger.

Is it a matter of heart?

Listen to music, or read poetry, and you’ll be told the answer lies “in your heart.” Yes, it’s all inside. You just need to know where to look, or how deep to dig. If it’s not in one place, try another. If it’s still not obvious, well, then something’s just wrong with you.

Is this approach misguided? Yes, according to Scripture. Jeremiah 17:9 tells us “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.” Wow! Clearly the wrong place to be searching!

To reinforce, paraphrasing Mark 7:21, “For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts …”

So where do we find the solution to living better lives, and being better people, and making things better for our fellow man? Consider Ephesians 5:1: “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.”

We, as humans, often obsess over how others perceive us. We struggle with how we view ourselves. We try to decide who we really want to be. Meanwhile, we keep all those self-help authors, and speakers, and consultants, and a lot of others, in business.

A change of perspective

Let’s reverse the perspective. Instead of looking in, try looking out. Take the spotlight off yourself. If you’re a believer, focus it on God, and his son Jesus, and all His wondrous teachings and guidance about how we can live lives fulfilled in so many ways.

In other words: Show the world Whose you are, rather than who you are.

Don’t make a show of your accomplishments. Rather, promote what God has done through you.

Don’t brag about the people you know, or who report to you. Instead, make clear Who you serve.

Ask God for more strength, not less burden. Pray to be more like Jesus, and less like ourselves.

Be the “new creation” that Paul wrote about to the Corinthians. Cast aside the old version of who you were, for a new, far better model designed by God.

The great thing is, it’s never too late. Every day is a new opportunity to become a new person in Christ. It costs nothing. Yet the return on your devotion, and time, and changed focus, is incalculable.

It’s a restart, all right – one that will leave you at peace, yet energized and excited to have others see Christ in you.

Think of the money you’ll save on self-help seminars, and the shelf space you’ll have from clearing out all those books. You have much better things to focus on now.

Words Have Power. How Are You Using It?

“I tell you, on the day of judgment men will render account for every careless word they utter; for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” – Matthew 12:36

Think about the last time you smiled. Why the happy expression?

Chances are it was something a person said. Or something you read. The words evoked a positive, joyful response.

Similarly, consider the last time you were sad, or upset. Was it, again, due to something someone said? Except, in this instance, your response was 180 degrees different.

We can’t utter a phrase, or write a single sentence, without using words. Yes, words that, depending on meanings and how they’re used, can affect others in profound ways.

Think about the examples just cited. One, a desirable, welcome emotion. The other, a bitter pill that no one likes to swallow.

See, words have power. Immense, life-altering power. It’s a force that can build others up, or destroy them entirely. Which do you choose?

Many of us have dozens of conversations a day. Do you realize the power your words can wield?

Words can even hold authority over life itself. Consider Proverbs 18:21: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”

“Power” cuts many ways. We all want to be empowered to pursue great things, and (hopefully) advance God’s kingdom. Whether we do so, often depends on how we use the power of words.

Paul implores us to choose our words carefully in Ephesians 4:29: “Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for edifying, as fits the occasion, that it may impart grace to those who hear.”

This guidance is needed more than ever in our increasingly broken, divided world. Judgment abounds. Watch the news, and hear our “leaders” describe their political foes in terms bordering on vile. Go on social media, and feel the raw hatred spewing from keyboards into cyberspace.

God is needed more than ever. Yet the mere mention of God has become, in many circles, an incivility, a violation, an unpardonable offense. Proclaim you’re a follower of Jesus, and be prepared to hear words you hopefully would never use yourself.

Others will use words to tear down and ruin. Conversely, we – as Christ’s disciples – will use words to build, create and inspire.

How? By not putting others down, nor criticizing for the sake of criticism. By speaking in ways
(and words) that nurture hope, love and zest for life. By realizing the impact a kind word can have on someone, and seeking opportunities to bestow them.

Similarly, let’s recognize that everyone carries a cross of some sort. A sarcastic remark can send an already-hurting person reeling. A joke, taken the wrong way, can inflict tremendous pain. Sometimes it’s better to not say something. Leave those words in your holster.

The book of Hebrews (the author of which is subject to debate) provides guidance in its 12th chapter: “Strive for peace with all men, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fail to obtain the grace of God; that no ‘root of bitterness’ spring up and cause trouble, and by it the many become defiled.”

God commands us to lift each other up, and share love in all we do. The words we speak hold tremendous power. Just like the “What would Jesus do?” bracelets you occasionally see on wearers’ wrists, let our voices be guided by a similar query: “What would God have us say?”

“If Only …?” No, Only Christ!

“But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

The English language has a lot of “dangerous” words.

Some are risky because of reactions they can incite in others. Others are hazardous only from the damage they inflict on our own hearts and souls.

Here are two when, used in combination, are lethal to the spirit: “If only.”

“If only” is a hymn of regret, a capitulation to remorse, a soliloquy of sadness. It desperately grasps for a second chance, in a world where they are few and far between. It’s about decision-making, sure, but on a raw, emotive level laid bare like few others.

“If only I’d applied for the job …”

“If only I’d asked her (or him) out …”

“If only I had one last chance to tell him (or her) I loved them …”

The words themselves aren’t emotional. Sports fans are big on “what if” – the shot had gone in, the player had held onto the ball, the coach had made a different decision. When winning and losing are so cut and dried, “what if” is part of the everyday vernacular.

For most people, though, “what if” conjures up bad memories, lost hopes and broken dreams. Its use cries for consolation and reinforcement, sometimes to shore up a mountain of self-doubt.

Does the Bible offer comfort? Depends on where you look.

Consider the dark images from these literal uses of “what if,” in consecutive verses in Job 17: “What if I go to the grave and make my bed in darkness? What if I call the grave my father, and the maggot my mother or my sister?”

Or this fear of personal failure expressed in Genesis 24:39: “But I said to my master, ‘What if I can’t find a young woman who is willing to go back with me?’”

The doubting voice in the back of our minds is part of the human condition. As these verses illustrate, even Biblical characters questioned their own abilities and chances for success.

It’s not all gloom and doom – not by a long shot. So let’s shift to the other side of the equation, using probably one of the most-loved Bible verses of all time.

“But Jesus looked at them and said to them, ‘With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” – Matthew 19:26

Here is the crux of the issue: As long as the spirit of Christ dwells within us, nothing is impossible. We can overcome anything, even the fears and self-doubts that hold us back.

We doubt ourselves because we’re sinners. We know it. God knows it … and through Christ’s crucifixion, our transgressions are forgiven.

Yet we can’t let go of our doubt, similar to a panicking Peter amid the raging sea in Matthew 14:31, before Jesus grabbed his hand and asked, “Oh man of little faith, why did you doubt?”

Peter was just one of the sinful people God has always used to do his work. Think of the others: Noah. Jacob. Moses. David. Paul. The list goes on.

Are you somehow excluded?

Whether we realize it or not, we’re all on the list. Despite our sinful ways, and constant self-doubt, we’re put on this earth to be Christ’s disciples. God entrusts us, with all our faults, to further his kingdom. Is there any higher purpose in life?

God grants us the ability to move beyond hopelessness and regrets. He grants us a fresh start every time we bow our head in prayer. Revel in it, draw power from it, and know that, because Christ is in us, our potential is unlimited … and the impossible, is possible.

“If only” is an outdated concept dashed upon the rocks of God’s life-saving shore. Remember this, the next time you temporarily lose sight of His vision for you.

If only I had the power to …

If only I had the strength to …

If only I had the courage to …

You have all three – power, strength and courage – emanating from Christ’s filling your being. Go into the world, and use these qualities to spread God’s love and word, every day. And if you end up saying “If only I’d realized this sooner” … well, that’s OK.

There is no “Christmas” Without Christ

“Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.” – 1 Chronicles 16:10

When should Christmas decorations be put up?

Before Thanksgiving? After Thanksgiving? Wait until December? It’s an annual debate that’s never goes away.

Here’s a solution: Whenever the spirit moves you, because Christmas is ultimately about the Holy Spirit. Christmas celebrates God’s incalculable generosity of giving the world his only son, Jesus Christ, who sacrificed himself so that the rest of us would be saved.

There. Case solved.

A very merry Christmas to all of you … and we heartily mean “Merry Christmas,” not some alternative milquetoast, watered-down holiday greeting!

Jesus is our Lord and Savior, plain and simple! Despite what the mass media and its insatiable consumerism tells you, Christ is at the center of Christmas, just as He is at the center of our lives. There’s no Christmas without Christ!

Like it or not (and we do), the first six letters of “Christmas” will always be C-H-R-I-S-T! And we will always celebrate Christ’s birth as the most important part of Christmas. Even the secular progressives can’t stamp out a holiday that goes back centuries … not that they won’t stop trying.

“A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.” – 1 Corinthians 12

Is your shopping done? Have you even started? No matter where you are in the process, here’s a gift idea you might not have considered.

The apostle Paul writes of the spiritual gift we’re all given. So how about passing on that invaluable gift, by giving others the gift of Christ? It’s the best possible gift in the world … and one guaranteed NOT to be returned.

The gift of Christ offers hope in a time that desperately needs it. It revives people’s souls, even after they’ve been beaten down by a world seemingly determined to marginalize them. Think about having your own Lazarus moment with someone – how great would that feel?

Oh sure, a sweater is a nice Christmas gift, but it can be destroyed by one of nature’s most menial creatures: a moth.

The Bible warns of moths, by the way. James 5:2 admonishes that “Your wealth is rotting away, and your fine clothes are moth-eaten rags.” Take Jesus’s advice in Matthew 6:20, where he instructs to “Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal.”

Do you really want to give people the same old, same old for Christmas? Hopefully not, after the year we’ve had! We’re all waiting for something that improves our well-being and sense of humor.

Think about all that Christ has done in your life. What could he do for others? Don’t you want to give them this opportunity?

“Declare your glory among the nations, His marvelous works among all the peoples!” – Psalm 96

We are commanded to spread God’s love, both to fellow Christians and our secular brethren. In the second chapter of his first letter, the apostle John says “Those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him.” James 1:22 warns “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise you are only fooling yourselves.”

So how does this play out? How can you give others the gift of Christ? Start by considering all the events to which you invite others. Golf? Dinner? Play dates for the kids?

OK. Now, think about where you spend Sunday mornings. Why not invite these same people to join you in church? Or at a Bible study? Or maybe a group like C Suite for Christ … what are the odds?

“The farmer plants seed by taking God’s word to others.” – Mark 4:14

Want a more subtle approach, yet one that will be noticed? How you speak to others – literally, the language you use – can plant seeds. Try using Biblical language in everyday conversation. It has plenty of synonyms for our common verbiage. Try these examples, and see how easy it is:

In your next e-mail, instead of writing you “hope” someone is well, mention you “pray” they’re well instead.
In everyday speech, rather than citing how “lucky” or “fortunate” you are, note how you’re “blessed.”
When an opportunity arises to agree with someone, respond with “amen” or, to really make a point, “hallelujah!”

Not so hard, right? Speaking of speaking, many of you probably use social media. How about sharing your faith on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or another preferred platform?

You don’t have to bombard people, or be in their faces. Just share one post a week that reflects your Christian beliefs. Not too difficult, right? Sure, you might get a nasty remark or two in return. Turn the other cheek, as Jesus told us to do. We build God’s kingdom by demonstrating his love, not battling social media trolls.

You might be seeing a big picture here. Giving the gift of Christ is about actively, unapologetically sharing our faith. Don’t hide yours under a hat. Be ready to tell others why you’re a person of faith, and how you’ve seen God at work in your life.

“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5

Glorifying our father in heaven – doesn’t this sound like something you not only know you should do, but truly want to do? The best way is by being an active disciple of Christ, which means seeking out opportunities to open others’ eyes to the wonderment, and majesty, and ultimately soul-filling salvation that comes from embracing Jesus, and holding him tight every day.

We’ve all had a rough year, and now we’re upon one of its biggest holidays, one whose first six letters just happen to spell out “Christ.” Let this be a final encouragement to give others the gift of Christ this Christmas … and to make 2021 a far better year by continuing to bestow this gift, even after Christmas is long in the rear-view mirror.

God Calls Us to Gather!

“For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” – Matthew 18:20

I certainly won’t speak for others, yet will state this: It felt awesome to see everyone in person at our October C Suite for Christ gathering. Yes, masks and all.

Do you get the feeling that people are burning out on virtual gatherings? I do. There’s something about being able to look another person in the eyes, and feel their physical presence, that a computer screen will never replace.

We humans are social creatures. God made us this way. He didn’t intend for us to live hidden from others. We’re called to gather, especially to worship Him.

“Gather to me my faithful ones, who made a covenant with me by sacrifice!” —Psalm 50:5

Yes, God calls us to fellowship—together. We should put all else aside to do so, and jointly proclaim His word from the rooftops (Matthew 10:27)

COVID-19 has decidedly changed our society. Some changes, you could argue, are for the better. How can families spending time together, or more people engaging in outdoor activities, be anything but good?

Some changes, though, are decidedly negative. Continuing a growing wave I described at our September gathering, COVID-19 has accelerated attacks upon faith communities. Local governments banned church services. Angry critics accused churches that dared to meet in person of holding “spreader” events.

In other words, COVID-19 was weaponized against people of faith. Those who want to censor the Gospel, and close churches, seized upon the pandemic as another means to pursue their sinister, secular goals.

Let’s stand together and answer resoundingly: NO! The world needs Christ more than ever. In a time of stress, of loss, of uncertainty for so many, His presence is the balm that can heal our wounds, and salve our souls. Now is the time to stand together with God, not disintegrate into scattered, wandering tribes.

I ask you to strongly consider attending our Nov. 18 gathering in person. Mark your calendar, too, for what promises to be an amazing two-year anniversary celebration Dec. 16.

Let’s rekindle a spirit of true community and solidarity among C Suite for Christ members. Let’s mirror our LinkedIn page, which is alive with energy from new followers and loud hosannas.

“Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise.”—Psalm 106:47

Let’s follow our Biblical calling, and join together at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Menomonee Falls. I make on promise to you: It’s going to be awesome.

Proclaim Your Faith to the Heavens!

Proclaim Your Faith to the Heavens!

“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!” – Psalm 96:3

Behold this magnificent verse of Scripture. With proclamations such as this, is there any doubt that God commands us to spread his Good – no, “Marvelous” – Word?

The Bible is full of verses exhorting Christ’s followers to speak their faith. The message couldn’t be clearer. Our voices should echo God’s glory at every opportunity.

Yet, few of us do.

Being a disciple of Christ means many things. We should demonstrate love. Act with kindness. Be slow to judge, and quick to apologize. Help our fellow man (and woman) whenever possible.

The verbal part, though, eludes many. Why do most people of faith hold their tongue?

We’re all capable. Scripture is loaded with guidance on the “how.” Similarly, we know God empowers us.

Let’s be blunt: It’s because Christians have been instructed from many secular corners -some would say beaten down – that they should be quiet, lest they “offend” someone. Heaven forbid (pun intended) that a non-believer’s ears should be scorched with words of the Gospel.

Yet, the Freedom From Religion Foundation (based in Madison, Wis.) and secular progressives never shy away from public pronouncements against God. Just mention inserting God into schools, public places, workspaces or anywhere that people gather, and they go ballistic. If a person of faith is offended by their words or actions … well, suck it up, you religious rat.

Yet, all around us, we see chaos, division and hopelessness. Any doubt these are connected with society increasingly turning away from Christ … and his directive that “just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another” (John 13:34)?

As described in our last post, God’s Word is needed more than ever. His guidance is the only salvation for a society seemingly coming apart at the seams. It’s time to cover the world in Christ.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28:19

Covering the world in Christ was a founding goal of C Suite for Christ – and indeed, we’re doing so. More than 600 Christian business executives are associated with the
organization, with several in faraway lands (South Africa, anyone?) joining our monthly gatherings via the web.

Still, covering the world in Christ is a lofty goal. A team effort is required.

We all have a role to play. No one expects you to be Billy Graham, or Joel Osteen, or Janice Meyer. God provides all the ability you need.

Never fear, either: You don’t have to step too far out of your comfort zone … although what’s the worst that could happen? Your secret identity as a Christian is revealed to the world?

For starters, consider a few tweaks to your everyday discourse. Insert some Biblical language, which offers plenty of synonyms for common verbiage:

In your next e-mail, instead of writing you “hope” someone is well, mention you “pray” they’re well instead.
In everyday speech, rather than citing how “lucky” or “fortunate” you are, note how you’re “blessed.”
When an opportunity arises to agree with someone, respond with “amen” or, to really make a point, “hallelujah!”

See the difference? Minor, perhaps … yet maybe just different enough that someone could ask, and you’ll have the chance to share the love of God with them.

Spend time on social media? Who doesn’t these days, right? So, here’s a challenge: Share one post a week on your favorite platform that reflects your Christian beliefs.

If we all do this, and each post gets 300 impressions or so, we’re reaching a seriously large number of people. Not everyone might agree with you – which is their right – and you could have the opportunity to turn the other cheek to a nasty remark or two.

Following Christ’s guidance is not always easy. Nor fun. We know it’s right, though.

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

God commands us to go into the world and spread the Good News. This is what covering the world in Christ is all about.

You don’t need a soapbox, or a bullhorn, or even a stage. You just need to make clear, in ways subtle and overt, that you will not hide who you are.

You see, it’s really not important who you are. It’s Who’s in you that makes all the difference. Speak out, and see if God doesn’t find his way into those awaiting him … because they just needed to hear it from someone already fulfilled.

Let’s Cover the World in Christ!

Let’s Cover the World in Christ!

“For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” – Matthew 7:8

The news can be pretty depressing these days.

Illness. Death. Disruption. Chaos in the streets. Economic uncertainty. Hopelessness.

Some bright spots persist – among them, churches reopening to in-person worship. People can again reconvene – albeit sparsely – to thank God for comfort during dark days, and perhaps for answering prayers in a trying time.

Will we see renewed emphasis on faith? Perhaps new faces who have turned to Christ?

Hopefully so. People’s confidence in taken-for-granted aspects of life – toilet paper, anyone? – has been shaken. Searching for a stable, reliable rock on which to center their existences is a natural outcome.

“He said: ‘The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer.’” – 2 Samuel 22:2

Despite the bad news – which maybe you’ve tuned out and, if so, who can blame you? – opportunity is in our midst. It’s one we absolutely, positively can’t ignore.

Ready? Let’s cover the world in Christ!

It’s abundantly needed. People are grasping for hope. How many do you know who are anxious, or upset, or searching for a light to follow? As disciples of Christ, it’s our duty – no, our mandate – to show them a better, more fulfilling way.

Only God can cure society’s ills. We’ve fallen into a pit of despair because we’ve allowed ourselves to drift from His purposes. How did we wind up in a place where the mere mention of God or Jesus can cause howls of indignation from so many?

On a personal level, only a relationship with Christ can fill the yawning gaps in one’s life. Not a job promotion. Not a new relationship. Not a shiny new car, or an expensive bottle of bourbon. Only Jesus … and we’re sent out to be His role models.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” – John 15:5

We need to be connected to Christ. We die – spiritually, emotionally and even physically – when this bond is severed.

What’s more, we need to connect others to Jesus. Now, more than ever, we need to cover the world in Christ.

Need evidence? Suicides in the U.S. have increased 35 percent since 1999. It’s the 10th leading cause of death. Think the pandemic might drive these numbers even higher?

Divorce, already claiming nearly 50 percent of U.S. marriages, is expected to spike when courts closed by COVID-19 finally reopen.

Only 50 percent of Americans belong to a church, according to recent Gallup polling. The number was nearly 70 percent just two decades ago. Three out of five young people do not actively practice a faith. Does this fill you with confidence for the future?

The biggest reason, though, is because God commands us to do so.

“Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me.” – Matthew 10:38

More than 600 Christian business executives are associated with C Suite for Christ. This is a powerful faith-based army, one that can make a difference … at a time when this difference is so needed.

Our next post will explore ways that you can help us cover the world in Christ. The cross is waiting. Jesus is calling. Will you take it up, and follow Him?