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Be the Example

“If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples.” – John 15:7-8

It’s hard to succeed in life without a role model (or two, or three). We all need someone who’s “been there, done that” to learn from.

By issuing the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), Jesus left no doubt as to His expectations for His followers. They were to “make disciples of all nations.” His command remains vitally important today – perhaps now more than ever.

How to bring someone to Christ, though, who perhaps has no related experience or interaction? How to help someone know Jesus who’s never been told of Him? A tall task, indeed.

The job calls for role models – meaning, every one of us. People unafraid to share their relationship with Jesus. People who live His values in word and action. Those who radiate the Holy Spirit, leading others to wonder about the source of their joy.

Do we consistently meet these qualifications? Is it even possible? Can we really be the role models who are needed?

Reclaim Your Youth

“And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them, and said ‘Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:2-4

The old saying, “Out of the mouths of babes,” has Biblical origins (Psalm 8:2). It references the quality of children to unequivocally state their feelings and observations – free from the filters and reservations of adulthood. Children speak with innocent honesty and authenticity. Once, we all did.

As we go through life, an imposter version of ourselves emerges. The world’s expectations change us. We adapt to whom others want us to be – not God.

We can’t hide who we truly are, though. Inauthenticity is difficult to cloak. We know at our core who God made us to be. Why disguise it?

Thankfully, God forgives those who make mistakes. He redeems those in the grip of false ideologies – whether spiritually, or in the form of worldly distractions.

We are called to model Christian behavior as leaders. We are compelled to help others join our community. When they experience a life with Jesus at its center, they’ll finally understand why they’re there.

Prepare for the Moment

“See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared.” – Exodus 23:20

Despite our best efforts to set a Godly example as disciples, evangelism can still be a heavy lift. People who don’t know Christ rarely seek Him out randomly.

There’s usually a life event, or a time of soul searching, that drives them into His arms. If we’ve been role models who set examples of Christly living, though, the path will be clearer. They’ll know who to ask questions. They’ll understand who will listen.

When that moment occurs, be ready to meet people where they are. Be present in their hour of need. Assure them of their personal value … because they are made in God’s image.

Unsure about this awesome responsibility? Pray to Jesus. Ask for His help preparing. He who proclaimed the Great Commission, will empower you to carry it out.

Despite our all-too-human missteps, God guides us daily to learn and love. He enables us to become the examples others can look to. We just need to ensure that what we look like on the outside, matches who we are on the inside.

(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. Join us as a member. Plant a chapter where you live. Consider becoming a corporate partner. Follow C-Suite for Christ on LinkedIn and Facebook. Questions? Contact Paul M. Neuberger at (414) 313-8338 or pneuberger@csuiteforchrist.com.)

Do You Truly “Value” Prayer?

“Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow or reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” – Matthew 6:26

On the surface, even thinking about the offer would seem ludicrous to most.

You drive a 1998 Toyota Camry dating back to your college days. The car has taken you everywhere, in times lean and flush. You love this car. Its odometer reads 250,000 … and counting.

A car collector with, shall we say, a thing for Camrys offers you a deal: a brand-new Mercedes-Benz for your quarter century-old Toyota. Straight up. No strings attached.

Most drivers wouldn’t think twice. They wouldn’t jump – they’d leap at the offer.

Except, you don’t. It’s not so straightforward. You’ve heard Mercedes-Benz vehicles are expensive to maintain and repair. Your ancient Camry, not so much.

Moreover, you have a real, sentimental attachment to the old Toyota. It’s been there for you. It’s defined “reliable.” This new, Johnny-come-lately European hotshot – who knows when it might get finicky?

Everyone thinks you’re nuts. Well, maybe you are. Or, perhaps your values system is just different. Maybe the emotional attachment to the old car has no price tag … because it can’t. It’s what you believe and hold true – and nothing will change it.

The Uniqueness, and Strength, of Values

“But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king’s food, or with the wine that he drank.” – Daniel 1:8

Everyone holds different values. Our core values are those in which we will always persist – even if doing so costs us substantially, or results in punishment.

This diversity makes for a fascinating world. It can get messy, too, when those with strong, conflicting values butt heads.

Consider Daniel who, in the Old Testament, was taken away to a foreign nation while young. He was pressured to change. He refused, and trusted God to safeguard him from the potential deadly wrath of King Nebuchadnessar.

Daniel later gained great prominence in the kingdom by revealing and interpreting the ruler’s dream. Other acts followed, each boosting his stock in the eyes of the powerful.

In chapter 6 of the book named after him, Daniel has aged. His detractors have repeatedly sought to undermine him. Yet Daniel is trustworthy and uncorrupted.

Still, they persist. The “high officials and the satraps” convince King Darius to decree that anyone who proclaims allegiance to anyone besides him, the almighty ruler, will be cast into a den of lions.

Undeterred, Daniel continues to pray to God three times daily, as he has long done. Those opposing him report this grievous violation to the king. Unhappily, he orders Daniel into the lions’ den, and that a stone be rolled over its entrance.

We all know the result. The next day, King Darius finds Daniel unharmed. God had shut the lions’ mouths. The king, overjoyed, sends Daniel’s accusers to the lions’ den … where they meet a notably different fate. A royal decree follows, praising God and saying His kingdom is inviolate.

The Value of Prayer Needs No Explanation

“Oh my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our desolations, and the city that is called by your name. For we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of your great mercy.” – Daniel 9:18

Daniel valued prayer. He risked death, rather than be cut off from God.

Communion with God is a core value. Christians crave and need it. We create this communion through prayer, giving thanks for our blessings and beseeching our needs.

Similarly, we Christians should hold prayer as a core value. It should be held deep within us, unsusceptible to logic or persuasion. These types of values act at a non-cognitive level. We don’t have to think about whether or not to pray – we know the answer.

We want presence with God. Prayer offers a pathway. Only by grasping prayer as a non-negotiable, no-arguments value can we clear away the obstructions, and follow an unblocked route to His grace.

How, or what, we “drive” to get there is irrelevant. Understanding the value is all that matters. God has made us an amazingly generous, no-end-date offer. We’ll make our decision – and we don’t have to explain it to anyone.

Overcome Self. Embrace God.

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.’” – Proverbs 16:18

We all could have tight personal relationships with God … if it weren’t for ourselves.

Why is this?

God’s ability to do the impossible and miraculous is unquestioned. The Bible is filled with moments that create a sense of awe. Just ask Moses!

You’d think we would do everything possible to get closer to God. Yet, we frequently push him away. Again – why?

Increasingly, the world around us turns from the beliefs and practices that God has ordained. We should seek to overcome these earthly denials.

Except, it’s hard. Going against the popular grain sets us up for ridicule and rejection. Sin plays into the equation, too. Lawlessness abounds in our hearts to do that which we know isn’t right.

Our pursuit of success – at least, how we define it – can be all consuming. We become our own law, and justify it to ourselves. A public face of success can hide a private life in turmoil. Slowly, surely, we get eaten away from inside.

The Barrier is Staring from the Mirror

And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him. – Acts 5:32

We have a key to unlock the door to God. Barriers, however, lie between us and the door. Are we willing to get through them?

The chief hurdle is overcoming our dominant sense of self. We must let go of ego. Think of ourselves less. Prepare to surrender our lives to Christ. Be righteously bold as a lion.

The path isn’t easy. It’s filled with obstacles of pride and arrogance. Satan lurks around every corner, seeking to derail God’s disciples in a vulnerable moment.

Only by taking up the cross can we overcome “self,” the dominant roadblock between us and Christ. Long ago, God humbled himself by coming to us in the flesh, as Jesus. We should be willing to similarly reduce our self-perceived importance.

Just as Christ did by assuming a bodily form, we have to obey God. Doing so requires a burning desire inside us. Maybe the biggest step is cooperating with God, accepting His instruction and changing our lives accordingly. Who said this would be easy?

Do You – Will You – Have Faith?

“For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith.” – 1 John 5:4

The Bible repeatedly tells us to “have faith.” We receive salvation through faith. Yet faith is an invisible entity, present and still hidden to the eye.

Faith can be hard to hang onto. Many elements of sinful worship, unfortunately, aren’t. Money, for example, amplifies every desire we have in life – good or bad. It’s easy to fall into the trap of pursuing more and more.

Controlling its pull can be challenging indeed. As Romans 6:16 observes, “you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey.” Is this shiny object secretly laced with sin?

We overcome sin through faith in Christ. Doing so requires cooperation with God. He directs how we should live. We should act accordingly.

We might have to hit rock bottom to recognize this necessity. We finally grasp that sin took us there. Lucky for us that God is the ultimate giver of second chances – and, for most people, many, many more.

A close relationship with God beckons … if we are willing to toss away the bondages of self and ego. Peace of mind, and heart, is possible. It’s all up to us. God awaits – just as He always has, and always will.

Fear Not – You’ve Nothing to Gain

“Yes, you came when I called; you told me, ‘Do not fear.’” – Lamentations 3:57

Remember, as a kid, a place (or places) where you were afraid to go alone? Maybe the basement? Or the closet? Or even peeking under the bed?

You weren’t sure why you were afraid. You just were. Your imagination ran wild with fear. Surely there was something in those dark places that meant you harm!

When Mom or Dad accompanied you, though, things were different. They’d turn on a light, and go into the basement (or elsewhere) with you. Light and darkness can’t coexist, after all. You’d discover the monsters you dreaded … weren’t there. You probably checked around every corner, just to be sure they wouldn’t sneak out when darkness returned.

We never shake irrational fears, even as adults. Only the subject matter changes. Now it’s money, or health, or relationships, or … go ahead. Fill in the blank. No shortage of possibilities, right?

Only, these fears carry price tags. We lose rest, or contentment, or peace of mind. Maybe not quantifiable, but certainly undeniable.

Here’s the ironic part: We claim to be disciples of Christ who follow God’s Word. Well, the Bible states “fear not” 365 times! Why don’t we believe it?

Either You Do … Or You Don’t

“For I hold you by your right hand – I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.” – Isaiah 41:13

Nothing in Scripture associates fear with God. In fact, passage after passage exhorts Christ’s disciples to act boldly, for they have nothing to fear.

If only. Were we really a fearless body of Christ, what could we accomplish? Imagine the possibilities!

Yet, we continually fall prey to external forces that want to keep us on edge, and fearful.

Inflammatory headlines. Social media tales of harrowing experiences. Even a tailgating driver behind us, making it hard to take one’s eyes off the rear-view mirror.

If you’ve ever stumbled across an ant nest in a lawn or planting bed, you’ll notice the tiny insects going about their business in an orderly manner. Stomp your feet a few times, and what happens? They swarm out in great numbers, racing every which way to find the source of disruption. Their quest is inevitably futile.

The external forces affecting us are foot stompers. They rile us up. They make us fear things that might happen – not “probably” happen, or “likely to” happen. Just a possibility, no matter how remote. Our minds still race … just like the ants.

Do we ignore the words in Isaiah 41:13? Do we believe God holds our hand, or not? Because if we don’t – what do we believe? Truly following God’s Word, means taking the Bible’s repeated “fear not” admonition to heart. Just as a scared child clutches their parent’s hand, let us hold firm to God’s.

Living a Life Free of Fear

“Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.” – Psalms 55:22

Society tells us that, if we really “have it all together,” we shouldn’t be unsure or fearful. This, of course, isn’t possible. We’re human. We’re prone to doubts and insecurities.

Yet we should take the Bible’s repeated (365 times!) “fear not” to heart. Try these simple steps to work toward living a life free from fear:

Cast all of your cares onto the Lord: In Scripture, God repeatedly asks us to give Him our fears and burdens. He’ll handle them. Will we finally do so?
Set your spiritual compass: If you get lost in the woods, a compass can lead you out. If we point our moral and spiritual compass toward God, he’ll lead us away from the forces that seek to distract and disrupt us.
Recognize you’ve already been redeemed from fear: Jesus suffered and died on the cross so we could experience lives of spiritual wholeness. Don’t be too proud to accept this astonishingly generous grace.
Choose to have a sound mind: When we embrace all that God gives us, we choose happiness. When we are timid to accept, our vulnerabilities weaken us.
Adopt a “zero tolerance” policy toward fear: Certain situations – often involving lust, worldly goods or societal expectations – prey on our weaknesses. Avoid them! The fallout often leads to fear of consequences. Why would we choose this?
Walk in love: Where we walk, matters far less than who we walk with. 1 John 4:18 assures us that God’s love “has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear.” Walk with God, now and always.

Jesus goes with us wherever we go. He is the light that casts out darkness. He is the one who pulls back the curtain, to reveal the nothingness behind.

In short, he is the one who vanquishes our fears. Christ will never leave us. If we trust Him, though, our fears can head for the exits.

So When Do We Talk About Christ?

“For when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” – 1 Corinthians 9:16

With Christmas in the rear-view mirror, consider a follow-up question: Did you talk about faith during the holiday?

Christmas would seem to be the equivalent of low-hanging fruit for sharing the Gospel. It celebrates the birth of Christ! Could there be a more appropriate occasion to talk about Him?

One would think so. The first six letters of “Christmas” will always be “Christ.”

The elephant in the room is that, while nearly everyone understands that Christmas is rooted in faith, few seem to acknowledge it anymore.

Christmas has shifted to a focus on gathering families, exchanging gifts, and breaking bread. Christ has taken a back seat … if He’s even allowed along for the ride.

Perhaps Christians fear “offending” others by raising the topic of faith … at a holiday with an undeniably religious origin. Or, maybe it’s just not hip.

From an historical perspective, Jesus is widely viewed as an important, world-altering figure. Many say He was a great moral teacher. Even atheists admit He existed, and claimed to be the Son of God.

So, we can discuss why Christ is famous … but not acknowledge His birthday? What’s wrong with this picture?

The Biblical Backing

“For Jesus himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country.” – John 4:44

Opinions about who Jesus was run the gamut. Most scholars admit His impact was as significant, or more so, than any other historical figure.

Still other observers label Him a liar or lunatic, a fraud who’s somehow managed to pull the wool over the eyes of countless millions for 2,000 years. Are they sure He’s not a magician, too?

The Bible – perhaps the most thoroughly-studied historical document ever – offers plenty of backing for the pure divinity of Jesus.

Fully 27 percent of the Bible – more than 8,000 passages – is prophetic. Of these, more than 300 share details about the birth, life, and death of a coming messiah.

Daniel 9:24-26, for example, predicts the dire fate of Jerusalem after an Anointed One arrives and is put to death. The New Testament recounting of Palm Sunday fulfils the prophecy.

In Luke 18:31, Jesus tells his disciples, prior to entering Jerusalem, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written of the Son of man by the prophets will be accomplished.” He later weeps over the city (Luke 19:41), saying that its enemies would “dash you to the ground, you and your children within you, and they will not leave one stone upon another in you; because you did not know the time of your visitation.”

The Bible abounds with uncannily accurate predictions about Christ. Yet, these writers lived centuries before Jesus was born. It’s as if several royal flushes were dealt in the same game of poker – even though the chances of a single dealing are 650,000 to 1!

What are the odds? How could these prophets have gotten these details correct … unless they were inspired by God?

Not the First, Nor the Last

“We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the end.” – Hebrews 3:14

Perhaps these prophets, in their time, were labelled as crackpots. Still, they were ultimately proven correct. In the words of 1 Corinthians 1:27, written much, much later: “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.”

Many others have gone before us, risking their lives and reputations to carry the cross. As disciples, our duty is to keep moving it forward.

So have confidence in your faith. Be unafraid to share it – at holidays, or any time.

Make it easy on yourself by asking others a simple query: “What do you think about Jesus?” Even if they aren’t sure, it’s an innocuous-enough question.

From there, only Christ has the answers.

Know Your Role

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28:19-20

The Bible offers myriad lessons for all phases of life. A management textbook? Sure, why not?

Consider how Jesus managed his disciples. They were flawed, self-centered human beings -much like the rest of us! Yet He taught and guided them so that, following His crucifixion, they were empowered to establish His kingdom on earth.

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) leaves no doubt that we should do the same. The “how” part? Therein lies the challenge.

Scripture, as always, offers guidance. Recruiting and leading new disciples is like managing employees in an organization – or even parenting, for that matter! The roles are defined. They change over time, as those being led grow and change. Ideally, at the end, the proteges transform into evangelists themselves.

If you seek to follow the Great Commission, know these roles you’ll fulfill:

The Caregiver

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” – Proverbs 22:6

Young children need everything. They’re entirely dependent on their parents. Taking care of children early can seem like an endurance test. No doubt, being a parent is a blessing – one that can be totally, utterly exhausting, especially in the first few years.

Similarly, new employees in an organization need lots of care. They must learn everything, from job expectations to finding the restrooms. A supervisor must ensure they have the tools to fly, not flounder.

Someone new to faith has lots of questions. They are not sure how to trust God, or follow His directives on living a holy life. An evangelist should lead the new disciple in spiritual growth, to a point where they can speak confidently of faith and its all-encompassing role.

The Cop

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” – Ephesians 6:1

The early years can be a tough time for kids. No longer toddlers, they are ready to explore the world – except they must follow rules. Understanding and accepting them is cause for many tantrums. A parent finds themselves having to enforce the rules, often with challenging results.

An evangelist, obviously, can’t “enforce” God’s will onto somebody. They can live by example, though, and call out behavior that doesn’t fit. Will a new disciple stay the course? Maybe the answer depends on how well they’ve been taught thus far.

The Coach

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” – Proverbs 22:6

A new employee in this phase is taking on more responsibilities. They’re up to speed on policies and practices. They just need oversight.

A child is being allowed to try new things. Perhaps they can ride their bike in the street, or cut the grass with a lawnmower. Similarly, they’re (hopefully) allowed to experience mistakes from their decisions.

A new disciple who’s made it this far still needs encouragement, and some gentle wayfinding. Maybe it’s introducing them to other members of a church, where they can build new relationships and get further involved. Or directing them to a ministry that seems suited to their unique talents?

The Consultant

“For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.” – Ephesians 2:18

The bird has flown.

A child has grown up. An employee has been promoted, or changed jobs. A disciple is immersed in faith, and sharing with those around.

Still, kids will still call their parents for advice later in life. An employee might reach out to someone they viewed as a mentor for career guidance.

A disciple should continue to know the Bible deeper, and faithfully follow the Holy Spirit as their guide in life. Perhaps a Bible study, or other exercise in deepening faith, could be suggested?

Keeping the Roles Straight

“He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?)” – 1 Timothy 3:4-5

These roles aren’t just for show. They’re about developing people. Following them in succession builds trust.

A leader’s main job is to move people into the Consultant phase as quickly as possible. Get them to a point where they can fully function on their own. If they occasionally need consultation or a quick refresher, it’s OK.

This is where Christ’s disciples found themselves, 2,000 years ago. Jesus was gone, though His spirit remained all-powerful. The disciples had purpose, which Christ had instilled in them. They knew their roles – which we should too, in life and business, so that God’s Kingdom can thrive.(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. Join us as a member. Plant a chapter where you live. Consider becoming a corporate partner. Follow C-Suite for Christ on LinkedIn and Facebook. Questions? Contact Paul M. Neuberger at (414) 313-8338 or pneuberger@csuiteforchrist.com.)

More of God. Less of Us.

A stake in the ground with an arrow pointing forward. The arrow affixed on stake looks like a symbolic, religious cross.

“He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.” – John 3:30

“Lord, surprise me today.”

Have you ever started your day with this request? If not … why?

We trust God to not lead us on wayward paths. Granted, none of us know what the future holds – today, tomorrow, or next year. Only God does.

Yet we never live life alone, as long as we walk with Christ.

So many others, though, don’t enjoy this reassurance. They feel abandoned. Isolated. Cast out.

Through the Great Commission, Jesus directed us to be His advocates on earth. We should share faith with those who have not experienced Christ’s everlasting love. He gives us strength, hope and inspiration. He leads us to peace. He will not let us fail.

So, how will you be surprised? Who will you encounter, to whom you might evangelize? Someone in a coffee shop? A checkout lane? Waiting at a corner to cross a street? Have faith, and these opportunities will appear.

Many, many people toil in uncertainty. They worry about money, relationships, job security, or events that could be next door or a world away.

They need confidence of a better, more joyful life. As disciples, we are the messengers they’ve awaited. By spreading the light of the Gospel, they see a different, more positive path. Share God, and share peace.

Have TRUST. Reap Blessings.

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” – Romans 12:12

We never know life’s road ahead. All the more reason to keep our eyes on God. He walks with us, as we climb in life through faith.

God doesn’t want us to focus on outcomes, though. We need to let go, and believe in His

plan. In other words, we need to have TRUST: Totally Relying Upon Spiritual Timing.

It’s not easy. Human nature fights circumstances outside its control. TRUST doesn’t come naturally. Its practice is an extension of faith – which, let’s admit, has challenges at times.

TRUST is about patiently pursuing God, confident that good things will happen when He deems appropriate. Ignoring our inner negative voices can admittedly be difficult. Do we wholly believe Jesus is on our side? If so, we know He will take care of us.

Do we believe God loves us? If so, we hold that He wants our lives to be fulfilling. Miracles happen if we embrace TRUST. God shines through us. We can set high expectations, and expect them to be fulfilled.

The upshot? We need more of God, and less of us. Release the steering wheel. We are just the vessels, the vehicles, the tools through which God does His works. Relinquish control. Allow Him to work through you … and reach those who need His grace.

When we let go, we can be an example to others, in being unafraid to bear witness to God’s wonders, and joyfully proclaiming His glory. They’ll see our transformation.

More of God, and less of us, is a change that is impossible to miss.(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. Join us as a member. Plant a chapter where you live. Consider becoming a corporate partner. Follow C-Suite for Christ on LinkedIn and Facebook. Questions? Contact Paul M. Neuberger at (414) 313-8338 or pneuberger@csuiteforchrist.com.)

Working for God

“For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind.” – Isaiah 65:17

We don’t like working. Or, maybe we just don’t like the work we do. A recent study found that two-thirds of American employees are disengaged, to one degree or another, at their jobs.

The number has been on the uptick for years. The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t help. Millions took the opportunity to quit working altogether.

The sad truth is that many people are unhappy on the job. Given how much time we spend at work, it can’t help but spill over into other parts of our lives. Who wants to live non-joyfully?

Perhaps the picture would brighten if we reframed work. Most people work for an employer. They perform specific tasks. The employer pays them.

Let’s try a different take: How about if we work for God?

God won’t directly pay us (literally). Yet don’t we give thanks to Him daily for the blessings we enjoy? In this sense, hasn’t he already “paid” us … and quite well?

Consider another take. The money we earn working allows us to support the church, and its missions undertaken in God’s name. The Bible has much to say about money – yet these entities can’t operate without it.

We are called into service to reclaim the world for Christ. Truly accepting this commission, though, means more than giving money away.

Workplaces are the source of many relationships. How we work, and interact with others in these environments, allows us to witness to God’s love and generosity. Are we taking advantage of this opportunity to tell others about Christ?

We should see work as laboring unto God. For a real wholesale shift of view, let’s accept that everything we have belongs to Christ – and we put it all at His service.

Still feeling disengaged about work?

Accepting a Holy Task

“The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell upon it forever.” – Psalms 37:29

Work is a basic human need. Human beings require purpose, lest they go astray down unhealthy (and sometimes dangerous) paths. Ever hear the old saying, “Idle hands are the Devil’s workshop?”

Work, and its sense of accomplishment, feeds our souls. Moreover, our work is of interest to God!

God understands work. Remember, in Genesis, He is a gardener. In the Gospels, in the form of Jesus, He labors as a carpenter.

Heaven, where God resides, is a place of instruction. Earth is a place of implementation.

God is on a mission to redeem the world, and reclaim it for His glory. The Second Coming lies ahead. Our work can lay the groundwork. We can help renew all things.

Can we reimagine work as a service unto the Lord? Instead of seeking to escape this world – via the countless avenues available today – can we engage in it for His cause?

No one says it’s easy. We must proclaim that Christ’s light pushes back the forces of darkness that seek to envelop us. Instead of bowing to cultural conformity, we should hold up holiness as a worthy, admirable pursuit.

This includes time spent in our “work life.” Faith shouldn’t be shoved into a small corner of our existence. Rather, every segment of our lives should revolve around faith.

If it sounds like a bit of work – it is! Except, there’s a new boss in town. He’s giving us a holy purpose, and plenty of opportunity to accomplish it. Let’s engage fully. The work ahead is important. Now is not the time to take a break!

Who’s Really Accountable?

“But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?” – Romans 10:14

The COVID-19 pandemic might be over. Its impact on our psyches remains.

Everyone claims to value accountability. It’s a trait that reflects responsibility, diligence and “get it done” perseverance.

Accountability seems to be in short supply, though. Consider politicians who continually castigate “the other side” for a variety of ills. Or organizational heads who blame failures on those beneath them. Or spiritual leaders who lambaste parishioners for committing all-too-human acts of sin.

Looking in the mirror is hard. Yet, it’s where accountability is found.

We, as disciples of Christ, are accountable to many: spouses, children, co-workers, bosses, fellow church members and more.

Why aren’t we better partners, parents or team members? Why don’t we get things done? Do we have good reasons for not cutting it?

We all fall short. No one is perfect.

Here is where blame-making begins. It’s easy to fault others, and become a victim. Yet, by doing so, we bring ourselves and others down.

Besides, who wants to associate with those who aren’t accountable? They don’t grow. They’re hard to be with. Their excuses get old really fast.

We grow by taking chances, going outside our comfort zones and, occasionally, failing. When we trip and fall, it’s best to stand up, dust off, and keep moving ahead. Remaining

on the ground, and making excuses for how we got there, gets us nowhere.

Time to Take Account

“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable.” – Hebrews 4:13

Spiritual accountability should be at the top of any Christian’s list. If we don’t answer God’s call, there’s no guarantee we get to heaven. We can’t “Cover the World in Christ” by ignoring His directives.

So, consider how we interact with the world around us. God brings many people into our lives. If someone doesn’t believe in Jesus Christ, they won’t start on their own. Do we talk to them about Jesus? Do we actively work to save them?

Doing so is more important than ever. We’re at an inflection point. God is being driven from our schools and public places by secular entities pushing divisiveness.

Prayer is controversial at sporting events. A cross hung in an office can trigger all sorts of outrage. It’s open season on Christians.

The secularists are winning. They are turning people of faith into societal outcasts.

Who’s to blame? Facing declining membership, many traditional churches concentrate on people in pews and dollars in collection plates. Their focus is on stopping the bleeding.

Let’s not point fingers at others for allegedly falling short. Instead, let’s take spiritual accountability.

Speak Up!

“And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, ‘How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!’” – Romans 10:15

We are all sent to share the Word. Now look in the mirror. How can we win the world back for Christ?

The Great Commission (Matthew 26:18-20) is straightforward. It’s a call to action. It’s not the Great Suggestion.

Doesn’t mean it’s easy, though. Christianity is not a popularity contest. Evangelism is about opportunity. Pray to God, asking for chances to share the Word … and to be accountable to not pass them up.

When opportunity appears, be open. Share stories of how God has blessed you. Explain why you believe.

Often our encounters with others are brief – too short, in fact, to go into any depth. In these scenarios, ask simply: “How can I pray for you today?”

Maybe you’ll get a “No, thank you.” Or a funny look. Or, perhaps, an honest response about a challenge that someone is facing, and possibly losing hope over. Say you’ll ask for God’s blessing on them … and do so.

This is a “one person at a time” crusade. Secularists control the means of mass communication. We’re on our own.

Know that you might be shunned, or cancelled, or uninvited from places you were once welcome. Jesus knew this feeling. The Pharisees wanted nothing to do with him.

Someday, our Holy Father will face us in heaven. He’ll ask us how we shared Christ’s love, and his teachings. What will we tell Him?

Jesus was a solo act, apart from a dozen devoted followers (to varying degrees). We’re in a similar boat.

If not us, who? If not now, when?(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. Join us as a member. Plant a chapter where you live. Consider becoming a corporate partner. Follow C-Suite for Christ on LinkedIn and Facebook. Questions? Contact Paul M. Neuberger at (414) 313-8338 or pneuberger@csuiteforchrist.com.)

Dull the Sharp Tongue

“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.” – Proverbs 15:1

The COVID-19 pandemic might be over. Its impact on our psyches remains.

The roughly two-year stretch of shutdowns and societal disruption opened very raw wounds. Stressed people found their patience gone, and accompanying tolerance seriously diminished. Small, incidental disputes could quickly become major confrontations.

We all remember the debates: Mask or no mask? How far apart should we stand? Vaccine or no vaccine?

History and science will decide – if it is possible – who was right, and who was wrong.

At the height of the pandemic, though, it did not matter. Those on opposing sides were equally certain of their righteousness. Name-calling and vile accusations often ensued. Middle ground was non-existent.

Sadly, harsh temperaments remain the disposition of the day. The world around us seems more tense and on edge than ever. In a word of (metaphorically) tinder-dry kindling, the ability of sharp words to start fires is greater than ever.

How Should We Speak?

“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” – Colossians 4:6

The late, great Rev. Stuart Briscoe famously said (paraphrasing), “Some see difficulty in every opportunity. Others see opportunity in every difficulty.”

Let us be part of the latter group. In these societal walking-on-eggshells times, employing the “gentle” verbiage cited in Proverbs is not just about defusing situations. It is an

opportunity to demonstrate faith, and the love that Jesus embodied.

Do not forget Christ’s example. He was eminently powerful. The man who cast out demons, and walked on water, could have summoned immense, earth-altering forces to create the world He envisioned. He did not.

Instead, He led by word and deed. He allowed himself to be led to the cross. Even when dying there, His only act was to assure the convicted criminals also being crucified that they would soon be in paradise with Him.
Jesus lives within us. We do not have to be told this – we know it. So, let us respond to anger and venom with kindness and gentleness. His spirit will guide us … if we let it.

Responding and Rejoicing

“Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.” – Proverbs 12:18

Being verbally accosted by others is never pleasant. Sometimes people need to be rebuked. In those moments, do so with love.

Sometimes, it is not even clear who (or what) others are upset with. Is their anger misdirected? Are they just lashing out at the nearest target, as a release for pent-up tension and frustration?

Hard to know. It is clear, though, that in today’s world there is not a lot of space for grace. We must find and create that space.

How? Avoid hair-trigger responses. Instead, in confrontational situations, employ a seven-second delay. Allow yourself the luxury of pausing to respond. Seek out a kind rebuke, instead of the escalatory accusation.

Or, show vulnerability. Accept some responsibility for the source of the dispute. Admit you have been in a similar situation before, and apparently did not learn enough from it. Often, the other party will admit to a similar failing. A peaceful resolution results.

Winning the battle, while losing the war, is still a no-win. The conflict – to keep our world from becoming a darker, unloving place – is too important. Let us dull our sharp tongues, and speak in a fashion that leaves no doubt about Whose we are.

(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. Join us as a member. Plant a chapter where you live. Consider becoming a corporate partner. Follow C Suite for Christ on LinkedIn and Facebook. Questions? Contact Paul M. Neuberger at (414) 313-8338 or pneuberger@csuiteforchrist.com.)