Cleave Then Leave

Divorces occur so often the word itself has become commonplace in our society. Couples renounce their sacred marriage vows and discard their wedding rings without scruple. Many who talk of divorce blame it on their spouse’s faults or failures in fulfilling the duties of marriage. In addition, people divorce to find happiness elsewhere when not achieved in a current marriage. However, the final product of divorce frequently introduces serious issues. Illuminating the true motives of a couple, divorce brings detrimental baggage as its end result.

Culminating in blaming discourse, people often justify their reasons for divorce by complaining about certain situations. Many times tensions develop when a parent does not spend time with the family. Without teamwork a spouse could become exasperated when the family’s burdens fall on his or her shoulders. Also, problems can surface when a crisis occurs within the family. Instances of debt, sickness, or death can permanently fracture a marriage. When tough circumstances threaten unity and happiness in a marriage, one encounters the temptation and desire for divorce in order to get a fresh start.

In many instances divorce flows from a discontent heart. Married life may have lacked the charm one had envisioned. When people notice and dwell on the flaws of their husband or wife, they never find satisfaction. They may only make things worse when attempting to straighten things out. However, in this struggle many often forget the fact that no man or woman can ever achieve perfection. At the same time, some may try to amend the shortcomings of a husband or wife and yet overlook their own faults contributing to a shaky relationship. Considering themselves undeserving of conflicts within a marriage, many see divorce as the solution to finding and pursuing happiness.

As a whole, divorce arises from a lack of true devotion from the beginning. In case of divorce some make prenuptial agreements specifically naming their rightful property before marriage. This escape hatch gives a smooth slide from a marriage if unsuccessful. However, if a husband and wife reject their vows when things do not go their way, they most likely did not take them seriously. Instead, most divorces unveil marriages as momentary emotions easily shattered during the toughest of times. Divorce ensues due to a lack of commitment to stand beside one’s husband or wife even when he or she does not act faithfully. Broken marriages frequently take place due to a deficiency of true love—unconditional love—for a spouse even in the worst circumstances.

In summary, one can blame many scenarios as reasons for divorce; however, in the end divorce only produces new issues to hash through. Divorce splits a family and fosters a plaguing heart of bitterness difficult to leave behind. Furthermore, the separation of a father and mother can shipwreck a child and damage the family. Children deprived of a parent lose an important factor in their growth to adolescence. Both contribute in unique ways to a child’s development through their styles of parenting. Without a father or mother children also lose an influential role-model to shape their lives. Not only does the process of divorce inflict permanent wounds on the family, but it also has spiritual consequences as well. Dishonoring to God, divorce throws away the distinct, holy relationship God has designed in marriage as a symbol of Christ’s love for the Church. According to the Bible, God hates divorce and prohibits divorced men from holding positions as leaders in the Church. Because of their unstable example to others, those who divorce limit their opportunities to minister and deride their own reputation and testimony as followers of Christ. Although some may adamantly contest for divorce, it ultimately carries long-lasting and hurtful outcomes most neglect to consider at the time.

Perennial Pond Pleasures

Whether during the hot days of summer or the arctic cold of winter, a backyard pond has multiple uses. Its shimmering glass-like surface reflects the surrounding trees, rippling with each raindrop and the splash of a lively bluegill. Not only does its beauty lie in the scenic serenity it symbolizes, but a pond also offers many opportunities for fun. Many do not realize the countless activities a small body of water provides. During the summer our pond serves as a swimming hole and a fisherman’s delight. Bitter winter temperatures quickly transform its surface into a skating rink. As a whole, a pond facilitates activities which produce pleasant memories among family and friends.

Throughout the summer a pond brings the thrills of the fishing season. Many of my family members rise at the crack of dawn to grab their poles and get an early start. One could easily spend the whole day relaxing in a lawn chair on the perimeter of our lawn gazing at a bobber. What the fish consume provides even more entertainment. In desperation for bait some have fished with marshmallows, corn, and hot dog buns. Many times just a plain hook works, but this shows someone has slacked in completing his chore of giving the daily fish food ration. When reeling fish in by the minute, who needs patience? This fishing spot, just a few steps from the back porch, provides an ideal place for any aspiring fisherman.

When July’s blistering heat prevails, one feels a strong urge to take a running leap into a pond’s cool, calm waters. In fact, our family makes these type of days into a special celebration. We invite several families to join us for an afternoon “pond party” to swim and relax. Coordinating games for these events has caused us to realize the variety of interesting relay races a pond can host. Last year we put our heads together and came up with a inner-tube race with a picnic twist. Rafting across the pond, the team and its vessel of inner-tubes had to safely transport a cooler of sodas to the opposite shore. After disembarking from the craft, the team members had to spread out a checkered blanket on the lawn and guzzle down a soda from their cooler before loading up and returning back to the starting line. Also, in the past friends have enjoyed water balloon fights on our water trampoline and canoe tug-of-war. Everyone looks forward to this exciting event of fun and fellowship each year. Having a pond makes these types of gatherings possible.

However, the end of the summer season only makes one look forward to the next. Our anticipation increases when we first notice a thin sheet of ice skimming the pond’s surface on a cold morning. At our home the skating season officially begins once the ice has reached a thickness of two-and-a-half inches. But maintaining a pond in the winter requires much more diligence. To keep a smooth skating rink, one must venture into the cold after each snowfall to complete the task of clearing masses of snow from the pond’s surface. In addition, our “pond maintenance crew” has found strategies for overcoming bumpy ice without professional machinery. Dire circumstances have forced us to thaw frozen backyard hoses with hairdryers in order to pump water out to the pond. After several hours of dragging the hose back and forth over the ice, one can produce a thin layer of smooth, glassy paradise. Ultimately, we learn to work together through these labors.

Such diligent upkeep enables one to enjoy a pond to the fullest. Our friends jump at any opportunity to ice skate. This sport makes the long winter days pass by quickly. Everyone comes ready for fun and filled with enthusiasm. Scarves trailing behind, skaters flash across the pond as delicate snowflakes float to the ground. Snowballs fly through the air in attempt to successfully hit a swift skater. Children young and old participate in games of tag. With boots and sleds as make-shift goal markers, hockey brings the adrenaline to a climax. Lit up with Christmas lights along its perimeter, the pond provides an inviting atmosphere on a clear, starry night. After working so hard, one can smile with satisfaction when sensing the happiness encased in such a beautiful scene.

In summary, having a pond adds to the joy of each season. Through summer and winter a pond’s versatility creates endless opportunities for entertainment. Such diverse activities from fishing to skating bring many occasions to draw friends and family close together. Many of my fondest memories include time spent in this way. Some may see a pond as unimportant, but in my eyes it provides an avenue of fun for all ages and a means for families to gather together as friends.

Turkey Time

Percival had been fighting for King Gobbelot. He was one of the best Turkish warriors but one day a turkey of the Turkey Feather Nation cut off his neck! Percival survived barely but could not gobble now. So one day he was riding on a turkey horse and suddenly seven crows started attacking him! Percival tried to gobble but could not. One of the crows started to cut his neck off. All of a sudden, a frog leaped from his throat. He finally could gobble. He had a frog in his throat! Sir Turkeylot, Sir Truwain, and several other turkeys came to the rescue! Percival could gobble again!

Lewis and Clark

As Lewis and Clark went down the Missouri River they saw amazing things. Herds of buffalo ran across the plains with Indians chasing them. When they were walking they saw huge waterfalls roaring down, and they saw Indian encampments. They saw the Pacific Ocean’s towering waves, the wildlife, and the grizzly bears. They smelled burning campfires cooking buffalo meat. They smelled the Indians smoking the peace pipe. As they worked the explorers smelled different smells that were wonderful like pine trees. They heard mosquitoes buzzing around them and the ocean waves crashing. Water trickled down into the streams and waterfalls roared. They heard the coyotes howling. They experienced buffalo meat and salmon for the first time. As they moved up the river they tasted new things like salt water and dog meat. Lewis brought horrible soup for emergencies. They felt buffalo hides and deer skin. And they finally got back and heard the cheers of people, saw the people shouting, felt the people crowding around them, smelled good food, and finally they tasted the food.

AWANAs in India

AWANA in India differs from AWANA in Wisconsin. AWANAs usually divides into seven groups. One group meets each day for two hours. The leaders have fun, but the work can get stressful. In one year they have 400 clubbers. Each day 50 to 60 clubbers go to AWANA. Formerly, most of the clubbers were Hindu but now a lot of them have become Christians. Some of the leaders want to start AWANAs in four different villages.

Economics

Economics demands more than a passing glance these days as the stock market vacillates between stability and depression. Within the last two weeks America has watched the economy plummet drastically. Although government rescue programs constantly surface, the future looks bleak. " Many private economists believe the country will not be able to escape a recession even if the rescue program is successful at getting banks to resume lending" (Associated Press, www.foxnews.com). What does this mean for Christians? How should Christians respond? By examining 1 Timothy 6:6-19 followers of Christ can find important spiritual principles to combat the current economic struggles.

In writing 1 Timothy 6, Paul specifically addresses how Christians should consider money and wealth. He says in verse 10, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." Although Paul does not define money as evil, he warns Christians to be careful of its full potential. Continuing on, Paul says, "Some people, eager for money have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs" (1 Timothy 6:10). Currently, investors all over America have anxiety and grief because of their ill-placed hope for wealth. Furthermore, Paul dubs desire for wealth as a "temptation and a trap" (1 Timothy 6:9). Based upon these verses, money and wealth have dangerous qualities.

Presenting money in a sinister light, Paul encourages Christians to pursue other things. "Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world and we can take nothing out of it," Paul observes in verses 6 and 7. Basically, Paul shows the futile end of the pursuit of wealth through this passage. "But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness" (1 Timothy 6:8). Through this passage Paul lists the items Christians ought to pursue.

These spiritual ideals of Paul's completely shatter many people's reasoning behind wealth. First, Paul praises contentment. "But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that" (1 Timothy 6:8). Also, Paul commands rich individuals to have humility because God provides for them. Paul says in verse 17, "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." Also, Paul encourages financial generosity. "In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life" (Romans 6:19). Ultimately, Paul exhorts the wealthy to invest in heavenly treasure at the expense of earthy riches.

With 1 Timothy 6:6-19 in hand Christians need to understand the characteristics of money. Because of the dangerous potential and spiritual cheapness of money, Christians need to seek contentment. If God blesses some of his children with temporal riches, these individuals have greater earthly responsibility! In essence, the Christian must flee from the love of money and take hold of Christ. Contented Christians know that God "richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment" (1 Timothy 6:17). Therefore, modern Christians must pursue things of spiritual value no matter where the stock market ends up.



Works Cited:
"2008 Budget Deficit Swells to All-Time High," October 14, 2008, < http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/budget-deficit-swells-time-high/>, Oct. 14, 2008.
The Holy Bible, New International Bible, Grand Rapids: Zondervan Corporation, 1991.

(Unless otherwise noted, all verses quoted are from this version.)

A Classroom’s Unscientific “Science

Condemning the theory unscientific, “Unintelligent Design” attempts to prove the irrelevance of intelligent design in the classroom. It defines intelligent design as a doctrine that attributes the complexity of nature to “divine intelligence at work.” Recognizing the theory’s foundation of faith, the article labels intelligent design as a facet of religion and separates it from classroom criteria. However, the author’s use of the terms “science” and “faith” to demote intelligent design fails to produce an accurate argument. In reality, the flaws pointed out in intelligent design also apply to evolution. This realization unveils the injustice of teaching one interpretation over the other. “Unintelligent Design” creates a framework of shaky reasoning for abolishing intelligent design from public schools.

Examining the article’s closing statement shows how the author forgets the boundaries of science. Supporting the sole presence of the evolutionary theory in schools, the writer states, “Children should be taught about faith, and it is to be hoped they will learn respect for it. But in science class? Please teach science.” Observable, measurable, and repeatable, science cannot surpass direct experimentation. Contrary to the argument of “Unintelligent Design,” evolution falls outside the grip of science. Both theories lack scientific validity because no one observed the event when it occurred. This fact prevents researchers from accurately testing their assumptions of a past occurrence. Attempting to prove evolution’s progress, the writer says, “Mountains of data have confirmed his [Darwin] theory of evolution of living organisms by mutation and natural selection,” but does not give any examples. How can one scientifically prove a theory with droppings of data and no direct observation? With this reasoning schools should eliminate both theories from the classroom because neither offers strict science.

Another argument the writer makes identifies faith-based theories as intolerable. By making this point the author unknowingly attacks the theory of evolution. In the Bible Hebrews 11:1 states, “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Since these two theories rest on an unseen event people can only hope and believe they have the correct interpretation. Two scientists may look at the same artifact but come to opposite conclusions due to different convictions. Referring to intelligent design, the article condemns teaching faith “as if it were science.” Why does “Unintelligent Design” present evolution as an exception if it also stands on faith? That intelligent design cannot belong in classrooms due to faith does not explain why evolution—also a package of faith—can.

Even though evolution holds many uncertainties as a theory, the article states, “To consider creationism and its stepchild intelligent design as if they were science is to inflict an injustice on school children.” It claims that by teaching intelligent design in schools children will “wonder whether scientists have any confidence in themselves.” Presenting the theory of evolution alone with a factual tone just to make scientists look confident would rob children of the big picture. Schools should not hold students back from knowing a theory’s challenges for the sake of scientists’ reputations. Exalting a single theory may deceive students into thinking evolution provides the only option. Rather than having the schools decide, students ought to know each standpoint to develop their own conclusions. To give students only one side of the argument dishes up true injustice to our society.

To summarize, the interpretation presented in the article “Unintelligent Design” contains flaws and spontaneous judgments. Questioning the scientific validity of intelligent design does not explain why evolution can remain in schools. Neither theory falls under the jurisdiction of science. Against the presence of faith in schools, the writer condemns intelligent design without realizing that evolution also requires a dose of faith. Because no one saw the occurrence, evolution and intelligent design rest on convictions and not science. In reality, these points cause the writer’s intent to backfire since they apply to evolution as well as intelligent design. If the columnist thinks faith and an unscientific approach make intelligent design inadequate, why allow evolution? On the contrary, if schools want to strictly conform to science both theories have no place in classrooms. Schools must avoid weeding out the unpopular and start presenting the entire perspective or none at all.

Scripture Response: Romans 2:17-3:8

In Romans 2:17-3:8 Paul examines the legitimacy of keeping the Mosaic Law and the importance of Jewish ancestry and compares them with faith. In verses 17-29 of chapter two Paul looks at how the Jews define their relationship with God and others. Upon probing Hebrew reasoning, Paul exposes the narrowness and hypocrisy of the Jewish definition of faith by stating, “. . . you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself?” (Romans 2:21) By subtly referring to defining by genus and difference, Paul reveals that observance of the Law and a Jewish heritage are assets of worshipping God; however, he reveals a fuller, broader definition. At the end of Romans 2 Paul writes,

A man is not a Jew if he is only one outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. (Romans 2:29)

Through this statement Paul describes faith as something from the heart. Romans 2:29 broadens the scope of the Jewish definition, while still mentioning the essential characteristics of faith.

Moving to Romans 3, Paul strengthens his conclusion in chapter two. Leaning upon genus and difference, Paul clarifies Judaism as a species of the genus “faith.” In Romans 3:2 Paul affirms the importance of the Hebrew heritage. However, Paul emphasizes the fact that God does not need a Jew or a “Law-keeper” to accomplish his will by stating, “What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God’s faithfulness? Not at all! Let God be true, and every man a liar.” (Romans 3:3-4) Overall, by affirming Judaism, Paul does not mean that works influence God’s plan. Instead, Paul places works as the result of genuine faith.

Overall, the sequence of Romans 2:17-3:8 struck me. Recently, I have heard a lot of emphasis on faith, but a strange silence when it comes to the relationship between faith and the Law. By categorizing faith and the Law according to the genus and species model, the relationship now makes sense to me. To accomplish the Law one must first have true faith in the One who made the Law! Also, Romans 2:17-24 and Paul’s comparison of the Jewish standard with their actual religious product convicted me to practice what I preach. As a representative of Christ, the way I act reflects directly upon the way the world looks upon Christ.

Scripture Response: Romans 1:1-2:16

Paul, as an experienced speaker, used different methods of presenting the Gospel. Analysis of Acts 13:16-41 and Acts 26:1-31 shows how Paul utilized technique, familiarity with the audience, and persuasion while preaching. In Acts 13:16-14, Paul presented his viewpoint confidently when he addressed a gathering of Jews in Antioch. For example, Paul treated Jesus’ bodily resurrection as fact when he said, “The fact that God raised him from the dead, never to decay, is stated in these words: ‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’ ” (Acts 13:34) Furthermore, this verse, and others, shows how Paul consistently supported his arguments with Scripture. On the other hand, Paul humbly presented Christianity to Agrippa in Acts 26:1-31. Instead of constantly quoting Scripture, Paul made conclusions based on his background and obvious general statements. To justify of his conversion Paul stated, “So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven.” (Acts 26: 19) Underscoring God’s sovereignty, Paul queried, “Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?” (Acts 26:8) All in all, Paul used confidence in Acts 13 and humility in Acts 26 as techniques to spread the Gospel.

Interestingly, Paul adjusted his presentation technique based on his knowledge of his audience. In Acts 13 Paul addressed his audience as fellow Jews. Therefore, he presumed they knew the Scriptures. Using this assumption, he devoted his time to examine prophecies in the Psalms, Isaiah, and Habakkuk to justify his conclusion that “. . . through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.” (Acts 13:38) However, in Acts 26 Paul recounted his conversion experience and discussed the key points of the Christian faith with King Agrippa. Appealing solely to Scripture did not carry any weight because Agrippa, a Gentile ruler, drew his authority from secular sources. With this knowledge, Paul presumed on Agrippa’s knowledge of Hebrew matters, saying, “The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him.” (Acts 26:26) Then Paul explained how his viewpoint did not contradict the Scriptures, saying, “I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen—that the Christ would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles.” (Acts 26:22-23) Overall, Paul used different techniques to persuade his audience concerning the validity of the Gospel based on what he knew of his audience.

Depending upon his audience, Paul employed different types of persuasion. Paul used force of words and Old Testament texts Acts 13persuade his Judaic listeners that he knew his subject. He ended his speech by quoting Habakkuk 1:5, stating, “Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish, for I am going to do something in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you.” Used the harshness of this passage, Paul endeavored to convince the Jews to consider his claims and believe in Jesus. However, Paul conversed with Agrippa to explain his point in Acts 26. At the end of his speech Paul pleaded, “Short time or long—I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am . . . .” (Acts 26:29) This plea contrasts markedly with Paul’s stern warning in Acts 13. In summary, when Paul witnessed, he employed technique, knowledge of his audience, and persuasion to present the Gospel to others.



Works Cited
The Holy Bible, New International Bible, Grand Rapids: Zondervan Corporation, 1991.
(Unless otherwise noted, all verses quoted are from this version.)

A Sheep’s Senseless Stragglings

Although not the most intelligent creature, the sheep occupied an important place in everyday life during Biblical times. Many passages mention this common animal in different contexts. David uses the sheep in Psalm 23 to picture our relationship with Christ, the Good Shepherd. Throughout this chapter one can observe the weakness of the sheep and its reliance on the shepherd. Amazingly, David’s illustration of sheep also transfers to a Christian’s life, teaching numerous lessons about a believer’s true state and God’s love.

With the sheep as an example Christians can better understand their fallen state. Constantly going off-track, sheep need direction and prodding from the shepherd to prevent them from wandering. Isaiah 53:6 says, “all we like sheep have gone astray,” comparing this same characteristic to man’s sinful condition. Foolish and undiscerning on their own, humans often stumble and fall into harmful situations which force them to cry out to the Lord for rescue. To find refuge from savage animals that may threaten them, the helpless sheep must rely on the protection of the shepherd. Just as sheep hear the shepherd’s call and follow, believers need to recognize the Lord’s prompting and respond in obedience. Because of their feebleness, followers of Christ do not have the power to face life’s battles on their own. Only the Good Shepherd can provide security and supply green pastures and still waters for their refreshment. As sheep depend on the shepherd in every aspect of life, likewise the Christian looks to Christ for sustenance.

Comparing myself with a wandering sheep opens my eyes to see my true instability. I wonder how many times the Shepherd rescues me from the wrong path. That Christ patiently continues to lift me from sin over and over again confirms his love for me. With thankfulness I realize I could never repay Him for the faithful care He gives. Stronger and wiser than my own intellect, the Lord knows every circumstance that threatens my weakness. Only He can protect me from the lurking enemy. When He calls, I must follow in submission with the conviction that He will lead me in the right way. As all of my efforts fail, I trust in Jesus who alone can satisfy every need.

A Training Ground for Obedience

Fathers and mothers should receive respect from their children as authorities placed by God. Each child should acknowledge God’s command to obey and honor parents. Ephesians 6:2-3 states, “ ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—‘that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’ ” Seasoned through life’s experiences, parents offer advice and words of guidance which their children should readily accept. Unfortunately, children tend to have independent spirits that do not always desire or acknowledge counsel. As a result, they often fall into situations they could have easily avoided by heeding a parent’s wise warning. But, if children do not honor and yield to their parents, how will they respond to God? Will they ignore and rebel against Him? Learning how to honor a parent’s authority prepares a child to respect and obey God’s authority. Furthermore, those who honor His word by obeying their parents will receive God’s blessing. In summary, realizing that their reaction to parents’ instruction determines their response to God, children should focus on honoring their parents in order to please the Lord.

Soak in the Word

Christians ought to read God’s Word on a regular basis in order to deepen their walk with the Lord. Described in Psalm 119 as a lamp and a light, God’s Word serves as the blueprint for a believer’s life. With this in mind, a Christian should know the Bible from cover to cover. Preparing believers to overcome daily struggles, the Bible provides encouragement and refreshment to strengthen faith in Him. One who desires to live a life pleasing to the Lord should absorb each word of this book to learn how God wants a Christian to act. Also, a Christian should read the Bible with a keen desire to know God better. While meditating on the Word, believers can sense the meaning and significance of God’s work in a new light as the Holy Spirit reveals texts which pierce the soul. As a result, they can rejoice and worship Him fervently with a greater understanding of His mercies. Most importantly, repeatedly reading and thinking on God’s Word trains one’s mind to continually focus on the Lord. Crucial in a Christian’s life and a deep well of spiritual sustenance, studying the Scriptures gives believers a better understanding of the One they serve and draws them closer Him.

An Undistracted Education of Worth

Free from distractions, homeschooling enables me to study with a Biblical interpretation. I can plunge into academics at home without everyday pressures that come in a secular, public school setting. My parents do not have to worry about harmful influences of students around me. Without these obstacles as a hindrance, I can achieve much more at home with a set focus. Homeschooling helps me avoid the confusion of having to unlearn philosophy taught contrary to the Bible. In order to have a strong foundation in life, a Christian’s education must promote confidence in Scripture. Contrary to public education, I gain a deeper understanding of the Lord in my studies at home, equipping me to serve him with my knowledge. Do I regret homeschooling? As a homeschooled student I do not see myself deprived of anything. Instead, protected from a culture full of distractions and dangerous pressures, this environment helps me pursue an education of far greater worth and benefit to my life–one based on Biblical truth.