Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Walk the Walk

When you "walk the walk" and "talk the talk," and as long as you keep moving forward in your faith, your goal will be accomplished.

So, just keep in mind the goal you expect to reach for it is very likely you will make it this time. Everybody has a goal. What's yours?

Ed Unruh

Monday, August 23, 2010

Who's With You Now?

Do you have any idea who is with you now? It is the Holy Spirit because the Bible says He is with us always. And because He is, we have nothing to fear, for He has the power to protect us 24/7, according to Psalm 23.

Yes, the Holy Spirit is with you now and always, for He loves us. He cares about us and He watches over us just like any father would watch over his child.

Ed Unruh

The Blame Game

When things go wrong as they so often do, who do you blame? So often you blame the one that is closest to you, and that could be a close friend or a family member.

In one situation when David had a problem, he decided to call on God (Psalm 55:16) and he knew God could help him. We to can get the help we need by taking our troubles to God in prayer. At least He will help.

Ed Unruh

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Who's In Charge?

During the day, when everything is going good, we don't care who is in charge. We accept life without any concern of what may go wrong. And, as long as everything goes well, we're in charge.

But, am I really in charge, or is there a Greater one in charge? Might this one be my God? After all, He is watching over me and has the ability to step into my life anytime He desires. So, it looks like God's in charge of my life and that's alright with me.

Who's in charge of your life today?

Ed Unruh

Friday, August 13, 2010

The Will of the Father

God the Father will do anything we ask as long as it is according to His will. Likewise, we can know what His will is when we search through the Scriptures.

When we read God's Word, The Bible, we will find out what His will is and be able to pray accordingly. When you are consistent in your daily reading, the will of God will become more meaningful to you.

As our prayer time increases, we will be drawn closer in our walk with God. And that is what we have wanted to do from the beginning.

Ed Unruh

Monday, August 2, 2010

Our Instant World Today

So, you want a cup of coffee, will that be regular or instant? Do you want that with your instant oatmeal? We do have regular if you prefer.

Other things can be had in an instant but are not as nourishing. For instance there is instant salvation and instant access to God which is through prayer. When you ask God to come into your heart, He will do it.

Don't hesitate - do it now! It only takes an instant.

Ed Unruh

The Perfect Christian

Is there such a person as a perfect Christian? We would like to know. If there is, who is capable of being that one?

What are the requirements? Is it really possible to fill all the requirements? If we have to be like Jesus and be perfect in every way that is probably not going to happen.

However, God does not expect us to be perfect. He just wants us to live the life that fulfills His purpose here on earth.

Ed Unruh

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Recharge Your Faith

As you enter a new day and a new week there will always be challenges. But, that is normal in our every day life. However, we need to be in an attitude of prayer so the challenges can be met on an equal basis.

Why not take time today to pray for opportunities for God's grace to flow through you and into those you come into contact today? It will recharge them and you as well.

Ed Unruh

Monday, July 19, 2010

What Do You Think About God?

Maybe you don't have any real thoughts on the subject. After all, you have a right to your opinion and there may not even be a real God out there in space.

The people who talk about God always say he is in a place called heaven, but they can't tell you where it is. So who is right? If there is a heaven, and there is a God, tell me where they are.

So, what do I really think about God? Tell me where God is and maybe I can tell you what I think about him.

The answer is in the Bible; God says in Isaiah 65:17 that He is currently creating new heavens. So keep the faith, because there is a real God too.

Ed Unruh

Monday, July 12, 2010

Pleasing God

In your prayer time, are you pleasing God, or are you satisfying an obligation? Do you want to satisfy yourself or please God?

If you want to please God, spend time in meditation. And as you meditate you will discover what is most important to Him.

When you find what is pleasing to God, you will want to stay close to Him so you can grow in His love and grace.

Ed Unruh

Born Twice, Die Once

How can you be born a second time without dying? In John 3:3 we read, "you must be born again." The reason behind this second birth is so when you die you have a guarantee you will enter heaven.

If you don't accept the second birth, you are destined to go to Hell. And no one has a desire to go there. Just ask Jesus to come into your heart and you will be saved from the torture that is associated with Hell. Do it now.

Ed Unruh

Friday, July 9, 2010

He Will Sustain

In times of sickness, pain and difficulty, we need support to get through these obstacles. We who know Christ know He is watching over us and is the One who will sustain us (Psalm 41:3).

Even when we seek the good life, He is with us and sustains us (John 10:10). God the Father knows what we need and will always be available whenever we need Him.

Ed Unruh

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Be On Your Guard

In First Corinthians 16:13-14, St. Paul reminds us that we need to be on our guard and to stand firm in our faith. There are so many times when Satan tempts us, and He does it at the weakest times in our life. This is the main reason we have to be on our guard.

God has given us full reign to make decisions in our daily lives, and in so doing it is up to each one of us to make the right decision at all times based on our faith in God. And when we do we will remain strong in Jesus Christ.

Ed Unruh

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Spiritual Pollution

Pollution is usually associated with air and water conditions. However it is not limited to these areas. We have to be watchful of our conversation and our thoughts. This could be the first step to what would be considered a possible spiritual pollution.

You will not find spiritual pollution in Websters dictionary, but you know this is not something you want to have to deal with on a regular basis or even on a temporary basis.

Ed Unruh

Monday, June 28, 2010

Depression

When you feel depressed, do you know where it comes from? It comes from the force of evil.

This force is Satanic and it will get into your mind in your weakest moment. So keep alert because this can be a real downer.

Do not worry, it will only add to more depression. God knows what you're going through and the Holy Spirit who is with you in these times.

Ed Unruh

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Who Needs It?

Because we're human and prone to making mistakes, we should try to avoid them by asking for God's guidance in our daily lives.

Yes, sometimes Prayer is exactly what is needed for us to make it through the day. In God's Word, Isaiah 58:11 says, "The Lord will guide you always, He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame." So, God will support us when WE NEED IT.

Ed Unruh

Other People

In our conversations with other people, we can get caught up in subjects that are controversial or similar to each one. But, they need to be of interest to both parties.

For instance, religion is one subject that fits into that category. God's will is for everyone to know Him as their personal saviour (John 3:16). What is your relationship with God? Do you know Him?

Ed Unruh

Friday, June 11, 2010

A Giving God

There are many reasons to go to God in prayer. One of those reasons is to ask Him to forgive us for sins we have committed. Because He looks into our heart and knows what we need (Mt.6:8), He forgives us.

Another reason to go to God in prayer is to pray for a loved one who is sick or going through a difficult time. Because God understands and is a giving God He will answer our prayer this time as well.

Ed Unruh

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

How to Increase Your Faith

One way to increase your faith is to take on challenges that can only be accomplished through faith. Also, you may need help and the only one who can help is God Himself.

Faith, in itself, requires help sometimes. So, let us really try to exercise the faith we have. Don't hesitate; move forward with enthusiasm and do what you have to do. And you will get the task done before you know it.

Ed Unruh

Monday, June 7, 2010

It Is Yours

You work hard all your life to earn a living and to raise your family. Of course there will be times when it will be a struggle, but that is to be expected in this world.

Even though we do not live in a perfect world, we do serve a perfect God whom we can go to any time we have a problem.

The fact is in Mark 11:24 Jesus said, "you can pray for anything and if you believe you have it, it is yours."

Ed Unruh

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Vacancy

When you plan your vacation, you have to plan your lodging reservations at the same time. Do you know our God has a vacancy on hold for you in the celestial kingdom? It's a mansion just over the hilltop.

In 2 Peter 3:9 we read, "the Lord is...patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but for all to come to repentance." His promise is that if you accept His Son as your personal Saviour, the vacancy He's holding for you in that celestial kingdom will be yours.

Ed Unruh

Investments

At the close of the day there is always a concern whether the money market has closed up or down. And will it be profitable at the closing bell? However, when spiritual talents are invested, there is never a loss at the end of the day.

Whether stocks close up or down depends largely on the investment broker. Spiritual investments, when given to God, will never be down at the end of the day.

When we get to heaven there will be no closing bell. No loss, only gain. Benefits will never be limited. They will only go on forever and ever.

Ed Unruh

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Faith and Prayer

When you pray, do you believe God will answer your request? When Jesus was on this earth His disciples asked Him the same question.

His answer can be found in Mark 11:24. Jesus said, "Whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them".

Do you have enough faith to believe Jesus' answer to His disciples? You may say sometimes but if you believe in Christ, He will answer.

Ed Unruh

Look Ahead

Auto and truck drivers who travel the freeways, drive differently. They drive in many ways, fast and slow. They drive carefully and carelessly.

Some drivers see nothing except the car in front of them, while those in a hurry speed recklessly--both of which can be a danger to other cars around them. To avoid this, a driver needs to LOOK AHEAD for trouble spots.

In Luke 9:62 Jesus said the man who puts his hand to the plow is not to look back, which implies that he should LOOK AHEAD. The driver on the freeway is safer when he looks ahead, and so it is with the farmer who looks ahead. This way his eyes will be on Jesus Christ who leads and guides in our daily lives.

Ed Unruh

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Leadership

When you are two, three, or more in a group, invariably one person goes forward in leadership. This person becomes the leader of the group. This also applies to an army battalion of soldiers and a government organizations.

If any of these organizations want to succeed in their goal, it is imperative that they obey the decisions and commands of their leadership. We find the same thing applies to Christian organizations.

In the Bible we find Christ is a leader for He leads us beside the still waters and in paths of righteousness (Psalm chapter 23). The author of Psalm 31, David, says. "I will put my trust in God for You are my Rock and my Fortress. Therefore, for Your name's sake, lead me and guide me".

If you want a leader to follow. go with David and put your faith and trust in God's leadership. He's the one to follow.

Ed Unruh

Monday, May 24, 2010

Clinging to Things in Our Life

A newborn baby will cling to it's mother through Godly instinct. A small child will cling to a favorite toy and hold on as long as possible. So, from an early age we cling on to things. As we go through childhood and into our adult years many decisions are made and we have more things to cling to.

At one time in our life a decision to follow or not follow Jesus Christ will occur. When that happens, our attitude will be to cling to Him, for it is through Him that we have eternal life. And to cling to Him is the best thing we could do in this life.

Ed Unruh

Monday, May 17, 2010

Pray in Faith Believing

When everything goes wrong and nothing goes right, what do you do to make things right? The first thing you need to do, is to re-trace your actions and start over from the beginning.

If that does not get you back on track, Go to God in prayer. Also you can search the scriptures and find out what the Bible has to say. One verse in the book of James would get you started and that is in chapter four. This says we need to ask for the right reason, so if we have faith He will give us that answer.

Ed Unruh

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Security

In today's generation, there is a great need for security. There are companies that hire and train both men and women to be alert in all types of situations. These people are trained to be observant of the area that is theirs to protect. They are also taught to report any suspicious activity.

Security is needed in lending institutions and stores where general merchandise is sold. Also in mass transit centers, such as airports, bus terminals and train stations. Security can be found everywhere and anywhere it is needed.

There is another type of security, and that is the security needed to guarantee you will make it to heaven after you die. The Bible says, "It is appointed for everyone to die and after that you will be judged" (Hebrews 9:27). Are you ready to be judged? Is your salvation secure in Jesus Christ?

Ed Unruh

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Judgment Day

Judgment Day is not far away, in fact it could be closer than we think. It is something we should recognize every day with all the many catastrophes taking place in the world today. For these will precede the end of the age.

For it is written in Romans 14:10-12 that we will stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Every knee shall bow and every tongue will confess to God that He is Lord. On that Judgment Day everyone will give an account of himself to God.

Ed Unruh

Friday, April 23, 2010

Who Knows You Best?

The answer to this question has largely to do with your age. When you are born, your mother knows you best. And, in years one to five the answer would include your father and older brothers and sisters.

As you mature the person who knows you best could be a good friend. Someone you could confide in would know you better than anyone else.

However, the one who is with you the most and would be the one that knows you best. Actually, the Bible holds the key to the answer in the book of Jeremiah, verse 1:5 which says,"God knows us before we're born". So, Who Knows You Best? God is the answer to the question.

Ed Unruh

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Good Enough

When times are tough and unemployment is high, the question is, "am I good enough to obtain the job I am applying for?"

During the interview, there will be questions asked to see if you are good enough for the job. An opposite situation occurs with the subject of Salvation.

Questions are minimal for it isn't what you have done because Jesus did it all for us on the cross. If you have a desire for Salvation, you are always Good Enough.

Ed Unruh

Monday, April 5, 2010

You Will Receive

When making a purchase in a store, you need to know as much about the product as possible. You will ask questions and receive answers before you buy the product: Does the product have a guarantee or a warranty and how long are they effective?

If you receive a verbal commitment from someone, you have the right to question their authority on the subject. You will want to know the facts.

So, if God offers you eternal life, how can you be sure there is a guarantee? How do you go about getting proof? First of all there is proof and it is in God's Word, the Bible. This is found in John 3:15-16. Secondly, believe these words and you will receive eternal life, guaranteed.

Ed Unruh

Thursday, April 1, 2010

What's Good About Good Friday?

So often children will question their parents when they're told to do something. On Good Friday God's Son Jesus also questioned His father regarding something He had to do.

Jesus asked His father if He could be spared from the pain and separation, at the crucifixion He had to experience. But, because He knew it was His fathers will, He obeyed Him.

Yes, when Jesus obeyed His father, it was good for all of us, because, we now have a way for salvation. That way is through Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, which took place at calvary. That's what's good about Good Friday.

Ed Unruh

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

The Third Day

On our daily calender, Easter is a red letter day and appears on Sunday, the first day of the week. So why is the THIRD DAY being highlighted here?

The THIRD DAY, is highlighted because it was a miracle day, predicted by Jesus Christ Himself, that He would rise the Third Day (Mt. 20:19) after His crucifixion, which we call Good Friday.

And that is exactly what happened. Jesus Christ rose from the grave and now is sitting on the right hand of God the Father in Heaven (Mark 14:62). That is why we celebrate the Easter Holiday.

Ed Unruh

God's Plan for You and Me

When God created man He had a special plan for everyone He created. His desire is for you to be successful in everything you do. You must not give up, but strive to do the best you can in this life.

The Lord said to Moses He would bless him and keep him and His face would shine upon him and be gracious to him (Numbers 6:24-25). And so if He would do this for Moses, He will surely bless and lead us and guide us in our daily lives. That's His plan for all of us.

Ed Unruh

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Perfection

Do you strive to do everything perfect the very first time? Are you satisfied with what you have done, regardless of how it comes out? If you are not satisfied and keep looking for a better way, you are probably a perfectionist.

There is nothing wrong with being a perfectionist, and sometimes it can have it's advantages. In fact it means that, once again, you have really done something you can be proud of and depending on what you did you could be rewarded.

God has a way of rewarding his children who do their best and each one will receive that reward according to his own labor (I Cor.3:8).

Ed Unruh

Monday, March 15, 2010

Our Final Home

Throughout our lives we may live in one home, or we may live in many homes. As our life takes many turns, so it is that we might find ourselves living in many homes. That's what happens here on this earth.

Have you thought about the home that you will be living in when Christ returns? In John 14:2 we read about the Final Home that God promised us in heaven. And this home is the home that God the Father is preparing for all of us who have accepted Christ as our personal saviour.

Are you prepared to live in YOUR FINAL HOME? It is going to be a mansion bigger than any one of the homes you have had here on earth.

Ed Unruh

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Where Are You Going?

Do you always know where you're going? If you do, do you know how to get there? Perhaps you do know where you are going because you drew up a plan and all you have to do is read the directions and you will arrive at your destination on time.

It is always good to know where you're going and how to get there. Do you know where you will be going after you die? Will it be Heaven or will it be Hell? If you have accepted Christ as your Saviour, you know where you're going and heaven is your destination.

In God's Word, Jesus says in John 14:2, "In My Fathers house there are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you so; for I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there you may be also." That's where I'm going - How about you?

Ed Unruh

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

God's Power

Power can be good and bad, for instance, Samson called on God when he lost his strength. God did answer his request and his strength returned so he had the power to avenge the Philistines who were abusing and ridiculing him.

Power in it's worst stage is during war, which is evident with suicide bombers who kill innocent people. However, God is all powerful and He does supply all of our needs according to His riches in glory (Phil 4:19).

But, for the people who love God, His power is available to each and every one who asks for it.

Ed Unruh

Monday, March 8, 2010

Now What's Wrong!

It seems that every time we turn around, something goes wrong in our lives. If only life on this planet would be the way God created it to be! But it doesn't look like that will ever happen. As we look back in our lives, we see turmoil and confusion. Those are the things we remember most and are the hardest to forget.

As hard as it is to forget them, we must remember we have a God who cares for us. Yes, He will help us get through those tough times. He says, He will never leave us nor forsake us. So, go to Him in prayer. Trust Him, do not be concerned about what will go wrong next.

Ed Unruh

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

What's So Good About Good Friday?

So often children will question their parents when they're told to do something. On Good Friday, God's Son Jesus also questioned His Father regarding something He had to do.

Jesus asked His Father if He could be spared from the pain and separation at the crucifixion He had to experience. But, because He knew it was His Father's will, He obeyed Him.

Yes, when Jesus obeyed His Father, it was good for all of us, because, we now have a way for salvation. That way is through Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, which took place at Calvary. That's what's good about Good Friday.

Ed Unruh

Monday, February 8, 2010

True Love

True Love is not contingent on performance and people who believe that it is are going to be miserable trying to prove that it is. For instance, God is love, and He loves us for who we are and not for what we have done.

In 1 John 4:7 we read, "for love is of God, and everyone who loves is born of God." Verse eight says, "He who does not love does not know God, for God is love." This then, is what we call True Love.

Ed Unruh

Talking and Listening

Communication is done by talking and listening one on one. This is done verbally and in a non-verbal way. It can be done in any language between adults or children. It is also being done in all languages. Communication in short, is done in an exchange of words on all subjects.

Talking can also be done in front of a group of people who are willing to listen to what you have to say. In Jeremiah 29:12, the Lord says: "When you call upon Me and pray, I will listen to you." So, if you have something to say to God, it is good to know that we can depend on Him to hear us.

Ed Unruh

Monday, February 1, 2010

Always With Us

Whatever we do and wherever we go it is good to know that we're not alone.

How can this be? And what is it that is with us? The answer is in the Bible if we read Matthew 28:20. This verse tells us that God is with us always, even to the end of the age.

How do you feel about someone hanging around you all the time? Do you feel intimidated or do you feel safe? After all, there may be times when you want to be alone and there will be times when you will want the security of God's presence. In either case, God will always be with us, that's His promise.

Ed Unruh

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Our Leader

The president of the United States is referred to as Our Leader. As president he is commander-in-chief and demands respect from every serviceman that is in uniform: soldier, sailor, and marine.

A leader is the person who leads and directs. He is someone to follow because he knows what lies ahead.

Today there is one who knows the future and what lies ahead. He also desires for us to follow Him. The Lord Jesus Christ is Our Leader if we allow Him to be. Do you have a desire to follow this leader?

Ed Unruh

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Recognizing Loved Ones in Heaven

In Rev. 21:4-5 God says, "the former things have passed away and I will make all things new." We believe this is a simple answer to the age old question of knowing our loved ones when we get to heaven. After all, heaven itself which God has been preparing for years will be so glorious we won't be looking for loved ones, and we will be like the angels who are not married (Mark 12:25).

Ed Unruh

Monday, January 11, 2010

Our Provider

The early pilgrims worked hard preparing the soil and planting the seed. God provided the sun and the rain water. With hard work and God's blessing, the crops were harvested. The pilgrims celebrated by having a Day of Thanksgiving.

Today God still provides for us the same way with sunshine and rain and a whole lot more. As we enter another decade, let us not hesitate to thank Him, who is the provider of so many blessings.

Ed Unruh

Our Helper

When celebrating a special anniversary, some time will be spent recalling those special memories during the past year. So many memories fill your mind, you wonder what is in store for you in the coming year.

While you're thinking about the past, now is the time to plan ahead for the future. Whatever your plans will be, make them big--big enough so you'll need God's help to bring them to fruition.

We know God is dependable and that's important if we're going to include Him in our plans for the coming year. In Hebrews 13:5-6, the Apostle Paul strengthens this fact when he mentions that God will never leave us. Then he says, God will be our helper. And that's all we need to get the new year started.

Ed Unruh

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Difficulties Resolved

There are times when problems need to be resolved right away, especially if it involves a family member who is going through a difficult time.

During times of financial crisis when a decision has to be made to foreclose on a home it effects the entire family. Difficulties like this have to be resolved as soon as possible too.

So, what action do you take to avoid these difficulties? If we knew how to resolve them, life would be a whole lot better. Actually, we're told there's a God who knows exactly what we are going through and He will help us. The Bible says we are to cast all of our cares on this God and He will care for us (I Peter 5:7).

Ed Unruh

Test Pattern

Before a TV channel goes on the air, a test pattern is shown. This indicates that the station is standing-by and waiting for the director's go-ahead. During the day when we have problems, our test pattern colors bars can get all mixed up, and we struggle to get them separated.

For the Christian, God is the director. He knows ahead of time when our pattern will get all mixed up. So, go to Him in prayer and watch how He gets your test pattern lined back up the right way, because He already knows what you need (Matt. 6:8).

Ed Unruh

God Knows

God the Father, who is creator of heaven and earth, knows those who trust in Him (Nahum 1:7). Do you have the ability to trust in Him? I pray that you do.

God knows what you need (Matt. 6:8) and He knows the future the same way we know the past. God is the God of love and peace, therefore He has committed Himself to love everyone who loves Him (2 Cor. 13:11).

Ed Unruh