Tag: Philippians 4:13

Letting Go, Letting God

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Letting Go, Letting God: A Lesson from Mary
By Jimmie Aaron Kepler

“Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.”  — Luke 1:38 (KJV)

I’ve been sitting with that verse this morning, coffee in hand, heart wide open.

Mary’s words—simple as they seem—carry a kind of quiet thunder. She wasn’t pitching her own plan. She wasn’t angling for comfort or clarity. She just said yes.

Yes to God’s will.
Yes to uncertainty.
Yes to faith over fear.

See, this life we’ve been given? It’s a gift. But here’s the part we don’t always like to admit—we’re not the ones holding the pen. We might sketch out blueprints, map a direction, even daydream the scenery, but the real Author is God. And sometimes, He takes the story places we never expected.

Mary’s response wasn’t about understanding—it was about surrender. Trusting that even if she didn’t have all the answers, the One leading her did.

That kind of trust isn’t popular these days. The world shouts about taking control, being your own guide, writing your destiny. But God? He calls us to be moldable. Teachable. Willing to go wherever He points, even when the road bends and disappears into the fog.

Let me tell you something I’ve learned the hard way—when God reroutes us, it’s not to confuse us. It’s to use us.

And the devil? He’ll try his best to get in the way. He whispers doubt. Stirs fear. Bends your ear just enough to drown out the Spirit’s voice. But don’t give him the mic. Don’t let him take center stage when the Holy Spirit is whispering to your soul.

Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is simply let go.

Let go of the plan.
Let go of the fear.
Let go of trying to figure it all out.

And let God do what He does best—lead.

Mary did.
Will you?

Grace and Peace,
Jimmie

Did you enjoy this article? You can find more of Jimmie Aaron Kepler’s books at Jimmie’s books available in paperback, ebook, audio, and large print

When Love Answers the Door

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When Love Answers the Door
By Jimmie Aaron Kepler

This morning, I was sitting at my usual table at Starbucks, sipping on a tall blonde roast, watching the sunrise cut through the last of the night. One of those quiet starts where the world feels like it’s holding its breath.

I’d already read my morning devotional and spent a while meditating on the verse. Then I checked my email and texts. There was an email from a lady reading my book Caregiving: Biblical Insights From a Caregiver’s Journey. She said it was helping her as she cares for her elderly mother. I said a simple, “Thank you, Jesus” and remembered that this is why I write.

Then I saw a text from a dear friend. Her husband had been admitted to the hospital—again.

And wouldn’t you know it—fear decided to show up.

Not stomping through the front door, no. Fear’s sneakier than that. It crept in on the heels of that text, with a heavy heart and the weight of helplessness. It sneaks in through headlines, old memories you thought you’d buried deep, or that quiet whisper that maybe—just maybe—you’re not enough for the road still ahead.

Fear’s a good liar like that.

It’ll tell you you’re alone. That things won’t get better. That you’ve messed up too much, waited too long, or missed your window. It’s the voice that keeps you up at night and has you second-guessing your reflection in the morning.

But right then—right here at that old Starbucks table—I remembered a verse that always settles me down. The very verse from my devotional. The one God knew I’d need before the sun came up:

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment…” — 1 John 4:18 (KJV)

I’ve read that one a thousand times—maybe more. But this morning, it felt like God pulled up a chair beside me and whispered it fresh.

You see, fear doesn’t stand a chance when perfect love walks in. And God’s love? That’s as perfect as it gets. It doesn’t torment or tie knots in your stomach. It doesn’t accuse or tally up your failures. And it sure doesn’t get mad when you’re scared half to death about someone you love.

No, God’s love wraps you up. Settles you down. Reminds you who’s really in control.

So if fear’s been knocking on your door lately—about your health, your spouse’s well-being, your future, your family, or your past—I hope you’ll let Love answer.

God’s still in the business of casting out fear. And He doesn’t need a sermon or a spotlight to do it. Just a heart willing to believe He’s there—even in the quiet, even in the waiting.

I’m learning that again… one sunrise at a time.

Grace and peace,
Jimmie

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Another Step on This Long Road

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Another Step on This Long Road
By Jimmie Aaron Kepler

Another step on this long and winding road called life. And truth is, I’m a good ways down it now. These days, I catch myself being more reflective, more curious. Not in a fearful way—just with a sense of urgency. Like time tapping on my shoulder, whispering, “Make it count, old boy.”

I want to use whatever days, years, or decades I’ve got left with a little more intention and a lot more heart.

There’s something about the quiet stretches of a Wednesday—those in-between spaces between doctor visits and thunderstorms, between waiting on a call that never comes and watching the clock race toward supper—that makes a man take stock.

We all end up on roads we didn’t fully choose, don’t we? Chasing answers we don’t quite know how to ask. Wondering why the wind seems to stall just when we need it most. And where all those old stories we once told ourselves end up after the dust settles.

Even in your forties, fifties—or in my case, your seventies—you still find yourself squinting down the road wondering what’s around the next bend.

For me, reflection tends to come out as poetry. Sometimes it helps me wrestle things to the ground. Other times, I confess, it’s just a clever way to sidestep real thinking. But either way, it’s how I make sense of things when the world feels sideways.

I wrote a line down a while back:

“Every sunrise starts from one long-ago dawn,
and every road we walk rolls out from there.
We can’t smooth out the ruts behind us—
but we can choose where the next bend leads.”

That speaks to me. Because the past? It’s written. We can’t unwrite it. Can’t change who our parents, our upbringing, who we dated, or anything we did in those private moments.

And the future? Well, it’s a blank page we may or may not get to fill. All we really have is today. This moment. This breath. So I try to keep one boot firmly planted in the present while still glancing at the map ahead. I’ve got my IRAs and 401(k)s squared away—but you can’t stockpile time like you do savings.

Some days feel like smooth highways—sunshine, green lights, and folks waving as you roll past. Other days feel more like gravel roads and potholes, detours and dead ends. You keep moving, hoping the next mile brings some peace—or at least, a gas station with clean restrooms.

And then there are all those well-meaning folks trying to hand you their roadmaps, telling you which way to go. But deep down, something quieter asks. I wrote these lines with that thought in mind:

“Somewhere down deep, a question lingers—
soft as a prayer, sharp as a thorn:
Is this the trail that fades to silence…
or the one that finally leads me home?”

That you might be who you were before life knocked the shine off. Or maybe it’s who you’re still becoming. Either way, I believe the journey shapes us—especially the hills we climb that weren’t ours to begin with.

I remember those long Army road marches—55 to 120 pounds of gear strapped to your back. You didn’t always know how far you had to go, just that quitting wasn’t an option. A mile every twenty minutes. March or fall out. That’s life sometimes. You just keep walking.

These days, I don’t count miles anymore. I count moments.

A sunrise with a warm cup of coffee. A text that says “thinking of you.” A quiet prayer whispered in the dark. A soft laugh shared over something only you and one other soul would find funny. That’s where I take my rest now. That’s where I hang my hat.

And these lines came to me not long ago:

“Will the answer rise in the work of your hands,
or drift like smoke through all you’ve done?
Or maybe—just maybe—it’s been waiting all along,
somewhere quiet… inside you.”

Maybe the answer isn’t in finding the perfect road. Maybe it’s just in staying present to the one you’re on. Eyes open. Heart soft.

Miss Benita—my late wife and the wisest person I’ve ever known—used to say, “You can’t change the past. But you can hand it over to God.” She backed it up with scripture too, pointing me to 1 John 1:9:

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

I’ve made my fair share of missteps—left some jobs too soon, stayed too long in others. Moved the family when maybe we should’ve stayed put. Let folks down. Let myself down. Had my heart broken and broke a heart or two. But she was right—the past is unchangeable. What matters is what we do next. How we walk from here.

Lately, I’ve found myself wading into deep waters—philosophical, spiritual, even a little metaphysical. I’ve been poking around in quantum physics. Not to replace my faith, but to deepen it. To see if maybe science and spirit aren’t strangers, but kin.

Now, quantum physics doesn’t prove God—but it sure raises interesting questions. It tells us about entanglement (how two particles miles apart still influence each other), superposition (how something can exist in multiple states until observed), and the observer effect (how watching something changes it).

Sound familiar? Feels like faith to me.

Both science and spirit point to the invisible. Both suggest we’re more connected than we think. That what we focus on matters. That maybe reality bends a little when love’s looking.

Now, don’t get me wrong—mainstream scientists say don’t stretch it too far. And I won’t. But for me, it’s not about proving anything. It’s about paying attention. It’s about noticing the patterns. The whispers. The wonder.

I’m not losing my faith—I’m just seeing more of the web God wove.

And here’s where I’ll leave you today—more reflective than usual, maybe. But still walking. Still writing. Still tuning my ears for that still, small voice. Still trusting this long road is shaping me for something good.

There’s an old verse that sums it up for me:

“…but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before.” — Philippians 3:13 (KJV)

Thanks for walking this stretch with me.

Grace and peace until next time,
Jimmie

Did you enjoy this article? You can find more of Jimmie Aaron Kepler’s books at Jimmie’s books available in paperback, ebook, audio, and large print

The Blessing of Work: A Biblical Perspective

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The Blessing of Work: A Biblical Perspective

Introduction

Work is often seen as a necessity—something we do to earn a living and provide for our families. But from a biblical perspective, work is much more than that.

The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Thessalonians 3:10-11 (KJV):

“If any would not work, neither should he eat…”

Work is not merely about survival; it is a calling from God, a means of serving Him and others. When we embrace work with the right mindset, it becomes a source of joy, purpose, and spiritual growth.
Let’s explore three biblical principles about work that can transform our perspective.

1. Work as Unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23)

Explanation

Colossians 3:23 instructs us,
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
This verse teaches us that our work should not be driven by human recognition but by a desire to glorify God. Whether in a corporate office, a classroom, or at home, every task we undertake is an opportunity to honor God.

Illustration

Think about a craftsman who carefully builds furniture, ensuring every detail is perfect. Even if no one sees the hidden joints or the extra sanding, he takes pride in his work because he knows it reflects his commitment to excellence.
Similarly, when we work as unto the Lord, we strive for integrity and diligence, regardless of human applause.

Application

Shift your mindset from working for a paycheck to working for God’s glory. Approach daily tasks with a spirit of excellence and gratitude, remembering that even the most mundane jobs can be acts of worship when done with the right heart.

2. Stay Focused and Avoid Idleness (Proverbs 19:15)

Explanation

Idleness can lead to spiritual and emotional decline.
Proverbs 19:15 warns,
“Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.” When we lack purpose, distractions and negativity creep in, leading to unproductivity and dissatisfaction.

Illustration

Consider King David’s downfall in 2 Samuel 11. While his army was at war, David stayed back in Jerusalem. His idleness led to temptation and sin, resulting in dire consequences.
This example reminds us that when we neglect our responsibilities, we become vulnerable to distractions that can lead us away from God’s will.

Application

Establish a routine that keeps you engaged in meaningful work.
Whether through professional responsibilities, volunteering, or creative endeavors, staying active prevents spiritual stagnation and keeps you aligned with God’s purpose.

3. Use Your Gifts to Serve Others (1 Peter 4:10)

Explanation

God has given each of us unique talents and skills, not just for personal gain, but to serve others.
1 Peter 4:10 states,
“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

Illustration

Imagine a teacher who not only instructs students in academics but also encourages them with wisdom and kindness. Her work extends beyond the classroom, shaping young lives in ways she may never fully see.
Similarly, our work—whether big or small—can impact others when we use our gifts for service.

Application

Identify ways you can use your skills to bless others. If you’re a writer, share encouraging words. If you’re in business, practice ethical leadership.
When you view your work as a means of serving, you align with God’s greater plan.

Conclusion

Work is more than a means of income—it is an opportunity to fulfill God’s purpose in our lives.
When we work with diligence, focus, and a heart for service, we honor God and enrich the lives of those around us.
Embracing a biblical perspective on work transforms it from a burden into a blessing.

Takeaways

  1. Work as an act of worship – Do everything as unto the Lord.
  2. Stay diligent – Avoid idleness and distractions.
  3. Use your talents – Serve others with your God-given gifts.
  4. Honor God through integrity – Work with excellence and honesty.
  5. Find joy in your labor – When done with the right heart, work becomes a blessing.
What are your thoughts on work and faith? Share in the comments!

 Strength for a Weary Soul  

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Strength for a Weary Soul  

“My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!” — Psalm 119:28 ESV  

Introduction  

Sorrow is an inescapable part of life. We experience it through loss, disappointment, or seasons of uncertainty. The psalmist in Psalm 119:28 knew this feeling well—his words reflect a heart weighed down by burdens.  

Yet, instead of despairing, he turns to God’s Word for strength. His example teaches us that even in our weakest moments, Scripture offers the power to sustain us.  

How can we find strength in God’s Word when sorrow threatens to overwhelm us? Let’s explore three key ways Scripture strengthens a weary soul.  

1. God’s Word Reminds Us of His Presence  

Explanation 

One of the heaviest burdens of sorrow is the feeling of being alone. In difficult times, we may wonder if God sees our pain or hears our prayers. But Scripture assures us that He is always near.  

 “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18  

 “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” — Hebrews 13:5  

Illustration 

Consider Elijah in 1 Kings 19. After a great spiritual victory, he fled in fear and exhaustion. He felt abandoned and prayed that God would take his life.

Yet, God did not rebuke him—instead, He sent an angel to provide food and rest, and then He spoke to Elijah in a gentle whisper.  

Application

In our sorrow, we must remind ourselves of God’s presence. Spend time in His Word, meditate on His promises, and trust that even in silence, He is near.  

2. God’s Word Provides Unshakable Hope  

Explanation 

When sorrow fills our hearts, it’s easy to lose sight of hope. The pain feels permanent, and the future seems uncertain. But Scripture offers a different perspective—it reminds us that God’s plans are good, and our suffering is temporary.  

 “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” — Jeremiah 29:11   

“Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” — Psalm 30:5  

Illustration

Horatio Spafford, the author of It Is Well with My Soul, lost his children in a tragic shipwreck. In his deepest sorrow, he turned to God’s promises and penned a hymn that has strengthened believers for generations.

He found hope in knowing that, despite his grief, God’s faithfulness remained.  

Application 

To cultivate hope, we must fill our minds with Scripture. Keep a list of Bible verses about hope and read them daily.

Let them reshape your perspective and remind you that sorrow does not have the final say.  

3. God’s Word Gives Strength to Endure  

Explanation 

Sorrow drains us emotionally, mentally, and physically. In those moments, we need more than positive thinking—we need divine strength. God’s Word gives us the endurance to press on, even when we feel like giving up.  

 “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” — Isaiah 40:31  

 “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13  

Illustration 

Think of a long distance runner. The race is grueling, and exhaustion sets in. But with proper training and nourishment, the runner finds the strength to keep going.

In the same way, feeding on God’s Word sustains us through life’s hardships.  

Application 

When sorrow leaves you weak, turn to Scripture. Read it, pray over it, and speak it aloud.

Let it be the fuel that keeps you moving forward.  

Conclusion  

Sorrow is real, but so is God’s strength.

The psalmist’s plea in Psalm 119:28 reminds us that when our hearts are heavy, God’s Word is the source of endurance, hope, and comfort.  

If you’re struggling today, don’t bear your burdens alone. Open your Bible, seek His presence, and let His promises strengthen you.  

Takeaways

  1. You are not alone – God’s Word reassures us of His constant presence, even in sorrow.  
  2. Hope is always available – Scripture shifts our perspective, reminding us that joy will come again.  
  3. Strength comes through His Word – When we feel weak, the Bible fuels our endurance and faith.  

How has God’s Word strengthened you in difficult times? Share in the comments below.  

 

One Way to Prepare For 2022

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Two Things Are Critical

As you embark on the journey in the year 2022, two things you do are critical.

  1. The CHOICES you make.
  2. The ACTIONS you take.

One – Choices You Need To Make Everyday

1. Choose to get excited about each new day.

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118:24 English Standard Version (ESV),

  • Each day is a gift from God.
  • Make a daily choice to rejoice.
  • Get yourself fired up for having another day of life and be glad.

2. Choose to be thankful.

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

Colossians 3:15 (ESV)

  • Allow God’s peace both into your heart and to rule your heart.
  • It’s hard, if not impossible, to be thankful and miserable at the same time. Choose to be thankful.
  • Thank God daily for your daily bread.

3. Choose to be positive.

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13 (ESV)

  • Don’t say, “Good Lord, it’s morning” but say “Good morning, Lord.”
  • Make sure you get up on the right side of the bed.
  • As the late Zig Ziglar used to say, “Get rid of your ‘stinking thinking.’”

4. Choose victory over defeat.

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 (ESV)

  • Remember the words of the old hymn, “Faith is the victory.”
  • Never forget it is the Lord who goes with you to battle the daily enemies and challenges. (see – Deuteronomy 20:4)
  • God gives us the victory through the Lord Jesus Christ. (see – 1 Corinthians 15:57)

5. Choose to live above the level of mediocrity.

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

Colossians 3:23-24

  • We are to work heartily.
  • Our work honors God.
  • Remember, in any endeavor of labor, our work honor’s God.

6. Choose to put the other person first.

Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

Philippians 2:3 (ESV)

  • The late Christian motivational speaker, writer, and Bible teacher Zig Ziglar (a Baptist deacon and member of my church) said, “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want.”

7. Choose to have hope.

Though he slay me, I will hope in him (God);

Job 13:15a (ESV)

8. Choose to keep on keeping on.

  • I had an Associate Pastor named John West that frequently admonished all to “keep on keeping on.” He would say, “Keep trying; keep doing what you are doing. Keep doing your best; never give up and keep on keeping on.”
  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said in 1967, “You don’t get to the Promised Land without going through the Wilderness. You don’t get there without crossing over hills and mountains, but if you keep on keeping on, you can’t help but reach it.”

Two – Choose to take ACTION by accepting Christ as Savior.

The only way we can really have a winning 2022 is to know Christ as Savior. Do you know Him as your personal Savior and Lord? Here is how to be sure.

Man’s Problem:

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

Romans 3:23 (ESV)

Man’s Penalty:

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 6:23 (ESV)

God’s Provision:

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

John 3:16 (ESV)

God’s Promise:

because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 10:9 (ESV)

To accept Christ as Savior – A Prayer of Salvation:

“Lord Jesus, I confess to you I am a sinner. I believe that you died for my sins and that God raised you from the dead. I ask you to forgive me for my sin right now. Thank you for saving me and for giving me eternal life. In your name, I pray. Amen.”

FYI – I originally wrote this last section in 1988 as an article titled “Our Need and God’s Provision” using the KJV as the Bible reference. It was published in “Motivators for Sunday School Leaders” by the Baptist Sunday School Board (now Lifeway Christian Resources).

Five Steps To Finishing Strong

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Five Steps To Finishing Strong

Maybe like me, you’re old enough to remember the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona. I’ll never forget watching a British runner named Derek Redmond run the 400 meters. Redmond had a history of injuries that kept him from being the best in the world. 

In 1992 everything seemed to be coming together for Redmond at last. Derek was running well. In the first round of qualifying, he recorded the fastest time. He won his quarterfinal heat. 

As he settled into the starting blocks for the start of his semifinal race, Derek Redmond’s thoughts turned to his father, Jim. His dad had always supported Derek. 

In this race, Derek got off to a clean start. He was running smoothly. Suddenly, about 150 meters into the race, his right hamstring muscle tore. In pain, he fell to the ground.

The stretcher-bearers are running towards him. Derek wanted to finish the race. He somehow managed to get up and began moving awkwardly forward despite the pain he felt.

His father, Jim, ran out of the grandstands.  He joined his son on the track. Dad joined with son, hand in hand, arm in arm, and with Derek sobbing from disappointment and pain, they continued.

As they neared the finish, the father let his son go, and Derek Redmond completed the course on his own. The crowd of 65,000 roared their approval and gave him a standing ovation.

Our Heavenly Father is there for us as Believers. He will pick us up and move with us hand in hand, arm in arm, and even pick us up and carry us to the finish line. All we have to do is rely on Christ, and we can finish strong. 

This article has five steps to finishing the race known as life strong.

“But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” – Acts 20:24 ESV

Five Steps to Finishing Strong

Step #1 – Remove All Distractions

“…let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,” – Hebrews 12:1b ESV

“Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:13-14 ESV

Step #2 – Remember the Reason

“Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart.” – 2 Corinthians 4:1 ESV

“as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18 ESV

Step #3 – Renew Myself Daily

“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16 ESV

“When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.” – Psalm 94:19 ESV

Step #4 – Resist Discouragement

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

Two Basic Principles of Life

1. You Will Get Discouraged
2. You Will Get Over It

“Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.” – Hebrews 10:35-36 ESV

“We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;” – 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 ESV

Step #5 – Rely on Christ

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13 ESV

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.” – Psalms 34:4 ESV

“The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.” – Psalms 34:7 ESV

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 1:6 ESV

Remember, Our Heavenly Father is there for us as Believers. He will pick us up and move with us hand in hand, arm in arm, and even pick us up and carry us to the finish line. All we have to do is rely on Christ, and we can finish strong. 

Image Source: Image by LillyCantabile from Pixabay

Need to Recharge Your Personal Strength and Power?

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The Strength We Need

Coronavirus/Corvid-19 news fills all media. Gloom and doom permeate everywhere. The shelter at home orders is spreading the globe. Current circumstances make us weary and sap our energy. So many today are tired and worn out. What’s a person to do?

Today I want to look at the secret of our power of strength as a Christian. We’ll be looking in the Holy Bible at the book of Ephesians, chapter three, verses fourteen through twenty-one. The passage is a prayer for strength by the Apostle Paul.

I got the idea for this article from a Sunday morning sermon on March 8, 2020, by my pastor, Dr. Jack Graham of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas. A part of the article is adapted from my sermon notes, a part is original

Ephesians 3:14-21 (ESV) – A Prayer for Spiritual Strength

14 For this reason, I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

The Work of the Holy Spit Through Us

We will look at the work of the Holy Spirit through us. We will see how we have all of God, that is God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit working in and through us if we are Believers.

Because of what Christ has done for us, we as Believers of Jesus Christ, are all wealthy (riches of His glory) and worthy.

I’d Rather Have Jesus

I think of a comforting old hymn written in 1922 by Rhea F. Miller with the music composed by George Beverly Shea, titled “I’d Rather Have Jesus.”

I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold; 
I’d rather be His than have riches untold; 
I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands. 
I’d rather be led by His nail-pierced hand 

Chorus:

Than to be the king of a vast domain 
Or be held in sin’s dread sway. 
I’d rather have Jesus than anything 
This world affords today.

I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause; 
I’d rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I’d rather have Jesus than worldwide fame. 
I’d rather be true to His holy name [Chorus]

He’s fairer than lilies of rarest bloom; 
He’s sweeter than honey from out the comb; 
He’s all that my hungering spirit needs. 
I’d rather have Jesus and let Him lead [Chorus]

Songwriters: Rhea F. Miller. Since the song was written in 1922, it is published by Public Domain.

Christians Are A Child of God

If you are a Believer in Jesus Christ, you are a child of God. As His child, you have His power and His strength. 

Here are some verses about the strength of God and His power.

 Joshua 1:9 (ESV) – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Deuteronomy 33:25 (ESV) – “Your bars shall be iron and bronze, and as your days, so shall your strength be.”

Deuteronomy 33:27 (ESV) – “The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms. And he thrust out the enemy before you and said, ‘Destroy.’”

2 Chronicles 16:9 (ESV) – “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him. You have done foolishly in this, for from now on you will have wars.”

Psalm 46:1 (ESV) – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Isaiah 30:15 (ESV) – “For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, ‘In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.’ But you were unwilling,”

Isaiah 40:31 (ESV) – “but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Habakkuk 3:19 (ESV) – “God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer’s; he makes me tread on my high places. To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments.”

Mark 12:30 (ESV) – “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”

Philippians 4:13 (ESV) – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

1 – We Are Strengthen by the Power of the Holy Spirit

A. The Holy Spirit Has the Power to Convict a Person, Convince a Person, and Bring a Person to Conversion.

B. The Holy Spirit Has the Power to Witness

Acts 1:8 (ESV) – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

My pastor, Dr. Jack Graham, Senior Pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, shared the following statistics on March 9, 2020. He said that 83,000 people a day are accepting Christ as Savior. He added that there are more born again Christians in China than in any other country. Sadly, he pointed out that only 6,000 people a day in the United States of America and Western Europe came to faith in Jesus Christ each day.

C. The Holy Spirit Has the Power to Help Us Live in Joyful Hope.

Acts 1:8a (ESV) – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit, you may abound in hope.”

D. The Holy Spirit Give Us the Power to Overcome Our Fears and Anxieties

We need to access and use what God has already given us.

To maintain our strength, we need to access and use what God has already given us. We don’t need something new.

To recharge our strength and power daily, we need to 

    1. Pray
    2. Posture (by that, I mean yielding and surrounding to the Lord every day).

Remember, kneeling is an act of humility before the Lord.

Never forget, God’s Spirit lives in you if you are a Believer in Jesus Christ.

Don’t lose heart. Why? You have God in you!

2 – We Are Strengthened In the Inner Being

2 Corinthians 4:16 (ESV) says, “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.”

You are made in the image of God and remade in the image of Christ.

Ephesians 3: 18 -19 (ESV) says, “may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”

He strengthens our love.

John 3:16 (ESV) says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

WORLD is symbolic of the width of God’s love.

GAVE HIS SON is a manifestation of the depth of God’s love.

NOT PERISH shows the length of God’s love.

Fall in love? No, you grow in love. The perfect love of God cast out fear.

Ephesians 3:17 (ESV) says, “so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love,”

This is allowing Christ to be at home in your heart.

3 – He Strengthens Us To Be Filled With His Fulness 

Ephesians 3:19 (ESV) says, “and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”

We need to realize that it’s all for Jesus.

    1. You need to realize and receive that the Holy Spirit is in you since you acted Jesus as Savior and received salvation.
    2. You need to empty life of self and sin.
    3. You need all the Holy Spirit to control your life.
    4. You need to walk with Christ daily.

How I Became a Christian or How I Was Saved.

Did you know being good doesn’t get you to heaven? Being “saved” does. Here’s my story of “being saved”.

On July 11, 1977, my life changed. If you look up that date in history, you will find nothing historically significant happened on that Sunday. It was a noteworthy day for me. That day was the watershed event in my life.

July 1977 found me on active duty as a second lieutenant in the United States Army. I was serving as Battalion Maintenance Officer, 2nd Battalion, 47th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division at Fort Lewis, Washington.

Life was good. I had a beautiful, intelligent wife. I had a new son born in January that same year. I had just gotten a commendable rating during an annual general inspection in maintenance. It was the first commendable rating since the division had returned from Vietnam. Named an Outstanding Junior Officer of the Ninth Infantry Division because of the commendable rating, I received an offer of a regular army commission. My career was going great.

I always tried being the best I could be and doing what was right. I was a detail-oriented perfectionist, high-achieving, and a workaholic. I excelled at most things I did. However, after all of this, I still had an empty, unsatisfied, void, and alone feeling. Beginning in my college years I tried drinking adult beverages, women, materialism, partying, and hanging out with the right crowd to fill this unexplained need I had. I knew something was missing from my life.

I was also attending church. At my church, I noticed a group of men my age that seemed to have what I was missing. I attended a Bible study with them. Here I found that God has given us an important manual for life — the Bible. He has the answers to the problems and emptiness we may face in that book. 

I found out I was here for a purpose, and not by accident. I learned Jesus loves me and desires to have a personal relationship with me. However, sin separated me from Him.

I realized I had a sin problem.

The Bible says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” – Romans 3:23 But no one is perfect! Not even a perfectionist. We have all sinned and therefore cannot save ourselves by simply living a good life. Why?

I learned there was a penalty to be paid for my sin.

The Bible says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23

I learned God gives us a promise.

The Bible says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

I learned that God made provision for me.

The Bible says, “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. – Romans 10:9-10

I prayed to accept the gift of eternal life through Jesus.

I prayed, “Jesus, I know that I am a sinner. I believe that You died for my sins and rose from the grave so that I might have eternal life in Heaven with You. I willingly repent of my sins and ask you to come into my heart and life. Take control of my words, thoughts, and actions. I place all of my trust in You for my salvation. I accept You as my Lord and Savior, and this gift of eternal life. Amen.”

What came next?

Since then, my life has not been perfect. It’s been far from it. I have messed up from time to time – too many times – sometimes failing miserably in my decisions and choices. However, I have had direction and purpose in my life. I know where I am headed. I have the Bible to give me the principles for daily living. I am never alone. I have had real peace for the last 43 years.

How about you?

Have you ever been “saved”? 

You can do like I did. Romans 10:9-10, 13 tells us, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Why Not Accept Christ Now?

 If you’ve never accepted Jesus as your Savior, you can pray this prayer – Dear Father, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I am a sinner, and I am very sorry for my sins and the life that I have lived. I repent of my sins and ask your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross and shed His blood for my sins. I confess Jesus as the Lord of my soul. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. I invite you to come into my heart and become my Lord and Savior. Amen.

Image by Clker-Free-Vector-Images from Pixabay

One Great Way to Prepare For The New Year

Posted in Blog, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Kepler4 Comments

One Great Way to Prepare For The New Year

Two Things Are Critical

As you embark on the journey in the year 2020, two things you do are critical.

  1. The CHOICES you make.
  2. The ACTIONS you take.

One – Choices You Need To Make Everyday

1. Choose to get excited about each new day.

Psalm 118:24 English Standard Version (ESV), “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

      • Each day is a gift from God.
      • Make a daily choice to rejoice.
      • Get yourself fired up for having another day of life and be glad.

2. Choose to be thankful.

Colossians 3:15 (ESV), “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”

      • Allow God’s peace both into your heart and to rule your heart.
      • It’s hard, if not impossible, to be thankful and miserable at the same time. Choose to be thankful.
      • Thank God daily for your daily bread.

3. Choose to be positive.

Philippians 4:13 (ESV), “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

      • Don’t say, “Good Lord, it’s morning” but say “Good morning, Lord.”
      • Make sure you get up on the right side of the bed.
      • As the late Zig Ziglar used to say, “Get rid of your ‘stinking thinking.’”

4. Choose victory over defeat.

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

      • Remember the words of the old hymn, “Faith is the victory.”
      • Never forget it is the Lord who goes with you to battle the daily enemies and challenges. (see – Deuteronomy 20:4)
      • God gives us the victory through the Lord Jesus Christ. (see – 1 Corinthians 15:57)

5. Choose to live above the level of mediocrity.

Colossians 3:23-24, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

      • We are to work heartily.
      • Our work honors God.
      • Remember, in any endeavor of labor, our work honor’s God.

6. Choose to put the other person first.

 Philippians 2:3 (ESV), “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”

      • The late Christian motivational speaker, writer, and Bible teacher Zig Ziglar (a Baptist deacon and member of my church) said, “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want.”

7. Choose to have hope.

Job 13:15a (ESV), “ Though he slay me, I will hope in him (God);”

8. Choose to keep on keeping on.

      • I had an Associate Pastor named John West that frequently admonished all to “keep on keeping on.” He would say, “Keep trying; keep doing what you are doing. Keep doing your best; never give up and keep on keeping on.”
      • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said in 1967, “You don’t get to the Promised Land without going through the Wilderness. You don’t get there without crossing over hills and mountains, but if you keep on keeping on, you can’t help but reach it.”

Two – Choose to take ACTION by accepting Christ as Savior.

The only way we can really have a winning 2020 is to know Christ as Savior. Do you know Him as your personal Savior and Lord? Here is how to be sure.

Man’s Problem: Romans 3:23 (ESV), “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”

Man’s Penalty: Romans 6:23 (ESV), “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

God’s Provision: John 3:16 (ESV), “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

God’s Promise: Romans 10:9 (ESV), “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

To accept Christ as Savior – A Prayer of Salvation: “Lord Jesus, I confess to you I am a sinner. I believe that you died for my sins and that God raised you from the dead. I ask you to forgive me for my sin right now. Thank you for saving me and for giving me eternal life. In your name, I pray. Amen.”

I originally wrote this last section in 1988 as an article titled “Our Need and God’s Provision” using the KJV as the Bible reference. It was published in “Motivators for Sunday School Leaders” by the Baptist Sunday School Board (now Lifeway Christian Resources).

Photo Source: Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

One Way to Discipline Yourself for Success In Writing

Posted in Blog, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Kepler, Writer's Life, Writing12 Comments

Success and Personal Discipline

Sometimes becoming successful happens by being lucky. Examples of “lucky” success include winning the lottery, finding a painting or first edition of a book at a garage sale or estate sale that ends up worth millions, or having distant relatives leave you a fortune in their will.

You might even write and publish a book full of typos and grammatical errors that somehow captures the public’s fancy and sells many copies. While I haven’t read it myself, I hear the E. L. James “Fifty Shades of Grey” falls into this category.

Well, you get the picture. These things could happen but the likelihood of them happening to you while not impossible is slim to none.

Success generally requires consistent hard work. This article will look at the necessity of personal disciple to be successful viewing six “musts” for God’s Word. Then I will give six additional points from the Bible that will provide a plan for self-control.

The Necessity of Personal Disciple: To be Successful…

1. I must master my moods.

Proverbs 25:28 English Standard Version (ESV),  “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.”

A writer needs to put their bottom in the chair and write on a regular basis. You need to go to work even when you don’t feel like it.

2. I must watch my words.

Proverbs 13:3 (ESV), “Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life; he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.”

Are you a nitpicker or a good finder? As a writer, you receive a book review that you disagree with. Don’t get into a disagreement with the review (in person or online).

3. I must restrain my actions.

Proverbs 19:11 (ESV), “Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.”

2 Timothy 4:5 (ESV), “As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.”

Do you react with passion or respond with grace? The former can hurt or even destroy your writing ministry. The later both honors God and allows your witness to be untarnished.

4. I must stick to my schedule.

Ephesians 5:15-16 (ESV), “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time because the days are evil.”

If you don’t schedule your time someone else will. I am not suggesting  a detailed minute by minute schedule but a general one. For example, I do my quiet time early in the morning, followed by three to four hours of writing, and then end my morning with a walk. My afternoon is for reading, the business of writing activities (as opposed to writing the first draft), and answering emails.

5. I must manage my money.

Proverbs 21:20 The Living Bible (TLB), “The wise man saves for the future, but the foolish man spends whatever he gets.”

The obvious takeaway is to avoid impulse spending/buying. You should also save part of your income from your writing. Your book may not earn out its advance or your next advance may not be as much as your last one (if you get any advance).

We’ve looked at five reasons why self-discipline is needed to be successful. Now let’s look at six-steps that will help you develop the necessary self-control.

Six Steps for Developing Self-control.

1. Admit your lack of discipline.

Romans 7:15-18 (ESV), “For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. Sometime you fail to execute your plans. Ask God to help you follow through.”

2. Believe that God will help you.

Philippians 2:23 (ESV), “I hope therefore to send him just as soon as I see how it will go with me,”

Faith is important in self-control.

3. Claim a promise.

Isaiah 41:10 (ESV), “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Philippians 4:13 (ESV), “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV), “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

When I was in seminary, I recall a wise older professor saying, “Since God called you to ministry, He’ll provide you with a place of ministry.” 

The same is true with a writing ministry. God will provide the right market place.

4. Decide in advance.

Proverbs 13:16 (ESV), “Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly.

Ephesians 6:13 (ESV), “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”

Pay the price in training, regular writing, and submitting your work. When the rejection slips or emails come, don’t let them defeat you.

5. Enlist some support.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12 (ESV), “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! … And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”

Make yourself accountable. An accountability partner, agent, or writer’s group can help.

6. Focus on the reward.

Philippians 3:14 (ESV), “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Your rewards are financial, physical, and spiritual.”

Don’t argue with your feelings, they will win every time.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay