Boom or Bust

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Go down, because your people, whom you brought up out of Egypt, have become corrupt. They have been quick to turn away from what I commanded them and have made themselves an idol cast in the shape of a calf. They have bowed down to it and sacrificed to it and have said, ‘These are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.’”

– Exodus 32: 7-8

Steve Emptman. Brian Bosworth. Curtis Enis. Tony Mandarich.

If you’re not a football fan or a trivia buff, you’ve probably never heard of them. All four were college gridiron stars who demonstrated tremendous athletic potential and wowed the NFL scouts. All were drafted into the league with grand hopes of making it to the Super Bowl. All failed — and failed miserably, many would say — to live up to the hype. And they were all BUSTS because they couldn’t meet the unrealistic expectations of their teams and fans.

Oddly enough, the failures of Bosworth, Mandarich, and their underachieving peers made them IDOLS … at least in a biblical sense. That’s because an idol is anything that replaces God on the throne of our heart. An idol might be a car, house, money, career — or even food or a hobby. Even seemingly good things like college and pro sports can become idols if they’re abused. And it’s when a good thing becomes a god-like thing that we fall into the snare of idolatry.

Like sports stars, regular people — including spouses, friends, children, and significant others — can also become idols. And since they’re fault-filled human beings rather than our faultless God, they always turn out to be busts. After all, we build them up unrealistically and treat them as our reason for living.

The saying goes that we’re only human. Unfortunately, bad things happen when we forget God’s grace and replace our Creator with people as the source of our security, worth, and happiness. So rather than putting our family and friends on an idol’s pedestal, let’s put our relationships in order by making Jesus, who was God in the flesh, Priority #1. As Jeremiah 17:5 reminds us:

This is what the LORD says: Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who depends on flesh for his strength and whose heart turns away from the LORD. 

Conversations with God

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

– 2 Corinthians 12:9

Christ-followers enjoy many special privileges, and one of the greatest is the ability to approach God in prayer about our blessings, troubles, concerns — and everything else that’s going on in our life. Prayer is a give-and-take conversation. And it’s all possible through our faith in his Son, Jesus. As Psalm 145:18 assures us:

“The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.”

But this raises an important question: If we have such a special relationship with our Creator, why is it that some of our prayers go unanswered? After all, there are times when even the most seasoned Christ-follower feels like their petitions go no higher than the bedroom ceiling.

Let’s keep in mind that prayer is like a phone call. Sometimes the message comes through loud and clear — as if the other person is standing right next to us. But sometimes there’s static … or the call gets disconnected or doesn’t go through at all. So, what's the problem? 

First, we must ensure that the line is clear by dealing with any unconfessed sin in our life. After all, the One who created us is already aware of our every thought and deed. Likewise, if we’re carrying a grudge against someone — like a spouse or co-worker — it needs to be ironed out before we can expect God to listen to us. And faith also plays a significant role. If we pray but don’t think God has the power or desire to deal with our issues, why even ask in the first place?

What about those times when we pray sincerely and with good intentions, but our prayers still go unanswered? The short answer is that God DOES answer every one of them. But sometimes his response is “no” or “not now.” As the Creator of all things past, present, and future, he knows the big picture — those people, places, and circumstances that make all the difference to our situation. And although it's not always apparent to us at the time, God's plans for us are always the best. He knows that it’s not always what we want that matters, but ultimately, it's all about what we NEED. So, with that in mind, let’s embrace the apostle Paul’s call to Believers like you and me through 1 Thessalonians 5:16 – 18:

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

 

Stress Test

“Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them.”

– Exodus 25:8

Are you feeling stressed these days? If so, you’re not alone.

According to a 2025 report from Modern Health, 75% of survey respondents reported experiencing some form of low mood — largely driven by politics and current events — and 74% said they want mental health resources specifically addressing global political turmoil. What’s more, almost half of them said that life was easier during the COVID-19 pandemic than it is today!

Joseph and Mary, Jesus’ earthly parents, also knew a thing or two about stress. After all, they experienced emotional stress from the scandalous rumors swirling around her pregnancy. They endured physical stress from the grueling trip to Bethlehem mandated by the Roman census. And with money in short supply, financial stress was always in the picture. Can you relate?

But God had a plan for them … as well as one for you and me. Psalm 139 reveals that our Creator knew us before we were ever formed in our mother’s womb. He also knew when and where we’d be born, what sort of life we’d lead, and when we’d die. And since we consistently break his laws and fall short of his standards of perfection, he also knew that we'd need someone to save us from the well-deserved consequences of our transgressions. We’re powerless to do that ourselves. That’s why God decided to do it by living out the human experience on Earth through his Son, Jesus. He was the long-prophesied Emmanuel: God with us.

It's because he endured unimaginable stress (and so much more) for our sakes 2,000 years ago that Jesus relates to us in the 21st century. What’s more, he dwells with us today — and he’ll be with us always. So, if politics, current events, and daily living are elevating your stress levels, you can rest assured through Christ’s proclamation in John’s gospel: 

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

The Good Shepherd

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. You shall not murder. You shall not commit adultery. You shall not steal. You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

– Exodus 20:12-17

If you’re one of the millions of Americans these days who are seeking employment or considering a career change, how about becoming a shepherd?

The number of job openings for shepherds has dropped over the years, but good help is still hard to find. In fact, it’s common for ranchers, farmers, and landowners to import experienced shepherds from other nations where sheep-and-goat management is vital. If you think you’re up to the challenge, understand that shepherds are responsible for protecting their flock against vicious predators including coyotes, wolves, mountain lions, bears, and even domestic dogs. They must also monitor their sheep for illness. What’s more, an experienced shepherd is expected to shear up to 125 ewes a day without nicking or cutting the animal’s skin.

Ensuring the flock’s safety and welfare is the shepherd’s primary responsibility. And since so much can happen to the animals under their watch, shepherds must always expect the unexpected, be courageous, and do the right thing. 

Doing the right thing isn't just the right thing for shepherds to do, it's also a biblical principle for every Christ-follower. As the apostle Paul wrote in James 4:17, "So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin." And it’s in Isaiah 1:17 that we read:

“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression, bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.”

Doing the right thing also calls for bravery. While we may never face a powerful army on the battlefield, we might have to combat figurative opponents like injustice, crime, or discrimination. We have no hope of defeating them on our own. But let’s be encouraged that God specializes in empowering average Joes and Janes like you and me to do the extraordinary against overwhelming odds.

Ultimately, doing the right thing calls us to live in love and justice with one another, and all while honoring the image of God in others. We’re not expected to solve all the world’s problems. However, through our faith in Jesus — The Good Shepherd — we can still make a world of difference.

Identity Theft

You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.

– Exodus 19:4-6

Identity theft is a crime where fraud or deception is used to obtain a victim’s personal or sensitive information — such as their name or credit card number. So far in 2025, the Federal Trade Commission has reported 1.4 million complaints. And even more eye-opening is that fraud and identity theft cases have nearly tripled over the last decade, with the estimated global cost now exceeding $50 billion. 

The damage to a victim's credit report can take years to repair. But there’s another kind of identity theft that doesn’t involve money, and it’s much more serious. It’s the one that robs Christ-followers of the abundant life their Creator intends for them.

How does this happen?

The Bible reveals that we become a new creation when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Unfortunately, far too many people have unknowingly assumed a false identity through the negative messages they received early in life. A common example is a parent, who constantly tells their child that they’ll "never amount to anything,” they’re “not smart enough,” or they “don’t have what it takes to make it.”

Repeated early and often enough, these fictions can become reality. Moreover, they gradually become embedded in our thinking, only to blind us to the reality of our true worth and potential through Jesus. The result can be years of frustration trying to be someone (or something) God never intended us to be.

How can we take back our rightful identities?

It starts with a spiritual reality check. First, let's review our past and identify the negative messages we received early in life. Then, consider their sources. Can we honestly say that those painful words were true, or is it more the case that we have God-given talents and abilities? If fed a constant diet of half-truths, distortions, and falsehoods, even a PhD with an excellent academic record might perceive their impressive accomplishments as mediocre at best.

God, however, doesn’t look at Believers through such clouded, distorted lenses. He knew us before we were born and knows the plans he has for us. And even better — with our eternal inheritance assured, our real identity emerges: We're adopted sons and daughters of the King! As the apostle Paul assures us in 1 Corinthians:

“But as it is written, ‘What no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has conceived’ — God has prepared these things for those who love him.”

Our Creator has given every Believer a new identity and way of life. And with that comes the true freedom from a relationship with him under his loving rule.

It’s the Real Thing

Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

– Exodus 14:13-14

One of the world’s most-recognized products, Coca-Cola traces its roots back to 1886, when the first glass of the refreshing beverage was served in an Atlanta pharmacy. The drink grew in popularity — and it wasn’t without imitators. Pepsi arrived in 1893, followed by Royal Crown (“RC”), Shasta, and a host of others. In the late 1960s to help differentiate Coke from the competition, company executives chose the familiar It’s the Real Thing slogan in response to research that revealed “… young people seek the real, the original, and the natural as an escape from phoniness.”

Now fast-forward nearly 60 years, and people of all ages still seek authenticity — especially when it comes to matters of faith and religion. There’s no shortage of options. And furthering the confusion is the common notion that whichever one we choose, it really doesn't matter, just so long as we’re sincere and it makes us happy. After all, everyone is entitled to their own truth. It's all relative. And we're all worshiping the same god. Right?

On the contrary! The Bible reveals that Jesus made startling claims that clearly contradict today’s anything-goes take on faith … and he also backed them up. For example, Scripture accurately predicted Christ’s birth — even the name of the tiny village where it would happen — centuries before the fact. And in Jesus’ brief time on earth, he proved himself as the Son of God by curing the sick, raising the dead, and forgiving sins. Then, he sacrificed himself to pay the enormous price for the sins of the world. His resurrection from the grave (also as he predicted) proved his power over death. And 2,000 years later, Jesus' words continue to change lives and make an eternal difference:

"I am the vine; you are the branches," we read in John's gospel. "If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."

Many people — even those who aren't Christ-followers — say that Jesus was a good man and a wise teacher. But is he the ONLY WAY to God? The short answer is … YES! Jesus declares that no one can come to the Father (God) except through him. However, that's a claim that makes people uncomfortable. It's an assertion of exclusivity. And many call it intolerant.

But maybe it's not so exclusive after all. Jesus' death and resurrection make it possible for anyone to have eternal life, and no one who wants a new beginning through the Savior is turned away. And unlike manmade religions, the real way to God isn't about keeping certain rules, saying special prayers, or eating (or not eating) particular foods. Instead, being a Christ-follower is about putting our faith in him, accepting his free gift of salvation, and letting him live through us. We’re powerless to save ourselves, but God made a way when there is no way!

"It is finished!" Jesus proclaimed as he hung from the cross to save you and me. And ultimately, that’s The Real Thing.

American Idol

“And the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord when I stretch out my hand against Egypt and bring the Israelites out of it.”

– Exodus 7:5

There are no atheists in foxholes. 

There’s a grain of truth in this old saying — and maybe a whole lot more. After all, is there really such a thing as a full-fledged atheist — someone who doesn’t worship any god? The fact is that we all worship someone or something in one way or another. 

Christ-followers worship the true God revealed through the Bible. On the other hand, manmade religions promote false gods, ancestor worship, and even the reverence of living things or nature (worshiping the creation rather than the Creator). And then there are today’s popular teachings such as New Age, Scientology, and Kabbalah. It’s a very long list.

Even those who claim to be strict atheists are in fact active worshipers. True, they’re not devout churchgoers who proclaim Jesus as their Lord and Savior. But they — like everyone — bow down to their favorite idols and false gods. Some venerate money, luxury, and pleasure while others emulate intellect and higher learning. And still others kneel at the altar of more-negative gods such as alcohol, drugs, and illicit relationships. 

While there are no atheists on the battlefield, there is a war that rages each day within everyone: the One true God versus the false gods and idols of this world. It’s our hearts and souls that are the prize of this eternal conflict.

Maybe you and I don’t literally kneel and worship before an idol in some exotic, faraway temple. But let’s recognize that we secretly (or maybe not-so-secretly) cherish our own personal false gods. Think about the things that cause you to worry or spend your time and money. What are the issues that make you angry? What brings you the most joy? And here’s a revealing question: Whose attention and applause do you crave most?

If your answers don’t involve God, you’re likely worshiping an idol. And idols can be difficult to recognize because they’re experts at camouflage. Sometimes that idol can be as close as the bathroom mirror. And even apparently good things (like a career or even your children) can evolve into negative god things.

It’s particularly important for Christ-followers to remember that the real God — the “Abba” proclaimed by Jesus — refuses to share his glory with false gods and cheap idols. As we read in Deuteronomy 27:15:

“Cursed is anyone who makes an idol — a thing detestable to the Lord, the work of skilled hands — and sets it up in secret.” Then all the people shall say, “Amen!”

Ours is a God with a jealous love for each one of us. In fact, he loves us so much that he let his own Son suffer the death penalty in our place so that we could become his children and heirs. So, with all this in mind, let’s take our Creator’s admonition in Leviticus 19:4 to heart: 

“Do not turn to idols or make metal gods for yourselves. I am the Lord your God.”