Wisdom of The Week

     I play a little game when I wake up in the night to use the bathroom. I try to guess the time to see how close I can come. Well recently when my blurry eyes tried to focus on the clock on the nightstand, I saw the distress signal: SOS. Well, my eyes cleared up a bit as I arose and I could see the clock actually said 5:05 a.m. !  So, my clock wasn’t sending out a distress signal for help after all!  “SOS,” of course, is the widely recognized call for help, originating from its distinct Morse Code sequence of three dots, three dashes, three dots (…—…). It was chosen for its clarity and ease of transmission in telegraph communication. Later adaptations included “Save Our Ship,” or “Save Our Soul.”  

     I couldn’t help but think, however, that the Church needs a “wake up call,” for the world around us is in great distress, and many, by their deviant behavior, are really sending out an “SOS”–“Please Help–Save Our Souls–we have lost our way!”  Many believers have become so distracted by worldly pursuits, entertainment, politics, pleasure, and comfort that they have become deaf to the distress cries from those who need rescuing. Pressures from culture can –if we aren’t alert– dull our convictions and result in drifting morally and spiritually, oblivious to the cries for help from those around us who are perishing in their sinful state. 

     Twice in his letters to believers, the Apostle Paul challenges us to “awaken from sleep” (Ro. 13:11 and Eph. 5:14) and In I Cor. 16:13 his exhortation is to “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith…” To be spiritually “asleep” means being unaware, complacent, or distracted from God’s mission for each of us as His ambassadors to always be prepared to give a reason of our hope (I Pt. 3:15). Peter too warns us to “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert, for your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (I Pet. 5:8). Satan would loves nothing more than to discourage and distract us from carrying out our mission. He often approaches subtly as “an angel of light” (II Cor. 11:14), providing allurements in the world over which he rules (Jn. 12:31).  That is why the Apostle John warned, “Do not love the world, nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world” (I Jn. 2:15,16).  Paul too warned: “And do not be conformed to this world…” (Ro. 12:2). 

     But, it isn’t just sinful things that distract us. Probably more often it is just getting so busy with work, recreation, family and friends that we lose our focus of looking for and being aware of those “Divine Appointments” to share Christ that God brings our way. We aren’t aware and alert to them and they come and go without our even knowing it. We lose the urgency of people’s desperate cries for help. Heaven and hell are real places. People without Christ are headed to an eternity separated from God in a place of pain, anguish and regret. We may well be the ones God sends by to rescue someone from such a terrible future. But we need to wake up and be alert to those opportunities. God reminded Ezekiel of how he was appointed as a “watchman on the wall” to warn of coming judgment (Ezek. 33:7). Along with the appointment, God gives this warning:  “But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet, and the people are not warned, and a sword comes and takes a person from them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood I will require from the watchman’s hand” (v. 6). 

     Well, we too are His appointed “watchmen” to warn people of coming judgment and that there is One who was judged on our behalf (II Cor. 5:21). When we accept His payment for our sin, and invite Him in to be our Savior and Lord, we are no longer under condemnation (Ro. 8:1)–PTL!

     Be alert to detect the “distress signals” from those around you. And reach out to them as Christ’s ambassador, showing them how they too can be “reconciled to God” (II Cor. 5:17-20). 

Forever His,

Pastor Dave N

     I had the privilege last week of speaking at the evening chapel to 8th and 9th grade boys for the seventh and final week of summer camp at Elohim Bible Camp and Retreat Center (aka “Camp Elohim”) which is located near Bull Lake 15 miles south on Highway 56 (the “Bull Lake Road”) in northwest Montana. The camp theme for the summer was “Joint heirs with Christ” from Romans 8:16,17. 

     It all began in the spring of 1978. Ellis (Al) and Ida Stewart, who attended the church I pastored, Three Lakes Community Bible Church, had a passion for ministering to children and youth so donated seven acres of their property for a Bible camp. (They later donated another seven acres).  We took the name “Elohim” for the camp from the first verse of the Bible: “In the beginning, God (Elohim) created the heavens and the earth” (Gen. 1:1). Elohim, one of the primary names for God in the Old Testament (along with Yahveh and Adonai), means “The strong, faithful, covenant-keeping God. (NOTE: We also had a friend who was attending Elohim Bible Institute in New York).

       In March, as soon as the snow melted, we (folks from Three lakes and from Faith Bible Church in Libby) began piling and burning brush and clearing places for a kitchen-cafeteria and for tent sites.  With lots of volunteer help, we managed to start camp the first part of July. It was a bit “rustic,” with big army tents to house the campers and outhouses for bathrooms. Wooden pallets made from 2x2s served as places for campers to lay out their sleeping bags. We prepared an outdoor chapel on a hillside, a campfire site, and washstand facility. A young couple, Steve and Pam Rodgers,  from our home Bible study in Libby, donated a trailerhouse to use as a bookstore and snack shack. A missionary couple, Kit and Lorraine Hardy (with Rocky Mountain Bible Mission), donated a homemade log camper to use as a nurse’s station. Water initially came to the outdoor washstand and nearby kitchen from a spring at the base of the mountain behind camp. “Fister Electric” from Missoula (Gale Fister was president of Rocky Mountain Bible Mission) ran power from the highway to camp in a trench dug by Marshall Warrington who lived nearby at Angel Island. The water and power were hooked up the same day. 

     Ida Stewart and Bertha Olson from nearby “Little Joe” headed up the kitchen crew. Lorraine Hardy served as our camp nurse. Irene Kutz, Kathy’s mom ran the bookstore.  Lots of folks from Three Lakes and some from RMBM helped with classes and crafts.  I taught the evening chapels. One evening as I was speaking, I watched a very large black bear wander into the boys’ tent which was located about 50 yards above the chapel! 

     My wife, Kathy, and I traveled to nearby Bible schools such as Inland Empire School of the Bible in Spokane, Washington and Multnomah Bible School in Portland, Oregon to recruit teachers and counselors for camp. They came for the months of June and July. In June we held vacation Bible schools in many rural areas of Northwest Montana. We would transport two teachers to each of various sites for a week and then bring them back to Libby for the weekend. Then the teachers spent the first week of July at the Bible camp preparing lessons for the upcoming camps and also doing work on the camp. They also had an opportunity to do some hiking and recreating in the surrounding area during the week. Initially we held only three weeks of camp (plus a family camp over Labor Day weekend), but as attendance grew that soon expanded to the current seven weeks. Many groups now also rent the camp for a week and hold their own Bible camp programs. Elohim also holds a women’s retreat and men’s retreat and sometimes a family camp. Elohim has also hosted a Bible Training Center for Pastors. 

      Needless to say, after its 47 years of operation, Elohim has ministered to thousands of young people as well as adults and only eternity will tell the spiritual impact this has had on lives (not only of the campers, but also of the staff).  Some of the first counselors we had at camp ended up marrying another counselor and many ended up in full-time ministry as pastors and missionaries. Among them are Marty and Jeanette Windle who spent many years as missionaries in Bolivia and then Marty served as president of The Bible Club Movement (which became Bible Centered Ministries) with a team of some 750 or so missionaries worldwide. Jeanette also became a prolific writer of Christian novels and children’s stories and traveled across the globe giving writing seminars.  Steve and  Brenda Fawcett and Grey and Katie Repke who also counseled at Elohim early on, served for many years at Rocky Mountain Bible Mission churches in Montana. Among other couples who both counseled at camp were Russ Bean and Leah (Sampson) who spent their lives teaching and mentoring young people in Priest River, Idaho.  We had the privilege recently of being part of a celebration of Leah’s Homegoing. 

     For the first five years of its history, Elohim was run primarily by folks from Three Lakes Community Bible Church and I served as director. Then in 1983, we turned the camp over to Rocky Mountain Bible Mission for whom we had been serving as missionaries beginning in the spring of 1974. Since then the camp has had three different full-time directors. Clyde Miller, Warren Edson and now Landon (and Nicole) Marcott. The camp, instead of several big army tents, now has six cabins with bunk beds, bathrooms and showers, staff housing, a camp store and nurses station and activity building . And, Lord willing, this fall, the cafeteria will undergo a much-needed expansion. 

     I wish the Stewarts could take a peek and see what has become of their vision for youth ministry! That vision and their generosity has resulted in many transformed lives and many dedicated servants in God’s Kingdom. 

Forever His,

Pastor Dave N.

     This past Thursday, July 24th, Positive Life Radio played Christmas music all day and had representatives at various businesses to collect what turned out to be thousands of pounds of food along with many financial donations to contribute to local food banks. The concept of “Christmas in July” is thought to have originated in 1933 at Keystone Camp in Brevard, NC where a summer camp for girls organized a Christmas-themed event to break up the summer routine. The concept was further popularized by the 1940 film “Christmas In July.” 

     What a great idea to be reminded that the Gift that God gave “keeps on giving” and never expires. John, in his gospel, wrote: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God…And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth” (Jn. 1:1,14). Christmas isn’t just about December 25th, it’s about the miracle that God (in the Second Person of the Trinity) came down to dwell among us–a reality that affects every single day of the year–even in July!

     You see, Jesus didn’t stay in the manger. Christmas celebrates Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem as God took on human form (Heb. 2:14,15). But He didn’t stay a baby. He grew up, lived a perfect life, then died for our sins and rose again. The wonderful story of Christmas is just the beginning of the rescue mission that is still going on. “The Son of Man came to seek and to save that which is lost” (Lk. 19:10), and He is still doing so. We “box up” and “put away” Christmas with its trees, decorations, songs and programs, but the real meaning--“God with us” (Immanuel…Isa. 7:14. Mt. 1:23)–is for every day of the year!

     Jesus is truly the “Gift that keeps on giving.” “The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Ro. 6:23). Most gifts get old, wear out, or go out of style, but God’s gift never does. It’s the gift that continues to meet our most basic need–forgiveness of sin–and transforms our lives. And God’s gift–Jesus–is still available, still changing lives.

     Giving is always “in season.” Christmas is a time of generosity and giving, but Jesus calls us to live that way all the time. Paul’s challenge to the Ephesians (and us) reads: “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us…” (Eph. 5:1,2a). Love is expressed in “giving” (cf Jn. 3:16), and that is always needed and in style!  Jesus’ love is not “seasonal” but eternal (Jer. 31:3). We are invited to celebrate and share God’s gift of love every day.

     And, the world still needs Jesus, the true light that came into the world, to dispel our spiritual darkness (Jn. 1:4-9; 8:12). “For God who said, ‘Light shall shine out of darkness’ (Gen. 1:3), is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ” (II Cor. 4:6). The long hours of daylight in July will give way to the short days and long nights of fall and winter, but the “True Light” is always with us and never fades. We can be that light year around. Jesus said to His followers: “You are the light of the world…Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father in heaven” (Mt. 5:14,16).  As we do that, we “keep Christ in Christmas” all year long. 

     In C.S. Lewis’ classic, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, it was “always winter, but never Christmas.” The enchanted land of Narnia was under the rule of the wicked White Witch who kept Narnia in a perpetual state of winter, yet she banned Christmas (a time of joy, celebration and hope).  Even though Satan is the “ruler of this world” (Jn. 12:31), he is limited in his power and authority by Almighty God who is ultimately in control and makes it Christmas year around!  His gift of salvation through Jesus Christ is available everywhere anytime so that “Whoever will call upon the name of the Lord will be saved” (Ro. 10:13).  Merry Christmas!

Forever His,

Pastor Dave

     It is a great fruit year here in Northwest Montana. We have had an abundance of strawberries and raspberries and the favorite of many people in our “neck of the woods,” huckleberries (or wild blueberries) are very plentiful.  Our family enjoys searching for good huckleberry patches and this year they are found in many places and the bushes are really loaded. Interestingly, they are one of the first forms of vegetation to help restore an area after a fire has swept through and left bare ground and ashes in its wake.  Such was the case of a place where we picked with our daughter and son who came to visit for a few days. The area had been quite devastated by a forest fire just a few years ago. It was the first time we had gone there after the fire and it was exciting to see the once barren ground now covered with some of the “pioneer” species which begin the restoration process. It may begin with only lowly mosses, lichens and mushrooms and then ferns, wild flowers such as “fireweed,” and often huckleberry bushes.  Since, in the wisdom of God in His design of the plant world, “nature will not tolerate a vacuum.” He designed such that a restoration process takes place to where gradually there will again be mature, majestic long-lived trees. 

     It is also interesting that some conifer tree species  (such as lodgepole pine, certain cypress trees and the giant Sequoias) require fire or intense heat to melt the resin that seals the cone scales, allowing them to open and release the seeds. They are known as “serotinous” species. Since fire in the Bible is often acquainted with God’s judgment, we see that it is through the “fires of judgment” that these trees are able to reproduce. God also uses chastening in the lives of believers to enable them to bear more fruit and to reproduce.  The author of the book of Hebrews talks about how God “disciplines us for our good, that we might share His holiness” (12:10). And even though “All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness” (v. 12).     Jesus used the analogy of a vine and  branches, where He is the vine and we (believers) are the branches, and God the Father is the “vinedresser” (gardener) who prunes the branches so they will bear more fruit. The pruning process may be painful but its purpose is to increase fruitfulness. Jesus exhorts His disciples (and us), saying: “…he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing” (Jn. 15:5).  To “bear fruit” means to “support ” fruit. The vine produces the fruit; the branches merely support the fruit by staying connected to the vine. God is glorified when we “bear much fruit, and so prove to be His disciples (v. 8).  

     Trees and plants don’t “grow themselves,” but grow as they respond to the environment in which they are placed. As Christians, we don’t “grow ourselves” either, but respond to the environment in which God has placed us (His Word, fellow Christians, our circumstances and our church fellowship). It is God’s purpose for each of us in His Church that we “bear much fruit” and reproduce. Sometimes that requires the heat of adversity and chastisement; sometimes it requires a severe “pruning.”  But, it is all that we might be fruitful for Him.  So, what kind of “fruit season” are you experiencing?  Our job is to abide in Him and He will produce the fruit. So, sink your roots firmly into Him (Col. 2:6,7) and spend time reading, studying, meditating on, memorizing, and living out His word (II Tim. 2:15). 

Forever His,

Pastor Dave N

     I had the privilege of speaking at a memorial service for Leah (Sampson) Bean this past Saturday in Priest River, Idaho.  She grew up in the church I pastored and attended our Christian School and youth group and then obtained a teaching degree at Whitworth and had been teaching in Priest River, Idaho. Her dad, Ray, had been my “right-hand-man” at Three Lakes Community Bible Church. His family has always been a great encouragement to us and really came alongside to encourage us in dealing with the demands of pastoring a church.  I also officiated at the wedding for Leah and Russ on June 23rd, 1995. Leah passed away just two days before their 30th anniversary. 

    It was an honor to be part of celebrating the life of Leah, who, at age 51, went to be with her loving Savior after battling cancer for a number of years.  We were invited to come over to Priest River on Friday for a birthday celebration for Russ and Leah’s son William who just turned 16. It was a beautiful day and we enjoyed fellowship with Russ and with Leah’s mother and siblings and a number of Russ and Leah’s close Christian friends who were there to support in the time of need. It was such a blessing to see how the family of God rallies around those who are hurting, to bring comfort and encouragement. We are so glad we are part of the family of God!

     We also got to spend Friday evening with the family and a Christian neighbor invited us all over to sit around a campfire and to share memories. Someone said, “You don’t know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”  Well, we had lots of memories to share. 

     Leah’s sister, Laura, shared a beautiful eulogy of Leah’s life, expressing how she had such love for her family, her students and for those around her. I shared a letter Leah had written to her pastor after he gave a message on suffering. She said that she never felt that God was “unjustly punishing her,” but that, in fact, she felt “a little spoiled by Him” for all the grace He showed her.  She expressed her view–based on her own personal experience–of why God allows suffering. She said, “It gives us a chance to trust Him and to really see His heart for us, His extravagant love for us, and His eagerness to meet us in those places where we feel like we have nothing left to carry us forward. Those are the places God hangs out, waiting for us to find Him there and to submit to Him.” (And she did!). Another reason she suggested is “to give others a chance to be His hands and feet” in ministering to someone during their “moment of darkness.”  She had experienced that too as people reached out to her in her time of need (see II Cor. 1:3-6). The last reason she listed was: “Will I trust God with the darkness? Will I trust Him if His answer disappoints and leaves me with sorrow and loss in this life here?”

     Well, we know the answer to Leah’s question. Yes, she did continue trusting, no matter what God chose for her.  She said, “Blaming God or getting angry at Him wasn’t really on my radar.”  The reason was, Leah, who at kindergarten age had trusted Christ as her Savior, had great confidence in the Word of God and trusted in the character of God–both of which are unchanging (Isa. 40:8; Mal. 3:6). Leah experienced the hope that is unique to those who have Jesus Christ as both Savior and Lord of their lives. Leah’s confidence in God’s Word was demonstrated by the verses she had posted above their bed as a reminder day and night of the faithfulness of God. The verses were Psa. 34:15,17-19. Check them out!. 

     Our hope as believers is not just wishful thinking, as the term is most often used in the secular world, but a deep-seated expectation and assurance based on the promises of God and the nature of God. The Bible calls it a sure and steadfast hope that we have as “an anchor for the soul” (Heb. 6:19).  It is anchored in Jesus Christ, who is our rock and our salvation (See Psa. 39:7; 62:5,6). Peter refers to it as a “living hope” that is based on the resurrection of Jesus Christ (I Pet. 1:3,4). Paul calls it a “blessed hope” that is connected to the promise Jesus made to return for His own that we might be with Him forever (Jn. 14:1-3; Tit. 2:13). 

     By God’s design, our hope actually grows through adversity and suffering, for it is then that we really learn to lean on Him and thus experience, as did Leah, His grace in a very special way. That’s why Paul wrote: “…we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance, and perseverance proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint…” (Ro. 5:3-5).  I am reminded of the song by Annie Johnson Flint, “He Giveth More Grace,” which says, “He giveth more grace when the burden grows greater, He sendeth more strength when the labors increase; to added affliction, He addeth His mercy, to multiplied trials His multiplied peace.” For, “His love has no limit, His grace has no measure, His pow’r has no boundary known unto men; for out of His infinite riches in Jesus He giveth and giveth and giveth again.” 

     As we spent time with a family that had just lost a mother, wife, daughter and sister, we witnessed that amazing, abundant grace of God. We saw the love of those that God sent to be a comfort and support. We came away very blessed and full of praise to the “God of all comfort,” the “God of hope.” That is why, as followers of Jesus Christ, we naturally grieve for we miss those that God has taken from us, but we “don’t grieve as those who have no hope” for we await (probably very soon) a great reunion when “the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ shall rise first. (And) Then those who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words” (I Thes. 4:13,16-18). 

Forever His,

Pastor Dave N

     “And now may the God of Hope fill you all with joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Ro. 15:13). 

     We had the joy last week of having our granddaughter, Ashley, and her husband Edwin (and their delightful puppy, Murphie) with us for a couple days. We packed the time with lots of activities, but the afternoons were a bit too hot for any rigorous physical activity, so on one afternoon we took a tour of our excellent local museum. Since it is a large log structure without windows, it is a “cool” place to visit on a hot day! 

     As we made our way around the many exhibits reflecting the early history of our community, I was a bit shocked at how many names, events, and relics I could relate to!  (Does that tell you something?). For example, there were photographs and stories of the Christmas trees that Libby has provided to our nation’s Capital. I was in the band that played as one of the trees was shipped from our train depot (many years ago).  I also saw school athletic jackets and sweaters that belonged to  parents of my classmates!  It brought back lots of memories.  At the exhibit of antique carpentry tools, I noticed that there were several which I still have and use!  I recognized many of the last names of families that were in our community as I grew up here, each of which triggered memories of those days and events. It was a fun “day at the museum!”

     In the Bible we see a number of events and objects that served as memorials, prompting reflection on God’s past actions. For example, we have the Passover which commemorates God’s deliverance of His people from slavery in Egypt, and how, by applying the blood of a lamb to their homes, the death angel that came in the final plague, “passed over” those homes (Ex. 12:13). It also serves as a picture of how, when we trust Christ’s work at Calvary for our salvation, His blood is applied to us so that we won’t face judgment for our sins (Eph. 1:7). 

     We also have The Lord’s Supper, which He instituted at His final Passover on earth to remind us of the sacrifice He made as He paid the penalty for our sins on the cross (II Cor. 5:21; I Pet. 2:24).Jesus’ instructions were to partake of the bread and the cup “In remembrance” of Him (I Cor. 11:24,25). And, speaking of memorials, each time we see a cross we should be reminded of our Savior’s loving sacrifice for us.

     There are also a number of stone monuments in Scripture that served as memorials of what God had done for His people. In order to commemorate the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River at flood stage (Josh. 3), God instructed Joshua to have one man from each tribe bring a stone from the river bed and set it up on the east side of the river (at Gilgal). God said, “Let this be a sign among you, so that when your children ask later, saying, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ then you shall say to them, ‘Because the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off.’ So these stones shall become a memorial to the sons of Israel forever’ ” (Josh. 4:6,7). The stones at Gilgal served as tangible reminders of God’s power and faithfulness. 

     Samuel also erected a stone monument to commemorate God’s victory (on Israel’s behalf) over the Philistines. He called the stone “Ebenezer” (“stone of help”). saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us” (I Sam. 7:12).  The stone recognized God’s past assistance and encouraged continued trust in the future.  In the hymn “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” by John Wyeth, the second stanza (in the original version) reads: “Here I raise my Ebenezer” (A later version reads: “Here I raise to Thee an altar–Hither by Thy help I’m come; and I hope by Thy good pleasures safely to arrive at home…”).  In his hymn, Wyeth was expressing gratitude for God’s past blessings and an assured hope and confidence of guidance in the future until God took him home.

     A  “day at the museum” brought back many memories of growing up in Libby, Montana.  I also have a number of “memorial stones” from God’s past  blessings in my life. The list includes old Volkswagon Beatles (or “Bugs”), flyrods, U-Haul trucks, Hyster Lift trucks, and old Jeep Wagoneers.  Each of these triggers a memory of something special God did in the past. These “Ebenezers”  give me confidence that God will continue working in my life in the future until He takes me home. The Apostle Paul wrote these words of encouragement to the believers at Philippi: “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:6). 

     Maybe you  need to “spend a day at the museum,”  recalling God’s special blessings in your past and renewing your hope for the future.  It is good to have a list of “Ebenezers” that are reminders of what God has done. Each time you see those “stones of Help,” thank God for what He has done in your life and be excited for what He has in store for you in the future. “Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen” (Eph. 3:20,21). 

Forever His,

Pastor Dave N

     Our family has been very privileged to live in beautiful Northwest Montana and over several decades to enjoy spending time together exploring God’s amazing creation.  We chose to spend most of our vacation time hiking in the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness and have many fond memories (and a few not so fond!) of our time together hiking the mountain trails (and occasionally making our own) and camping at mountain lakes, watching the sun come up and reflect off the rock walls of the mountains behind the lakes–what an amazing experience! I love the quote from Theodor Seuse Geisel (a.k.a “Dr. Zeus”): “You’ll never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”  Well, as we move into our “golden years” (not sure why they are called that?), we now have lots of memories from those special moments in the past.

     It is a treat to get to see some of God’s creatures in the high country that you don’t see down in the valley. On several of our outings we had the privilege of seeing one of His special little creations called pika  (also known as “rock rabbits” or “coney”).   They are small, mountain-dwelling mammals related to rabbits and hares and are known for their high pitched calls and for gathering and storing vegetation in “haystacks” for survival in the winter. Since they do not hibernate, they need a stash for winter when the mountains are covered by many feet of snow. They are only 7-8 inches long, with big round ears but no visible tail. Their thick brown, black and gray coat of fur keeps them warm in the winter and camouflages them among the rocks in the summer. They are herbivores and love grasses, weeds, and the wild flowers that grow at high elevations. 

     Solomon, in his wisdom book of Proverbs, includes the “rock rabbit” in his list of four small creatures common in Israel that are “exceedingly wise” despite their small size (Prov. 30:24-28). He lists “ants” that embody disciplined planning and hard work to provide for their future (v. 25 cf. 6:6-8), “rock rabbits” which, though weak and defenseless, wisely make their home high in the rocks where they are safe from predators  (v. 26), “locusts” which, though lacking a leader, remain unified and organized, making them  formidable despite their size (v. 27 cf Joel 2:7),  and “lizards” (probably geckos) which can easily climb walls and ceilings, and though small and vulnerable enough to be captured in one’s hands, yet because of their physical skill and tenacity can even gain access to kings’ palaces (v. 28). 

     The word Solomon uses in Pr. 30:26 for “rock rabbits” is shaphan (shaw-fawn’), and most likely refers to a species of rabbit-size mammals that live and hide in the rocks, such as are often spotted by tourists on the rock cliffs about David’s hideout at Engedi near the Dead Sea. They are also called “coney,” “hyax,” or “rock badgers.” The Today In the Word devotional from Moody has as its theme this month, “Animals in the Bible,” and included the “Coney” on Saturday, June 28.  They stressed how the little “rock rabbit” is lacking in physical strength and speed to enable it to escape from predators and yet it “survives and thrives in the rugged terrain by making its home among the rocks.”

     Since we who follow Jesus are referred to in Scripture as “the sheep of His pasture” (Psa. 100:3b), we can easily relate to the “rock rabbit” of Prov. 30:26. We, like sheep, are weak and helpless and need of the guidance and  protection of our “Good Shepherd” who laid down His life for the sheep (Jn. 10:11). “Wisdom often involves recognizing our limitations and seeking protection and security in a place of strength” (a refuge). The pika understands its vulnerability and strategically uses the natural fortresses provided by its home in the rocks. The Psalmist David wrote: “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies” (Psa. 18:1,2). “My soul, wait in silence for God only, for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be shaken” (Psa. 62:6 cf Psa. 89:26). 

     We are no match for Satan and his evil forces. But, as believers, we happen to be indwelled, through the Holy Spirit, by Jesus, the “rock of our salvation.”  He is our refuge from the predators in this world. “Not that we are adequate in ourselves, to think anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God” (II Cor. 3:5), “…because greater is He (Christ) who is in you than he (Satan) who is in the world” (I Jn. 4:4).  That is why, as Jesus pointed out in a parable, we are to build our house (our life) on the rock, not on the sand (Mt. 7:26-27). 

      Thank you, Lord, for the practical life lessons we can learn from observing your creation and your creatures (Job 12:7), even little “rock rabbits”!

Forever His,

Pastor Dave N

     “The LORD lives, and blessed by my rock; and exalted be God, the rock of my salvation” (II Sam. 22:47).

     Do You remember the classic children’s game “Follow the Leader”?  One person, the “leader,” performs actions or movements, and the other players, the “followers,” must copy them exactly. The goal of the followers is to accurately mimic the leader’s movements which might include various locomotor skills (walking, running, jumping, etc). It might even include obstacle courses. It can be used as a tool to teach following instructions. 

     Well, when Jesus selected His disciples, He gave them a very simple instruction: “Follow Me” (Mt. 8:22; 9:9; Mk. 2:14; Lk. 9:59; Jn. 1:43). He promised that if they would follow Him, He would make them “fishers of men” (Mt. 4:19). Sounds pretty easy–just follow Jesus. But, what all does that involve? Just what does it mean to follow Jesus? 

     It means to embrace His teaching. As a “Jesus follower” we are to believe His words and instructions and make them the standard operating manual for our lives–our final authority for faith (what we believe) and practice (how we  behave). Obviously that means spending time in His Word on a regular basis, meditating upon it and memorizing key passages that will help us to stay “on track” as we follow Jesus. 

     It means to align with His example.  Our main concern as we make decisions and choices should be, “What would Jesus do?” and then, in His strength doing it.  Again, this means “letting the word of Christ richly dwell within us” (Col. 3:16) so that we know what a biblical response is to each situation and circumstance. Peter wrote: “As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy’ ” (I Pet. 1:14-16 cf Lev. 11:44). We are to be like our Savior in all aspects of our life,  demonstrating Christ-like attitudes and actions (Phil. 2:3-5). We should be following Christ so that any who follow our example will be following Him as well. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ” (I Cor. 11:1). “Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us” (Phil. 3:17). There will always be people looking to us as an example. Are we pointing them to Christ or away from Him?  Pretty challenging to think about!

     Following Jesus means making Him THE priority in our life. As the “head of the body, the church,” He is “to have first place in everything” (Col. 1:18). We tend to compartmentalize our lives and give Jesus His compartment, but He is to be Lord of all aspects of our life. That means dying to selfish ambitions and worldly influences and surrendering all to Him. It means total commitment, not token commitment.

     Following Jesus means living with a radical abandonment, allowing Him to transform you.  That involves “not being conformed to this world,” but being “transformed by the renewing of our minds” through His Word and the control of the Holy Spirit within (Ro. 12:2). It means living a life of joyful dependence on His grace. 

     B.B. Mckinney captured the meaning of following Jesus in his hymn “Wherever He Leads I’ll Go.”

          “Take up thy cross and follow Me,” I heard my Master say,

          “I gave My life to ransom thee–Surrender yours all to day.”

          He drew me closer to His side, I sought His will to know;

          And in that will I now abide–Wherever He leads I’ll go.

          It may be thru the shadows dim or o’er the stormy sea;

          I take my cross and follow Him–Wherever He leadeth me.

          My heart, my life, my all I bring to Christ who loves me so;

          He is my Master, Lord, and King–Wherever He leads I’ll go.

          Chorus: Wherever He leads I’ll go, Wherever He leads I’ll go; 

                        I’ll follow my Christ who loves me so–Wherever He leads I’ll go.

     Are you a Jesus follower?

Forever His (Follower),

Pastor Dave N

     Fifty eight years ago, I made the second-most important decision of my life. The most important was trusting Christ as my personal Savior, but next was my decision to take the preacher’s daughter to be my wife. On this day, June 16th, in 1967, Kathy and I were married in the very first service held upstairs at Faith Bible Church in Libby, Montana. In fact we helped paint some of the walls that day and Kathy’s brothers hung the big  cross on the rockwork at the back of the platform!  

      We committed our lives, not only to each other “for as long as we both shall live,” but also to follow Jesus Christ wherever He should lead us.  Well, it has been quite the adventure and it is not over yet!  We are still available for God to use as long as He has planned for us and look forward to the next adventures!

     I had Kathy find the lyrics of a duet that we sang at our wedding reception.  The words really represent the commitment we made, as partners, to serve our Savior all the days of our lives.

          “Our Heavenly Father in His matchless love,

          Has caused our pathways here below to meet,

          That we might journey to our home above

          Together, you and I in union sweet.

          Thy hand in mine, and both our hands in His

          Who holds the sparrow in His tender care,

          Could we on earth ask any greater bliss?

          Sweet foretaste of the glory over there.

          He whose blest hand has brought us to this hour,

          And drawn our hearts together by His grace,

          Will e’er sustain and keep us  by His power

          ‘Til we at last behold His lovely face.

     Chorus:

          Together we will walk life’s untried way,

          Together face with joy each newborn day.

          With love to cheer and joy to lead us on,

          And Christ to bless till trav’ling days are done.”

    The road we have traveled has had its bumps and twists and turns but God has been so gracious and faithful. We are truly “blessed by the Best!”  If you have been a Christian for a few years you have undoubtedly discovered the truth of Prov. 16:9: “The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.” It’s not wrong to plan–in fact we should–but always with “Lord willing, we will do this.” He may have a different plan and “As for God, His way is blameless…” (Psa. 18:30a).  We may not always understand God’s plan for our lives, but we know it is “blameless” or “perfect.”  That’s why Solomon, in his great wisdom, wrote: “Trust in the LORD with all you heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight” (Pr. 3:5,6). 

     Our life together began with my finishing an engineering degree at Montana State University (go Bobcats!)  and then working for just more than five years for Hyster in Portland, Oregon where we grew so much in Christ and made some lifelong friends. We started our family there (Heidi and Grant) and had a great church home.  I had the joy of introducing my boss, his brother and our secretary to Christ and started Bible studies at work and at home. I recognized, with the counsel of mature Christian friends, that God was giving us a new direction of ministry. We had always hoped to come back to Montana to rear our family, but didn’t realize how God would work that out. We discovered that if you “Delight yourself in the LORD; He will give you the desires of your heart” (for He putsthem there), and if you “Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, He will do it” (Psa 37:4,5). 

     God opened a door of opportunity for us to return to Montana and work as missionaries with Rocky Mountain Bible Mission. I resigned at Hyster and we returned to Libby, Montana where I served under my father-in-law, Pastor Clarence Kutz who with his wife Irene had joined the mission when he retired at Faith Bible Church. But, it wasn’t long after we returned and were involved in Bible studies and youth groups, that Pastor Kutz discovered he had an aggressive leukemia and soon passed away just as one his adult Bible studies was starting a church. So, “by default,” I became the pastor of Three Lakes Community Bible Church near Troy, Montana on the Bull Lake Road.  We were there for 37 1/2 years, started Three Lakes Christian School, and Elohim Bible Camp and Retreat Center.  

     We continue to teach Bible studies and I occasionally fill in the pulpit and also teach at the local training center for International Messengers.  I added a junior boys’ Bible study as well the past couple years. It was at their request. They are some “lively” 10-12 year olds, but it has been a joy to see their eagerness to get into God’s Word!

     When we sang “Together We Will Walk Life’s Untried Ways” at our wedding fifty-eight years ago, we had no idea where God would lead and what He would have us do, but we are so thankful for His direction and His presence and His strength with us the entire journey, for “We are not adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God” (II Cor. 3:5). We also have the great joy of seeing our children and grandchildren loving and following the Lord (See III Jn. 1:4). 

     So, “together–as long as God wills–we will (continue) to walk life’s untried way. (And) Together we will face with joy each newborn day. With love to cheer and joy to lead us on, and Christ to bless till traveling days are done.”

Forever His,

Pastor Dave N 

     One of our favorite walking places is at J Neils Memorial Park in Libby. The 1 1/2 mile loop takes you through stands of majestic Ponderosa Pine (our state tree) as well as a number of Douglas Fir trees. The path is also strewn with a large variety of wild flowers beginning in early May and continuing through June. We are graced with such beauties of God’s creation as shooting stars, buttercups, glacier lilies, arrow leaf balsamroot, arnica, lupine, mariposa, star flowers, larkspur, harebells, western groundsel, Oregon grape, wild roses and clarkia.  

     As the temperatures heat up, our walks are also rewarded by a pleasant fresh “forest aroma”. It is a mixture of scents, primarily coming from the release of aromatic compounds from the soil and terpenes like “pinene” from the trees. Plants, especially conifers, during their growth and fruit-production time, release terpenes that contribute to the “pine-fresh” scent . (NOTE: plants also release oxygen into the air as a byproduct of the photosynthesis process). Each plant releases fragrances adding to the overall sensory experience of a walk in “God’s great outdoors.” It’s as if all the earth is praising its Creator.  While flowers and trees–not being made in the image of God as are humans (Gen. 1:26,27)–don’t consciously “praise God” in the way we can, their existence and beauty can be seen as expressions of God’s amazing creation and as a way to reflect on His goodness and artistry. The beauty of nature (God’s handiwork), including trees and flowers, can be interpreted as a “silent praise” to God, pointing to His power and creativity. “The heavens (and flora a fauna too!) are telling of the glory of God…” (Psa. 19:1). “Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all it contains. Let the field exult, and all that is in it. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy” (Psa. 96:11,12). “O LORD, how many are Your works. In wisdom You have made them all; the earth is full of Your possessions” (Psa. 104:24). “Mountains and all hills; fruit trees and all cedars; beasts and all cattle; creeping things and winged fowl…Let them praise the name of the LORD…” (Psa. 148:9,10,13). “O LORD, our Lord,. how majestic is Your name in all the earth!” (Psa. 8:9)

     On our property we have lots of spring flowers as well, such as crocuses, tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and crown imperial, each adding its unique beauty tothe world.  Then we have a number of fruit trees which add their display of blossoms as they begin their annual process of fruit production. The Whitney Crab Apple tree has the sweetest aroma of all and when it is in full bloom we love to just stand in the orchard and take in its amazing aroma. 

     As followers of Jesus Christ, when we are “abiding in Him” (Jn. 15:1-8,16), He will “manifest through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; to the one an aroma of life, to the other an aroma of death” (II Cor. 2:14,15). But, it is always a fragrance pleasing to God. We emit a pleasant aroma when we live a life of truth and grace, sharing the Good News in a loving way, and by reflecting Christ’s love and compassion through kindness, forgiveness and unconditional love. We also emit that aroma of Christ when we remain faithful when facing hardship, persecution or rejection. We also spread that fragrance when we focus others’ attention on Christ, not on ourselves. And, of course, we emit that fragrance when being fruit bearers through allowing the Holy Spirit to be in control. His fruit of “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control” (Gal. 5:22,23) will be seen in our lives. That is, Christ, who lives in us, will manifest Himself through us. 

     So, what kind of “aroma” are you and I spreading?  

Forever His,

Pastor Dave