Category: Sermon Ideas

Requiring ANY Religious Instruction in Public Schools is Wrong

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Recently, Louisiana passed legislation requiring the Ten Commandments to be posted in public schools. Shortly after, Oklahoma decided to require the Bible and the Ten Commandments be taught in public schools. And Christians across the country celebrated. I have no doubt that the governors of Louisiana and Oklahoma mean well. However, I must strongly disagree, even as a Christian.

Let me be clear, this nation WAS founded as a Christian nation. Even a casual reading of US history supports this conclusion. However, neither the state nor the federal government has the right nor the duty to favor one religion over another.

As Christians, we can not complain when any other religion is forced to be taught in public schools, then turn around and demand that Christianity or the Bible be taught in public schools. That’s hypocrisy.  We are the first to be outraged if any other religion is even offered as an elective in public schools. What are we going to say if a state with a large Muslim population forces the Koran to be taught in public schools?

I’m all for everyone having access to the Bible. I will even advocate it being freely available in the school library. But I have some questions: Who will be teaching the Bible curriculum? What qualifications will they have? What denominational or religious affiliation will these teachers have? Will they be teaching the Bible as literature? If so, will they also be teaching the Koran or the Torah as literature? Will the teachers be pushing one religious view over the other? These are just a few of my questions, and the answers may lead to even more questions.

One problem I see with forcing the Bible to be taught in public schools is, in my opinion, it shows how lazy we as Christians have become. We have become comfortable with leaving it to others to share God’s Word, even to our own children and grandchildren. Too many of us don’t even actually read and study the Bible ourselves. We’re content to go to church, send our children to Sunday school and children’s church, while we sit and listen to a sermon, allowing ourselves to be spoon-fed, without even reading what the Bible says for ourselves.

I am all for introducing children, and everyone else, to the Bible. But the more I have studied, and the more I have observed, even many pastors struggle to really understand the Bible in context. Again, this is partly because we have become complacent and are content to just read words on a page. We don’t have to learn Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic. But we do need to learn to use the available language tools. In addition, we need to learn to dig in and research the culture and people of the day when each book was written, as well as who each book was written to.

The Bible has too often been twisted to justify, and excuse, some of the worst offenses in society by too many so-called Christians, and pastors. Based on that reason alone, I simply cannot believe that we have the right to force the Bible, or our faith on anyone. And the government definitely does not have that right. All these actions will do its lead to a waste of resources by the government attempting to defend what I believe to be a losing position.

It’s not up to any government to force the Bible on anyone or any group. We don’t have to hide our faith. It’s up to each of us who professes to be a disciple of Jesus Christ to be a witness to the power and love of God. We start by living a life that is consistent with a loving God who has made a way for us to have a personal relationship with Him, through Jesus. Then, when the opportunity arises, we might need to use words to help.

Jesus Doesn’t Save Everyone

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I know, you read that title, and now you’re ready to argue. But, please hear me out. I’ve been wrestling with this for some time, and I believe it needs to be said. Not everyone who meets Jesus Christ is saved.

Refer to Matthew 19:16-22 for the story of the rich ruler (this is also found in Mark 10 and Luke 18).

This guy calls out to Jesus, “Hey! Good teacher! I want to know what I have to do to be saved.”

Jesus began reciting the ten commandments, “Do not commit adultery; do not murder; do not steal;…” The rich guy interrupts and says,”Yeah, yeah. I already do ALL of that. In fact, I’ve been doing all of that since I was a kid. So, really, what must I do?”

He wasn’t prepared for Jesus’s answer, “Yes, you have. But, you’re missing one thing. You must sell everything and give to the poor so that you will have real treasure in heaven. Then, come and follow me.” And the rich guy just turned and walked away, saddened, because he wasn’t just rich, he was very rich.

The rich ruler met Jesus. But because he cared more about his riches, Jesus wasn’t able to save him. Jesus will NEVER force you to accept him. God simply doesn’t work that way.

We see this attitude in so many ways today. People choose their lifestyle, their sin, their job, their status, etc… over what GOD says.

Some of us are sitting here today, and we’re thinking of certain individuals or groups that this applies to.  We grew up in church, or we have been saved and sanctified for so long that we’ve become petrified, and we’re just certain that we can’t be guilty of this thinking.

Sadly, I have to say that even many of us who have claimed to be Christians for a long time have become very adept at trying to twist the scriptures to excuse our own choices.

“Hey God, I know what your Word says, but hey, you know my heart, right? I mean, you don’t REALLY expect me to be able to change, and be obedient. After all, YOU MADE ME THIS WAY.”

I can hear The Father reply, “No. I created you to be perfect. But sin entered in and corrupted everything. However, I did make a way, through My Son, Jesus, to bring you back onto the right path. All you have to do is accept Him. Choose HIM as your Lord and Savior. And my Holy Spirit will guide you, and give you the ability to be obedient.

Jesus can’t save those who refuse to accept Him. He only saves those who choose Him. He already chose each and every one of us. We can choose to walk away sad and even heartbroken. Or, we can choose to follow Jesus.

Which do you choose?

The Fire may Appear to be Out, But Beware Smoldering Embers

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About 8 months ago, I had to make the painful decision to mostly step back from ministry for a time. Something just wasn’t right. I felt burned out, and knew that my relationship with Christ was severely lacking. I was so busy trying to do ministry, work full-time, and take care of a bunch of little things that I had neglected my “Jesus time.”

Someone pointed out to me that I had lost my fire. As much as that hurt to hear, I already knew it was true. I started trying harder to prove to myself, and others, that I want giving up. The more I tried the worse it got. Finally, the even more painful realization was that I had lost my confidence. And I started to wonder if I really had heard God’s call to preach. Or worse, had He given up on me? I was starting to give up on myself, so I totally understood if God gave up on me, especially after failing so much.

Through a few people, God has reaffirmed His call. He has made it clear that He has not given up on me. A few weeks ago, God reminded me that although the fire may appear to be out, the embers are still smoldering. My fire may be out, but the embers are still smoldering.

As I have pondered this realization, I was reminded of the fire triangle. The basic elements for a fire are oxygen, fuel, and heat. I think the fire tetrahedron (oxygen, heat, fuel, chemical chain reaction) is most taught today to firefighters. I render learning both as a volunteer firefighter, a long time ago. In any event, remove any one of those elements and the fire dies. We’ve all observed this when watching a bonfire, a charcoal grill, or a fireplace. As the fire begins to burn out we add more fuel to keep it going. If we want it to go out, we stop adding fuel, and may even pour water to cool the smoldering embers.

Under the correct conditions the smoldering embers will do one of three things:

1) They can be completely extinguished, and the fire is completely done. There is no risk of spontaneous combustion.

2) More fuel can be added, along with oxygen, and the fire grows.

3) Finally, this one every firefighter dreads. If conditions are right, and the smoldering embers are inside a tightly closed and unventilated building, if oxygen is suddenly introduced, the smoldering embers, combined with the fresh abundance of oxygen can become what is known as a backdraft.

These are very basic explanations. I don’t know if they would let me pass the test today, but it’s been 30 plus years since my training.

I’m not sure if I’m smoldering for lack of fuel or lack of oxygen. What I do know is that I’m still smoldering. But I’m adding fuel. I’m spending more time with God. He hasn’t given up on me. He hasn’t released me from His call. But for now, I have to focus more on my relationship with Him. I have to be prepared to experience either a backdraft or to simply have the fire reignite.

I thought marriage was suppose to be permanent

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I was discussing this idea of marriage being a permanent commitment the other day when I had a thought. Ephesians 5:21-33 came to mind.

In this passage, we find instructions to husbands and wives what it takes for a marriage to work. The key appears to be found in the word “submit.” Verse 21 kicks off this passage with the command to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Bottom line: It takes both people submitting to each other and to God.

I’ll bet you’re thinking that there is no way I am going to bow down and submit to anyone. But please hear me out. Also, please read the passage for yourself in its entirety.

Back to this word, submit. Most people, especially men, are very familiar with verses 22 and 23, where wives are told to submit to their husbands, and the husband is the head of the wife. But, men, did you actually read all of those two verses? Wives are told to submit to their husbands as to the Lord. And that the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church.

Now, a little further on, we see what all this really means. Guys, are you truly willing to love your wife as Christ loved the church? Are you willing to give up your life for her? You see, gentleman, you need to give your wife a reason to trust you enough that she will feel safe submitting to you.

Wives, can I ask, are you respecting your husband? Do you behave in a way that helps them to trust you so much that they are encouraged and willing to love you as Christ loved the church? Do you encourage him? Do you pray for him?

So we are back to this idea of submitting to each other. What exactly does this mean? Well, I’m glad you asked, because I have a few ideas. Pray for each other, and pray with each other. Communicate. This means talking to each other. Work together to come to solutions to problems. Be faithful. Lift each other up. Look for opportunities to show love. Encourage each other. Make your home a safe and loving environment.

Submitting to each other does NOT mean accepting abusive behaviors. Abuse, of any kind, should never be tolerated or accepted. The same goes for unfaithfulness. These are unacceptable behaviors. They have no place in any relationship. And they definitely have no place among God’s people. Nowhere in scripture do I find a command to remain in such situations.

Finally, in verse 33, we read that each man must LOVE his wife, and the wife must respect her husband. So give each other a reason to love and respect each other.

Bottom line: It takes both people submitting to each other and to God.

We Remember

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I would love to give proper credit for this picture.

Where were you 21 years ago today?

As we remember the horrific scenes, and as we mourn the lives lost, from the attacks on our nation 21 years ago, can we also remember that in the days that followed we didn’t identify as White, Black, Hispanic, Native American, Asian, male, female, straight, gay, Christian, Jew, Muslim, Hindu, rich, poor, Republican, Democrat, and whatever other ways we have become divided. No, in spite of our differences, we came together as Americans.

Can we do that again? Can we tell the politicians, the media, and the rest who continue to work to divide us, to take a long walk off a short pier? Can we once again reach out to our neighbors, look past our differences and work together?
Can we admit that just maybe it begins with each of us. Maybe it begins with me.

Lately I have been continually reminded of 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT)
Then if my people who are called by my name will HUMBLE THEMSELVES and PRAY and SEEK MY FACE and TURN FROM their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.

This is just one verse of a longer passage where the Israelites have been warned of the cost of turning away from God. May I be so bold as to point out that it doesn’t say that everyone should pray. It doesn’t call on politicians to turn away from their wicked ways. This is a command for GOD’S PEOPLE, those of us who profess to believe in and worship the living God. WE are called to humble ourselves. WE are commanded to pray. WE are commanded to seek the face of our Creator. WE are commanded to turn from our wickedness.

It starts with us. It starts with me.

Sow Your Seed

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I need ten people a month to plant a seed of $300 a month. God also told me he wants me to have a brand new RV, along with a new truck to tow it. When you plant your seed, and send it to me, God will bless you, richly.

Ok, ok. Stop. Please don’t actually send me money. Number one, it doesn’t work that way. Yes, God does ask us to tithe. This is how we support our individual local churches. God may ask you to support an evangelist, or a missionary, or some other ministry in addition to your local church. And he will baless you; but not necessarily financially. Besides, we don’t give in order to get. That’s not God’s plan.

Yes, there are biblical principles that should guide how we handle ALL of our resources, including money. But please, don’t fall for the lies of those who proclaim a prosperity gospel. Too many people are sending their resources, resources that they need, to charlatans who promise things that are nowhere in the Bible.

Sadly, these charlatans bear no resemblance to the local church. Most churches are small, and most pastors have a very small income. And the homes most pastors live in are quite modest, especially if provided by the church. Many pastors are working two or three jobs. So please, support your local church, and your pastor, first.

If God has blessed you financially, and is asking you to support anther ministry, then by all means, be obedient. There are many legitimate ministries who are serving people.

We Remember

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Twenty four years ago today I, along with everyone in the Oklahoma City metro area, was awakened by the sound of a bomb blast. I lived in Bethany at the time; I’d guess about seven to nine miles away (as the crow flies) from the Murrah Federal building. Of course there are others who lived even further away who also heard and felt the blast.

Twenty-four years ago, April 19 came three days after Easter. Three days after we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This year, April 19 falls on what we term Good Friday.

Today, we remember the victims, and their families, of that act of home grown terrorism. Today, we also remember that nearly 2000 years ago Jesus Christ died on a cross to pay the penalty for the sins of all mankind. And we may ask ourselves, in light of the tragedies that we remember today, how can we call this “Good?”

We call today “Good Friday” because by His death on the cross, Jesus Christ, the Messiah, paid the price for sin. Just as He took Barabbas’ place on the cross, he took YOUR place on the cross. He took MY place on the cross.

We mourn for those we have lost. And we, as those first disciples, weep at the death of our Savior. We remember them. How will we honor them?

Though the night may be long, we also remember “It’s Friday, but Sunday’s coming.”

Pardoned

/ CD Hamman / 1 Comment

About a week ago I found out that the governor had granted my request for a pardon. I had thought about what I might say if the day ever came, and now, I’m not sure what to say, other than “Thank you.” Thank you, God. Thank you, Governor Stitt. And there’s so many other people to thank, the members of the Pardon and Parole Board, my family, especially my children and my parents, my attorney, Michael Risely, my pastor, all those who have prayed for me, and for my kids over the last almost 17 years, and so many more people who took a chance on me and believed in me.
Even as I find myself thinking about dreams that I dared not even hope for, it still doesn’t quite seem real. I keep checking to make it’s real. And I’m brought to tears.
I think I have a tiny bit more understanding of what it means to be forgiven by God. The most emotional and important part of the certificate of pardon, for me, is the sentence that ends with the phrase, “…do hereby grant Carl D. Hamman a full pardon to restore unto him all the rights of citizenship.” If God were to hand us a certificate of pardon, it might read, “…do hereby grant Carl D. Hamman a full pardon to restore unto him all the rights of citizenship, and a son.” In both cases, I have an obligation to strive to be a good citizen. God commands it.
There are a few things that had to take place before I could receive a pardon. First, of course, is I had to be convicted. I had to serve my sentence. I had to accept my guilt. I also had to not commit any other crimes, both while completing my sentence, and after my sentence was complete. Finally, I had to ask for a pardon, following the proscribed procedure. Then wait.
Of course God does not make us wait for His pardon. The Holy Spirit convicts us. But, He doesn’t require that we first serve our sentence. Jesus Christ already served our sentence on the cross. But, we do have to accept our guilt, and confess our sins, and repent. God grants immediate forgiveness, without making us prove ourselves first. By the way, true repentance means we stop sinning.
As I contemplate what will I do with my new life, post pardon, I am reminded that we all have to answer that same question with God. What will I do with my new life in Christ?
What will you do with yours? Are you ready to receive your pardon?

Christmas thoughts

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I was watching a rerun of Night Court yesterday. At the end of the episode judge Harry Stone is standing in his courtroom looking at a cross. He was talking to the Lord, and asking questions. Finally, he asked the toughest, yet easiest, question: Does man have the capacity to rid himself of his own evil?

It’s a tough question because to even ask it requires that we first recognize that we even are capable of evil. And, frankly, in spite of all the evidence, none of us wants to admit that. It’s also the easiest question to answer, because the answer is, sadly a resounding NO, we do not.

But, all is not lost. You see, that is exactly why Christ was born. He was born to show us the way, and to pay the price. He was born to die, so that we might be reconciled to the Father, who created us. So, although we do not have the capacity within ourselves to rid ourselves from evil, we have a loving God, who gave His son who paid the price for our sin. He also defeated death, and gives us His Holy Spirit, who works within us to remove that evil that infects us.

In other words, Jesus Christ is the greatest gift the world has ever received.

Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

John 3:16-17 (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. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

Thanksgiving 2018

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As I contemplate Thanksgiving this year, I wonder what I’m thankful for. To be completely honest, it is so much easier to see the struggles, and disappointments, and all that has gone wrong, that I sometimes, ok, make that often times, struggle to be thankful. But one thing I am thankful for is a loving, generous God. In spite of my shortcomings, my doubts, my failures, my arguing, and my questions He hasn’t given up on me.

He still talks to me. The Holy Spirit continues to remind me that I am a child of the Most High God. The one and only Sovereign God, who created the universe, and who knit me in my mother’s womb.

The Son, Jesus Christ, paid the price for all of my sins. All of my sins, failures, and shortcomings are covered by the blood. By His blood. And because He paid the price, then rose from the dead, and because I have accepted Christ as Lord and Savior, I know that I have eternal life in Him. I know that even when I screw up, and fail, that I can come to Him, repent, and He’ll pick me up.

God doesn’t give up on His children. And for that I am truly thankful.

Where would Jesus be?

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What would you think if you saw me in a bar? What is the first thing that would come to your mind? Would you assume I was drinking? What if you later saw me preaching? Or, flip the script, if you saw me preaching first, then later saw me in a bar? Would your opinion of me change?

These questions came to me last weekend as I was sitting in the hotel bar enjoying conversation, and fun with my coworkers and teammates. Then that question from the 90’s came to mind, “What Would Jesus Do?” WWJD. As I thought about it, I changed it to WWJB, and started wondering, “Where Would Jesus Be?”

Where would He be? Where would He have us be? Please, don’t misunderstand me, I am big on attending church and worship services. But that’s where we are supposed to be getting fed, so that we can then take Jesus to the world. We need to push away from the table sometimes, and get out in the fields.

So then I started wondering, have I been an ambassador of Christ this week? I try not to make a big deal about being a Christian, or a minister. Why? Because I fail so bad, so often. But I still try to live, behave, and talk so that others may see Jesus in me. But even through my failures, He works.

So I hope that my coworkers and my teammates, and all those I came in contact with last week saw at least a glimpse of the Savior in me. I pray that I at least planted a seed, or watered it. And I pray that I never just assume the worst about any person I see in a bar, on the street, in prison, or anywhere else that we deem off limits for Christians. I’m not suggesting that Jesus would patronize a strip club. But, would He go into one to save someone who needs Him, and to bring them out?

Jesus was often judged by the religious leaders because He tended to hang out with “sinners.” Well, how are we going to reach them if we don’t spend some time with them. We need to leave our comfort zones.

Just something to think about.

And, just in case you’re wondering, don’t worry, I was only drinking ginger ale.

Thoughts on tithing

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I don’t think I ever see myself preaching a lot on tithing. Why? Because I’ve never been good at practicing it. Truth be told, my money handling has not been the best over the years. And my tithing record, well, let’s just say that I owe God so much in back tithe that I’ll never catch up. Praise God that my salvation isn’t based on my tithing. 

So why bother then? Because our tithes are how the church pays it’s bills, so that we can sit in an air conditioned sanctuary in the heat of the summer, and in a warm sanctuary during the cold winter months. Tithes and offerings are what makes the various ministries of the local church possible. They also are used to help your church reach out to the community. And, because we are commanded in scripture to tithe. If we want to be legalistic, and follow the levitical law, then ten percent is actually the bare minimum. Then there are even more tithes and offerings on top of that. I use to feel like I just couldn’t keep up. Besides, I just don’t have enough money to tithe. That was my attitude for years. It was like saying, “God, I need to pay everybody else first. Then, if there’s anything left over, I’ll pay you.”

Again, then why bother? Why am I even talking about it? Because, I’m learning something new. And as I’ve been trying to put it into practice I can honestly see where God is truly working. Ten years ago I began to try to tithe faithfully. I didn’t start out at ten percent.I started with just trying to do a couple dollars out of each check. Then I slowly worked up to five percent, of net; then ten percent, of net. Then I stepped out and moved to ten percent of my gross pay. And God has blessed those efforts.

Now, I’m still not rich. God hasn’t just rained money down on me. But He has made sure my needs are met. I remember talking with an older pastor once about tithing. The first church he pastored only paid him $100 a week. He said that he and his wife tried to live on that $100, and there just wasn’t enough money. But when they tithed ten dollars, the ninety dollars left was somehow just enough. I’m finding that same principle works for me. I can’t fully explain it. But I do know this, when I give God what he asks for first, somehow, I’m able to budget the rest just a little bit better. 

Now, I’m no super saint. There are times I still struggle to pay my tithe; especially when the pay check is smaller than I expected. And, I even have to admit that there have been times I held back. But God brings me back around, gets me back on track and we move on.

Something that has helped me is how I view tithing. I use to see tithing as a duty. Now, I see it as a privilege. And those weeks that I see bigger pay checks, I no longer thinking “I have to tithe more.” Now, it’s “I get to tithe more.”

If you are not in the habit of tithing, I challenge you to begin. Now, some may not agree with my next suggestion, but baby steps are better than none at all. If you are just starting out tithing, I don’t think it has to be ten percent. Unless that’s how you feel God is leading you. (In that case, listen to God.) But if you’re just starting out tithing, start small. I promise that you will see God working in your finances, and eventually He’ll challenge you to increase your tithe.

And if you have no income, then tithe your time. Also, use your talents. One of the best testimonies I heard was from a young lady who is a single mom with no job. She wanted to tithe something. She likes making special chocolate dipped strawberries. She got orders for chocolate covered strawberries, and turned her skill into income. She was so excited to be able to tithe. The excitement she had was priceless.

So, what’s your attitude toward tithing? You might think that you can’t afford to tithe. I can honestly say that based on my experience, you can’t afford not to tithe. Do you see tithing as simply another obligation, or bill, that has to be paid? Or do you see it as an opportunity to give, and be a part of helping to build God’s kingdom? Who really comes first, God, or the bills, or you? It sounds so cliché, but more and more I see is true, you can’t out give God.

So, step out on faith. Take baby steps if you have to. But take the challenge. I dare you. 

Are your words dehumanizing?

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How do you refer to a prostitute? Do we use words like lot lizard, slut, ho, or skank?

How do you refer to people who are gay? Are we using words like fag, homo, lesbo, or queer.

How about the person asking for money? “Maybe words like bum, lazy, derelict. Maybe even drunk, or addict.

What about immigrants; what words do you use to refer to them? Are words like wetback, rag head, and other derogatory terms a regular part of your vocabulary?

What about that person who just made a really stupid move and cut you off in traffic? Do we come up with words like idiot, moron and others, that if I said, or printed, my mother would wash my mouth out with soap.

I hate to admit it, but I have used many of the above words to refer to people. Did you catch that? Stop and think about if for a minute. These are people. Do terms like lot lizard, faggot, drunk, bum, or idiot make you think of a person? It’s all too easy to use these terms to refer to those we see as less than we are. And that’s just it. Using these words helps us to dehumanize the people in question.

What happens if we see these same people as human? Well, then we have to acknowledge that that prostitute is someone’s daughter, sister, maybe even someone’s mother. There’s even a good chance she may be a victim of human trafficking.

We then also have to acknowledge that the gay guy is someone’s son, brother, or uncle. He might even be someone’s father. Or the lesbian is someone’s daughter, sister, aunt, and just maybe mother.

The same thing for the person asking for money, or the person who cut you off in traffic, and the immigrant. And on and on it goes. They are people.

Why does it matter what words we choose to use? It matters because they are people. If we can ignore their humanity then it becomes easier to treat them badly. Dehumanizing others allows us to excuse mistreatment of others. I would venture to say that the atrocities of the past prove my point. Hitler dehumanized the Jews, those who held slaves saw them as nothing more than chattel to be bought and sold. Of course those are just two examples within the past 200 years, but there are many other examples. More current examples would be terror groups calling people infidels and killing them for not sharing their beliefs, or hate groups who picket funerals of those they deem less than godly declaring that God hates them.

The most important reason that it matters is because Christ died for them too. We can’t reach them for Christ if we fail to see and recognize their humanity.  What distinguishes His people is our love for others. How can we expect people to come to Christ if we who claim He is our Lord and Savior are unloving with our words? Their idea of God will be shaped, at least in part, by how His representatives act, as well as speak.

Are we Listening?

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Something strange happened today. When I stopped to get fuel, and take my 30 minute break, I met another driver. Nothing unusual about that, as I meet people all the time. But meeting this driver started as simply a friendly greeting in passing, as I was walking back to my truck, with my somewhat freshly made truckstop cheeseburger.

As I continued toward my truck, I got just a few steps away when I could almost hear a voice telling me to turn around, and go back and offer to pray with that driver. I have to admit, I hesitated. And I even argued. I mean, God just doesn’t speak to me that way. Sure, there have been other times I felt like God might be telling me something, and I’ve shrugged it off. But this was different. I tried telling myself this was crazy. I just could not shake the feeling that I needed to pray with this person. I had this sense that how I choose to respond was extremely important, in ways that I honestly don’t fully comprehend.

So, I said “OK, God. I think I may be going nuts, but, I’ll try this.” I turned around and walked back to this other driver, who was still outside her truck, adding coolant. As I approached, I said simply, “Please don’t think I’m nuts, but God told me to come back and offer to pray with you.” As I prayed with Julianne, I learned that she had simply needed a prayer partner today.

Then we parted ways, and I got back into my truck, started it, and started driving. As I’m pulling out of the truckstop, I have the radio on, and one of those radio preachers comes on. He started with a comment about how people say God doesn’t talk to us like He had in the past. The next thing he says is that maybe God has been talking to us, we just haven’t been listening like people did in the past. After hearing this, I couldn’t help but wonder about times in the past when I thought God might be telling me to do something, but I brushed it aside, because, “God never speaks to me that way.” Maybe God really was speaking those times, but I wasn’t listening. What about you? Are you listening?

Love didn’t win in the supreme court

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

The headlines following the supreme court decision to overturn over 200 years of US law and history, and ignore all of human history and God, are spouting that love wins. I’m sorry to break this to you, but love didn’t win. Sin, selfishness, and politics won out in the supreme court. Many have tried to compare the civil rights movement to gay rights. There’s just one problem with that. One does not get to choose the color of his,or her, skin. We also do not get to choose our gender. I don’t care how you mutilate yourself, you cannot change your DNA, therefore you will be whatever gender you were born as, and your skin color will also not chance.

However, we DO get to choose our behaviors, and our lifestyle. Having said that, I’ll also warn you don’t get too comfortable if you think I’m about to jump on the anti-gay bandwagon. Far too often I have witnessed not only sinners refusing to obey God, but many of us in the church also demand to do it our own way.

How many of us harbor hatred toward another? What about gossip? I have heard gossip disguised as prayer requests, but it was nothing less that gossip. Are you honest in your finances, and your business dealings with others? What about in your marriage or dating? Are you faithful to your spouse? If your single, are you remaining sexually pure? Are you lusting after the opposite sex? These are just a few sins that come to mind. I mention these because it seems that we freely shout judgement and condemnation against gays and our government, while ignoring, or excusing our own sins. Worse, we’re so busy condemning them to hell that we seldom, if ever, share the Gospel. Of course, how can we share the Gospel with those who need it if we are busy alienating them, and sending them to hell.

I’m trying to find a balance between warning of the judgement we face, and proclaiming the great mercy of God that is available to us. As I ponder this, the story of Jonah comes to mind. It seems to me his true reason for trying to refuse to go to Nineveh is revealed toward the end of the story. After proclaiming God’s judgement against the city, Jonah went outside the city to wait and watch. He actually was upset that God spared them when they repented. He even told God, “See, I knew if they repented you would show them mercy.”
Yes, judgement is coming, but how much better to rejoice in His mercy when someone repents.

Yes, 5 justices of the supreme court have made a very bad decision, that flies in the face of history and law. Yes, homosexuality is sin. So are gossip, drunkenness, lust, greed, lying, and adultery. But love still wins in the end. God’s love for us, and his mercy, if only we will repent, turn away from sin, all sin, and follow Him. How much greater impact would we have if we love each other enough to actually share the Gospel with others, and live it out. While we’re at it, remember to pray. Pray for each other, pray for family and friends, and pray for our government.

Final thought, God doesn’t hate any person. But he does hate sin. Our sin grieves him deeply. He’s just waiting for each person to accept Christ and turn from sin. If He didn’t love us he would not have sent his only son to pay the penalty. No one has to remain bound to sin. Jesus died to pay the penalty, and he rose again so that in the end we can be with him for eternity.

The Strongest Weakness

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

I was once considered to be the strongest man alive. But even the strong have a weakness. My weakness was women. Those Philistine women were just absolutely gorgeous to me. I actually fell in love with two of them. Sadly, they both proved to be my weakness.

The first was a pretty lady in Timnah. While we were celebrating our wedding I gave a riddle to the groomsmen, and made a very with them. Nobody knew the answer, except me. The riddle was “Out of the one who eats came something to eat; out of the strong cane something sweet.” You see, I had killed a lion and then a bit later, as I passed by the carcass I noticed that bees had made a hive in it, and I scooped out some honey and ate it. I never even told my parents the answer. But when these men could not answer they began to prayer my new bride for the answer.

This woman nagged me for the answer. But when I still refused, she got downright dirty about it and cheated. She turned on the tears, and began crying about how I didn’t love her. She said if I really loved her I would tell her the answer. Between the nagging and crying I caved (as most men do). I told her the answer. And just before the celebration ended, the groomsmen gave me the answer. I told them that the only reason they knew the answer to my riddle was because they had been plowing with my heifer. By the way, guys, I really don’t recommend using this analogy today. It might get you seriously hurt. Of coarse, I was angry that she had betrayed me. After killing 30 Philistine men to pay my gambling debt I went back to my parents home.

Then when I went back to her, I took a gift, only to find out that her father had given her to my best man to marry. Well, I got my revenge for that. I took 300 foxes, tied their trails together in pairs along with tying torches to each pair of tails them released them to run through their fields of grain.

After some time, another pretty Philistine woman caught my eye. Delilah was her name. Well, the Philistines pretty much hated me, so they asked Delilah to find out why I was so strong. And in exchange, they would give her a large sum of money. At first I refused to tell her. I made up some things. First I told her that if I was tied up with 7 new, bowstrings that I would be just like any other man. And while I was asleep, she had men hiding in the house and she tied me up, then yelled that the Philistines were here to take me away. Well, I awoke and snapped the bowstring with ease.

She accused me of making fun of her, and insisted on knowing how I could be easily tied up. This time, I told her that seven brand new ropes must be used. That night she again tied me up as I slept, using brand new ropes, and then yelled that the Philistines had come to capture me. Of course I woke up and shook off the ropes with ease.

Then I slipped just a little when she stated crying about me making fun of her, lying to her. I actually mentioned that it had something to do with my hair. This time I told her that if she was to weave my hair into the fabric on her loom, and tighten it, then I would be as weak as the next man. Yep, you guessed it; while I was sound asleep, she snuck Philistines into her house and wove the seven braids of my hair into the fabric of the loom, tight, then yelled that the Philistines had come to capture me. As before, I awoke, and quickly freed myself.

Now an intelligent man, who was thinking with his brain, would have surely realized by now that this woman was trying to help the Philistines capture me. But I obviously was not using my brain. Because this time, as she cried and nagged I caved in and told her the real secret to my strength. I told her that my hair had never been cut. That my parents dedicated me as a Nazirite from birth, and that if my hair is cut, I will be left powerless. A normal, intelligent man, thinking with his brain would have known by now that falling asleep around this woman is dangerous! Especially with such an important piece of information! But, I was not using my brain at all. I fell asleep in her lap. And as I slept she had someone come in and shave my head. My strength vanished. This time, when she called out, I awoke, thinking it was no big deal, I was captured. And when the Philistines captured me, they gouged my eyes out, blinding me. Then they bound me with chains, and I was forced to grind the grain in their prison.

My hair did begin to grow again. And as it did, my strength returned. I got my revenge one last time, and while the Philistines were having a party, celebrating my capture, the people insisted that I be brought out to entertain and amuse then. Their temple was full of people, as well as the leaders, and the thousands of people on the roof, all celebrating and half drunk. I had the servant who brought me out to help me place my hands on the pillars that held up their temple. I told him I needed to rest on them. I prayed that God would give me strength one last time, so that I might bring down those two supporting pillars, and crush my enemies. He answered my prayer as I asked.

I lost my eyes, and my freedom because I refused to acknowledge my weakness. Yet, in spite of my weakness, God used me against the enemies of Israel.

Thoughts on restoring religious freedom

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

If you are reading this, I ask that you please read the entire post. You are free to disagree, but I will delete any reply that I determine to be disrespectful, or in poor taste.

I’m going to try to put this as simple as I can. Laws attempting to restore religious freedoms became necessary when activist judges and courts started declaring that certain businesses must accommodate everyone’s lifestyle.

Now typically the business that have been targeted have been Christian owned. Many are simple mom and pop type places like bakeries and florists shops, and wedding photographers. The activists that tend to target these businesses want to force everyone to celebrate their new found legal right to get married.

I’m sorry to have to say this, but no one, individual or business should be forced to support or provide services against their conscience. We are not talking about things that a person can’t change, like skin color, gender, or ancestry. We are talking about chosen lifestyles. We discriminate against people every day for behaviors. Yes, many try to claim their behavior is because they were born that way. Sorry, there still has not been any evidence of a gay gene, a hate gene, an anger gene, a drunk or stoned gene, or any other gene that determines how one must choose to behave or live. So far, the only evidence has shown that a person may be born with a propensity to behave or respond in certain ways. And yet, even then, there is evidence that nurture can chance nature. Once we accept the fallacy that “I behave like this because I’m born this way,” then personal responsibility simply has to also go out the window.

Before I continue, I must clarify, that certain professions must never be permitted to refuse service, those being primarily public safety and health professionals. And a true Christian in these professions, I do not believe, would refuse to do his or her job. I also would not support a business in general, refusing to serve anyone. However, they can and should be allowed to determine acceptable behavior for their establishment. We all need flowers, groceries, pictures, and baked goods. But when you try to force someone to help you celebrate a lifestyle that they do not agree with, for whatever reason, you have crossed a line. Many of the businesses that have been the targets of these activist lawsuits have gladly done business with members of the gay and lesbian community; except when they were asked to help those individuals celebrate a gay marriage. Now my first response to this is that it just is not reasonable to want someone, no matter how good they are, to provide services for something they don’t feel they can support in good conscience. That’s like walking into a Jewish or Muslim owned meat market and demanding that they sell you pork. Or expecting a divorce attorney to represent you in a criminal case. That’s just not smart.

Bottom line, if you want to celebrate a marriage, or any event that your baker, caterer, wedding planner or photographer may be opposed to, then be civilized enough to accept that they can’t provide you with their best for that occasion, and find someone who does.

Now, to the Christians…Folks, we blew it a long time ago. It’s time we start cleaning up our own acts, and hitting our knees, instead of simply blaming the gays or politicians, or whoever else we want to blame. We have let the devil into too many of our churches. Granted, that’s been going on since the days of the early church. And we still haven’t learned. We preach against homosexuality, yet find every possible excuse to justify our own sin, divorces, extramarital affairs, lust, anger, hateful attitudes, gossip, or even stealing. It’s not even uncommon for these things to take place at the church. And we too make excuses for our own failures and sin, using the age old excuse, “I can’t help it. God made me this way.”

Ladies and gentlemen, I’m under conviction myself here too, so if I’m stepping on your toes, then good, because I’m also stepping on mine. I certainly have no room to simply point my finger at anyone. I too have been guilty of divorce and gossip, and even hateful attitudes. But, I’ve been forgiven for my sins, and that is not the way God expects His children to live. Daily I still have to approach God’s throne and ask for a fresh filling of his Holy Spirit. Frequently, I say or do something that the Holy Spirit convicts me of, and I repent. I may be the only Jesus someone sees today. And I do not want to be the reason that someone rejects Christ.

We also need to be very much aware of how we treat others. First, we can’t love those outside the church if we don’t love our brothers and sisters inside the church. The world will know we are Christians by our love; for each other, and for others. I certainly do not agree with the lifestyles chosen by those in the GLBT community. But I also do not believe that we have any right to be hateful toward them, any more than we have a right to be hateful to the drug addict, the drunk, the unwed mother, the prostitute, our brothers, our sisters, or anyone else. We will not win people to Christ by being hateful. If you provide a service, and yet you feel you cannot in good conscience provide it for anyone in any lifestyle or circumstance, you can still be loving in your refusal to provide the service. We all work with many different people, from many different backgrounds. Regardless how we feel about them, we still, as representatives of Christ must treat them with human dignity and respect. Hating the sin does not mean hating the sinner. Loving the sinner does not mean loving or accepting the sin. Be a friend. Be Jesus. I’m not saying it’s easy, but make the effort. And let the Holy Spirit do his job. I have been blessed to know some wonderful people whose lifestyles and behaviors I do not necessarily agree with. I am pleased to call them my family, and my friends. And I pray for them to know the transforming power of Jesus Christ. I trust that one day they will. In the meantime, I love them, and try to let Jesus shine through me. I want to see through His eyes.

I plead the blood of Jesus

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Eight days ago I got sick enough that I broke down and actually called for an ambulance to take me to the nearest emergency room. On the one hand, I was certain it was nothing more than a horrible case of gas. But at the same time I felt like I was about to die. So, after several hours of not being able to get comfortable, and no relief, I caved in to both my fear, and my training. From my paramedic training, I knew the signs and symptoms were consistent with gall bladder problems, or potentially a heart attack. But that didn’t change my mind, that it surely was just going to be nothing more than gas. I chose to ignore the facts. The ER doctor examined me, ordered tests that verified his diagnosis, and forced me to accept the truth.

From the emergency room I was admitted to the hospital. I was told that most likely I would have surgery first thing in the morning. Now I was really scared. I hate to admit it, but I was actually frightened. As part of my paramedic training I had spent some time in the operating room. I know the doctors and nurses in there are well trained professionals. But when it comes to trusting someone else with my life, I have a very difficult time with that.

Maybe worse, was not knowing exactly when I was going to have surgery. The surgical resident who examined me Monday morning told me it would probably be later in the afternoon. He lied. Sometime around 10:30 or 11:00, I think, they came to take me down to be prepped for surgery. The only notification I really had time to make before being taken from my room was to go on Facebook with my phone and just post a quick status, “going under the knife, now.” I found out later one of my daughters saw that and may have freaked out just a bit. (Note to self, try harder to avoid freaking the kids out. )

The whole time I kept wondering if I had really done enough. Was I really good enough? What if I did die? What would my kids remember most? Did I really give them a good foundation for faith? To be honest, these questions frequently haunt me. But one overriding thought kept answering those questions. I had accepted Christ as Lord and Savior at boys camp, a long time ago. As I was finally being wheeled to the operating room, I felt like God was asking, “How do you plead?” My sole response, “I plead the blood. I plead the blood, of Jesus.” My final conscious thought, was “no matter what, I plead the blood of Jesus.”

What truly frightens me, is the possibility of arriving to judgement day, and seeing loved ones who never made a commitment to Christ while they had a chance. Ultimately, on judgement day, we only have two options available: to kneel, and be found guilty; or to kneel, and plead the blood of Christ. Today is the day of salvation. Which option do you choose?

But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin. If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. (1 John 1:7-9, NLTse)

Challenge for 2015 – Happy New Year

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. (Colossians 3:17 NLTse)

Since May 2014 I have spent most of my time driving around the country. And I have become increasingly aware of something; people are very much self-centered. I’ve been guilty of this myself. We drive down the road, frequently cutting off other vehicles, oblivious to what others are doing, or are about to do. Why? So that we can get to the next stoplight a few seconds before the other person? Or we wait until the last possible second to get into the open lane coming up to a construction zone, forcing those who paid attention, and already got over, to have to let us, the inconsiderate drivers, in now that we have made it abundantly clear that our destination is obviously much more important than theirs is.

And let’s not forget about the Christmas season. When we proclaim “Peace on earth. Goodwill to men.” But we’ll run each other over to get a certain parking spot; or sucker punch someone to get that gift that our kids just have to have. And I have no clue how many close calls I had on Christmas eve trying to get from Dallas to Oklahoma City. I lost count after the first 50 people cut me off, or tried to come over into my lane… while I was still there… driving my SEMI.

Honestly, I’m not really all that jaded. Hopefully, my attempts at humor are evident. But, there is a serious side to this. Do I drive as though I represent Christ? When I talk to shippers, receivers, and others, do I represent Christ well. Do I drive courteously, even when the driver who just tried to cut me off, makes a point to then make sure I can see him flip me off? How do I respond when someone flips me “the bird?” How do I respond when I arrive at a customer and they begin yelling at me, or cussing me out because I’m late picking up or delivering? How should I behave in these situations?

I’ll leave you to search your own hearts, and spend time in prayer to answer those questions for yourself. But my challenge this year is to keep Colossians 3:17 in mind. Indeed, there are several passages of Scripture that remind us to do and say things either as representatives of Christ, or as though we are doing them directly for Him. I am reminded daily that I don’t work primarily for the company who’s name is on the side of my truck and trailer. I work primarily for God. I am supposed to be His ambassador, and representative. No matter what I do, or say, his Holy Spirit should be evident in my life. May I constantly remember to behave, and speak, in a manner befitting a child of God.

One last thing…. I’d like to give a special shout out to the driver of the little sports car who made it a point to come around and flip me off… May God bless you, and may He continue to protect you… and all those around you.

Waiting

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

I think I am learning a little bit of a lesson in waiting. Waiting is NOT one of my strengths. I hate waiting. Not only do I hate waiting, but I am a very impatient person. But over the past month I have been forced to wait. I waited over two weeks to receive my hardcopy of my CDL. I waited about three weeks to begin orientation for my new job. During the two and a half days of orientation, I had to wait to find out that I definitely had the job. Now, I find myself waiting for a trainer. Even though I am getting paid while I wait for a trainer, I don’t want to wait. I want to get going now. I could call the training department every hour or even every minute. Of course, I know that would be fruitless. If they don’t have a trainer available for me, my constant calling them isn’t going to change the situation. So, I wait, knowing that they know I’m here. And I also know that they  know that my sitting and waiting is only costing them money. In fact, until I complete my training, and am assigned my own truck, they know that I’m not even making the company money.  So I know their plan is not for me to sit around waiting for very long. I know that they will get me out with a trainer as soon as possible.

But what do I do while I wait? Fortunately, I have some training material that has to be completed before my training is over. I work on reading, and completing the written material.

Many times God has us wait on Him. What do we do with that time we are waiting. I hate to admit it, but I have usually been guilty of spending that time whining, and complaining. To be honest, I haven’t suddenly changed over night. But I am trying to see where God is working, and what He may be trying to teach me. Nothing I do or say is going to make God move any faster. Just because I am in a waiting pattern on something does not mean he has forgotten about me. God has a plan. Often, my job is to simply trust and follow the instructions He has given me.
I’m the meantime, I continue to prepare.

How do we prepare? God has provided us with training material; we call it the Bible. Just as I have to read the company’s training material to familiarize myself with my new company and job, I have to read my Bible to get familiar with God, and to know what He desires of me. As I do so, I also find myself not only getting familiar with Him, I find myself drawn into a relationship with Him, and with others who also have a relationship with Him. In so doing, I also become better prepared for whatever task He may call me to complete. And sometimes, our task is to simply “Be still.” And wait.

I still don’t like to wait. But I’m trying to learn to use the waiting time wisely. To prepare for the next task, next crisis, or next miracle that God desires me to be a part of.