Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/1253738
Be Bold! Don't Fold! Linz & Vicki Philips National Chaplains BSHDFC We are back! That is, Vicky and I are "back in the saddle" as BSHDFC National Chaplains. After some recent setbacks , including 80 - hour work weeks for several months, as well as our dealership closing without notice we're reengaged in our chaplain roles with the Black Sheep once again. Clearly, that wasn't an effective way for us to assume a new role in ministry, and we are genuinely sorry for being so quiet over the past several months. What a crazy time we live in! Who would've ever thought that we'd endure a total social, economic, and political meltdown because of a virus? Notice there's no mention of spiritual meltdown?! That's because God uses what we see as a calamity for His own good. We're hearing daily about a renaissance in the interest of spiritual things, a resurgence in church attendance (granted on - line), and people developing friendships with people we'd probably just pass by on any given day. There has never be en a greater time to live out your faith among a hopeless world. James tells us that we should consider trials as "pure joy because the testing of our faith develops perseverance, and perseverance results in maturity and completion, lacking nothing" (James 1:5). Further if you feel clueless in the midst of this chaos, "ask of God, who gives wisdom generously" (James 1:6). The love and grace of God flourishes in a time of need! So what can you do now, today, given the fact that our "mission field" is seemingly empty (or at a minimum, " social distancing ") ? We were recently reminded by one of our pastors of what we can do using the acrostic: be B - O - L - D WHAT TO DO 1. B elieve God has things under control " And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. " (Romans 8:28) 2. O pportunities abound " Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. " (Matthew 20:27 - 28 3. L ove one another " Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. All men will know that you are my disciples if you love one another. " (John 13:34 - 35) 4. D o something ! WHAT NOT TO DO " Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. " (James 1:22) And we have added: Don't… F - O - L - D 1. Don't Be consumed by F ear " There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear ." (I John 4:18) 2. Don't Only consider O urselves " Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. " (Phili ppians 2:3) 3. Don't L ose focus " Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. " (Romans 12:2) 4. Don't Be D iscouraged " Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. " (Joshua 1:9) Hold onto these promises and remain focused on the eternal prize and the reward of exercising your faith during these troubling times. Be BOLD and don't FOLD. Blessings to you. BSHDFC E - MAG JUNE 2020 / PAGE 9