Month: October 2022

January 2022 – Happy New Year

Welcome to our January issue. As the year comes to an end and a new one begins how are you feeling? Did the year go well, or was the year a struggle? I truly hope it went well given the year. I know that it was a tough one.

Some of us lost our jobs, while others kept their job and others were super busy. It was a very mixed bag. If this coming year proves to be more of the same, we should think about what lessons we can take from this past year to make us stronger individuals. Adversity is not bad. What makes it good or bad is how we deal with it. When I got fired from my job at a wholesale nursery back in 1988, I had a young family and a house payment. I walked out of the office not knowing what I was going to do. However, being a student of the Bible, I knew verses, and I had memorized many of them. One story stood out and really spoke to me. It’s in 1 Samuel 25, and to sum it up, it speaks of God’s protection over David. Despite the adversity, God would see to it that David would succeed and prosper. There are many stories in the scriptures like this, and they all are meaningful. Though no one likes to be fired, I saw how God opened doors for me despite it, and I no longer fear it. I know that God is able to provide, and He can do the same for you. When we come to Him for help, He is faithful. Some 33 years later, and with a lot of hard work, Executive Care has gained the respect and appreciation of the communities we serve, and I as the owner am so grateful for that.

This year as mentioned has been a tough year for many, and that is true for me as well. My mom fell July 6th and broke her hip. Until her passing Sept.22, I would fly down weekly to Orange County to tend to her care. As she stabilized, it became every other week with daily phone calls. At 90 years of age, it took a bit for her to become stable. I jokingly told mom that I knew the flight attendants on a first name basis. Through that time, there was such a demand on my time and my energy. I helped manage

mom’s care both in person and over the phone, as well as run Executive Care. Our clients are so great and understood what I was going through. Many had or were currently experiencing the same. My men also are so well trained that as long as I had jobs ready for them and explained the goal, they knew what to do. A verse that was never far from my mind during this time, which gave me strength, is one of the Ten Commandments. In Exodus 20:12 it says, “Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” Jesus repeats this in the New Testament but adds to it by saying “so that it may go well with you, and it is the first commandment with a promise.” I knew God would honor my effort, and that my actions pleased Him. It was an honor for me to care for my mom, and to see to her care. I was honored to take her for a “spin” in her wheelchair and pay a ton of money to have her in a room next to a patio garden. I would take her on a tour of the garden and show off by naming all the botanical names of the plants. This impressed her to no end, and allowed her to sit in the sun, which felt so good to her. We take the little things like sitting in the sun for granted. It was a tough time for sure, but also strengthening because I knew I was doing the right thing. The celebration ceremony of her life was the toughest part. I gave the message, and between laughter at some of her sayings and holding back the tears, the message was delivered and appreciated.

There is a saying that says adversity introduces a man or a woman to themselves. It shows you what you are made of. I have had much opportunity to meet myself, probably more than I wanted to. Sometimes I am very pleased with who I have met, which is a credit to the Lord’s work in my life, and other times not, (there is still unfinished business). Since life is a journey and the journey prepares us for our destination, it’s the travel that counts. Through humility, (which is so counter cultural) and

loving the truth, I am being made ready for the destination. Here are some very beautiful sayings to mediate upon this season… some are religious and some not.

“Always remember that your present situation is not your final one, as diamonds are made beautiful through precise cutting, and rocks smoothed and beautified through the constant flow of water, so too is the human soul. Adversity if received correctly beautifies the soul.”

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” (Proverbs 3:5&6 is my life verse, but I will share it with you 😉

“Forgive people in your life, even those who are not sorry for their action. Holding on to anger and bitterness only hurts you, not them. Bitterness is like carrying a corpse on your back, eventually the decay kills you as well. Get free while you still can! ”

“I’m thankful for my struggles because without them I would not have stumbled across my strengths.”

This one is a little too me focused for my comfort, but I share it for those who are of this mindset. If I was to rewrite this, I would write it like this:

“I’m thankful for my struggles because it shows me my need of God; a Loving Father who is ever so eager to intervene in my life. He uses struggles to bring me to Him. He is a relationship seeking God and I find Him more in my struggles than in the good times. And because of Him, I find an inner strength that I would not have found as I do Life with Him.”

I end with these sayings, which I sincerely hope brought some comfort and courage as we enter a New Year. I am grateful that we can be of different mindsets but still appreciate and learn from each other as we go through life; not giving a hand out, but a hand up as we all can use some help from time to time.

God Bless you and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year (There is a more faith-based article on my website, I would encourage you to read it – Thank you).

Finally, I have published a book called Life (really origin title huh?) it can be ordered from Amazon and has a Lighthouse Tower on a blue cover. (Lighthouse’s have special meaning to me) I also write a monthly devotional called Vida4U (Vida is life in Spanish). It is faith based, and I jokingly tell my clients that if anything can be rattled inside, Vida will rattle it, however it is delivered in love. If you are interested, just send me an email requesting to be added to our monthly email (arthur@executivecareinc.com).

March 2022 – Bringing Beauty & Function To Hillsides

Welcome to the February/March edition. I trust you are well. To help me stay well, I take a set of vitamins, that though probably won’t cure me, will help strengthen my immune system. If you would like to know my regime, just email me. I find this combination very helpful. I found out about it listening to several well-known doctors.

We have continued to landscape through the winter, however slowly. Several of my men went to visit family for extended periods of time which dropped us down to 2 partial landscape crews and 1 maintenance crew. By the time you read this article, all my “hombres” will be back.

The yard featured in this article was completed three years ago. We featured it a couple months after completion, but not since. I am anxious to show you the growth, even though the trees remain deciduous. If you focus on the before picture, you will see that it’s a sizable lawn with a definite slope to it. Why do we make the distinction between front and back yards? It is because the goal of each is different. The front yard needs curb appeal. We want the home to stand out among the other homes. Many homes stay with what the builder installed, which is very vanilla, and does not express the taste of the owners or the potential that the yard has. When considering design, the front yard is also about getting to the front door in a functional, yet artistic way. The backyard is more family related, so it tends to incorporate design that allows for that. Although we approach both front and back with a different mindset, oddly enough the finished products are very similar. There is no substitute for beauty, and it needs to be part of every landscape.

Our clients, Benjamin and Kathi, have a large family, and a large family means a lot of friends. A lot of traffic requires easy access to the front door. There were two other aspects that needed consideration as well. The driveway is a shared driveway with their neighbor, so there could be no parking on it. Another concern was when backing the cars out of the garage there was not enough space to turn around and drive up the driveway. They needed to back all the way up the hill to the street. This was a hassle. We needed to change that and create more space so they could have room to turn while backing out, and then drive forward up the driveway. To do that we needed to remove soil from the hill and then build a wall to contain it. It was a bit of a job, but it turned out really nice and has been a big help for them.

Getting people to the front door has several means, but only one way that is functional and artistic, especially considering the length that the walk/steps needed to be. Wood would need to be replaced. Concrete is too commercial, and it would not look natural within the landscape, so we chose steps out of stone. It is the most expensive way to go, especially when you factor in shipping cost, but there was nothing better. I presented them with the options, and they were excited about the stone steps, and okay with the extra cost. The rock yard I purchased from had a connection in Utah, and they had inventory. It was perfect, and the “Buff” color of the steps worked great into the overall theme and color of the home. The steps were heavy – about 80 to 100 pounds each. It took two men to set them. Thank goodness for our tractor that brought them up the hill!

Once we completed the steps, we were able to start the landscape. Hillsides are always challenging, and this one was no different. Our normal procedure for the start of the landscape phase of any job is tilling in fresh topsoil blend, creating mounds and then adding boulders (not all hills allow us to do this). These were the first steps prior to the plants. Prior to completing this, I invited Benjamin and Kathi to tour Green Acres Roseville with me – something that I really enjoy doing with our clients. From here you can see the results. However, I want to highlight the sitting area. We created it for their morning enjoyment. Their home is the last one on the street up in Auburn, so it is fairly private, and the surrounding environment is really nice and restful.

This is the first yard we are showing this year, and by doing so I in no way am wanting to imply that we are only interested in big yards. We are most happy to help with any size. If I show an average size yard, then people with bigger yards wonder if we can do big yards. By starting off showing a bigger yard, I want potential customers with larger than average yards to know that we do large yards, but at the same time if we do larger, we can easily handle and are happy to do so smaller yards. My personal goal is just to be able to help and get us outside to enjoy the beauty of Creation.

Call for a FREE Consultation*

*Free consultation given within local area only. Nominal charge may apply for travel outside of local work area. Call for details. CL#804681

Gardeners get ready because spring is coming. We are still harvesting from our winter garden that I have for the men and I at the shop. I love having my grandkids with me and telling them to pick some lettuce, Sweet Chard or Broccoli, etc. It connects them to life, as opposed to a grocery store. Prepare your ground for March planting unless you have cold frames and can then start in February.

Before Landscaping

Until next time, good gardening, Arthur…

May 2022 – Easy Care Yard

Welcome to our May article. I hope you are well. It seems that Covid is becoming a thing of the past. I see more lips and smiles, and I see many more cars out on the road. It was only two years ago that I and a few contractors were the only ones out. It definitely was different, and a little eerie. Though traffic is not fun for anyone, I would rather see traffic than not. I now have a whole new attitude towards traffic. It means things are getting back to normal, and that’s good. Now let’s talk about this month’s landscape.

This style of a yard is not for everyone, especially if you have kids. With kids, we would do a whole different type of landscape. However, if you are single, have kids almost grown, or are retired and done with all the yardwork, you may want to consider this style of landscape. It is colorful, drought smart, very low maintenance and yet it is still inviting. Our featured landscape. We completed the project in October 2020 and the “before” picture is really the just completed picture. Though it is still a young landscape (about a year if you exclude the last two winter months, I want to set expectations for what a new landscape should look like, as well as a periods throughout the years to watch it mature. I will probably revisit it in about 1 to 2 years.

Prior to what you see now, this was the typical landscape. It was all lawn with plants along the border. The job is in Sun City Lincoln, and it is for a client who enjoys looking out into his landscape and doing some light trimming while enjoying the sun. Last year he was in a boot due to foot surgery. He could not mow, and with the prior landscape, he would have had to hire someone. He enjoys sitting at his outdoor table enjoying a cup

of coffee with a friend or doing some personal reading. This type of yard does not tie you down. If a friend calls up and says let’s go out, this style of yard has its benefits. It is not great for children unless you have a park or a school close by.

Developing the concept came from a few questions I asked John. I also listened to his wants. By the time one is living in a retirement community, they normally have a pretty good idea of what they want. This made it easy to come up with a concept that would meet his needs. I enjoy dry stream beds for several reasons. They reduce plant maintenance, bring in a high-end view of the landscape (when done correctly), and give an added dimension of what is in nature, though in nature it has water. Additionally, it looks great at night with the proper placement of night lights. I see so many dry stream beds that look like nothing more than cobble placed on the ground in a linear pattern. There is no depth or real design, and I like incorporating boulders into the stream bed. We try to get as close to nature as possible, just without the water. A real stream bed adds another dimension of sound and beauty, but the maintenance and added cost (on top of the cost of the landscape) makes it undesirable for most of our clients. “Make believe” is just fine.

As most of you know, everything about the landscape leading up to the plants is important. Preparing the ground with amendments, mounding for dimension and depth (no flat landscapes), boulders, and dry stream are all part of a well- executed landscape. However, if the selection of plants fails, the whole job fails. I have seen other landscapers try to emulate our work. It’s easy to tell that it’s not our work, but it becomes really

apparent from the plant selection. This is where people wanting landscapes need to wise up a bit. Plants are so different, both in appearance, growth rate and size, sun preference, irrigation needs etc. Some look good together and others do not. Some are high maintenance, and some are not. Many landscapers do not know these differences, so it is up to the homeowner to be well-studied. Spending time at Green Acres, reading and researching plant height, water needs, sun light etc., is critical to ensure that you get a good job. I hate saying this to you, but it should be up to the landscaper to know his trade, not the homeowner. It’s apparent that this is not the case, and as much as we would like to help everyone, it is not realistic.

Night lights are amazing. Good ones are expensive, but they take a landscape to A+++. There is a peace and tranquility they give, and if you are into entertaining, they extend the evening hours. However, there is a little study that goes behind them. We use solid brass because it adds class, as opposed to aluminum fixtures that are powder coated and fade. However, I would use them if that is all my budget could afford, and then upgrade at a later date. Good fixtures are attractive, but it is more the effect of the light that we are wanting. I have lived by the rule that there is nothing I will add to the landscape if it does not help take the landscape to the next level. This is why we use brass fixtures.

Call for a FREE Consultation*

*Free consultation given within local area only. Nominal charge may apply for travel outside of local work area. Call for details. CL#804681

Finally, gardeners I hope you have your garden beds ready. It’s time to plant. Water frequently, keep the soil moist but not wet. After a couple weeks, increase your watering times to deepen the roots, but water less frequently. At this point it’s okay to let the surface dry out between watering. The goal is to develop deep roots and prepare the crops for the heat of summer. Be liberal with your fertilizer, as if you love salt with your food, but use an organic fertilizer with a 5-5-5 ratio with mycorrhizae (mycorrhizae is a must). I like to add it 1 week before the crops go in, tilling it under with a thorough watering to dissolve it. Because it is organic, it requires the soil biology to break it down and make it available for the plants.

Until next time….
Thank you for reading. Arthur

June 2022 – Shade Landscapes

Welcome to our June edition. I trust the year is going well, I know it’s going fast, as it always does. Now with school out, we have the concern of keeping our underaged kids busy. This can be a challenge. I have put our granddaughter in several classes offered by the City of Roseville, and Breakaway Classes offered by all the Bayside Church campuses. Other churches have similar programs as well. It is a good, and safe alternative.

It is not often that we come across an all-shade opportunity to landscape. Normally it’s morning shade and afternoon sun, or vice versa, but this job truly has filtered shade all day. The sun passes through the canopy here and there, as it moves over the top of the Red Oak. It is a very nice and large specimen tree. The leaves will be time consuming to pick up in the fall, but that is only for a couple months. A small price to pay for some nice shade.

Prior to us landscaping, this area was lawn. This always concerns me because trees in lawns tend to be shallow rooted and are typically the trees that go down in the winter, unless they tap into deeper water sources. I believe this is what has occurred with this tree, as well as others in the neighborhood. The levee is right behind the home, so judging by its size, as well as the size of the other trees, I do believe they have tapped into the underground water table. Nonetheless, since we are changing the means of receiving a percentage of its water, we created a separate irrigation valve/station just for the three trees in the yard. A bubbler system will run about 3 hours every 8 to 15 days, depending upon the season. Aside from the deep watering, the trees will also pick up water from the drip irrigation. This is probably similar to what they received from the lawn.

Prior to adding the bubbler system for the tree, which occurred after planting the plants, we began our normal process of amending the soil with our special blend. We seek to add about 3 inches to the top of the earth and then till it in, amending the first 6 inches. Since 5/gal. and 15/gal. plants go deeper, we amend the rest as we plant the plants. From here, we continue to follow our pattern of creating mounds, and sometimes create a dry stream bed. The stream beds tend to “class up” the landscape when done correctly but does just the opposite when done incorrectly. Next, we add the boulders (we work with three types). This is our signature and it’s how we prepare the canvas of the earth for the “ALL STARS” – the plants. Because of my years in growing plants, my knowledge of plants is pretty good, and we are able to use a nice variety of appropriate plants, which is also part of our signature. Because of what I just shared, we tend to be a bit more pricey. However, there are times I am surprised at the price people pay for what I would consider a homeowner’s landscape and not a supposed “professional landscaper.” This was the case for this particular project.

We were not the first landscape contractor hired for this project. Our client Tom had hired another company prior to hiring us. This other “landscaper” took 3 months to remove the lawn, lay a paver patio and build a wall, which we corrected and then completed. I witnessed the same thing these last months when we went to visit our daughter and son-in-law to go to their church each Sunday. It must have taken that landscaper about 3 months as well to do a yard about half the size of Tom’s, and when completed, it didn’t look like much. What they presented as their work for that time we could have completed in 4 to 5 days and done a far better job.

I asked Tom why he didn’t call us first, and he said we sounded expensive. Although we never spoke, I guess our name, Executive Care, must have made him think we are more expensive. However, he regrets now not calling. We finished his landscape and corrected the wall in 2 weeks, and both he and his wife love it. In his neighborhood, many people walk, and he has received numerous compliments on the landscape, which will only become more attractive as it matures.

It’s not often that I share what I just shared, (I do not like to talk about us because I prefer our clients and our work to do that) but having experienced and seen several landscapes completed poorly, I wanted to share a word of caution with you. Our waits are long, but it is better than getting a landscape that you are not pleased with, or one in which you must hassle the landscaper to get it done. If you absolutely can’t wait, call me first, and then depending upon your circumstances (you have a wedding, or a graduation coming etc.) I’ll see what I can do.

Choosing plants for Tom was fun. I love shade landscapes as I mentioned. You can mix so many cool plants. The only problem is that they cannot handle the afternoon sun. (coastal would be okay) I recently saw another shade landscape that we completed about five years ago, with our clients Bob and Regina. An appointment I had recently was just up the street from them, so afterwards I went to go see it. I featured it about 5 years ago when we had just completed it. The comparison between new and mature is striking. It is so attractive that I wanted to share it. Tom’s landscape will be similar to this in about 3 years, but this allows you to get a feel for a mature all- shade landscape.

Gardeners, your summer crops should be planted by now and growing. I have raised gardens for myself and the men, and we have an assortment of vegetables. They are all too young to produce yet, but the squash is just beginning to produce, and I have been harvesting the lettuce for couple of months now. It will soon start to get tough and bitter as we get warmer, so if you have any, harvest it soon. As always THANK YOU for reading, and until next time – good gardening, but leave the landscaping to us please. Thank you.

July 2022 – Summer Edition

Welcome to our Summer edition. I trust the year is going well, I know it’s going fast, as it always does. Now with school out, we have the concern of keeping our underaged kids busy. This can be a challenge. I have put our granddaughter in several classes offered by the City of Roseville, and Breakaway Classes offered by all the Bayside Church campuses. Other churches have similar programs as well. It is a good, and safe alternative.

It is not often that we come across an all-shade opportunity to landscape. Normally it’s morning shade and afternoon sun, or vice versa, but this job truly has filtered shade all day. The sun passes through the canopy here and there, as it moves over the top of the Red Oak. It is a very nice and large specimen tree. The leaves will be time consuming to pick up in the fall, but that is only for a couple months. A small price to pay for some nice shade.

Prior to us landscaping, this area was lawn. This always concerns me because trees in lawns tend to be shallow rooted and are typically the trees that go down in the winter, unless they tap into deeper water sources. I believe this is what has occurred with this tree, as well as others in the neighborhood. The levee is right behind the home, so judging by its size, as well as the size of the other trees, I do believe they have tapped into the underground water table. Nonetheless, since we are changing the means of receiving a percentage of its water, we created a separate irrigation valve/station just for the three trees in the yard. A bubbler system will run about 3 hours every 8 to 15 days, depending upon the season. Aside from the deep watering, the trees will also pick up water from the drip irrigation. This is probably similar to what they received from the lawn.

Prior to adding the bubbler system for the tree, which occurred after planting the plants, we began our normal process of amending the soil with our special blend. We seek to add about 3 inches to the top of the earth and then till it in, amending the first 6 inches. Since 5/gal. and 15/gal. plants go deeper, we amend the rest as we plant the plants. From here, we continue to follow our pattern of creating mounds, and sometimes create a dry stream bed. The stream beds tend to “class up” the landscape when done correctly but does just the opposite when done incorrectly. Next, we add the boulders (we work with three types). This is our signature and it’s how we prepare the canvas of the earth for the “ALL STARS” – the plants. Because of my years in growing plants, my knowledge of plants is pretty good, and we are able to use a nice variety of appropriate plants, which is also part of our signature. Because of what I just shared, we tend to be a bit more pricey. However, there are times I am surprised at the price people pay for what I would consider a homeowner’s landscape and not a supposed “professional landscaper.” This was the case for this particular project.

We were not the first landscape contractor hired for this project. Our client Tom had hired another company prior to hiring us. This other “landscaper” took 3 months to remove the lawn, lay a paver patio and build a wall, which we corrected and then completed. I witnessed the same thing these last months when we went to visit our daughter and son-in-law to go to their church each Sunday. It must have taken that landscaper about 3 months as well to do a yard about half the size of Tom’s, and when completed, it didn’t look like much. What they presented as their work for that time we could have completed in 4 to 5 days and done a far better job.

I asked Tom why he didn’t call us first, and he said we sounded expensive. Although we never spoke, I guess our name, Executive Care, must have made him think we are more expensive. However, he regrets now not calling. We finished his landscape and corrected the wall in 2 weeks, and both he and his wife love it. In his neighborhood, many people walk, and he has received numerous compliments on the landscape, which will only become more attractive as it matures.

It’s not often that I share what I just shared, (I do not like to talk about us because I prefer our clients and our work to do that) but having experienced and seen several landscapes completed poorly, I wanted to share a word of caution with you. Our waits are long, but it is better than getting a landscape that you are not pleased with, or one in which you must hassle the landscaper to get it done. If you absolutely can’t wait, call me first, and then depending upon your circumstances (you have a wedding, or a graduation coming etc.) I’ll see what I can do.

Choosing plants for Tom was fun. I love shade landscapes as I mentioned. You can mix so many cool plants. The only problem is that they cannot handle the afternoon sun. (coastal would be okay) I recently saw another shade landscape that we completed about five years ago, with our clients Bob and Regina. An appointment I had recently was just up the street from them, so afterwards I went to go see it. I featured it about 5 years ago when we had just completed it. The comparison between new and mature is striking. It is so attractive that I wanted to share it. Tom’s landscape will be similar to this in about 3 years, but this allows you to get a feel for a mature all- shade landscape.

August 2022 – Creative Change

Welcome to the July and August edition of TheHomeMag.

I hope everyone’s summer has gone well. It seems like the less I listen to the news, the happier I am. I will check in from time to time, and it doesn’t seem like much has changed. The Democrats blame the Republicans, and the Republicans blame the Democrats. I am oversimplifying I know, and there are times that there are very good reasons to oppose the other side. If my company, or any company for that matter ran like the government, there would soon be no company. It is in each company’s best interest to work together, and to get along for a common goal. I guess those in government lost sight of their mission. Whether you are Democratic, Republican or Independent, our prosperity and well-being should be the common goal, because that’s why we elected them. Unfortunately, this is not happening, and sadly, we all lose.

Now let’s talk about something uplifting. The job we are going to discuss was such a fun job. Our client’s, Rick and Mary, saw eye to eye on almost everything as we went through the decisions that we needed to make. It made my job easier. The job became so much more than what they had originally envisioned. I am grateful that they trusted my vision as we went through the phases. You will see what I mean in the photos. They wanted a “no lawn” landscape but wanted it to be sharp. Prior to the change, the landscape was just ordinary. When we met, Rick presented me with a hand drawn sketch, which emphasized an island in the center of color surrounded by synthetic turf. I liked the concept, but I cautioned him that we were going to waste a lot of expensive synthetic turf to honor that island, as well as a half-moon shaped lawn in back. Rick still wanted to

move forward. Part of my job is to point out and inform clients of any possible problems and extra costs. Once I have informed the client, I am good with whatever the client decides. Now let’s talk about synthetic turf. Synthetic turf only comes in 15’ foot width, but you can order any length you want. It’s always going to be 15’ wide unless we splice it, which is doable, but making the seam disappear takes some work. However, by keeping the width to 15’ft., we did not have to splice, and it was now more a matter of simply laying the synthetic turf over the design I had painted out and cutting off the excess. The best part was both Rick and Mary were good with the width.

Take a look at the left side (see before photo). Rick just wanted us to remove the lawn and replace it with groundcover, however, there was no soil, and it was all tree roots. The only solution was to create a raised planter bed, so we could add more soil. By the time the roots of the new plants started to compete with the tree roots, they would be fairly established. However, adding the block to only one side of the yard left the overall design unbalanced. It was too heavy on the left. I shared my concern, both in design as well as the additional cost with Rick and Mary, and they were good with both. At this point, they now could see my vision, so it was much easier to spend the extra money. To this day, spending client’s money makes me nervous. I know in landscaping not all the steps are necessarily seen. You cannot foresee every difficulty you are going to encounter, and so the final cost is not always known. Also, in true design, the landscape begins to take on a life of its own. As you see elements coming together and complimenting each other, you see something, an idea that you did not see earlier. In starting

a landscape, it is very important to have at least an extra $5K in reserve, and $8K would even be better. I worry much less when I know I am not going to hurt my clients financially. I am freer to design and bring out the absolute best. Though the plants are still young, as we finished the landscape, the yard became a real eye catcher. I just spoke to Rick and Mary while writing this article, and they told me they still receive lots of compliments. (we finished in April)

The next stage was the plants. Personally, I do not like designs on paper because they lack in demonstrating what the finished product will look like. Even the 3D pictures, although they are better, are still not realistic. I know H.O.A’s, require them, but my preference is once everything is removed, I can then paint the new design with marker paint. Spaces, ratios and distances from house to pool or property line, or from established tree(s), can easily be seen and adjusted accordingly. I have been in many yards where had this method been followed, the patio would have not outsized the yard, or vice versa. Clients tell me that their hardscape is either too much, or not enough, but they do not have the finances now to change it. It frustrates me. For the plants, we tour Green Acres, as I have mentioned before. Plants are second nature to me, having grown them for many years. Touring clients is always fun, and is a break from the stress of running a business. It’s also a chance to better get to know my clients, and vice versa.

Finally, the crown jewel of any landscape are the night lights. I love using them because they take the landscape to a new level and extend the evening use of the yard. They are not cheap because we use solid brass. The most common metal is

aluminum that has been powdered coated and tends to fade after a couple years. Other metals are used, especially if a modern look is wanted. Titanium is used for that look, but the cost is double that of brass, if not more. It’s the light from the fixture we want, though a general rule of mine is that nothing goes into the landscape that does not take it to the next level. If the plants are positioned and used correctly, you can minimize the appearance of the brass light if that is a concern.

Gardeners, you should be harvesting your vegetables now. Keep them fed monthly to keep them producing, and to help them stay healthy and fight off the bugs.

Until next time, good gardening – Arthur

September 2022 – Creative Fun

Welcome to our September edition. I appreciate the readership we experience,
and the business from those who trust us to do the work. Recently, I started doing
jobs for two clients that have been reading our articles for years, and it’s great. It
is so easy to work with them, because I have gained their trust. It is easy to tell
the difference between those who find us on the internet, versus those who have
read our articles. We appreciate them both, but the trust and the confidence are
so much more established with those who have been reading our articles.
This month’s landscape is from clients that have been reading our articles as well.
We completed their landscape in June, so it is still a relatively new landscape.

All
our jobs bring artistic change and new plants. However, there are jobs where the
change is going to be such a difference, that until we get the plants in, it is hard
for the client to envision it. This job was one of those jobs. It included a new
driveway and walkway, both existing in aggregate form, (gravel finish, changing
over to stamped and dyed) as well as new steps. When there is that much
concrete, I bring in my concrete friend Raymond to do the work. We broke out
the concrete and removed the concrete with our tractor. Once cleared, I painted
out the new design. I prefer to use marker paint and design in the client’s yard. I
feel it is more real, and the sense of scale is easier to envision. For this job, I
needed the walkway to the front door to be narrower. At 4 ½ feet, it was too
wide. I needed more space to add decorative plants. For the steps, I needed
Raymond’s help. I could paint out the direction the steps were to go in, but he
had to determine the number of steps and their height. The combination of both
our skills, as well as our men’s skill, gave our client’s Mark and Sharon a very nice
job.

Sometimes when two contractors are on a job, it is a bit of a juggling act
determining the order of the work. However, with this job, the work could be split
in half. To the left of the block wall, my crew could work, and to the right which
included the driveway, walk and steps, Raymond’s crew could work. When it
came time to pour the concrete, we had only a few days left to finish the left side.
This gave the concrete the days it needed to harden. Once finished, we started
the other side.

The goal with all landscapes is to create a design that is colorful, low maintenance
and unique. I am dealing with a client right now that says she is able to drive
through a neighborhood and tell her husband which jobs belong to Executive
Care. That is such a nice compliment. We do follow a procedure, and each and
every job is done in this manner. The difference will be found in the plants used,
which has to do with the sunlight. Sunlight is a big deal in my world, and greatly
influences the plant selection. All day, or partial sun determine the choice of
plants. This goes for all day, or partial shade as well. A sun landscape is a
landscape with 7 hours of sun, with the majority of the sun being in the
afternoon. It could have 4 hours of shade in the morning, but I would still classify
it as a full sun landscape if the sun was afternoon sun. A shade landscape is just
the opposite. Instead of sun in the afternoon, it has shade. The hardest landscape
is the one that has filtered shade, or shade all day long with late afternoon to
early evening full sun. There are very few plants that can handle that
environment. Fortunately, this situation is rare.

There are other factors which come into play in selecting plants for tough areas.
For example, the season we are in effects plant selection. Do the plants have
enough time to acclimate to their new environment before summer heat or
winter cold? Where are the growing grounds of the plants, or the wholesale
nurseries that grow them? Green Acres is retail, and they are not the growers.
The plants at Green Acres come from three main locations: here in the
Sacramento Valley, the bay area and Oregon. If the plants for the job are grown
here in the valley, there is no concern. They come acclimated. If they are grown in
the other two regions, then depending upon the season and the temperatures, I
may choose to use them or not. If I need those specific plants, because of size or
color, then it’s a bit of a gamble. If we get hot or cold temperatures before they
acclimate, there is a chance that some foliage may burn. However, once the
extreme temperatures are over, they will grow out.

Now back to Mark and Sharon’s job. They did not give me many instructions other
than they wanted a colorful landscape. In viewing their landscape during our
initial visit, I saw problems with the lawn (see the before picture). Lawns on the
slope are difficult to keep moist, especially when the same sprinkler system
waters all the slope and the level portion. Slopes need to be separated from level
sections of lawn. They require short intervals of water- 4 to 5 minutes, 2 to 3
times per watering, and they need to be aerated at least once a year if not twice.
Given this concern, and the client’s willingness to lessen the lawn, I knew what we
were going to do. As you can see in the picture, we kept the level part of the lawn,
and just a portion of the slope. To make the rest of the slope more plant friendly,
we brought in larger Sierra boulders and created “planter scenes” by mounding
extra soil around them.

Planting the sidewalk area was a bit challenging. It was difficult to determine the
sunlight. When I can’t gauge the sunlight because of a tree or the house’s roof
line obstructing the sun, I ask the client to take pictures starting from 12 pm every
2 hours until 7, which helps a lot.

Finally, I would like to comment on landscaping with the current water shortage
concern. The more landscapes that can be converted over to drip irrigation, the
better at conserving water we become. For example, drip emitters are .5, 1 and 2
gallons per hour, and the most water conserving nozzle for lawn is .72 (MP’s half
pattern 12’) gallons per minute. This is much better than the original nozzles that
were 1.62(12H) gallons per minute. Therefore, my recommendation would be to
reduce your lawn to what fits your lifestyle, and update your nozzles. The extra
space (assuming you reduce the lawn) can be used for more plants, a fire pit,
bocci court, or outdoor patio area. You would be saving water while enjoying your
yard. I hope you enjoy this yard/article as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you.
Until next time – Good Gardening, Arthur

October 2022 – The Resurrection & The Life Part III

Please watch the video introduction to my message here:https://youtu.be/nbjy_MbfLHU

1 Thessalonians 5:16-20

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything, give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench, not the Spirit. Despise not prophesying.

People always want to know God’s will. I believe that His approval of our occupation, the person we are to marry, or the right decision over many things is all-important. However, equally important is how we navigate life. How do we show our faith in Him during these decisions?

Everyone has decisions, but not everyone has Christ. In having Christ, are we different? Does Christ in our life make a difference at these challenging intersections in our life? 

Sometimes I also think that we are too in love with ourselves. We overestimate our importance. We say, “I have these gifts and talents, and I want to use them for the Lord (as if to say the Lord needs me). But Jesus says if we bring something as simple as a cup of cold water or welcome a servant of the Lord, we will be blessed. 

Matthew 10:41-42

He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward.

And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.

It doesn’t take much gifting to do this, yet there is a reward. What it takes is a servant’s heart. We are too self-focused with our gifting that we lose the essential attribute, our servant’s heart. God can easily accomplish His will through us with the right heart. He can give us the talents needed for the task when our hearts are subject to Him. For example, as parents, we pray for our children to come to the faith. However, how is our walk with Christ? Are we submitted to Him? 

God works through parents and has given us the responsibility of raising Godly children; He’s not our kids’ parent; we are. The more disconnected we are from Him and what He asks of us, the more fallout we will have in our parenting. To be parents that role model the Lord, we need to be filled with the Holy Spirit; it makes all the difference. His wisdom, His patience, and His love is a game-changer. From within the home to outside the home, our example is very important. What a blessing we would be to be employees filled with the Holy Spirit seeking to work for the Lord, putting in an honest day’s work, or a genuine friend who cares about others. Then God can move, direct, speak, and give wisdom and patience as needed.

When we don’t emphasize our walk with Him, we dam the flow of His Spirit. Instead of God working through us, He now has to use life’s unfavorable circumstances to get us to repent and come back to Him. It’s such a waste of time and energy. All this because we are out of sync with Him.

To raise godly children, by necessity, parents must model godliness. Children will model the character of their parents. Listen to how Paul challenged Christians: “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2). 

He calls us to imitate God as dear children and to imitate Him. We need to know Him, or it will not happen. God as a parent, is loving, righteous, and holy, so we, His children, should reflect his character. The job of raising kids is our job, not His. Our children will show our strengths and or our weaknesses. It is up to us to make our home sacred, a place of worship where God is put first, and a place of prayer. If we are not praying with our family, not just at night, but when decisions have to be made, we are missing an excellent opportunity to model a life that is dependent upon the Lord. We are to model dependency in times of crisis and in times of play. This is modeled as everyday life; it’s just how we do life. 

Joshua said, and I love his statement, especially when you consider all the apostasy and idol worship of his day.

Joshua 24:14-15

“Now therefore fear — the LORD, and serve — him in sincerity and in truth: and put away — the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye — the LORD.

And if it seems evil unto you to serve — the LORD, choose you this day — whom ye will serve; whether — the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or — the gods of the Amorites, in whose land — ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve — the LORD.”  (“will serve” in context means to worship the Lord in joyful liberation, to be contrasted against the toil, bondage, and sacrifice required by man and his pagan deities).

This statement made Joshua a great leader, for as his house was, so was his soul. Only One God ruled. The statement is in strong contrast to all the carnality that existed and still exists today in different forms. It all starts in our hearts. The sooner we get to “One God” and put distance between us and any competition, the stronger our lives will be.

We are now changing subjects just a bit. What if we faithfully serve the Lord, but everything goes south in our lives? I can hear the enemy’s voice, “so much for serving God,” what will I say? What will you say? Here’s what Job said, 

Job 1:14-21

And there came a messenger unto Job, and said, The oxen were plowing, and the donkeys feeding beside them:

And the Sabeans fell upon them, and took them away; yea, they have slain — the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.

While he was yet speaking, there also came another and said, The fire of God is fallen from heaven, and hath burned up the sheep, and the servants, and consumed them, and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.

While he was yet speaking, there also came another and said, The Chaldeans made out three bands, and fell upon the camels, and have carried them away, yea, and slain — the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee (satan made sure to leave one to bring the bad news).

While he was yet speaking, there also came another and said, Thy sons and thy daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother’s house:

And, behold, there came a great wind from the wilderness and smote the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men, and they are dead, and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.

Then Job arose, and rent — his mantle, and shaved — his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshiped, (šāḥāh is used to show bowing down in worship to Yahweh)

And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; 

blessed (Holy) be the name of the LORD.

Such an amazing man. Typically, wealth dilutes faith and weakens us, but as wealthy as Job was, his faith was the man. No Holy Spirit had been given, yet he exceeds us in our faith. Even God gets blamed for bringing fire down from Heaven, yet Job worshiped. He prostrated himself in all his grief and worshipped God. That is an amazing response from a man who does not have the Holy Spirit and such great reverence for God.

What is the difference between Job and us? Is it because of the things we have, family, jobs, material wealth, even our pets, we feel they belong to us. We are completely invested in these blessings rather than being invested in the Blesser of these blessings. Though we never say all this is mine when we experience loss, we get angry, feel it’s unfair or get depressed. That is not Job’s reaction. As amazing as it seems, he never felt he owned anything; he was blessed with possessions and family that he “stewarded, meaning that he loved and enjoyed them, cared for them as God’s blessings, but they belonged to God. This is a good lesson for us. 

Hence his statement, “naked I came into this world and naked will I return, blessed be the name of the Lord.” Paraphrasing Job, “He, God, gave me a good life, and I have no complaints.” Even while grieving the loss of his children, Job reverenced the Lord. This changed nothing between him and the Lord. Men or women who view life as such are almost bulletproof from tragedies, losses, and successes. Their hope and trust are in God. Though they live in this world, they are not invested in this world. They are invested in God. 

“He holdeth fast his integrity,” God says of Job. He was a tenacious man because his roots were very deep in God. By far, tragedies result from sin or careless actions on our part or others. To be invested in the Lord is our best defense against tragedies. When they come, not if, we will have the inner strength to weather them. As bad as what Job had just suffered, here comes round two.

Job 2:3-8

And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? And still, he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause.

And Satan answered — the LORD, and said, Skin for skin, yea, all that a man hath will he give for his life.

But put forth thine hand now, and touch his bone and –his flesh, and he will — curse thee to thy face.

And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save — his life.

So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote — Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown.

And he took him a potsherd (broken piece of pottery) to scrape himself withal, and he sat down among the ashes.

Now the question is, why is God allowing this to occur? Job pleads his case against his “friends” that he never did anything wrong to deserve this, but he never gets an answer; God is silent until later. And God, as God, does not owe anyone an answer. However, as New Testament believers, we at least have the Testimony of The Cross. There is nothing that speaks more of an Infinitely Loving God than The Cross. Job did not have the testimony of The Cross or Christ’s love. He did not know why God was “punishing” him, but he was willing to receive it. He was not privy to the dialogue between satan and God. 

Job 2:9-10

Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? Curse God, and die. But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? Shall we receive — good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive — evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.

Job’s wife suffered all the loss Job suffered and took the position that satan was betting Job would take. Job’s response, “you speak as a foolish woman,” the word foolish there is “nabal,” an arrogant bore, dense intellectually, morally and spiritually deprived.” Quite a statement! The only other time I am aware that this word is used is in context with Abigail and Nabal. Nabal refused to give David’s men supplies, even though David and his men protected Nabal’s men and flocks while they were in the wilderness. Fortunately, a servant told Abigail, and Abigail, knowing what was about to happen, met David midway, preventing David from revenging himself. She told him as the man’s name is, so is the man. Do not ruin your reputation as God’s warrior on account of him. 

Job’s wife’s being tested reveals that she did not have the relationship with the Lord that Job had. And that is often true in marriage; one spouse will be the stronger one. The weaker spouse finds their assurance in the strength of their spouse, though God calls each of us individually. Does not the scripture teach us that each of us will have to give an account of our life? We are taught that each of us has to be ready.

Matthew 24:37-42

But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

Plus, we have the story of the ten virgins, Matt. 25:1-13. Five virgins were ready when the bridegroom came (Jesus), and five were not. Readied virgins had their candles bright and shining because they brought extra oil in case the bridegroom tarried, which he did, and they went into the banqueting hall when He came. Then Jesus says the door was shut (the tense indicates it was not to be opened). When the other five returned from buying extra oil for their lamps, they were not let in. When they knocked, note that it was not a servant that went to the door but the bridegroom, and he said, “I tell you, I know you not.” There is a purposeful change in custom that Jesus makes. One of the servants would always answer the door, not the Lord, as when Peter was released from prison by the angel and Rhonda, “the damsel,” answered the door ( Acts 16). The bridegroom would celebrate with his wife and guests, but Christ says…

Matthew 25:11-12

— Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.

But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

So Jesus is warning that we must watch and wait for Christ’s return. Nothing should be more important than this. Not family, work, church, or even ministry. Christ and Christ alone must be the number one concern and the pleasure of our hearts.

Next, if we were tested like Job, would we be more like Job or his wife? I believe as the story progressed, she repented. I say this because once this trial was over, they had more children, and children were a sign of blessing from The Lord. 

Now let’s talk about God’s right to do such a thing. Does God have the right to use us as if it were a “bet” or like a pawn in a chess game? Paraphrasing satan and the Lord, “I bet you he will cave and curse You if you allow me to do this and God said he won’t, so go ahead.” And Job, his family, servants, and animals are in the middle. There are real-world consequences to this bet, lives at stake, and people died, yet God allowed it; why? God never answers Job why he was suffering, nor is God accountable to us. 

God has every right; the creature does not say back to the Creator what doeth thou, no more than a servant tells his master how to run the home or an employee the boss on how to run his business, and this incredibly was Job’s attitude. 

Towards the end of the book of Job, God and Job have direct conversations with each other, and he sees the foolishness of his ways. And for us, we have The Cross. No evil has or will come into our life that will ever exceed what Christ suffered for us, and if the pain and or circumstances of our lives are given over and walked through with the Lord (as opposed to walking away from the Lord), He will help us and use it for our good. 

For me, the Cross and what Christ underwent for us say everything. I can trust Him fully with my life and the lives of my loved ones. If you are struggling with difficulties, I strongly suggest you read each disciple’s account of the events leading up to, through, and after the Crucifixion. Now Job and God talk.

Job 38:1-6

God Speaks

Then the LORD answered — Job out of the whirlwind, and said,

Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge (Jobs’s knowledge is finite, compared to God’s, which is infinite)? 

Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me. Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? Declare, if thou hast understanding. Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? Or who hath stretched the line upon it?

Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? Or who laid the cornerstone thereof (God is talking about Creation).

Job 40:12-14 (God is still speaking to Job)

Look on every one that is proud, and bring him low, and tread down the wicked in their place.

Hide them in the dust together, and bind their faces in secret.

Then will I also confess unto thee that thine own right hand can save thee?

And from chapters 38-41, God speaks of the wonders of Creation and the things He thought when creating; it is fascinating. 

Now before we read Job’s answer, what answer would you give? 

Job 40:3-5

Then Job answered — the LORD and said,

Behold, I am vile ( of little worth); what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.

Job 42:1-6

Then Job answered — the LORD and said,

I know that thou canst do everything and that no thought can be withheld from thee. Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? Therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. Wherefore I abhor myself and repent in dust and ashes (and this is what God was waiting for, that such a righteous man as Job would see his pride and repent). Trial over, satan lost…

Job 42:7

And it was so that after the LORD had spoken — these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath.

A lapidary is a specialist with gems. He or she knows just how much pressure to exert to cut the stone and bring out its beauty. Too much pressure and the stone is crushed and ruined. Not enough pressure, and the stone, instead of being the rare gem it could be, remains ordinary. God is just like that with us. God praised Job before he underwent the trials and proved there was no wrong in his life, as his friends insisted. But greater beauty would be found in him after the trials. Job would see himself and God in a new, eternal way, which would affect him for the rest of his life, for the children to come, and, most importantly, his relationship with God.

So what was the role of satan? Does he have a role? He is used to separating the goats from the sheep and the wheat from the tares. He provides the choice, and Eternity is a long, long time. The damned must choose to be damned. Pardon the language, but I do not want to powder-coat something that is a matter of Eternal Life or Eternal Death. I would rather scare the hell out of you now than you abide there later.

Nothing is ever done to us that does not have the purpose and intent to better us, causing us to see Him more clearly, and causing us to tread lightly in this world. Job was so upright that it took a severe trial to get him to see he had more to learn. 

So when we are in a severe trial, is there a verse or verses that can comfort us? Yes, I believe so. Aside from my personal favorite, Proverbs 3 (shared last Vida), there are James 4 and Psalms 139.

James 4:7-10

Submit yourselves, therefore, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded.

Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

Psalms 139:23-24 ( a wonderful prayer)

Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting (this verse makes such a great prayer).

Without trial, we do not know our hearts or our thoughts. Only trials show the true caliber of the man or woman that we are. 

Job 42:10

And the LORD turned — the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job — twice as much as he had before.

Job 42:16

After this lived Job a hundred and forty years and saw — his sons, and his sons’ sons, even four generations.

Father God, 

Thank you so much for this in-depth study. All things in your Word are for instruction and the bettering of the man or woman of God. Help us to stay in the fire till the dross is burned from us. And as we stand accepting the trial, You will stand in the midst with us and see that the fire does us no harm, only to better us. 

Thank you, and Amen

Arthur 

If you’ve come this far, please take a look at our book of devotionals on Amazon: https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B092FRD6NQ&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_7XV6JAWRSN7HM9KNW3ZE

Arthur Navarrette

September 2022 – The Resurrection & The Life II

1 Thessalonians 5:16-20

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything, give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench, not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings.

Welcome to Vida; I am starting to write next month’s Vida; it is 8/4. The current one was just sent. With each one sent, it always seems to be my favorite as I appreciate the Lord’s insights. And with each Vida, I feel the urgency to write in such a way that, as a fellow runner in the race of Faith, I am urging us to run hard, to give it our best. I know Paul felt like that as well. To run as light and fast as possible, no encumbrances, doubts, fears, worries, worldly involvements, etc., are weights that slow us down. We just can’t afford anything outside the Life of Faith. Just strong running with joy, because He who has called us is faithful. When I ran cross-country, our varsity team was virtually undefeated. Our coach, unlike many coaches, ran with us, which I believe was the secret to our success. Jesus, via the Holy Spirit, runs with us as well. Paul’s view of the Christian life is so parallel to a runner.

Hebrews 12:1

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race set before us.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but (only) one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for mastery (first place) is temperate (controlled in diet, sleep, & outside activities, etc.) in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body( to give oneself a black eye), and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I should be a castaway (become disqualified).

Paul was serious about his race of faith. If at anytime his eyes wandered (the body part most apt to sin), he would give himself a black eye (this is not literal, but by using this word, he underscores the seriousness of walking in purity.) The better we know the Lord, the easier it is and the easier it is to surrender to Him our concerns and worries. Intimate friends we trust, strangers we don’t. The more intimate we are with the Lord, the easier it is and the more determined we are to run in the Life of Faith.

Psalms 55:22

Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.

1 Peter 5:6-7

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Also, successful runners set goals. You cannot run a five-minute mile the first time you run; you must work up to it. I see goals for us in our opening verse. Though these goals are pretty lofty, more for experienced believers, they nonetheless make good targets for the rest of us.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-20

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything, give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings.

Rejoice evermore; what a goal. Why would I rejoice when I’m having a lousy day, or I just got fired, or I just found out that my dad is terminally ill? How can I rejoice? So this command must be conditional, or is it? I was called into my boss’s office, and without warning or notice, I was terminated, fired, and there was no severance pay. He told me he would fight me if I tried to collect unemployment. Our girls were 8 and 6; today, they are 38 and 40. As I left the office that day, I was in shock, but my gut reaction was to turn to the Lord. It pays to read the Bible and grow your faith because when hard times come, the Spirit can begin to minister to you immediately and bring scriptures to mind that will help you. He spoke to me these verses, specifically the underlined part.

1 Samuel 25:28-29

I pray thee, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid(this is Abigail speaking to David, she’s taking the blame for her husband Nabal): for the LORD will certainly make my lord a sure house; because my lord fighteth the battles of the LORD, and evil hath not been found in thee all thy days.

Yet a man is risen to pursue thee, and to seek thy soul: but the soul of my lord shall be bound in the bundle of life with the LORD thy God; and — the souls of thine enemies, they shall he sling out, as out of the middle — of a sling.

So these verses became my hope, and the picture I saw was myself in the hand of the Lord. We were traveling through space, and there was danger, but I was more in awe of being in His hand. I understood the vision. He was showing me that He had me. I knew as David that I was in His bundle of life. He was with me. I was nervous, but I did not fear. Had I not known the scriptures, what would have the Holy Spirit used to communicate that He was with me? So I did not rejoice in getting fired, but I rejoiced in that I had “peace that surpassed understanding.” I was so grateful that God knew my circumstances. I was able to tell Lisa that we would be okay and shared with her the vision God gave me. Also, shortly after that, Executive Care Landscape Maintenance was started as I determined self-employment was the direction God was calling me to. Having already moved twice prior for work, I didn’t feel that we were to move again. Several years later, “Maintenance “was dropped from Executive Care, and we became Executive Care Landscape. Little did I know that I was gifted to be a good landscaper.

As I matured in my faith, my trials and the stresses of my work began to make me long for Heaven. They began to anchor me in heaven and made me realize that this earth life is not my home. Home is where my Father and Savior live, and hence with each problem, the moving out process from earth to heaven began. 

I am very conscious of my witness to others and aware of God’s value on people. My values were changing as more of me became more conscious of my Father’s presence and values. Loved ones, family, friends, and people generally took on more importance. I wanted everyone I knew to know Christ. The more of me that lived conscious of there, the better testimony I was for Christ here, and the everyday issues became less stressful. Today keeping my word is a big deal, and it frustrates me when I can’t. Keeping up with the demands of business is a continual prayer of mine.

At times, though it is rare, problems can blindside me. I’ll carry worry with me subconsciously until, hours later, I realize that this worry or stress is affecting my relationship with the Lord. I’m allowing myself to be taken for a ride, and I know better. I bring the Boss in, and things get into perspective quickly. No problem is greater than God Himself, and He knows how it will be resolved. My job is to trust Him and do my part (forgiving, praying for the person, or asking the Holy Spirit to show me a Bible verse that can strengthen me).

Proverbs 3:5-13

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding.

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear — the LORD, and depart from evil (trusting in yourself or things)

It shall be health to thy navel and marrow to thy bones.

Honor — the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:

So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.

My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction:

For — whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father — the son (or daughter) in whom he delighteth (Amen!)

Happy is the man (or woman) that findeth (this) wisdom, and the man (or woman) that getteth understanding.

I view these specific verses as instructions for spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being, and I have been blessed because of them. Too many of our infirmities result from not heeding God’s Word. We allow stress, anxiety, and worry to wreak havoc on our immune system. We are not created to encapsulate fear, worry, stress, etc. It hurts us. If we would but follow these instructions, including giving, we would live under God’s Blessing. Each month I tithe, I see a direct correlation between tithing and God’s blessings. Be it new business coming in or just the feeling that I am pleasing my Father. Obey these instructions, follow them but let me give you a word of caution. 

If this is the first time you will take tithing seriously, and be a regular giver, don’t be surprised if all hell breaks out because it will. The last thing the enemy wants is for your life and those that you affect to live under the blessing of the Lord, An Open Heaven. I have practiced tithing for most of my life and am committed to it. I give because He has given so much. The more I understand the Cross and what Christ suffered, the more I want to be part of God’s solution, and tithing is part of that. Also, I give because nothing makes me happier than when I feel my Father is pleased with me.

I also use these verses as a diagnostic tool when feeling out of sorts. I review them line by line until I find where the enemy is trying to create a “beachhead” of resistance in me, and then I stand on God’s Word, and away he goes. It’s pretty cool how powerful God’s Word is. I believe that we are not nearly as adapted at using the Word as an offensive weapon. We are always on the defensive. If we were stronger in the Word, we would stop defending ourselves from satan’s attacks of fear, worry, lust, anxiety, and “me stuff” and start attacking and taking territory (people’s lives and situations) from satan. We can start by praying for our schools, neighbors, and places of work, but until we see his deceptions, traps, and distractions in us, we can’t rescue others. We must start becoming a resistance, a divine force against the sinful tide in our culture.

Next, “Pray without ceasing.” How does that happen? There is a story back in the 1700s of a meeting of great pastors and theologians discussing this. They discussed how God could expect us to pray without ceasing when we have so much to do. Who will teach on Sunday if during the week I do not prepare the message one asked, and another said, who will visit the sick and pray with them if I stay shut up in my study praying? So they all agreed that this command of God was a bit overwhelming given their other duties. The maid who was attending to their needs could not help but hear the struggle that the men were having. She asked if she might comment, which surprised them all. However, the head pastor was gracious enough and acknowledged her request. She shared, saying it is rather quite easy to pray without ceasing, and I find it a bit surprising that you men, all leaders of great churches, are struggling with this verse. When I serve the guest of my master, as I am doing you, gentlemen, I ask the Lord to help me to serve just as if I’m serving Him. When I mop the floor or do the dishes, I ask the Lord to clean and purify my heart, and when I wash my master clothes, I ask to be forgiven and to be clothed in robes of righteousness, garments that never fade. So, gentlemen, I find occasion to pray in all I do. I find it rather impossible not to pray throughout my day, for I need Him.

The gentlemen marveled at the simplicity of her answer and how blind they were not to see it. Impressed with their importance, they missed the truth behind Christ’s words. Prayer is not a function of duty but of the intimacy of a relationship with Christ, a continual communication, breaking of bread one with the other. It is an acknowledged dependence upon the Lord throughout the day. Acknowledging our need for Him in all that we do is the mark of a son or daughter who understands his or her need. Without Him, I can’t do LIFE. I (we) could not fulfill our greatest task, to be His arms and legs, if the relationship was not first. Also, they were reminded of the maids’ humble position and the importance of Christ’s words, “to enter the Kingdom of heaven, you must become like little children.” They were too preoccupied with their importance and the praise of men that they failed to see the maturity of this maid’s faith. It was her humility that was the key to her relationship with Christ. They ended their meeting by saying,” from the,e mouth of children and babes He has perfected wisdom,” Lord help us to become so.

Matthew 18:3-5

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever, therefore, shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

Next, “In everything give thanks:” This is not so hard if we are rejoicing evermore and praying without ceasing; giving thanks in all things is the next logical step. However, it is not logical if we are not doing the above two.

The story of God asking Abraham to sacrifice Isaac was probably his hardest test, next to believing for his birth for Abraham. How could he give thanks for such a murderous command and from God no less?

Genesis 22:2-5

And he said, Take now — thy son, — thine only son — Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.

And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled — his ass, and took — two of his young men with him, and — Isaac, his son, and cleaved the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him. Then on the third day, Abraham lifted up — his eyes and saw — the place afar off.

And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and the lad and I will go yonder and worship, and come again to you.

There is no greater sacrifice of Thanks than when it costs me that which I love most. 

Logically none of this makes sense until, behind the curtain, God reveals His reason for the testing. Imagine how Abraham and Issac must have rejoiced and praised the Lord as they offered up the ram God provided as the sacrifice instead. Does this test seem cruel to you, is not the sacrifice of The Lamb of God on the Cross by His own Father not crueler? Does this not foreshadow that? Yet The Father and Son did it because of their love for us. So understanding that, can we not now give thanks in all things? Romans teaches us that “All things work together for good for those that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose( 8:28).” That’s a promise, and God cannot lie. We often believe God is too small to keep such a big promise. Why do I say that? Because in a tough situation, we moan or complain, but we do not recall to mind that God is working good through our trial, nor do we give Him thanks for it. Because we don’t see or understand it, it must mean it can’t be true, right? Jesus reprimanded the disciples because they were so slow to believe. Are we like them? Must we understand everything before we trust?

A trial is a trial until we can give thanks. Afterward, the trial becomes our blessing. Just like the wind propels the eagle to higher levels, our trials in giving thanks have caused our faith to take the higher road. To mature and believe in our Almighty, Able God. It gets us off our butts. That which is comfortable, not challenging, and easy to understand does not produce growth or faith, but faith is developed to stand up and take the high road. Prayer, rejoicing, and giving thanks, though at times it is painful, are what mark the child of God. It is the righteous stance we must take. 

We must take ground back, the ground taken because we have allowed the enemy to make us too consumed and concerned with our affairs and not that of Christ. Our ease, goals, needs, and wants blind us to the truth that our Father cares for the sparrow, which was not ransomed by the Cross; therefore, how important are we? There is no higher goal, no goal more pleasing to the Father than to be conformed into our Lord’s image, to believe that even in this difficulty or pain, He can work well. To truly see is to see that nothing in this life is beyond Him or matters if it does not include Him. He is the breath of LIFE, making all we undertake meaningful and worthwhile. Do you agree? Do you see this now?

I hope so. We will continue studying the rest of these verses next month.

Father God,

Draw us into a deeper walk with You. Cause us to truly register the sacrifice of our Savior and its impact on our well-being. It’s everything! The Cross is the ugliest event in the world’s history, yet at the same time, it is the most beautiful, for it undeniably shows us Your love for us. Let us see our life from Your perspective and be willing to surrender all to gain all of You. To sacrifice now to gain the treasure that awaits us, Your Presence, is to be the smartest man or woman ever. Let us be smart!

Love You Father and Lord,

Arthur with my brothers and sisters of like heart 

August 2022 – The Resurrection & The Life

Please watch the video introduction to our message here:
https://youtu.be/eBeFi2wxlE4

After His Crucifixion, Christ hung on the Cross for three hours. An angel’s rolling away of the tombstone anchored the disciples into the reality that Jesus truly conquered death and was alive!! He WAS the Messiah spoken of by the prophets, and He and Yahweh were One. Christ’s final words IMPACTED them with such die-hard faith that despite the hardship they would face, they would not rescind or deny their Lord. We need the same! Is it possible?

Matthew 28:16-20
But the eleven disciples went into Galilee to the mountain which Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they did homage to him: but some doubted (Thomas). And Jesus coming up, spoke to them, saying, All power (dunamis, potential, power) has been given me in heaven and upon earth. Go [therefore] and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have enjoined you. And behold, *I* am with you all the days, until the completion of the age.

Mark adds more of Christ’s Words. 

Mark 16:15-18
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned.
And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover (this is our potential, in unity with Christ we have the power to perform all that He has called us to. Do we believe this?).

I not only believe it is possible (for it is Christ in us, it is not of ourselves) but it must be demonstrated in our day. Pray for open doors where Christ can be honored. It takes courage to live contrary to society’s standards. But there are many examples of such, Meshach, Shadrach, and Abed-nego being one of many. They were devout believers in the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Old Testament).

Daniel 3:10-12
Thou, O king, hast made a decree that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music shall fall down and worship the golden image:
And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.
There are certain Jews whom thou hast set — over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

Let’s reinterpret what we just read according to our society’s values, and let’s define an idol knowing that the Holiness of God has not changed, nor will it ever. Just because society has become more accepting or tolerant of an action, a thought, or a belief (an idol) doesn’t mean God has. His view on sin from the beginning of man’s existence to his end will not change. Therefore His Holy Scriptures are as relevant and binding now as when written. Idols are to be cast down and refused; non-living identities which we give life via our allegiance to them (e.g., money) or an action, habit, or a person (something or someone we can’t live without) or even our work can become an idol. Even our family can take on an importance that blinds us to our need for Christ. Whatever we derive our self-esteem from, our sense of worth and importance, if it is not the Lord, it has become our idol. How do things become idols; by failing to develop a real relationship with Christ. We need to recognize His right and call on our life.  

We would rather trust in an idol than believe that God will fulfill us. Actions motivated by self to fulfill self are sins. What most of us strive for is to feel good about who we are, that we are good and caring people. However, this is a pitfall; for now, we have become the judge of what is good and bad. It’s like in school, grading on a curve made it easier for each student to get a better grade rather than holding to the acceptable understanding of a grade (90% and above an A, 80% and above a B, etc.), so then this mindset of good works and deeds miss the mark of God’s calling to repentance and Holiness because we have become the judge of our actions. 

Regardless of how much society approves of our actions, we still fall short of God’s righteousness, which is God’s only standard. So all lifestyles outside of faith in Christ are an offense to a Holy God and need to be repented of. Do you know why? For they stand in the way, as an affair stands in the way of true love. God does not want to be second best. He wants first place in our life. He didn’t just say He loved us. He proved it. When He gave His life for us on the Cross, He was “playing for keeps.” 

Galatians 5:19
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; adultery, fornication, uncleanness, and lasciviousness. 

Romans 1:22-25
Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
And changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves (the gay lifestyle):

Who changed the truth of God into a lie and worshiped and served the creature (the definition of an idol) more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen (the rest of Romans 1 list out specific sins).

Because of society’s tolerance of these actions, people have become confused about many things, their purpose, calling in life, their role between sexes, and what it means to be a Christian. This is especially true with young people. We believers should not bow down to worldly values beyond Shadrach, Abend-ego, and Meshach to Nebuchadnezzar’s statue. The Lord is clear, just as He is on a host of other “so-called acceptable sins” in our culture. (Gal. 5:16 to end). Amassing things and or possessions can be idols. Self-worship via selfies has exploded with the advent of smartphones. Self-worship is on par with any other sin; it’s not harmless fun. The Bible puts anything that rebels or refuses to submit to the Lord’s authority in our life on par with witchcraft. This is strong language, I know, but from God’s perspective, it has the same end.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams( Saul went to war but saved the best livestock though he was commanded to destroy all. He rebelled against God’s command).

For rebellion is the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected — the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king ( so even stubbornness can be an idol). 

I know that’s a shocking statement, but anything that we put above God and His revealed will, becoming a bigger god than God Himself, is rebellion or witchcraft that wars against God. Even stubbornness God considers idolatry. We see this with King Nebuchadnezzar. However, the Hebrew men had an incredible fear of God and were unmoved by the king’s anger or command. 

We become courageous when our fear or Holy Reverence of God exceeds the threat. We need this. We need to become unshakable. Remember, this was Old Testament, pre-Holy Spirit, pre-accepting Christ, so if they could confront their culture and an all-powerful king based on just having the first five books of the Old Testament, can we have the complete Bible and the Holy Spirit? We are to resist boldly but kindly because we understand that our culture does not see or know our God, and save for the Grace of God, we would be no different.

Daniel 3:14-15
Nebuchadnezzar spoke and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?
Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?

Therefore the culture of the time was to worship idols, but principally the king’s statue took dominance over all of them. It was Nebuchadnezzar’s way to solidify his multi-cultural kingdom. Therefore anyone who would not bow was a direct threat to him. Therefore the penalty for such disobedience was death. 

Daniel 3:16-18
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.
If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

Their words were a confrontation between the king and his command, and the king knew it. He had not only been disobeyed but told directly that they would not obey him. They were willing to suffer the consequences, fully knowing that God could but might not deliver them but knowing that God would deliver them from Nebuchadnezzar. 

Daniel 3:19-20
Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego: therefore he spoke, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated (full of fury – he became insane with anger)
And he commanded the most mighty men in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego and cast them into the burning fiery furnace.

At this point, the King felt that he was proving his might, that those who disobeyed him would suffer the most severe punishment, the loss of their lives. So he thought….

Daniel 3:21-25
Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
Therefore because the king’s commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew — those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego.
And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished,(amazed, not believable except if witnessed) and rose up in haste( to hurry with fear), and spoke, and said unto his counselors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.
He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.

The king had met his match. Not only was he not the most powerful ruler, but there was another King much more powerful than him that could easily defeat him. He now had great reason to fear, for he “messed” with the servants of this mightier King. From seeming defeat, Meshach and his friends went triumphant and victorious. They saw God. Talk about testimony and a story to share with their children and grandchildren. A victory so beyond any victory Nebuchadnezzar had ever experienced. He had only one correct response to escape possible judgment. 

Daniel 3:26-29
Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spoke, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego came forth of the midst of the fire.
And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counselors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was a hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.

Then Nebuchadnezzar spoke and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God( are we willing to do this?)
Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort (what a statement from a pagan king).

**Until we are willing to live sacrificially for the Lord, great things from the Lord will most likely not be seen. 
We must become the sacrifice that ignites a change, be it in our home, our marriage, at work, or with our friends. In union with Christ, we become the light that illuminates the night. It doesn’t mean they will necessarily change or commit their lives to Christ, but they will know that God is “alive and well in and through us.”**

Before Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego had yielded their bodies; they had already yielded their lives to God. The yielding of their bodies to the fire was only an outward manifestation of what had already occurred inside. They were already sold out to the Lord. Where do you and I stand, do we know?

What do you think happened afterward? The Nebuchadnezzar Kingdom was huge. Do you think Judaism spread? I think so. Judaism spread because three young men were unwilling to compromise their faith. They changed a kingdom. I have often wondered how almost everywhere they went during the apostle’s ministry, there was a temple and practicing Jews. Only one place did Paul go where there was no Temple; instead, he met a group of women along the lakeside for the Sabbath. Even the Ethiopian eunuch was reading a scroll from the book of Isaiah when Andrew came up to him. How did those scriptures get into his hands if there was not the spread of Judaism earlier? God used Nebuchadnezzar’s Kingdom to spread His Gospel. I believe a revival broke out with the king leading the charge. It’s an amazing story, but there are countless such stories in the scriptures. Do we know them, and are we willing to take the truth they teach us and make it our own?

Do we have such a conviction, or do we go along just to get along? Jesus confronted the religious leaders so much that they wanted to kill him. They were comfortable with their religious piety. They were not interested in the Truth. Their own scriptures and prophets pointed them to Christ, but they were unwilling to humble themselves. Could this be true of us? Do we have all our ducks in the row? Our life is predictable and comfortable, but is it at the expense of our passion and commitment to Jesus? Is our time in the scriptures hit and miss? Do we think after all we go to church, what more could God want from us? Jesus told Peter that unless I wash your feet ….

John 13:6-8
Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? (only the lowest servant in the household washed the feet of the master’s guest).
Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.
Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. 

Is there a part of us that Jesus wants to wash, but we do not let Him? Jewish culture put a lot of emphasis on ritualistic cleansing but ignored the cleansing of the heart. If you recall, the Pharisees asked Jesus why his disciples ate the grains of wheat with unwashed hands. Jesus’ replied, “why do you break the commandments of God and allow a son to dishonor his parents, hypocrites.” With Peter, Jesus was dealing with Peter’s pride. Jesus breaks cultural norms to teach all His disciples the evil of pride and the necessity of humility. Jesus’ Kingdom runs in direct contrast to man’s. Sometimes pride disguises itself in false humility, and for Peter to allow Jesus to wash his feet, he had to swallow his pride. Jesus explains a little later…

John 13:14-15
If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.

This action of washing the disciple’s feet was a foreshadowing of the Cross, which represents the ultimate cleansing and humiliation of Christ. This is strong medicine for us. Are we in need of forgiveness, a cure for sin? There is no greater medicine than The Cross and our faith. This and this alone brings salvation and forgiveness, a new life. My confidence is in the Cross and God’s promise in John 3:16…

John 3:15-17
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved (there is no clearer definition or teaching of the necessity of the born again experience than these scriptures, will we not heed them? And if we are saved, then the necessity of sharing the truth with others is upon us).

There is a saying that I like. We are to witness at all times and sometimes use words. Nothing is more embarrassing to The Lord and us than to say something of Christ, and our lives do not support our words. We are living in days now that, as a believer, there is no option to be lukewarm or compromise with the world. That is such a miserable guilt-ridden existence, I did that as a teenager, and on my best days, I felt divided. The time to stand is now. I know some of us, by nature, are timid. Timothy was timid and young, and Paul had to admonish him to stir up his gifts, to get out there and be an example, even to older believers. Pray, read verses on courage (Josh 1:1-9), but beyond that, just grow in Christ, and courage will come. 

Now to make sure no sins are robbing us of our joy and union with Christ, let’s review a brief list of don’ts that have made it into the church as becoming “less sinful,” but there is no such thing in Christ. These actions quench the Spirit in us.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-20
Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything, give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings.

As believers, there is no divorce unless adultery has been found. Still, even then, God would prefer forgiveness and reconciliation provided that there is genuine repentance followed by accountability, man with man, woman with woman.

Matthew 5:31-32
Divorce (Matt. 19:9; Mark 10:11,12; Luke 16:18; Rom. 7:1-3; 1 Cor. 7:10-15)
It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:
But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

That there is no verbal, physical, or emotional abuse of any kind, that the love of Christ rules in our houses and hearts. No porn, or womanizing, and the same with women, “no manizing,” or debauchery (drunkenness), or “going out with the boys” (or girls) unless it is for ministry. No withholding of affection or care to get what you want is wrong.

1 Corinthians 7:3-5
Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. Defraud ye not one the other, except it, be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together — again, that Satan tempts you not for your incontinency.

Ephesians 5:25-26
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church and gave himself for it;
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word.

Hebrews 10:23-24
Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

The scriptures call us to repentance, a call to be real, and a time of much compassion for those of us that struggle to find our way, being trapped by various sins. The desire to be right with Christ is there, but the how-to is not seen. A wonderful man of God for help with this is Derek Prince (many sermons under his name). He is now with the Lord, but his teaching touches greatly on restoring believers trapped in and by various sins, helping them find their way back to Christ. Also, pastoral counseling would be advised, again, men with men and women with women.

Galatians 6:1-2
Brethren, if a man is overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

We act on our beliefs, so getting the right beliefs in us is critical. If we believe as David that Goliath must go down, then the Goliaths in our lives will go down. However, if we believe, like the spies that walked through the promised land, that there are “giants in the land and we are like grasshoppers in our own eyes,” then we will lose. What fuels our beliefs? Surely, there will be times when we will feel overwhelmed. That we are beginning to be toppled, and maybe from a worldly point of view, we are. It could be our business is failing or failed, or we were let go from our job as I was before forming Executive Care in 1989, or we are struggling in our marriage or with one of our kids, etc.; there are multiple things. HOWEVER, from God’s point of view, just like taking the Promise Land, some battles must be fought to be won, but because He has promised victory, we fight expecting Victory, knowing that we will win. We are being trained to be more than conquerors.

Romans 8:37-39
Nay, in all these things, we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Without these hardships, we will never be made righteous, nor know the strength of the Lord or the truth of scripture and its power, nor His love. It will only be on our lips, but not in our lives. These battles are necessary; they brand us as His as a hot iron brands cattle to a specific ranch. We must be “marked as His,” which happens as we go through trials and conquer them, developing a Joshua attitude….

Joshua 24:15
And if it seem evil unto you to serve — the LORD, choose you this day — whom ye will serve; whether — the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or — the gods of the Amorites, in whose land — ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve — the LORD.

1 John 4:4
Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world ( this truth at times may not feel real because it is not ascertained by feeling but by faith, just like the Red Sea did not part until the priest stepped into it with the Ark, which represented faith. Faith comes from believing the Word of God. The power is in consuming it, in digesting it and having it become a part of us which occurs through memorization and meditation then we will live it out). 

Do you believe this? Show me one challenge in the Bible that God’s intent was not for victory. Take Gideon’s victory, 300 men to a whole army of Midianites, Amalekites, and others. They won as long as God’s people believed and fought, trusting God.

“Now the Midianites, the Amalekites, and all the [l]people of the east were lying in the valley as numerous as locusts; and their camels were without number, as numerous as the sand on the seashore ( Judges 7:14).”

***We are being trained that the absolute ridiculous becomes possible with God and faith. Do you believe this? The same God that gave Israel its victories is the same God that gave His life for you and me and is the same God who wants to lead us into the promised land of faith and by it slay our worries, fears, lusts, insecurities, the giants in our heart that without Him seek to master us.

There are many stories of God taking something insignificant and using it for His Glory. The story of the widow and Elijah having only a little oil and a meal, but they had food for a couple of years because she obeyed. Or the time Jesus told the disciples to go catch a fish, take the money out of its mouth, and pay the taxes. What did the disciples think? Let’s take Jesus out of the sun or Elisha hitting the water with his robe and making an ax head float. Crazy, crazy stuff, but it all happened. So, where do we draw the line on what God can and can’t do? 

**Father and Lord Jesus,
You paid a high price to redeem us; let our lives honor You and the sacrifice You made for us. Let your power flow through us to meet whatever the need may be, from preaching and teaching to words of knowledge and encouragement, to healings and prophecy. All power has been given to You, and You have commanded us to go forth to make sons and daughters, but first, we must become your son and daughter.

This devotional may sound super radical, but so were Mesach, Abendego, and Shadrach’s actions. 

In Your name.

Your sons and daughters by Grace, Amen

If you’ve come this far, please consider my book on Amazon:
https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B092FRD6NQ&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_9EGK2DATPN61NJCYBTB6Arthur Navarrette