Missionary Broadcasting.com

I had the privilege of listening to a fantastic sermon by Dr. Charles Phelps this afternoon. Dr. Phelps pastored in New England for many years, and is currently the President of Maranatha Baptist Bible College. This message examines our need for revival, and expresses confidence that revival can indeed come to our nation.

“And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?” While I understand the tone of this question, in that it displays a lack of trust in God, I can’t help but identify with Moses’ sense of amazement. Who are we to minister for an almighty God? The answer would be no one at all, if it weren’t for our Lord’s propensity for turning nothing into something for His own glory. It seems these sentiments have both a hint of humility and reluctance. Humility in that all Christians feel inadequate to represent Christ, reluctance in that Moses seems less than prepared to obey. As the instructions get more specific in the following verses we see a transition into almost argument with God. It seems Moses let his understanding of human limitations become a justification for faithlessness. This is a common tendency, and it would be wise for us to make ourselves aware of it as we are continually called to greater service for our Savior. We are not naturally inclined to do everything God may ask of us; if fact doing what is easy is usually not part of His plan. Still, we should remind ourselves of His faithfulness and power to equip us for every good work.

“And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt. And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I.” It is interesting to note that Moses has a conversation (of sorts) with himself about what he is going to do. Whether he was actually speaking out loud is not the relevant point. One way or the other it is clear he makes a conscious decision to turn toward the bush. Another important observation is that God waits for Moses to turn before He speaks. I wonder how often I have noticed a sign sent by God, choosing to press forward instead of adjusting course for a closer look? It is not insignificant that Moses made a choice to leave his “typical” path to hear from God. He displays an effort which results in the reception of God’s calling; just as we must seek – make an effort, with purpose – God’s will in our own lives through diligent Bible study and prayer. Those who make their “own way” in life, oblivious to circumstances and situations God may use to guide us into service for Him make a grave mistake. Our burning bush may not be nearly so obvious, but it will certainly catch our attention. Be preparing yourself to “turn aside, and see this great sight” each and every day.

Tonight I am posting an experimental podcast. It is an “off the cuff” recording based upon a series of lessons God has been teaching me lately. While I had been thinking about posting such material for quite some time, I could never find an opportunity to get a clear, quiet recording in my very busy (and noisy) three-child home. It seems the only free moments in my day recently have been in the car; so I took my favorite portable recorder on an errand tonight and captured the audio below.

Here’s a rundown on the topics we discuss:

• Purpose of my trip. (00:00)
• The difficulty of raising children. (01:58)
• How God uses children to teach us things about Himself. (05:10)
• Dumpster diving. (06:48)
• Military ministry opportunities. (09:07)
• Contentment during small sacrifices. (11:15)
• Off the cuff broadcasting. (15:50)

Download the Off the Cuff MP3

I don’t know if I will ever record a feature like this again - it was an experiment - but I found it just interesting enough to post online. It is extremely impromptu, very roughly recorded and edited (note the cars passing, turning signals, etc.), but it gives you a real-life Harper family update that is purely Alaskan; like us. Please leave a comment and let me know what you think.

One note of clarification on the content of the recording: at about 06:10 I say that “God doesn’t work”. I understand the theological problem with this assertion, and only meant that He doesn’t work “in the same manner” we work. More specifically; He is void of all the fatigue and frustration that often comes along with human work.

I was prompted to republish this message because of a series of comments I read relating to an article linked on the Religious Affections Ministries site. I didn’t even listen to the songs mentioned, I just saw the names, remembered their significance, thought of a story, and decided to tell it. This is a related sermon I gave numerous times around the country, and it’s one I listen to again on occasion to refresh my memory about how God has led our family. It is subtitled; My Christian Broadcasting Story. Please play or download What is Best? below.

Download the What is Best? MP3

(This sermon was originally published in the Spring of 2006.)