AT LAST!!!

     Our big holiday push is over before it began.  Some SNAFU at the customer with an improperly programed e-coupon caused them to lose millions in sales or something like that.  So I am home today and we are going to our normal 8 hr per day schedule starting immediately.  Plus we have Christmas Eve and Christmas Day OFF.  That's a biggie, cause for a while it was looking like working thru the holiday was going to be mandatory.  Yeah, they can do that.  So we get a big break and I couldn't be happier.  We've only had 8 days off since the beginning of September and it had already gotten way old.  

    So now I can focus on the season that brings me the most joy.  Thanksgiving and Christmas!!  The house and tree are decorated and in the words of American Humorist Jean Shepherd*, "all was right with the world."

     In case I don't get back on here prior to Christmas, have a blessed Christmas and may the true meaning of the holiday draw you even closer to the author of life that you may have a glorious and productive life in the name of Christ! rlk 
*I grew up listening to Jean Shepherd on WOR radio in NYC when I was growing up.  He was the author of In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash & the inspiration for the 1983 Christmas classic, A Christmas Story. Jean is the narrator for the film.  

IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME

This is the first weekday I've had off since September.  It's been a long grind.

I just noticed that my visit counter on my BREAD OF LIFE devotional blog hit 60,000.  WOW!  That really blesses me.  That means that my daily devotionals are being read by someone around the world.  I've seen hits from Russia, Europe, Asia, Alaska and all parts of the US.  That is so awesome!!  Not because I wrote them, but because God inspired them and His word is getting out.
Thank You Lord for using me in this small way!!

Went to church last night.  Had a Taize service.  It's a worship tradition which began many years ago in the ecumenical monastic community of Taize, France.  It is designed for contemplation, meditative readings, prayer and music.  My wife and I sat quietly and soaked it in.  I sat most of the service with eyes closed, taking in the words sung and spoken.  The quiet was a welcome change from the cacophony of noise I experience each day at work.  I felt spiritually refreshed when I left.  We live 40 minutes from church, but wouldn't go anywhere else.  It is a small Presbyterian congregation with a Born Again head minister who is a wonderful blessing.

Not sure when I will be on here again.  I trust everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving and will have a deeply meaningful Christmas holiday.  God is good and wishes to bless you.  Surrender your will to the One who created you.

Your brother in Christ and friend,
RL Keller

GOD IS WITH US ALWAYS!!

          This is a crazy, mixed up world we live in.  God never changes, but this world changes every day.  Keeping up with all the changes can be mind boggling.  If we stay focused on the Lord we will remain in a more peaceful state of mind than if we don't.  When circumstances surround us and make us uncomfortable or even fearful, remember all the times God delivered you from your difficulties and rest in that fact.  He is the same yesterday, today and forever.  He loves you and will never leave you.  You may feel forsaken a time or two in your life, but if you have committed your life to Christ, the Spirit of God resides within you.  He can't get any closer to you than that.  Rest assured that God will be with you in any and all situations you may find yourself in on any given day.  Rest in that fact.  Fear not, for I am with you always. (Joshua 1:9; Genesis 28:15) rlkeller

ONE'S OUTWARD APPEARANCE

I'm finally back after running the gauntlet of 10 straight work days for a total of 97 total hours.  I'm one whooped puppy. lol.  Anyway, God is still good, He is still on His throne and prayer still changes things.  Taking some time off ... will be incognito for a few days towards the end of next week.  I am blessed!!  

Something struck me just yesterday.  As much as women try to make themselves look alluring, there is something much more important that ones outward appearance.  I am using the women from my work place as my sole example, but this observation spills over into the world at large.  If you don't have a godly heart, your outward appearance will be tarnished.  Being pretty outside, yet ugly inside is very unappealing.  It is the godly woman who knows how to place her focus on that which is most important.  There is nothing wrong with looking your best, but using up an inordinate amount of time accentuating certain aspects of one anatomy with less than pure motives will not serve you well. Trust God to fulfill His promises to you and live for Him with purity, kindness, love, mercy, patience and grace.  No matter what your outward physical appearance may be, you will look beautiful to those who see you due to the godly radiance that shines forth from your heart thru your eyes. rlk.

ARIAN FOSTER DOESN'T BELIEVE IN GOD

     Arian Foster, star running back for the Houston Texans, proclaimed in a published interview last Thursday that he didn't believe in God.  Ok, he's entitled to that choice.  He has started campaigning for the group Openly Secular. He claims secular people are widely misunderstood.  Perhaps, but I know what the issue is.  It's no different than being an atheist or an agnostic.  They want to call the shots.  I think the openly secular don't have an understanding of who God is or what becoming a Christian is truly all about.  Perhaps it is partly because so many believers misrepresent Christianity.  Arian said the question he gets from teammates is "Do you worship the devil then?"  His response is simply "If I don't believe in God, why would I believe in the devil."  A fair answer.  The real issue at hand here is man's autonomy.  He doesn't feel he needs anybody's assistance, he can go it alone and do just fine.  While I don't know Mr. Foster's take on Christians, some non-believers see us as weak, in need of a crutch, which in this case would be Jesus. I don't believe Christians misunderstand secular people at all.  I just think Arian Foster is trying to justify his non-belief by making an issue of it. That's his choice and because of the free will we believe God gives each man, Arian absolutely has the right to believe whatever he wants.  So does everyone.  If my faith is misplaced and I am wrong, that there is no God, then I will live my life out, die and rot in the ground.  People like Arian Foster have a whole lot more to lose if they are mistaken. rlkeller

MY TAKE ON THINGS

       I read a brief article that had been emailed to me the other day.  One line caught my attention.  The writer said we were “in the midst of a hostile take over in America.”  It essentially said the modern day terrorists are using unmitigated violence in the name of religion and it was already here in the US.  I don't see it that way.  While I do see middle eastern looking individuals all over, I find it hard to believe they are all going to one day collectively rise up and take all free men as prisoners.  Am I naïve?  I hope not.  But if God is greater than any force known to man.  No terrorist or nuclear attack can stop God when he decides to move on our behalf.  I have chosen not to fret or become fearful.  I simply refuse to live in fear!  We are called repeatedly throughout scripture not to fear.  If I must someday die for my faith then it is God’s will and I cannot stop it from taking place.  I have decided that while I will make myself generally aware of what is transpiring around the world, I will not immerse myself in it, but rather continue to learn of the things of the Lord and attempt to imitate Christ in my daily life.  That is how I can be the most productive for the kingdom.  Planting and watering seeds is my mission.  Being a conduit for the Lord is my aim.  Let the devil do his worst, I will stand tall on my convictions believing that in the end I will be with the Lord for all eternity. rlkeller

HOLD FAST TO YOUR FAITH

       A word from the Lord was given to me that I would be writing 5 more books.  Since I love to write and feel it is a gift to be able to do so, I was thrilled to hear that.  I will leave the details, like where the money will come from, to the Lord. I was told it would be coming from an unexpected source.  I will not speculate or waste time thinking about it.  My gift is to write on behalf of the Lord, not predict future events.  Having said that, one thing I can predict with assurance is that when the time is right and the Lord fills me with words, 5 more books will be written and published for human consumption.  May God's will be done in my life and may I always honor and glorify His name with my thoughts, words and actions.  Amen!!

       In todays devotional I ask the question, do we fully comprehend the magnitude of the personal relationship we have with Almighty God?  Do you?  I believe I may be uncovering the tip of the iceberg, but as with icebergs, the greatest mass is beneath the surface.  So it is with God.  There are far deeper insights that we can uncover as we draw closer to Him.  He desires for us to know Him more.  Wisdom and discernment are there for the asking. Dig deep into the treasure trove that is the Lord.  Drink deeply from the pool of life.  Allow the Holy Spirit to take you places you never dreamed of.  Release yourself into His care and see how much of a blessing your relationship with Him can be.  The devil wishes us to be pathetic weakling Christians, when the reality is we are mighty lions just waiting to roar.  Unfurl your banner and march forth in the grace of God.  He will never fail you.  Proclaim what you know to be true and hold fast to your faith.  rlkeller

DO YOU KNOW MY CHRIST?

Nice day outside for a change.  Cool & breezy, not hot and muggy.  Out back writing with my pups lying around by me.  As I reflect on the day I realize that there are so many folks that are lost and don't even know it.  I wore my Albert Camus quote shirt the other day to work (see below) and received 3 comments, not that I was looking for any comments at all.  I just wore it to make people think.  That's what I'm all about, not shoving the Bible down people's throats, but saying or writing things that make people think.  One comment was sort of poking fun at it.  The person who said it says he is a Hindu, but displays no characteristics that sets him apart from anyone else in the world.  He lies and flirts with the young girls just like most of the other guys there.  Apparently he isn't a practicing Hindu.  My dear Kenyan brother Alex, who loads the trucks, told me something very encouraging.  He said, "Only God knows who may have read your shirt and not said anything to you about it."  I was successful in my mission ... 

... what about you?  Have you given your life to God?  Have you considered all He has to offer you?  Do you realize the amazing gracious gift of forgiveness for past sins?  Do you understand that no amount of good acts in this life can earn your way into heaven?  Do you know that Christ bled and died on a cross willingly to pay the price owed for your sins?  Think about it, then ask God if He is real and if what I've written is true.  Open your heart to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to come in.  You will never be the same. rlkeller

"I would rather live my life as if there is a God and die to find out there isn't, than live my life as if there isn't and die to find out there is."

THE STATE OF THE WORLD

     With all the persecution in the world today, how are American believers to act and/or react?  Scripture teaches that persecution of those who are faithful to Christ will take place and in the last days it will be amplified.  Should we care? Of course.  But what can we do?  We can pray for God's mercy, but better still, that the faithfulness of those martyred for Christ's sake would have such a pronounced effect on their murderers that they would turn their lives over to Christ as a result.  THAT is what we should pray.  Persecution is here to stay.  It will no doubt only get worse and very likely will take place in the US at some point in the future.  If you don't believe that Google Anti-Theists and see what their agenda is.  They are evangelistic Atheists who preach in concerts (as with anti-theist proponent Enos, psychedelic rocker who hates all forms of religion and isn't afraid to say so) or in any public forum.  They might be in the minority, but they are vocal and brazen in what they say.  We should be so brazen for we hold what we believe is eternal truth.  Live for Christ with pride for we are His ambassadors to this perverse & dying world.  His power and might is behind our efforts.  May God be praised & every man proven a liar.  In Jesus' name ... amen. rlkeller

THIS WORLD IS DYING

     The world we live in is crazy!  Tolerance & intolerance ride side by side and it is an ill matched pair to say the least.  The ungodly factions in this world tolerate sinful practices while at the same time are supremely intolerant of those with religious affiliations.  "Live and let live" seems to be the battle cry for this age.  The world's seeming insistence to ride a speeding bullet to hell is only topped by their efforts to irradiate all religious belief.  Why do thy care what others place their faith in?  Could it be conviction?  The gnawing, nagging thought in the back of their minds that perhaps they are wrong in their rejection of all things godly?  Perhaps; not that you'd ever get any of them to admit that.  Sadly, without Christ's blood to wash them clean of the stench of their own sins, they are like walking dead men without hope; just waiting to die.  Without forgiveness, the payment shall be theirs to make and they can ill afford to make it.  I will continue to live my faith to the best of my ability with the help of God's Holy Spirit and pray that others see Christ in me.  May God in all His mercy reveal Himself to those who are lost and confused regarding what to believe.  rlkeller

PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS

     Our church is having a special prayer service for persecuted Christians this coming Sunday.  A Coptic Christian pastor will be present, an Armenian Pastor will as well.  We are trying to raise awareness regarding the plight of people of all faith being mercilessly slaughtered for their faith.  There is no doubt that the Bible speaks of the persecution of Christians and even the disciples, save John who was sent to the deserted island of Patmos, met with terrible deaths.  It hasn't come to America ... yet, but some day we men and women of the faith may be asked to give our lives for the sake of our belief in Christ.  Are we prepared to do that?  I am trusting God that I will stand for Him if it should ever come to that. These are perilous times.  Christians are freely mocked and disregarded as fools.  There will come a day when time will be no more and all those who rejected Christ will pay for their sins with their own life.  God is not dead, He is very much alive.  If you doubt that, ask Him to reveal Himself to you and then be attentive, listening for His answer.  It will no doubt come when you least expect it.  rlkeller

PRAY FOR THE PERSECUTORS

       Hot day today.  Supposed to reach 90.  We'll survive.  I just like cold weather better is all.  My lone weekday off.  Thursdays and Sundays.  Kinda disjointed, but it is what it is.  Pups are snoozing behind me on the bed.  Marty is snoring ... < chuckle - smile > ... get that dog a CPAP machine. (lol)

       In light of all the persecution that is going on in the world today, we must pray for the persecutors, that they may find Christ.  I only need to look in Acts to find a biblical example of a persecutor being challenged by God.  Paul witnessed the stoning of Stephen and was diametrically opposed to all the fledgling believers adhered to.  It took being knocked to the ground and struck blind by none other than Jesus Himself.  That will get your attention.  The rest is chronicled in the NT.  I've heard that some of the members of ISIS had actually turned to Christ.  I have no confirmation of that, but since Christ is greater than any force that might attempt to come against Him, I can certainly believe it.  Those who have died for their faith have fought the good fight and are now home.  All that awaits the persecutors of the faith is a lake of fire.  They are unaware of this so it is our responsibility to pray for them that they would come to know Christ in all His glory.  May God's good and perfect will be done. rlkeller

SOME HISTORY

          My schedule has kept me from writing here very often.  Sometimes just once per week.  Such is life.  There hasn't been much to say anyway.  In the non-spiritual realm, the Yankees are doing alright, I don't care about the NBA and the NHL Stanley Cup Finals got rolling last night.  My 2nd favorite team is the Chicago Blackhawks.  My mom came from Chicago and I've been there multiple times.  Even saw a Blackhawks game in 1994 in the old Chicago Stadium.  All I remember from that outing was that they beat the Red Wings and the bathrooms were really tiny with low ceilings. Also that they had a big pipe organ high up in the rafters where someone sat and played during breaks in the action.  Very cool!!  That was the final year of the Stadiums existence.  I've experienced two final years of the existence of things in Chicago:  Chicago Stadium, where the Blackhawks played hockey and the Chicago Bulls played basketball and Riverview Amusement Park, which at one time boasted the largest roller coaster in the world.  That was quite a while ago, 1967 to be exact. Wow! How time flies.  Always remember, God is still on His throne and prayer changes things!! rlkeller

GOD IS REAL! ASK HIM FOR YOURSELF.

     A Metal group called The Word Alive has a tee shirt with their slogan: "I'd rather die for something I believe than live a life without meaning."  I'm told they are Christians.  I'm in the process of investigating that.  So far I see no evidence of it, but I will continue to dig.  Regardless of their beliefs, I DO like their saying very much.  It falls in line with the Albert Camus quote I'm always sharing.  "I would rather live my life as if there is a God and die to find out there isn't, then live as if there isn't and die to find out that there is."  Think about it.  

      It's a historical fact that Jesus of Nazareth walked among us over 2000 years ago.  Jewish Historian Flavius Josephus writings bare this out.  Is His life, death and resurrection a myth or did it really happen?  Is He who He says He is, the Son of God, or is He a liar? Are you willing to base your destination after death on what you don't know or understand?  Ask God to reveal Himself to you and then be watching, listening and waiting.  God loves you without condition just the way you are.  rlkeller

BEING GRATEFUL - THE TEST

       I wrote a devotional on being grateful in all circumstances and that very day I received some startling news.  They were doing away with the 2nd shift (of which I was a part) and having us join the day shift.  I was going from MON-FRI, 2 pm - 10:30 pm to MON-TUE-WED-FRI-SAT, 7 am to 3:30 pm.  To say I was upset was a major understatement.  It took me 2-3 hours to realize that this was a test from the Lord to see if I was able to practice was I was preaching.  My initial response was registered on the negative scale, but I slowly adjusted my attitude and became at peace with it.  By the next day I actually saw benefits to the new schedule.  Did I learn my lesson?  I hope so.  But if not I will have to wrestle with my emotions again.  Good thing God is infinitely patient with us.  rlkeller   

LIVES THAT ARE EBBING AWAY

          I come across many people who truly believe they are in right standing with God.  They live as they choose and have no interaction with this God they say they believe in.  They wouldn't think of avoiding one or both of their earthly parents (or maybe they would), yet the same courtesy doesn't seem to apply to a Creator.  It is no doubt because He cannot be seen and let's face it, no one can actually prove His existence anyway.  They simply do not get it.  They have no concept of what faith is.  This is why the Bible speaks of drinking milk (1 Corinthians 3:2).  We must grow spiritually, but the ungodly don't get that either.  They don't want any restraints.  Live and let live.  Oh, they can do that, God is never going to stop any of us from living as we choose.  However, as Paul points out in to the Corinthians, not all things are beneficial or constructive for us (1 Corinthians 6:12 & 10:23).  My prayer is that I can make some sort of difference in the lives of these folks who live for money and pleasure, never realizing that their life is ebbing away and will some day be used up.  rlkeller

YOUR LAST RESORT?

Sunny day.  Beautiful.  Warm.  Pups lounging outside with me.  I'm under an umbrella typing on my laptop.  God's good.  They shifted me to day shift starting next week.  Getting rid of the 2nd shift for now.  Tues - Fri ... 10 hr days.  3 day weekends.  Not bad.  Will have to wrestle with rush hour traffic going both ways.  Such is life.  I leave you this day with a question:  Is God your first priority or your last resort?  Think about it.  rlkeller

NEW WEBSITE BEING CONSTRUCTED

       Another Friday ... May 1st already.  Wow!  Time really does fly by.  My time is at a premium lately.  The pups demand my attention in the mornings and I work the 2nd shift at my job.  Writing has come to a virtual standstill, at least for the time being.  I closed down my previous website [http://breadoflifemin.net] and have a new website being constructed slowly at this time. It is available but not complete.  The link is http://bread-of-life-ministries.myfreesites.net.  I plan to make this one simpler.  No book sales, just a few tidbits of inspiration and encouragement and a book page directing folks to some of the places where they can be purchased.  It was getting too expensive to maintain my old site, so I did it different this time around.  Free website builder.  If you avoid all the special add-ons you can do it on the cheap.  Anyway, life is good, God is great and life couldn't be better at this time.  Have a super blessed day!!  rlkeller

TRYING TO DO MY PART

          I am wrestling with what my next book will be.  I started two projects simultaneously and at first went in the direction of a book on divorce from a male perspective.  I have been listening to a preacher (Pastor Joe Focht of Calvary Chapel in Philly) on my way home from work each night and have really liked his study on the gospel of Matthew.  Because of his nightly messages, I am beginning to lean toward the idea of working on my project re: obedience.  I'll be praying about which direction to take going forward.  I have all the time in the world.  My book isn't going to alter the course of nations, but it might minister to one person in need of hearing what I have to say.  I believe God is using me through my devotional blog and my books.  One soul saved or one person encouraged, blessed or edified is a success in the eyes of God.  God knows what He's doing ... I'm doing my best to follow along. rlkeller

PICKING & CHOOSING

          I read a portion of an article about a well known TV personality who grew up in a Christian home.  She considers herself a "devout Christian".  I thought, well I didn't know that.  That's great!  She's been through a very difficult time health-wise over the last few years and her faith has helped her immensely.  In the next paragraph I read that she is a lesbian living with a life partner.  I shake my head.  That is a major contradiction.  Both the Old & the New Testament declare that homosexuality is a sin.  This individual must be one of the folks that cannot believe that God would cast into a lake of fire those who say they are Christians yet practice sin.  They obviously don't view homosexuality as sin.  This is a lie from the pit of hell.  If God declares something to be sin, then when is sin not a sin?  When man declares it not to be?  Must be, cause I see no addendum's to the Bible proclaiming that God no longer considers same sex relations to be sinful.  I am not a homophobe, nor do I hate or even dislike homosexuals.  Neither does God hate them.  But He does hate their lifestyle.  Picking and choosing what scriptures you believe, while ignoring either their context or the balance of scripture on a subject is foolhardy at best.  Accept it all as God's word or accept none of it, but don't pick and choose.  You are only fooling yourself.  rlkeller 

OUT WITH THE OLD - IN WITH THE NEW

    My Bread of Life Ministries website (www.breadoflifemin.net) has been shut down temporarily and will re-emerge as a new entity ... it will look completely different, serve a different purpose and have a new link address.  No longer will I offer my books from the website, although I will show them and tell folks how they can get them (Amazon.com, christianbookdistributors.com, etc.).  I will make it more streamlined and hopefully more useful.  The new site is under construction now and will be up as soon as I can get it the way I like it.  In all I do I try my best to honor the Lord and do His will.  As always, may He be glorified by my efforts. rlkeller

THE CONVERSATION

          I had an interesting conversation with one of the supervisors in training the other night.  While not a Christian, he has been to several Jesus festivals.  His sole purpose for going was to hear the music.  He says he believes in God.  He also claims to have studied a wide variety of religions and has picked out the parts of each that he likes.  I shared with him that the only thing Christianity has that no other 'religion' has is Christ on the cross.  He seems to think we aren't alone in the universe and that this whole creation has been tried before.  He isn't interested in becoming a Christian due to the hypocrisy that he sees in the church.  I told him people needn't compare themselves to others around them, but rather to God Himself for all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory.  If you compare yourself to another sinful person you are bound to find someone who you feel isn't as 'good' as you are.  I explained that Christianity isn't a religion, but rather a personal relationship with God.  I will be praying for this guy that God will soften his heart to the truth of the gospel. rlkeller

WHAT IF THERE IS NO GOD?

          What if there is no God?  What standard would we all live by?  Who would set that standard?  The Federal Government?  Each state?  Think about it.  We have laws to follow, but is there a greater law in existence that involves ethics and morals?  The Bible wouldn't exist either so where would you turn?  Some people have said Christianity is a crutch.  If it is, I will lean as heavily on it as possible, because I see nothing in this world worth following over this God that so many want to discount or remove from man's consciousness.  He has set a standard that is fair and just.  I will stick with the Lord.  Nothing else makes sense to me.  Do as you will, I will serve the Lord.  My faith is irreversably pledged to my God.  Where do you stand?  rlkeller

YIELDING TO THE SPIRIT

       The love of Christ for mankind is unparalleled.  Why is it we don't embrace this fact and allow it to alter our lives?  We are supposed to be Christ's disciples.  His representatives on this earth.  Why do people not see Him in us?  Are we missing something?  Are we too self-absorbed?  Maybe, but there's still time to make it right.  We are human, there's no denying that.  And God knows all our weaknesses as well as our strengths.  We must yield to God's spirit and allow the Him to make important alterations to our character and behavior.  It is essential, even critical that we allow this or the world will never see Jesus in us.  We are too painfully human for that to ever happen by itself. rlkeller

LET GO & LET GOD

     I am of the opinion that while things may not be exactly how we would like them and could be better, they could always be worse ... much worse.  I figure if I'm I wake up in the morning and am still above ground and breathing it's gonna be a good day!  Sure I wrestle with allergies.  Sure my hip aches a lot. But I have a new opportunity to bless someone and that's no small thing.  God will bless me not simply so I can accumulate blessings.  I seek blessings from God so that I can disperse them to those around me.  I seek to be a blessing to all I encounter on a daily basis.  I ask the Lord to use me whatever way He would like and then roll with it.  God knows what He's doing all the time.  I only think I do.  

     There is an old saying that believers used to say ... LET GO & LET GOD!  I take that to mean, let go of all you believe to be true and let God enrich your life.  Let go of all your trials and burdens and let God give you peace.  You can plug in just about anything ... Let go of your fears and worries and let God give you hope.  rlkeller

CHRIST DIED FOR ME

I don't like to have needles jabbed in me at the doctors or when I give blood.  I can't even imagine what it would be like to have 7"-9" long square iron spikes driven through my flesh.  Christ died for me, I will live for Him. rlkeller

HOMOSEXUALITY & THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

         The Presbyterian Church as a whole passed a resolution to allow gay marriages to be performed in their churches.  I believe it has been left up to each individual church as to whether the head minister would want to perform the ceremony or not.  While touted as a great achievement in the annals of the church as a whole, it is in fact just the opposite.  Homosexuality is a sinful lifestyle.  God loves the sinner but hates the sin.  It's that way with every man, woman and child.  Nowhere that I am aware of does God go back on His stance against homosexuality.  He condemns it in both the Old & New Testament (Leviticus 18:22, 1Timothy 1:8-11).  They are considered law breakers.  The question I have and have always had to those who practice a homosexual lifestyle is: When is a sin no longer a sin?  God never changed His mind, therefore whether man has or not is inconsequential.  I have no problem with gays as people and leave the doling out of the law to God. However, I will always stand up for God's word as I believe it is the lone true standard for living a peaceful, fulfilling life.  I do not hate or judge anyone, nor do I condemn them.  Unfortunately, they have condemned themselves by their own life choices. rlkeller

UNCONDITIONAL

       The word 'unconditional' is a remarkable word.  It means no conditions have been placed on whatever it is that is being deemed unconditional.  Take God's love for instance.  He doesn't do what we do.  We look upon someone and by their appearance determine whether they are good or bad, smart or dumb, wealthy or poor, pretty or ugly.  God does none of that.  Just like a parent sees their child as beautiful, no matter what others may see, so God sees us.  We are His beautiful, matchless creation.  He places no conditions on His love for us.  None whatsoever.  Why do we, who are hopelessly flawed, place so many conditions on our love for another?  We are shortsighted and narrow minded when it comes to others.  We judge even though we were not judged by our own creator.  If only we would begin to love others, all others, with no conditions placed upon that love. rlkeller

CAN'T B SILENT 4EVER

          It's seems that I have departed from the light, fluffy encouraging devotionals on my blog and have begun a string of instructional, be like Christ ones.  This is no time to soft soap the message.  This is no time to remain babies in Christ.  We must gird our loins.  We must grow in the spirit.  I believe difficult times may be coming for believers in Christ.  Does our lifestyle tell folks we are different morally and ethically than the mainstream of society or do we blend in?  Do we stand up for Christ or do we remain silent in the face of unbelievers.  Atheists are not silent.  False religions are not silent.  Only the ones who carry the true message of freedom, forgiveness and hope remain silent.  Stand up for what you believe.  Do not bow down to worldly ideals.  Seek to become more like Christ each and every day.  Am I being too harsh?  Am I?  Then what is your solution if it's not to live like Christ in a sin filled and dying world.  We have the cure to their disease.  Will we remain silent forever?  rlkeller

A 100-100 DEAL

          It's interesting that experts say marriage is a 50-50 deal.  I beg to differ ... it is a 100-100 deal.  You are either all in or it won't work, at least not as God intended.  It takes tolerance, patience, compromise, wisdom, empathy topped off with a massive dose of love.  Not the kind of temporal, lust filled love that the world offers.  True godly love that is unconditional and everlasting.  Apparently my 1st two marriages didn't have that type of relationship.  In spite of what others may say, both parties are instrumental in either making or breaking the marital union.  If God isn't the center of the marriage your chances for survival decrease incrementally.  rlkeller 

WWW.OPENDOORSUSA.ORG

          Yesterday I was deeply moved by an interview I watched online.  It was a webcast of an interview with Brother Andrew of Open Doors Ministry (http://opendoorsusa.org).  He is the man who wrote the well known book God's Smuggler, which talks about his smuggling of bibles into Communist Russia back in 1955.  He spoke in the interview of his encounters with head of terrorist groups in the Middle East, most specifically the Taliban in recent years, and how receptive they were to what Andrew had to say about Jesus.  Muslims view Jesus as a Great Physician, but not the Son of God, yet there was a common ground and a bond that was formed.  Andrew looks to be in his 80's now and is still very active in his ministry.  He said the muslims pointed out that Christians main problem is that they don't live like Christ.  They also pointed out that muslims problem was that they don't live like Mohammed.  Their solution for both problems was to go to "the book".  The book, of course, is either the Bible or the Koran.  I have been seeking to be more like Christ for years.  Too many folks do as they please in the name of Jesus and don't resemble Him as all in their words and actions.  May God help us be more of a reflection of Him.  rlkeller

WHY I WRITE WHAT I DO

       Some folks may wonder why my devotional blog can tend to be so heavy laden with instruction and edification and light on encouragement sometimes.  My answer to that is the following:  I live in a region that can tend to be pretty indifferent to God.  It influences what I write.  It is my general feeling that people are not as in tune with the Lord as they could or should be and many times they have no compulsion to draw any closer to God thinking they are just fine in their walk.  I struggle with the daily grind of life like everyone else.  I know what it means to become lazy when it comes to reading God's word or striving to be more like Christ in my daily walk.  My words are meant to get the reader to think.  Consider what I am saying and see if it applies to you.  I'm not writing from the standpoint that I have arrived, but rather that I am struggling too and believe I know how to combat the malaise we fall into at times.  The devil works on us day and night to make us ineffective for God.  We must sidestep his boobytraps and refocus on those things which are most important to us in this life, like God, family, brothers / sisters in Christ and then ourself.  rlkeller

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Today is a happy day!!  Not only am I 60 yrs old today, but I am 36 yrs old in the Lord.  That's right, I gave my life to Christ on my birthday in 1979.  It's been a long, glorious journey with a lot of ups and downs, highs and lows, but it has made me the person I am today and I am thankful to the Lord for each moment of my life.  How do I feel today, being 60 and all?  The same as always, with my hands. (lol).  rlkeller

SELF-EXAMINATION

       The Lenten season is nearly over.  Have you taken the time to do some self-examination?  That's what Lent is all about.  To look at yourself in the mirror and see what areas of your life aren't pleasing to the Lord.  God is the One who can make the necessary changes from within.  They are not cosmetic changes or changes in attire.  They are behavioral changes that only the Holy Spirit of God can administer if we allow Him to.  Examine your heart today and see where you come up short, because we all fall short of God's glory.  rlkeller

WHAT'S TRULY IMPORTANT

        Another weekend has come and gone.  The snow is all melted.  The ground is damp from the rain over the weekend.  Baseball season is rapidly approaching, March Madness has arrived, the hockey regular season is winding down and the NFL draft is around the corner.  In the midst of all this stands God.  He goes largely unnoticed by the general populous. But for the faithful believers, everything else becomes less important in the face of His glory.  There's nothing wrong with following sports or shopping till you drop or going to the movies (unless they are vile and ungodly ... let the Holy Spirit be your guide) ... it's what you let dominate your life that dictates the path you take.  Choose Christ.  rlkeller

FRIDAY THE 13th ... IS NOTHING!!

     Did anyone happen to notice that it was Friday the 13th?  Some folks get freaked out about that.  They stay at home thinking some horrible things might happen to them if they go out anywhere that day.  Rubbish.  Friday the 13th is just another day, a number on the calendar.  It has no power over anyone unless you let it.  It's nothing.  Understanding that God is in control of all things helps you grasp the insignificance of a superstition like Friday the 13th or a black cat crossing your path or walking under a ladder.  It is all inconsequential, meaningless and has no impact on your life unless you allow it to control you.  Release the fear and embrace God instead.  He will never harm you but rather bring you to a place of confident peace. rlkeller

GOD'S GRACIOUSNESS

     The graciousness of God is pretty remarkable considering how ungrateful we can be at times.  Just as an earthly father has patience with an impudent child, so God is patient with us.  Don't take His patience for approval.  He is simply waiting for you to "get it".  Some never do, but many figure it out at some point.  Heaven awaits those who push forward in faith trusting God to lead the way.  We cannot do this thing called life all by ourselves. Give in to the will of God and be blessed. rlkeller

GENERALITIES

It's Wednesday and the snow is almost gone.  Warm temps and rain have washed it away.  The pups of napping as I write this.  Been having difficulties recently with my AOL inbox not appearing on my screen.  This doesn't allow me to email out my devotional.  It does still appear on my blog online though.  (www.minidevos.blogspot.com)

My current schedule is causing an interruption in my book writing.  While I am doing research and collecting info on occasion, my work schedule and home responsibilities chew up most of my time.  As God wills it.  I will never stop writing.  I still do my daily devo blog.  Over 50,000 views since its inception in 2012.  Very gratifying.  rlkeller

WEATHER / DEVILS / CHURCH

Hey folks, here we are facing another new week.  We're into March already (whoa, where does the time go?) and we have supposedly had our last snow of the season ... which I will believe when I see it (or don't see it, whichever the case may be).  Temps are up and the white stuff is melting fairly quickly.  Life is good and God is still great!!

Devils demolished the Flyers yesterday 5-2.  Ha ha ha.  Gosh I can't stand the Flyers. They are one dirty hockey team.  Although the Devils are playing much better lately, I think it's too late to make the playoffs this year.  12 pts behind the final playoff spot with only 16 games to go.  They'd almost have to win out.  It could happen but it's not likely.  But they are playing much better.  We have 3 more games to go to.  Looking forward to it.  

Church was inspiring yesterday as usual.  Pastor Joe is a great man and we love him very much.  He's very real ... down to earth.  No pretentious attitude or lack of humbleness.  He loves the Lord very much and its shows in all he does.  Yet he relates to us very well because he admits to struggling with the same things we all do.  God is using him in a special way in our church.  rlkeller

MY FRUSTRATION

     I get very frustrated when I make a mistake.  It's usually because I am doing something too quickly and not taking my time.  Everyone makes mistakes.  I hate to make them, especially if I really know what I'm doing.  Others around me tell me not to be so hard on myself.  I'm wired to beat myself up when I screw something up.  I get over it pretty quickly, but it stays in the deeper recesses of my mind and leaps out to the forefront  whenever I make my next mistake.  This isn't from God, but it is something I struggle with.  I consider myself to be detail oriented and so when I foul up it bothers me.  Lord help me.  After a lifetime of beating myself up for my slip ups, I'd like to quit that.  Please pray for me.  Thanx.  rlkeller

WEEKEND WEATHER / YANKEES / BLESSINGS

Another weekend has come and gone.  A couple inches of snow, then sleet, then rain, then freezing temps.  Not a good combination. But it didn't turn out so bad.  We're fine.  Roads are clear.  No worries.  Now they're calling for 1"-3" of white stuff for this Thursday.  Yeah.  At least the pups are enjoying it. lol

Baseball season is rapidly approaching.  What kind of season will the Yankees have this year.  They should be alright as long as they don't have too many serious injury problems.  GO YANKS!!

God is very good to us all.  We tend to focus on the negative and pine for what we do not have rather than the opposite.  If we would focus on our blessings instead of what we feel we need yet don't have, we'd be much happier people.  The Lord shall provide all my needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).

INTROSPECTION

     Yesterday, for whatever reason, was a day of deep introspection for me.  It involved being told I am a blessing.  I've been told by several people over the last few years that I am a wonderful blessing.  I know myself and I don't see how that can be remotely possible.  The words of my first ex are still ringing in my ears all these many years later ... "People are only nice to you because they want something from you.  If they really knew you they wouldn't like you."  Isn't it a shame that garbage like that never seems to get removed from your subconscious mind.  I take solace in the fact that God knows my heart and I suppose what people see and hear isn't me at all but Christ in me shining through.  I am truly grateful that some folks see me as a blessing, because that in and of itself makes my journey with God all the more rewarding.  I will always be grateful for that. rlkeller

DEVILS / WEATHER / GRATEFUL TO GOD

Another weekend has gone by the boards.  The Devils are on a 3 game winning streak (yeah) and still may have a fighting chance to make the playoffs.  Anything can happen, so stay tuned.

The snow, sleet & rain that hit us over the weekend has come and gone.  We are left with cold temps (yesterday was in the mid-40's and sunny ... pretty nice) and hard slush.  Yippee!  My heart goes out to those unfortunate souls in the New England area who have been inundated with piles and piles of snow.  Yikes!

Pups are napping.  I'm getting ready to run an errand.  Another work week starts.  I'd like to be bummed about that, but in reality I'm grateful for any job at all.  So thank you Lord for my life, my wife, my pups and my job.  God is too good to me.  I deserve nothing and He gives me everything.  rlkeller

BITTER TEMPS / KNOWING GOD

Back again.  We still have bitter temps.  4 degrees today and 20-30 mph winds.  Yummy!! Bundle up, it's cold out there.  I really don't mind it at all.  I like the cold much better then the intense heat.  Yuck!!

Knowing God is trusting Him.  Many say they know God, but are just saying it.  Some say it to avoid being preached at.  Some say it because they really believe they are okay with "the man upstairs".  God isn't "the man upstairs", nor is He "the BIG guy".  He isn't your pal, although Jesus Christ is referred to as our friend and brother.  We are told to fear God, however this fear isn't to be afraid, but rather to look upon Him with reverence, awe and respect.  We're talking about the creator of all things.  He deserves all our respect and reverence.  What do we deserve?  By our own actions we stand condemned and deserve nothing more than hell fire.  Did you know that hell was created for Lucifer and his fallen angel comrades?  Hell is not intended to be man's final eternal residence.  It's only by our rejection of God's gracious gift of forgiveness through the blood of Christ, His own Son, that we find ourselves bound for everlasting separation from our Heavenly Father.  It doesn't have to be that way.  rlkeller

SNOW / MY DEVO BLOG

I'm back after a nice weekend.  It snowed about 4-5 inches Saturday night.  We're supposed to get another 8" tonight into tomorrow morning.  Coming home from work could be dicey.  I work 1 hour away from home.  I know God will be with me.  That's all I need.

Each day, Monday thru Saturday, I write a devotional on a blog whose title is BREAD OF LIFE.  The link is http://minidevos.blogspot.com.  It's not a fluffy, everything is beautiful, love, peace and harmony type of devotional blog.  In it I write those things that God lays on my heart based on a certain verse or verses that I find each morning.  They are definitely meant to encourage, edify and bless the reader.  But more than that some are meant to instruct or even challenge believers to examine their lives.  Comparing our life to that of Christ's can be daunting, but it's quite necessary if we are going to become more like Him and shouldn't that be every believers goal, to be a reflection of Christ. Check out my devo blog. rlkeller

TRUE LOVE

          With Valentine's Day on the horizon, we look at true love.  It isn't sexual and it isn't driven by ulterior motives.  It is found with Christ on the cross.  That is true, sacrificial, all encompassing love.  It is mercy and compassion, patience and kindness.  It really has nothing to do with sex.  Sexual involvement is born out of man's base need for closeness and affection.  True affection is found in the One who gave Himself to save you from your past misdeeds and indiscretions.  That is a tidy way of saying 'sin'.  Anything that is displeasing to God is sin.  God isn't a cruel task master.  He just happens to know what we need and what will make us most content in this life.  Going it alone will bring temporary satisfaction but it will be fleeting.  Take my word for it, I know.  I have chased after the golden ring too many times to know it is unattainable.  God's love is not.  Ask for it and receive it, in Jesus name.  rlkeller

WEATHER / BOOK SALE / DEPRESSION

Monday morning.  A threat of some sort of nasty weather, but we aren't really sure what to expect.  The weather peeps said rain, but the temp is below freezing.  Will it snow, will it be a mixture, will it be icy.  It's like a crap shoot or a game of roulette.  Round and round and round it goes, where it stops nobody knows. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

I'm having a book sale on my website which I will start next week.  Not sure how much of a discount just yet, but I would like to get the books into more peoples hands because I believe it will encourage and bless those who read them.  I say that not because I am such an awesome writer, but because God was in control of what was written and that makes it special.  All glory, honor and praise goes to the Lord.

I struggle with depression sometimes.  It's only the Holy Spirit who pulls me out of it.  I look at my life and allow the devil to tell me I haven't done anything of any value my whole life.  I know that is a lie, but sometimes the reality of all that has transpired in my previous life weighs heavy on me.  Divorce is a lousy thing. Nobody wins, everyone gets scarred, especially any children involved.  May God have mercy on us all.  rlkeller

WEATHER / LOST IDENTITY / BOOK TWO

The weather people say we're supposed to get much snow in the next two weeks.  I'll believe it when I see it.  Supposedly we have a huge snow storm coming our way Sunday night.  It's supposed to snow into Tuesday.  Who knows.  I guess I'll have to just wait and see what the day brings.  I like the cold.  The way I look at it is, you can always put on another layer of clothes, but when it's hot, there's only so much you can take off within the limits of the law to stay cool.  Give me the winter. 

At work I do a lot of observing.  I notice many people struggling for their identity.  They don't see it, but I do.  They are trying to fit in by the way they dress, the way they talk and the way they act.  They seem to want to be cool, to be excepted.  I am who I am.  I change for God alone.  When people find out I am a Christian, some are drawn to me, others stay clear.  That's fine.  I deal with the cards God has dealt me.

In an effort to help struggling believers, I have been led to give as gifts my second book, which is a 365 day daily devotional.  It's pricey ($20) and knowing people are essentially broke, I feel as though the Lord would have we distribute them wherever I feel they will be an encouragement to people I meet.  The words within its pages are not mine, although I typed them.  God inspired what is in the book.  I take no credit.  God receives all the glory, honor and praise for that effort.  May His name be praised forever!  rlkeller

PUPS / DEVILS / GOD'S GIFTS

Wednesday, Feb 4.  It's cold out.  Snow is still on the ground.  The pups are loving there new found freedom off the leash.  Sometimes it's hard to get them to come in.  Asking them if they want a treat usually works like a charm.  They love to eat.  

The Devs won again last night.  2-1 over Ottawa.  That's 6 wins out of the last 7 games.  3 games under .500.  Their defense has been awesome, as has their goaltending.  Now if they could just score a little more.  Right now they aren't in the playoff picture, but we still have all of Feb & Mar to go.  They can't have any letdowns.  They are not the best team in their division, but they're very good.  We'll see how it all shakes out.  GO DEVILS!!

God is at work through my devotionals.  People are ministered to and that is a blessing to me.  None of this is my doing.  It's the Lord who flows and moves in peoples lives.  I am humbled that God would use me in any capacity at all.  He gives the gifts, we are called to use them to His glory.  I am a vehicle, a conduit to be used to expand the kingdom of God.  May the Lord be praises now and forever.  rlk

THE BLIZZARD / HOCKEY / MARTY B / GOD CARES

The Blizzard of 2015 is over.  We got roughly 10-12 inches of snow.  The storm pushed farther east out to sea, so the worst of the storm missed us.  Not sure how Long Island and New England would take to that statement.  2-3 feet is what I heard for those areas.  Yikes!

I took a PTO (paid time off) day today.  Going to a hockey game tonight.  Part of my Christmas present.  Devils & the Maple Leafs.  Should be a good one.

On a sad note, Marty Brodeur, simply the best goalie in NHL history, has finally hung up his pads.  He had 6 starts for the St. Louis Blues to fill in for the two goalies who were injured; however, he found there was no room for him on the roster when they returned.  He will reportedly finish his one year contract with the Blues in some capacity in their team offices.  All the best to you Marty.  You are the best and always will be.  AND you will always be a Devil.  

God loves you and He cares what happens to you.  Give your life to Him.  rlkeller

SNOW / THE GAME / GOD IS GRACIOUS

          It's still snowing here in Brick, NJ.  We have roughly a foot of snow on the ground and it's still coming down.  Not supposed to stop until this evening.  Won't find out about work until after 12 noon.  Not planning on going in even if they're open.  We'll see.

          Deflate Gate ... The Patriots have been caught cheating before.  It doesn't surprise me that they are doing it again.  After they were caught the first time, they haven't won a Super Bowl.  Is this what they felt they had to do to win another one.  Who knows.  I may not even watch the game ... yup, for the first time since its' inception, I may not watch the Super Bowl.  Don't care for either team, the ball allegations are disturbing and I don't like either coach.  Really don't care who wins or loses.  

          God is very gracious and kind.  He is slow to anger and abounding in love and mercy.  Being a faithful follower of Christ takes commitment, diligence and an earnest desire to change your lifestyle.  rlkeller

STORM COMING!

          It's snowing today.  We have a couple inches out there.  It's supposed to stop soon, but there is a winter Nor'easter coming tonight that could dump as much as 10"-18" of white stuff on us.  The reports vary greatly.  Some say it will turn to rain, others say 6"-8" of snow.  Let's face it, no one really knows how fast or slow this storm system will move until it does its' thing.  So the snow blower is gassed up and ready to rock, the back friendly snow shovels are posted right by the doors, the de-ice pellet bucket is on the porch ... we're ready.  Bring it on!!  rlkeller

THE PUPS / INSISTING vs. ASSISTANCE

       A rather uneventful day.  Although the pups new found freedom in the back yard off the leash has caused them to want to constantly go outside.  Hard to concentrate and even harder to write.  Every 20 min or so they beg to go out.  I love them to death, don't get me wrong, but this has to be regulated somehow (lol) ... they love to run around and the back yard provides more space than the inside of the house.  They're so cute.  I get annoyed but that quickly turns to joy when I see them chasing one another out back.  

       God is good and life is going well.  We don't have a lot of money but we have each other and we have the Lord.  God will never let us crash and burn unless we insist upon it.  That's crazy, why would we insist upon it?  What I mean by that is that sometimes folks do things that are not at all in God's plan, like perhaps going deep in debt for some material possession.  God isn't going to keep us from doing what we insist on doing.  He will assist us by His Holy Spirit when called upon.  Does that make sense?  rlkeller

KITTY LITTER / DEVIL'S HOCKEY

          Note to self:  Do NOT ever put kitty litter on a wooden ramp that has frost on it.  It may keep you from slipping initially, but it will end up being a slippery mess before you are done.  The brand we use is clay based and when it gets wet it gets slimy and therefore, slippery. Yuck!  Then you and your pups track it inside and well, need I go on.  No bueno!!
          Going to see Fleetwood Mac Saturday night in Atlantic City.  We saw them in October at the Prudential Center in Newark.  The wife is a huge fan.  Hockey next Wednesday night ... Devils vs. Maple Leafs.  The Devs went 2-1 in their west coast swing.  Beat LA 5-3, got clobbered by Anaheim
two nights later 5-1, then bounced back in San Jose Monday night 5-2.  They're still 5 games under .500 and well out of the playoff picture, but have been playing much better since they canned their coach the day after Christmas.  We'll see how things develop.  (Did I ever happen to mention that I LOVE HOCKEY!!!???)  rlkeller

SNOW / JERSEY / THE GAME

          It's supposed to snow this afternoon into this evening.  Perhaps 2-4".  Should make for a fun ride home from work at 10:40 pm.  My job is one hour from home.  It goes pretty fast if your listening to music or sports talk radio.  Lousy weather makes it a bit of a challenge, but it's nothing like the weather some regions of the country have been getting.  I think I'll stay on the east coast, close to the ocean.  

          I know some folks don't care for the blunt honesty of folks from Jersey, but I love it.  Tell me what you really feel and don't hold back.  I prefer honesty to political correctness any day of the week.  I appreciate a modicum of couth and mutual respect when spewing your opinion, but by all means, let it fly.  It works so much better then having to pull information out of people like you're pulling teeth.  

          The Patriots vs. the Seahawks in the Super Bowl.  Sorry, I don't much care for either team.  I would like the Pats to win because I care for the Seahawks less than I do the Patriots, but I really don't care one way or another.  I may not even bother to watch the game.  It would be the first time I've ever missed one.  It's simply not that important to me.  Now if the Giants were in it that would be a different story.  (lol)  rlkeller

GOD NEVER FAILS!!

          Being Christ to others is difficult at times, like when they rub you the wrong way or tick you off.  The old man really wants to take over in times like that.  We have to fight the urge to lash out.  Being at peace in our spirit helps immensely.  Just work at not letting things bother you.   I can get churned up about some pretty crazy things.  Things that either haven't and may never take place or things I have no control over.  After nearly 36 yrs walking with Christ I still haven't learned certain lessons.  Be calm in spite of your circumstances.  God knows what He's doing and will not fail you. Period! rlkeller

A THOUGHT FROM ALEX

My Kenyan brother Alex from work had something rather profound to share with me at the end of our work day (10:30 pm) last night.  In the course of the day the Lord laid this on his heart:

Today is over, which means we are heading somewhere.

I found that to be rather thought provoking.  rlkeller

THE WEEKEND / MY NEW BOOK

     Another weekend is by the boards ... another work week begins.  It's overcast and raining lightly this morning.  The pups are asleep on the bed behind me.  Marty is snoring.  Too funny!  

     Good service yesterday morning.  Nice dinner with friends Saturday night. Nice time with family yesterday.  God blessed us with a full, satisfying, restful weekend.  No complaints.

     The writing of my 4th book has hit a roadblock.  My research has stalled due to my schedule.  I am a random thinker so my thoughts and ideas hit me at odd times.  Not being able to sit down and write whenever I feel the urge to has been a bit of an issue.  The book will be completed when God wants it completed.  I not terribly concerned about it.  Some things are just more important at the time than writing a manuscript.  Know what I mean Vern?  rlkeller

ETERNITY HANGS IN THE BALANCE

          Looking back on my devotionals for the last few days or so, some might say I am coming on a little too strong.  My response is that I honestly feel led by the Spirit to say what I write.  Serving God is serious business and a definite choice that every man and woman must make at some point in their lives.  You can say to yourself "I don't believe there is a God" and go on your merry way or you can seriously consider God to be who He says He is.  It requires faith - believing something is, without actually seeing it.  The God issue is of eternal importance.  Christians believe heaven and hell hang in the balance of ones decision.  Choose wisely.  If you don't believe there is a God that you will have to stand before one day, you better be sure.  All eternity is at stake.  rlkeller

RANDOM THOUGHTS

       It's Wednesday morning.  It's a very cold morning ... 19 degrees to be exact.  The coldest day NJ has had so far.  It pales in comparison to some regions of the US, but still it is cold.  It's also sunny out, so that takes some of the bite out of the cold.  I like cold weather.  

       

       The Devils have won 2 in a row.  Happy day!  I think they're coming around.  Good.  

       Did I happen to mention that I love the Lord very much.  I am trying my best to imitate Christ with all my thoughts, words and actions.  It's a progressive thing.  Being painfully human I have good days and bad days.  I'm pretty transparent when it comes to expressing my thoughts.  I think a lot of people like that about me.  I don't pussy foot around ... I call it like I see it in Christian love.  I don't fire a salvo of judgment at people, especially non-believers.  I am not their judge and jury.  Only God can judge or at least that's the way it's supposed to be.  Lead them to Christ, don't condemn them to hell.  Later ... rlkeller

LIFE IN GENERAL

          Well, the Devils came out flying Saturday night and the Flyers were grounded.  NJ 5 Philly 2.  Great game!!  Anyway, we took down our Christmas decorations yesterday.  Always a sad day.  We really love the Christmas season.  There's talk of possibly some snow for tomorrow ... near midnight.  Who knows.  We usually wait till the morning to see what has happened weather-wise.  A doff of the cap to Stuart Scott of ESPN who died the other day after a 7 yr battle with cancer.  He was an iconic sports announcer and his loss shall be felt in the sports announcing community.  A new week is just beginning, unless you consider Sunday the first day of the week as some do.  The pups are asleep behind me on the bed.  I am doing what I do on any given weekday morning prior to going to work.  2nd shift work is pretty nice.  2 pm - 10:30 pm.  Not bad.  Goes pretty quick.  After 6:30 the last remnants of the day shift goes home and most of the big bosses have left for the day.  It's nice and quiet.  That suits me just fine.  Have an awesome day in Christ!! rlkeller

HOCKEY & DEVO HITS

          The NJ Devils (ice hockey) canned their coach and are still having trouble scoring goals.  We're going to see them play the Flyers at the Rock tonight.  Hoping for a win.  It's been a rough season so far.  I believe they are currently 13-20-6.  Ugh!  Oh well, glad my salvation doesn't depend on the outcome of a hockey game. 

          Huh!  Over 47,000 people have visited my devotional blog since it began back in March of 2011.  That's a lot of hits.  I hope all were blessed in some small way.  God is a good God.  Slow to anger, abounding in mercy and love.  It is my good pleasure to serve Him in this small way.  rlkeller

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

       In watching New Year’s Rockin’ Eve last night and taking in all the sights and sounds of the festive occasion, it made me think of how many people may wish to have last night wiped from their life-slate.  Choices were made by millions of people.  I wonder how many are regretting them right now.  All our choices come with consequences.  Think before you speak, think before you act.  Sometimes there is no second chance.  God forgives, but pain and sorrow can be averted if wise choices are made in the first place.  Seek God's guidance in all life decisions and reap the benefits of being obedient. rlkeller