Devotions for Teens

[Soldier4Christ]

  Going The Distance

By: Adam R. Rinehart


“So he rose from the table, took off his outer garment, and tied a towel around his waist. Then he poured some water into a washbasin and began to wash the disciples' feet and dry them with the towel around his waist.” John 13:4-5 (GNB)

What is the most disgusting thing that you have ever had to clean up? Perhaps it was that thing that moves on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator, or maybe your brother’s dirty gym socks? We have all been in that situation where we had to clean up something that we really did not want to touch—even with a ten foot pole! However, a ten foot pole wouldn't have been nearly the length needed for what happened to me the other day.

About a month ago, I got a visit from a stranger at my church. He asked, “Pastor, could I use the restroom?” Without hesitation, I directed him downstairs.  “Pastor, I have a problem,” I heard as the man stood at the threshold of my office.  Looking up from my sermon, I wondered if we were out of toilet paper again. “What seems to be the problem?” I asked. He replied, “It is all over the floor, and I need help cleaning it up.”  A minute later, scared of what I might discover in the shadows of the church basement, I proceeded down the stairwell cautiously—the old “shirt over the nose” routine in play.  Much to my disgust, I found that the stranger had messed all over the basement floor!  I didn't know if I should laugh, cry, make fun of, or run for my life. As I handed the man a paper towel, I noticed that he was mentally challenged and had an extremely hard time cleaning it up.

“You finish getting the majority of it, and I will call my wife to let her know that I am going to be home late to help you clean up.” On my trudge to the janitor’s closet in a quest for the disinfectant spray, I thought “God, there are better things to do!” While mopping, all I could think of was, “Am I willing to go the distance?”

Refer back to the verse in John 13; washing a man’s foot was the lowest of low that anyone could do, but He did it. Why? Jesus was willing to go the distance, and the disciples were able to see that we are to do just that, serve one another no matter what the price—even if that price is cleaning up some stranger’s mess.  Are you willing to go the distance my friend? I encourage you to do whatever it takes to go the distance for your fellow brother and sisters in Christ.  Amen!  May God’s Grace abound in you!

[Soldier4Christ]

  The Visiting Team

By: Tony B. Rhoda


"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. (Hebrews 12:1) NKJV."

A couple of years ago I traveled to Winter Haven, the home of the Cleveland Indians spring training stadium. They were to take on the Detroit Tigers at 1:05. When noon finally rolled around, I didn't think I was going to be able to wait another minute. I jumped in my truck and headed to the game. Decked out in my authentic Alan Trammell Tigers jersey, I was ready.

Surrounded by Indians fans, I walked into the stadium. Never had I felt more unwelcome glares in my life. I just smiled back and kept walking. As I started up the steps, I found a few Tigers fans and after exchanging a high five or two, I proceeded to my seat.

At the time they were the reigning American League Champs. The outlook wasn't good. But, by the grace of God, we hung in there and when the last pitch was hurled across the plate we won! After I was done with my victory dance, I strutted myself down to my truck. What a day!

As I climbed into my truck, I couldn't help but think of how we are every day. Each morning we walk into a stadium that is home to the reigning champ, Satan. Everyone around us seems to look down and even boo at your faith in Jesus. People even try to make you question why you're even a Christian. Nobody likes to be on a losing team. We are heading into the final innings. We already know the outcome of this game. Stay strong and faithful. Because, in the end we can do a victory dance all the way to heaven. This is one game I can't wait to see the end of. God Bless and Keep The Faith!

[Soldier4Christ]

  Are You A Skeptic?

By: Amber Owen


“From the time the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky and all that God made.  They can clearly see His invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse whatsoever for not knowing God.”  Romans 1:20 (NLT)

Have you ever had that moment when you look up into the sky and are just in awe of the beautiful sunset or the thunder cloud glowing with lightening?  Maybe you’ve been amazed at how a caterpillar transforms into a beautiful butterfly.  Perhaps you have been dumbfounded when you look into the eyes of someone you care about and see the true meaning of God’s existence. 

It’s always difficult to talk to a skeptic about God.  They always have some excuse or another to not believe that God really does exist.  After witnessing to them, by sharing my testimonials, blessings, and miracles that Jesus has given me, they refuse to just have faith and believe.  There is always an excuse, “Why believe the Bible that was written by men, of which have the ability to sin?” 

What happened back when there were no books?  Did people still believe in God?  Yes! God reveals Himself to us in all kinds of obvious ways.  Just like the verse in Romans says, “They can clearly see His invisible qualities...they have no excuse whatsoever for not knowing God.”  You cannot tell me that you can honestly look into the stars or admire a butterfly without thinking about a deeper, spiritual meaning of life and existence of Divinity.

My message for you today is to think about what it says in Romans 1:20.  Take time out to look at those beautiful, awe-inspiring displays of nature and life that attest to God’s existence and praise Him!   Be sure of your faith and encourage those whom you may be witnessing to honestly look into the skies and really seek what is behind it.  God Bless You!

[Soldier4Christ]

  Freedom To Be Free

By: Jim Mazzulla


Today's devotional is brought to you by my good friend Jim from BibleFood Ministries. If you are looking for a great weekly devotional that is really deep and challenging, please E-mail him at Biblefood@aol.com. Being today is the 4th of July and a special holiday for those that live in the United States, I wanted to bring you this devotional. Enjoy! - Tony

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty [freedom] wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage". Galatians 5:1

In this passage, Paul is making a passionate appeal to the Christians of Galatia to recognize the freedom they have by God's grace and to encourage the Galatians to reject the false teaching of the *Judaizers. This was the heresy Paul came against in his letter to the Galatians.  So many today fall into a similar problem. 

*NOTE: The Judaizers taught that Gentile believers could not be true Christians unless they were circumcised and followed the Mosaic law.

Interesting that we, as Christians, have liberty (KJV) or freedom (Greek eleutheria) to be free (Greek eleeutheroo). Both of these words come from the same Greek word "eleutheros". This freedom happens at salvation. You don't need to get FREE after you are saved, you need to learn how NOT to put yourself under bondage of the law. Why would such a statement even need to be said? It was said to the Galatian Christians as they were having problems by thinking of putting themselves under the law AFTER becoming Christians. They were saved by GRACE ALONE, through FAITH ALONE, and NOW they're trying to please God by keeping "the law" of the Old Testament.

Fellow Christian, this freedom is already yours.  Please, do not allow legalism to come or stay. When we put ourselves under the law, we are acting as a child who has no freedom of action.  A child must follow a set of rules as prescribed by his parents or guardian.  Why? Because he is not old enough to act alone. When we get saved we are no longer under the guardianship of the law. When we put ourselves under the law, we are like adults putting ourselves under rules that were made for children. 

Spiritually, as Christians, we are to be living in dependence upon the indwelling Holy Spirit. We should obey the LORD and His word; not because the law forbids us to do wrong and commands us to do right, but because we're LED by the Holy Spirit; it PLEASES the Lord Jesus; and because of our LOVE for the LORD. You are still under your parents in the natural, but the Holy Spirit wants to direct your spiritual life, if you'll ALLOW Him.)

What Christ did for us on the cross CANNOT be coupled with performance to earn salvation. All righteousness came through Jesus Christ ALONE.  Any addition implies that Christ's sacrifice is inadequate, insufficient, incomplete and unfinished. Someone who has been made free in Christ can still live in bondage; but it is because they are allowing themselves to be deceived and they and/or others are putting them into bondage. When we try to follow the law to feel that we are acceptably walking with God, we are attempting to earn at least "part" of our salvation ourselves. When we do so, we are declaring that Jesus is no longer our righteousness alone, but Jesus and law makes us righteous which is wrong.

The law and grace for salvation are incompatible!!! We're saved by Grace ALONE, through FAITH alone! Not by any laws or of our own doing. We are FREE!  Don't buy into the lie that you must earn God's favor.  Don't come under bondage to legalism, Jesus made you to be FREE. I would encourage all of you to take the time to read Galatians as it is only six chapters long and will prove to be an epistle that will bring freedom to your life.

PRAYER:
Thank you LORD for your precious Word that says I'm free.  I will not allow myself to come under the bondage of legalism in any form. Thank you for complete freedom in my Christian walk.
In Jesus' Name! Amen!

[Soldier4Christ]

  Really Living

By: Beth Hays


But Jesus told him, "No! The Scriptures say, 'People need more than bread for their life; they must feed on every word of God.' " (Matthew 4:4) NLT

How many times have you heard this verse? 5.000? Yeah, I agree. And if you're anything like me, it doesn’t mean too much anymore, does it? I hadn’t paid much serious attention to it, until I saw its truth become a reality in my life.

My mom and I sponsor two children overseas. Though they live in different cultures and have different families, they are very similar in age and character. One of them, Sandra, who resides in Equador, is sponsored through a non-Christian organization. The other, Linda, who resides in Indonesia, is sponsored through a Christian organization. As I said, they are very much alike, with one dramatic difference.

They are both given the food and water they need. They have clothing and even a toy or two (Sandra talks often of her soccer ball, and Linda her doll). I write them equal amounts of letters with similar content, always affirming their worth and telling them I love them. But, the difference is obvious. Linda’s letters are full of hope and love. She tells me of how happy she is when she talks to Jesus and that He loves her. She calls me her sister. Sandra’s letters are close to hopeless, thanking me for the stuff, but often telling me she feels alone.

There’s nothing wrong with non-Christian organizations--please don’t think that—they both help to keep alive the children I love. But, I can’t even tell Sandra God loves her (I tried, and they sent back the letter).  I am watching her soul slowly suffocate in loneliness and hopelessness. While Linda, in just as much poverty, is full of hope and joy. They both have food. Only one has the words of God. And it has made all the difference.

Food and water may keep our bodies functioning, but it takes the words and love of God to really help us LIVE. Think of where you would be without His love. And then look around you at the people who are starving--physically and spiritually. Will you help nourish them? Hungry people won’t listen to what you say about God until they see Him feed them. So, start there. But, make sure it doesn’t end there. Go spread the secret to real and abundant life.

[Soldier4Christ]

  Crying Wolf

By: Ariel Gant


Yet I hold this against you: you have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen!  Repent and do the things you did at first.  If you do not repent, I will remove your lamp stand from its place. (Revelation 2:4-6) NIV

Sometimes, like a young child who is so easily distracted, I let the world catch my attention.  And once I've taken my eyes off our Lord, no matter how briefly, it becomes quite a struggle to return.  But unfortunately, by the time God brings me to my knees and I realize how empty this world is, I forget how tender and forgiving our loving heavenly Father is.  I develop a fear that He'll be angry with me for continually promising to love and serve Him with all my heart, then allowing Satan to so easily pull me away.

It reminds me a lot of the little boy who cried wolf.  Intending to fool the shepherds, he'd run and tell them wolves were after the sheep.  After running to the rescue, the shepherds would discover the boy had lied, again, and left them looking foolish. 

I often feel like God thinks I'm crying wolf. That I say I'm returning whole-heartedly to receive His love and protection, only to turn around and run off again.  Thankfully God knows our hearts.  He realizes how easily Satan can trip us up when we're not on our guards.  And each time we return, like the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), God welcomes you back with open arms, overwhelmed with joy at the thought of being able to hold you in His arms once again.  He has no doubts of your sincerity; He doesn't hold back His trust as we often would.  He's simply overjoyed to have you back, because you're all He truly wants. Not your works, your service, or your sacrifice, just YOU.   

[Soldier4Christ]

  Rekindle The Flame Of Your First Love

By: Jeff Lappano


"To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands: I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. But you have this in your favour: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. Rev 2:1-7 (NASB)

Back in the day, Ephesus was a happening city. The New Testament records much about the city of Ephesus. One of the major things recorded is that Paul founded the church and left Priscilla and Aquila to pastor it. He also wrote to the Ephesians a long letter from which it is clear that they were a mature church.

The church had a lot of good things going on for them. These people knew how to work and endure hardships, coming out strong on the other side. The church was not blown away by every wind of doctrine that came to them, but they judged it carefully and did not adhere to the teachings that were contrary to the Word of God. They also hated the practices of the Nicolaitans, which we’ll cover down the road.

Even though the church rocking for God, they had one thing that Christ points out that they’re lacking. Verse 4 says, “Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love.” In everything they were doing they forgot about their first love the Lord Jesus Christ. With this powerful rebuke came 3 steps to turn this thing around. Remember the heights from which they have fallen, repent, and do the deeds they did at first. Repentance is not just turning from wrong but also doing what is right. When you repent, you understand that what you are doing is wrong, and you desire to get away from there. The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 16 has the emphasis of repentance. The son, in the midst of the pig’s pen realized where he was and decided that this wasn’t the place for him, so he got up and went back to his father’s house. He made a total 180-degree turn from he was and was restored to his father’s household.

Continuing in Revelation 2, should they not repent, Christ would come quickly and remove their lampstand. The KJV has 'come unto thee quickly' which emphasizes the suddenness of his judgment and that therefore they should repent quickly. Interesting enough, today there is no church in the city.

What does a letter written 2000 years ago to a church on the other side of the world have to do with us? The emphasis of the letter is to return to your first love. How is your relationship with your first love, the Lord Jesus Christ? Maybe you have fallen away for whatever reason. Look at where you are and repent and come back to the loving arms of a merciful God. He desires that your relationship with Him be totally reestablished.

[Soldier4Christ]

  Rob & Cindy Mini-Series Part 1

By: Janet Adams


"Cindy Thinks She is Pregnant"

Rob, my son, and his girlfriend, Cindy, come into the room where I am sitting and reading the paper. They look upset and confused. I immediately put the paper down and ask what the matter is. They sit down and look at each other, neither of them speaking. I know what is going to happen here.

Rob is an honor student, a junior in high school; he has always been a great kid. He is a great athlete, and his father and I are very proud of him. He is very active in his youth group at church, where he met Cindy. She is a year younger and is a very beautiful, bright girl. Our families have become close friends since they started dating a little over a year ago.

Flashes of the past of when they first met cross my mind. I remember him telling me he wanted to ask her out, when he was afraid she would say no. Memories of him in his first tux flashed through my mind when he escorted Cindy to their first school dance in her long, flowing gown. I was so tickled when I helped him purchase his first, of what I hoped, would be many flowers to be given to his girl. Rob and Cindy’s relationship has not been completely perfect; there have been some arguments and phone hang ups, but never anything serious. They are always very quick to say, "I’m sorry," and make up. I truly believe they love each other.

My husband and I, had a long talk with him after a few months of them dating, because they were growing very close in their relationship. We explained the responsibility of the relationship, discussing mutual respect. I was able to give him some tips of how to treat a lady. We also discussed sex. We are a strong Christian family and do our best to obey God's Word, and our beliefs of sex outside of marriage come from the Bible.

"The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord. All other sins a man commits are outside of his body, but he who sins sexually, sins against his own body" 1 Corinthians 6:13-18

I look at Rob, my heart pounding, "What is wrong? Please, tell me." Cindy's head is hanging down; she is looking at her hands she is wringing in her lap. Rob looks at me and says, “Cindy thinks she is pregnant.” My heart drops. Wow, these words hit hard! All at once, in my initial reaction,  I see such total destruction of two lives—two families that will feel the ripple effects of their decision to have sex, not to mention a precious baby. I really don't remember the expression on my face, but I am sure it wasn't pleasant. I see my little boy sitting in front of me, the boy I loved and cherished, scared and worried. My motherly instinct kicks in and I put my arms around him. I hug him as he starts to cry on my shoulder. Cindy is crying as I reach out to her as well. Now, we face the question, “What we are to do here?” Our hearts are heavy and we are all so scared of the unsure future. Through her sobbing, Cindy expresses her concern that she is too scared to tell her parents, and wants to know if I will tell them. All I can say is, "Oh, God, please help us."

The three of us are crying, Cindy says they never meant for this to happen.

”God condemns immorality, but He offers deliverance. "And that is what some of you were (sexually immoral). But you were washed, you were sanctified (cleansed), you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God" 1 Corinthians 6:11,12

To Be Continued......

[Soldier4Christ]

  Rob & Cindy Mini-Series Part 2

By: Janet Adams


Part 2
"Is Cindy Pregnant?"

After composing ourselves and getting our thoughts together, I decide to call my husband at work and ask him to come home early.  “Sure, Honey. What is wrong?” I told him it was serious but it wasn't a life or death situation. All the while thinking, “Or was it?” I didn't want my husband to think someone died, but I am suddenly faced with the burning question of what Rob and Cindy are going to do if she is pregnant.

For a brief second, I visualize a cute little baby who looks like my Rob. I get sort of a kick out of thinking of this baby that I would love as if it were my own heart, born from my son and his girlfriend. My own grandbaby!

Then wham! Reality hits again. He is only seventeen, making her 16, both of them still are babies themselves! Very nervously, we sit down and discuss what to say to Cindy's parents. I told them they should approach the conversation as they did here with me. She says in a panicked voice, "NO! I can't do that!" She is scared to death. So, I suggested we wait until Rob's dad gets home and the four of us will talk.

After hearing the car door close to our family sedan, I met my husband at the door.  After entering the threshold to our home, I told him what happened. I see the saddest face he has ever shown as buries his face in his hands and says "Oh, Lord, no." He goes into the bedroom to change clothes before coming out to the others. I go back to the living room to report to the expecting faces of my son and his girlfriend of my husband’s reaction.  “He’s sad for the booth of you, but he’ll be okay, and we are here for both of you,” I answer.  As my husband emerges from our bedroom, he comes out with red, swollen eyes—he had been crying.

My husband makes a call to Cindy's parents to ask them to come over right away. He explained we all needed to talk, that it was serious, but not life or death. “Or is it?” I thought again as a heard him hang up the phone. Cindy’s parents arrived soon after that and the six of us sit down to discuss the matter at hand.  I was the one to tell them what Rob and Cindy told me. Upon hearing the news, Cindy's father stands up and walks in the other room. You could tell he was taking it pretty hard. Her mother just closes her eyes. By this time, I am crying again, and so is Rob and Cindy. In the quiet of the room I can sense such heartache and fear. What to do?

First of all, we have to know for sure if she is pregnant. Cindy said she took one of those home pregnancy tests and it was positive. “Sometimes those aren’t accurate,” her mother says. We all decide she should see a doctor to know for sure before making any plans. Cindy's mom quickly gets up and goes into the kitchen to call their family doctor. She demands an appointment right away, insisting that it is an emergency. As she returns to the room, she grabs her purse and urges her daughter and husband, “Let’s go.” So, in a moments notice they disappeared. Rob stands to go with the, but Cindy's dad places his hand on Rob’s shoulder and says, “You better stay here,” with solemn look in his eye. 

An hour or so goes by, and the phone rings.  It’s for Rob.  He makes out, “I am pregnant,” through Cindy’s uncontrollable sobbing.  “It’s okay,” he says trying to console her. Looking over his shoulder he says, "Right Mom?" I said, “Yes,” because he loves her, will marry her, and they will have their baby. More thoughts ran through my mind, “Wow married? With a baby? Living here I suppose.”

All of a sudden my husband and I hear Rob yell, "What? No way!" He then bangs the phone down on the counter. We are practically on top of him anticipating what Cindy had said. He looks at us with bewilderment, evidenced by the blank stare on his face and says, "Cindy's parents are making her have an abortion." He grabs his jacket and with a swift gait runs out the door to go to her house. This situation IS life or death!!

God forbids irresponsible sexual behavior, in order to spare us the disastrous consequences. "You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe." Psalm139:16. God created man in his own image, human life is sacred and no one can put a value on it because God who created it. "You made all the delicate, inner pares of my body, and knit them together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex." Psalm 139:13 "Thou shall not kill" Deut. 5:17 BUT… “Confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…”1 John 1:9.

[Soldier4Christ]

  Rob & Cindy Mini-Series Part 3

By: Janet Adams


"Decisions Made for Cindy and Rob"
Part 3

Cindy's father answered the door and asked Rob to come in.  Rob was relieved that her father was more accommodating to his visit; he would have insisted on seeing Cindy no matter what—that was his baby inside of her, and he didn’t want to cause a scene. Not knowing what to expect when he arrived, Rob entered taking his chances. Cindy’s father summoned Cindy from her room. Her face was red and puffy; tears stained her checks. Rob and Cindy embraced each other tightly, not wanting to ever let go. 

As they walked into the family room, Cindy told Rob that her parents informed her that she was too young to have a baby. “Having a baby will be a disgrace to the family, and it will ruin your life!” She also informed him that they refused to be responsible for the baby, because they had already raised their children and didn’t want any more. Marriage was out of the question for them.  “We won’t let you and Rob become a ‘fairytale couple,’ under the illusion that everything will turn out fine.” They said there was no way Rob could support a wife and baby, and in a few years, they would grow to hate each other and resent the baby.

Rob's head started to spin! He knew he could support them—he would do anything it took. He loved Cindy and really wanted this child. The thought of Cindy having an abortion cut him like a knife.  Cindy was so scared. She was only sixteen and had to honor her parents' wishes. Rob understood that she felt she had no choice. Her parents loved her and said this was the best.

“The best for whom? For her? For the baby?” Rob thought to himself Decisions needed to be made. Decisions that would cause ripple effects for a lifetime to everyone. Hadn't the family always voiced their opinion about abortion being against the will of God?  Cindy’s family had always stood for Pro-life. “God created man in his own image, human life is sacred and of inestimable worth to God who created it.  You made all the delicate, inner pares of my body, and knit them together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex," (Psalm 139:13).  So what has changed? Why was it different because it happened to them? Did the commandment, "Thou shall not kill," (Deut. 5:17) not apply to this family anymore?

Cindy’s doctor had given Cindy a brochure about the procedures and details of abortion. So they took the paper out and read about what happens during an abortion.  It was a horror story to both of them. "We have to pray and ask God for another way." Both Cindy and Rob promised each other that they would not kill this baby. They were to face the world together; a sixteen and seventeen year old with no where to turn but to God. So they prayed for God to give them an answer. "You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe." (Psalm 139:16).

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all ways, acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:5 and 6)

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11)

[Soldier4Christ]

  Rob & Cindy Mini-Series Part 4

By: Janet Adams


"Rob and Cindy Fear"

As Rob and Cindy sit reading the information on abortion tears run down their cheeks and drop onto the brochure they are holding in their hands. "We can't do this," they both agree. "So what do we do?" After praying, they both decide that they don't want anyone to know about the pregnancy. They decided that the best thing to do was to go talk to their youth pastor, Brad.  He is a great man and is married with a baby, he will understand. He will keep their secret and help them find a way to deal with this while they are deciding what to do. Rob goes to the phone and calls Brad. He makes an appointment to go see him.

So now what? They are still expected to go to school, work, play basketball, do homework, and do household chores. Life has to keep going on, even though they feel life has just abruptly stopped. Cindy started to ask herself questions, “Should I stop playing basketball for school? Should a pregnant person play basketball?” Concerns about work start to consume her thoughts. She works part time at a nursing home where she occasionally lifts heavy things. She wondered if it would be best to quit. These things seem so simple, but yet were so complicated now. Their thoughts were filled with fear—fear of the future, fear of the unknown.

Rob and Cindy decide to look for comfort in the scripture, they discover, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus?” (Philippians 4:6 and 7) Knowing this verse Rob and Cindy could not understand how to not be anxious about Cindy and the pregnancy? How could they give thanksgiving about this? “How can God give us peace about all of this? There is no peace in any answer here,” they thought, “Can He give us peace, which transcends all understanding?” Rob says to Cindy, “We only know we must trust in the Lord with all of this, there is no other way.”  She knows that he’s right, but looking at him through teary eyes says, “I’m so scared.”

“The Lord will show us the way here, and we must, no matter how difficult it is trust Him and wait on His strength and guidance,” Rob says to reassure both of them. “So we pray to God to take away the fear and show us what to do. At least we both know we have a Lord who loves us, and He will give us comfort and strength while going through all of this. He will show us a way other than abortion, we pray. Remember the verse, ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you: I have called you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned,’ (Isaiah 43:1 and 2)? He will not let us burn.”

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)

[Soldier4Christ]

  Rob & Cindy Mini-Series Part 5

By: Janet Adams


"Rob and Cindy turn it over to God"

The room is quiet. Rob and Cindy were lead into an office by the church secretary, “He will be back in a few moments,” she said as they took a seat.  They sit facing a wooden desk. There are books, files, papers, and pictures on the desk. One picture is of a baby, she is in a cute little dress and hat. Their youth pastor, Brad, and his wife have been married for four years and their daughter is only four months old. “She is so cute,” they both comment. Brad is a great guy, very easy to talk to and he is always there for the kids.

It is funny how moments seem so long at times. As they sat and waited for Brad to return to the office, they reflected on the events that have unfolded in the past few weeks. Life has been a total mess. Cindy has been feeling sick to her stomach. She gets sick at school and work. She quit the basketball team. Everyone was so upset and wondering why, and they weren’t satisfied with the loose excuse she gave. When she sleeps, she has nightmares.  When she wakes up, "Wham!" it hits her like a ton of bricks, "I am pregnant." Her parents are sad and quiet. They don't talk much. They did decide that they wouldn't make any plans until Rob and Cindy went to talk to Brad. So here they are.

Brad comes in and sits down on a chair across from them; this is more personal than sitting at his desk. He greets them with a smile and jokes with them a little. Then, he looks at them seriously, “So, what can I do for you two today?” he asks. The tension is so thick you could cut it with a knife. Rob takes a deep breath and tells him that Cindy is pregnant. Brad's facial expressions don't change, but inside he feels so sorry for them and what they are facing. He has heard it time and time again. Young couples who are in love, cross the line and have intercourse.

He assures them that he is there to listen and help, but he cannot make any decisions for them. “The decisions are up to you and you can find the answers by looking to God's will,” he says. He takes their hands and offers a prayer.

“In order to know the will of God for our lives, we must first know God, Himself,” he says while fingering through his big, black Bible which sat in his lap. “We can never know who we are without first knowing whose we are. We learn to know Him as we submit more and more to His authority (Lordship), and are obedient to His Word, and are led by the Holy Spirit. In direct proportion to our knowledge of Him and our submission to Him, we experience the joy of walking in His will. ‘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.’(Proverbs 3:5 and 6).”

“I urge both of you to pray for God's will to be revealed, and pray that we may be spiritually perceptive enough to discern His will.” He flips through his Bible again, “‘Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs and don't forget to thank Him for His answers,’ (Phil. 4:6). ‘Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him and He shall bring it to pass,’ (Psalm 37:5).”

Rob and Cindy repent of their actions, and ask God to guide them into a decision that is His will. They pray that whatever the decision, that they will honor and obey God.

To Be Continued......

[Soldier4Christ]

  Rob & Cindy Mini-Series Part 6

By: Janet Adams


"Rob and Cindy listen to what others have gone through."

Rob and Cindy walked out of their Youth Pastor’s office feeling somewhat comforted in what the verses and advice Brad shared with them. Both of them felt that God was with them. They sit in the car and talk.  Every scenario they could think of zooms through their head. “What do we do? How can we do it?” Cindy and Rob would both like to get married and have their baby. But they both know it is not going to be that easy.

Brad suggested they meet with a group across town that deals with family issues. It is a circle discussion of Christian parents and teens working for Godly solutions to problems. He gave them an address and phone number for the group. “They meet tomorrow night, and I it would be best if your parents attend with you,” Brad said handing them the card as they exited his office. 

The next night, everyone was in agreement to attend the group. Rob, his father, and I got there first and found some seats; they saved three seats for Cindy and her parents as well. Looking around the room, Rob observes many people, young and old, standing around chatting with each other. A man comes to the center of the circle of chairs to address the group, “Before the meeting gets started, I just wanted to inform everyone that there are sodas and coffee in the back. Thank you,” he says with a melancholy tone. Cindy and her parents haven’t arrived yet, and Rob stares at the door in anticipation for her arrival, while I go get us some soda.

The meeting begins and members start sharing their personal stories.  We sit and listen, without saying a word.  All kinds of thoughts and feelings are rushing through us at a million miles per hour. A father of a teen girl tells how his daughter is pregnant and they are having a hard time trying to decide what to do about it.

One-member shares that she had an abortion when she was eighteen and still to this day she still regrets it and thinks of that baby everyday. She says that not only is it wrong to have aborted it but that the baby did not ask to be brought into the world. The parents should stand behind her and guide her along the way not work against her, and do what GOD would want. Another member shares she got pregnant at twenty years old. She had to determine whether she should have an abortion or not. God spoke to her and said no. She had her son and he is a wonderful kid. The father ran away. She is a single mom, but is very blessed each time she looks at her son.

Another member shares that there is no easy way out of this. Someone will definitely be hurt no matter what! He was a father at seventeen without God and now at forty-seven has no idea where his son is. A day never goes by that he doesn't think of him and pray for him. He feels that someday the Lord will bring them together. A woman stood up crying. She said she was given up for adoption thirty-six years ago and has never regretted that she was. She said God had a plan for her while she was in her mother's womb. He gave her to the most awesome parents she could have had. She ended up leading her parents to Christ. She did search for her biological parents. She found her biological mother and father. Her mother wanted nothing to do with her. She was able to witness to her father about Christ right before he died of lung cancer. She considers the parents who raised her, the ones God gave her to and she thanks God for them daily.

An eighteen year old girl stood up and shared that she was conceived when her mom was seventeen. Her mom and dad got married about two and half months before she was born. They are still married to this day. She feels that God had a plan, now eighteen years later, she and her three other siblings are with their parents as a family. She says they aren't the richest people in the world. Her mom dropped out of school. Her dad barely finished high school. But, her parents work hard to love and care for them. She hopes one day she can marry a great man of God and have wonderful kids that will bond her to her husband in a very special way.

Another older woman got up crying also; she shared at the age of fifteen she, too, found herself in the same situation. Her parents were Christians, never missed a Sunday or Wednesday service. They were youth ministers, so when they found out her "secret," they were devastated! At first her mother told her it would be ungodly to abort it. She was relieved. She didn't want to kill her unborn baby. She wanted to find a way to have and raise her baby.
Unfortunately, when her dad heard the news, he had a different plan in mind. Her mother
went along with him. In December of 1973, she went in for a Therapeutic abortion, the "nasty" one, as she was beyond the five-month period. They injected her with very large needles and fed her baby saline. The "procedure" as they called it, was unsuccessful. She prayed that her parents would change their minds, but 10 days later, she was put through the same ordeal. She spent the entire time in tears. The abortion was one of the MOST painful experiences she has ever gone through. She delivered a beautiful baby boy, DEAD. He was green from the saline they ran through his little body. She says she will never forget it! After that she suffered major depression and wanted to end her life. She said it has been almost twenty-six years since that awful day. She truly believes that God has forgiven her of her sin. But she still thinks about that baby. She still has a hard time believing that her parents felt that this was the best they all could do in that situation.

[The stories above are real stories from TDDM members used for this devotion.]

Everyone in the room is crying, Rob looks up and sees Cindy and her parents sitting behind them. They were in shock, with tears running down their faces. Cindy stands up and shares her story of how she and Rob had sex and she is pregnant and they are here to discuss what they should do. She sits down and Cindy's mom holds her hand. Rob knows now that things will be better and they will be able to work it all out without an abortion. He feels a total sense of peace and comfort. He thanks God.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." (James 1:2,3 and 12)

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

To Be Continued….

[Soldier4Christ]

  Rob & Cindy Mini-Series Part 7

By: Janet Adams


"Cindy Asks Why Me?"

Everyone has agreed that Cindy will have the baby, and things have settled down a bit since. She was so relieved that the decision was made that she will not have to have an abortion. She didn't want to leave her home and go against her parents’ wishes, but that is what she would have done if they insisted on an abortion.

She has visited the doctor’s office for a check up. This check up was really hard on her. The doctor gave her an internal exam, to make sure everything was going well for her and the baby. Being in his office was very uncomfortable and she was scared. Because Cindy is a very modest person, having to undress and lay there on the examination table made her very uneasy. The doctor gave her vitamins to take and gave her instruction on caring for the unborn baby. “You need to eat well, exercise, and get plenty of rest.” She has been feeling so tired lately, and she keeps getting headaches. Her body seems to be making changes even though she doesn’t look pregnant yet. Her chest and abdomen are swollen—tender and sore. Off and on she feels nauseated, and at times, even thrown up a few mornings.

Everyday, after school, she comes home and takes a nap. She had to quit her job at the nursing home because she just hasn’t had the energy for it. She loved her job; and was disappointed that she had to give that up, as well as playing basketball.  The more and more Cindy thinks about it, the more and more it seems she is loosing out on things in life, and it hurts. Emotionally and physically she is worn out, but spiritually she feels good. She feels that she is following the will of God in her life and this is good.

Her friends have noticed a big difference in her, and have demanded to know what’s going on. She declines when they ask her to go out with them and hang out. “She just says she is tired and very busy at home,” they complain. And on top of that, there has been talk behind her back that maybe she is sick, or even pregnant. Cindy and Rob promised not to tell any of their friends about the whole situation. Since she wouldn't be showing till the end of the school year, they could pull that off.  They wanted to go as long as they could with no one knowing. It would be easier on them, due to the looks and the rumors and attention they would get.

Although, there were times Cindy wanted to share the secret with her closest friends. She could have really used some love and encouragement from them. When she refused to go to sleepovers and parties she wanted them to know. It wasn't because she didn't care for them.

As far as her relationship with Rob was concerned, things were going well. Rob decided not to play baseball for the school this year because he wanted additional hours at work so he could save the money for whatever was to come. His father and I told him that his priorities would have to change now. With Rob working every night after school and on weekends, there wasn't much time to see each other. It was alright though; they would do what they had to do now, for the baby.

But when tickets went on sale for the Spring Dance, she was shocked when her mother told her she really shouldn't go. “You can't go around like everything is normal, because it isn't,” her mother said to end the discussion.  Cindy was angry and upset. “Why? Why me?” She sobbed as she sat in her room and cried. She thought that going through the one emotional crisis, about whether to have the baby or not was enough, especially with it being settled that she would have the baby. And now her whole life has to change? Her mother didn't want her to get all dressed up and go to her dance and have fun just because she is pregnant? Doesn't she deserve to go to dances and have fun like everyone else?

Sometimes we bring suffering upon ourselves. Lack of discipline and obedience can bring unhappy consequences. Some consequences can be long term. But always remember He is a Lord of love and forgiveness.

Suffering and adversity are familiar to Christians. Nowhere in the Bible does it teach that Christians are exempt for the tribulations and natural disasters that come upon the world. But, God does teach that we can face crisis and personal suffering with the supernatural power of Jesus Christ. The person who suffers will be blessed if in the midst of the suffering he can
look into the face of his Heavenly Father and be grateful. We need to look beyond the pain and look to God and see what He wants to teach us in all of this.

"My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Cindy has a long road to travel and the hardest part is yet to come. Now decisions need to be made what she is going to do with her baby, keep it and get married, keep it and not get married or give it up for adoption.

To be continued…

[Soldier4Christ]

  Rob & Cindy Mini-Series Part 8

By: Janet Adams


"Cindy's Love"

A few months have gone by now since Cindy found out she is pregnant. Things have gotten much better with her parents. They are still hurt and upset over it all, but they are giving her love and support. Rob has been working everyday after school and on the weekends, putting all his money away for the baby expenses. Although they don’t have much time to see each other, Rob does make time for Cindy everyday. Rob’s father and I have been very supportive of Rob, Cindy, and Cindy’s parents. We have gotten together a few times to talk over what they should do about the baby. Rob's father and I have offered Cindy and Rob to live in our house, get married and have the baby.  I said that I would help out with the baby while Cindy goes to school. Cindy's mom is a writer for a local newsmagazine and works from home. So she has also found a way to adapt to the baby’s arrival. It seems that everyone is adjusting and ready to do whatever needs to be done for the baby.

There are still some major hurdles we have all had to overcome. Cindy still isn't showing, and none of her friends know about the baby. She’s disappointed that she can’t share this with them. She could really use their love and support right now. She and Rob didn't go to the Spring Dance and all their friends have been wondering why? They have had to continue to make up petty excuses for not hanging out with their friends like they used to. Things have changed drastically, but they are adjusting. Rob and Cindy have not been out together on a date since she found out she was pregnant and they both long to be together and spend some time with each other. They miss the days when they were happy, carefree teens. Seems like all at once, they had to skip the rest of their teenage years and become adults.

They have visited Brad, their Youth Pastor, several times for counsel. Cindy and her parents have gone to talk about adoption. Her parents think the best thing for everyone would be for them to give the baby up for adoption to a good Christian family. Cindy is just so thankful she didn't have an abortion that she really hasn’t thought much about what will happen after she has the baby. She is consumed with the actual pregnancy and what is happening to her body and to her emotions, and insecurities about her relationship with Rob start to develop. “Will he still love me when I’m big and pregnant? Will he get bored because I can't go out like we used to? Will he get tired of me and all of this? Will he resent the fact that he has greater responsibility now?” she asks herself full of doubt. But she decides that she can't be worried about all of that right now, she must concern herself with the baby.

Although she is going through an emotional rollercoaster right now, Cindy begins to feel an emotion different from all the others.  She has begun to really love this baby. She has begun to know real love. She loves God, her parents, Rob and her friends, but this is different. She feels the love of God in her baby. This love for her baby says, "I respect you. I care for you. I am responsible for you. God gave you to me."

Real Love says:

I Respect You: I see you, as you are, a unique individual. I accept you as you are and will permit you to develop as God purposes for you. I Care For You: It matters to me what happens to you. I am concerned for your life and growth. My desire is to promote your interests, even if it means sacrificing my own. I Am Responsible For You: I will respond to you, not out of a sense of duty, which obligates me, but voluntarily. Your needs will motivate me to pray for you. I will protect you.

"A new commandment I give unto you. As I have loved you, that ye also love one another" (John 13:34)

"God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent His one and only son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us?” (1John 8:8-10) NIV

The Conclusion, Part 9, Next…