A Norvell Note – Page 18 – Thoughts and reflections on God, life, people, and living as a follower of Jesus.

The Lord’s Favor

A Norvell Note for May 10, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 18

The Lord’s Favor

Using the simple definition of blessing as the Lord’s favor, we can acknowledge it we receive God’s blessing every day.

The air we breathe is a sign of God’s favor. If you do not believe it, ask someone who has difficulty breathing.

The water we drink is a sign of God’s favor. If you do not believe it, ask someone who does not have access to clean, healthy water.

Friends and family are signs of God’s favor. If you do not believe that, ask a lonely person.

Our spiritual community’s relationships are signs for God’s favor. If you do not believe that, ask a person who feels distant, disconnected, and isolated.

I list these everyday blessings to remind us that God shows His favor to all people all the time and in all kinds of ways, but unless we are paying attention, we will miss them and take them for granted. Sometimes it takes a sudden and unexpected blessing to awaken our awareness of His constant loving presence in our lives.

For instance, we needed to replace my wife’s car but were trying to extend the vehicle’s life as far as possible. Then, while servicing the car, they discovered another costly problem. Realizing we needed to make a change, my wife talked to a salesman if there was anything on the lot that might meet our needs. Without going into all the details, and to our utter amazement, the sales and financial departments (yes, car salespeople) made us a deal that was more than we could have ever asked or imagined, and we are now the blessed owners of an almost brand-new car.

We have been the recipients of the Lord’s favor.

Once we receive a blessing and realize that God wants to show us His favor, we may begin to see gifts everywhere we look. Look for signs of His favor this week. Make a list of blessings. Tell someone how God has blessed you. And be sure to thank Him for the kindness He shows you.

May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands. (Psalm 90:17)

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

At Just the Right Time

A Norvell Note for May 3, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 17

At Just the Right Time

This sentence from Romans 5 recently captured my attention.

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. (Romans 5:6, NIV)

My first thought is gratitude. I am grateful for the fact that God knew me well enough before I had taken a breath to see that I would need a Savior. I am thankful that although I occasionally struggle to prove my worth to God, to people, and even to myself, He knew that it would be impossible for me to do that. I am grateful that at that moment, when I was utterly powerless, Christ died for me.

Then, my focus camped on the one phrase at just the right time.

At just the right time, when I realized that neither of my parents would be around for college graduation, my wedding, for grandchildren, or for support in making important decisions and how to handle life’s traumas, substitute Mothers and Fathers entered my world.

At just the right time when I was struggling to discover a direction and purpose in life, I met my wife, who has supported me, loved me, encouraged me, and patiently walked with me through all the other times of searching and struggling for over forty-five years.

At just the right times, after waiting for the right time to have children, our son and daughter brought joy and happiness into our world. And at just the right times in both of their lives, when we were at a loss as to how to guide and teach them, God brought just the right people into their lives to provide what we could not.

At just the right times when I have felt lonely, discouraged, insignificant, and discarded, God, sent messengers with echoes of friendship, words of comfort, memories of purpose and value.

At just the right times, when simply trying to help people see Jesus failed because of bureaucracy and pettiness, someone would show up in my path to allow me to fulfill my true calling.

I have learned that God loves to show up in our lives when we need Him most, when we least expect it, and always at just the right time. Be ready to see Him and enjoy what He does.

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

On Any Given Day

A Norvell Note for April 26, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 16

On Any Given Day

On any given day, I might pray

I am weak, Lord. Help me find strength in You.

I am fearful, Lord. Help me trust You.

I am strong, Lord. Help me to be gentle.

I am lonely, Lord. Remind me of Your presence.

I am tired, Lord. Help me rest in You.

I am sad, Lord. Help me see the joy around me.

I am empty, Lord. Help me drink of Your Spirit.

I am a sinner, Lord. Help me know Your forgiveness.

I am lazy, Lord. Help me find energy and motivation.

I am confused, Lord. Help me find clarity.

I am foolish, Lord. Help me use the wisdom You give me.

I am discouraged, Lord. Help me find reasons to be hopeful.

I am blessed, Lord. Help me be grateful.

I am selfish, Lord. Help me have a generous heart.

I am blind, Lord. Help me see You more clearly.

Oh, gracious God and Creator of all things, You know everything about me. You know me inside and out, the good and the bad, all my flaws, and all my sins. You know all my successes and failures and all my dreams and disappointments. And, somehow, You love me and want a relationship with me, and You want to bless me.

Thank You.

Help me live to please You.

Amen

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

A Norvell Note for April 19, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 15

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:17-18, New International Version)

Sometimes the light and momentary troubles seem bigger than light and not so fleeting moments. Sometimes I lose sight of the fact that these light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

Sometimes, even when I try to fix our eyes on what is unseen, seeing the unseen is difficult. Sometimes, even when I am trying to do otherwise, the visible things obstruct my vision for the unseen.

Do you ever struggle with keeping your focus on what is eternal?

When I realize that I am drifting or have drifted, I have found these shifts help me refocus and regroup into a different way of thinking.

I have to understand and accept that I am in that space. I can pretend I am someplace else; I can deny that I am in that frame of mine, and I can ignore what is going on in my head. But, until I am willing to acknowledge where I am and how I am thinking, nothing will change. “Okay, Tom. You need to wake to where you are. Do you want to stay here, or do you want to move to a better way of thinking?” The answer is always yes, but the process is not as simple as admitting it.

I have to focus my thinking intentionally. I have never suddenly snapped out of it. I have never realized that I am in a different state of mind.

Intentionally avoid focusing on temporary things. That may mean that I listen to a different kind of music. That may mean that I change my viewing habits. That may mean I spend time with other people. That almost always means I spend more time journaling, meditating, and calming my soul. The keyword in this is intentional.

Spend time regularly in the Word. Sometimes not being regularly in the Word is a part of the drifting process. I’m not suggesting hours of Bible Study and prayer (though that might be necessary) but simply finding a reading plan that feels right and reestablishes the habit of reading just the Word. John’s Gospel is one that I revert to frequently. Reading and reflecting on a few verses every day helps me remember, “this world is not my home, I’m just a’passin’ through. My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue.”[1] (I can’t believe I just quoted that song.)

Get away from the noise of this life. For me, sitting near the ocean is the best option. When that is not possible, as it hasn’t been for quite a while, I have to find a quiet, comfortable place to walk, or sit, and listen to the sounds of nature and breathe. Quieting the noise needs to be a regular practice. When I fail to do this, my soul suffers.

The Message states it:

These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There’s far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can’t see now will last forever. (2 Corinthians 4:16-18, The Message)

“Here today, gone tomorrow.” That describes our possessions, our problems, and life in general. That puts it all into perspective. That is the truth, and that is what I believe. I need to remember it, and I need to live as I think.

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

It’s Good to Be Together

A Norvell Note for April 12, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 14

It’s Good to Be Together

For only the second time in over a year, we met together with fellow believers. The group was small, and the shady front yard of one of our families was our cathedral. A few white wispy clouds only broke the blue sky, and a gentle breeze brushed our skin. As neighbors strolled, jogged, and biked past us, we sang, listened to the Word, and remembered the sacrifice of the Savior.

These words came to mind.

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:23-25, NIV)

None of those attending had given up meeting together on purpose, so being together again was particularly meaningful for these reasons.

I needed to focus on the faithfulness of God. Isolation creates space for doubt to take up residence. The distance can cause suspicion and second-guessing. Doubt, fear, and second-guessing can be killers to the soul without regular opportunities for spiritual fellowship.

I needed the reminder of practicing love and good deeds. Perhaps like you, I’m tired. The last year has been challenging. The last several years have been difficult and tiring. Fatigue can make it hard to be loving and diminish the desire to do good deeds. Listening to others share stories of struggle and victory restore the desire to keep going.

I needed to remember that I am not alone on this journey. Most of us have experienced some level of loneliness. Telephone calls, texting, Facebook, FaceTime, Twitter, and Zoom have been invaluable in helping us stay in touch with each other, but it’s not the same. Being physically present with others who share the faith journey reminds me that I am not alone on this journey.

I need to focus on God’s faithfulness. I needed the reminder to practice loving and doing good deeds. I need to remember that I am not alone on this journey. I am thankful that I met with my brothers and sisters today and look forward to the next opportunity, whenever that might be. I hope you can be back with your spiritual family very soon.

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

The Day After Easter

A Norvell Note for April 5, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 13

The Day After Easter

I originally published this several years ago, but it seems appropriate to share it again today.

Luke ends his account of the life of Jesus like this:

44 Then he said, “Everything I told you while I was with you comes to this: All the things written about me in the Law of Moses, in the Prophets, and in the Psalms have to be fulfilled.”

45-49 He went on to open their understanding of the Word of God, showing them how to read their Bibles this way. He said, “You can see now how it is written that the Messiah suffers, rises from the dead on the third day, and then a total life-change through the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed in his name to all nations—starting from here, from Jerusalem! You’re the first to hear and see it. You’re the witnesses (Italics mine). What comes next is very important: I am sending what my Father promised to you, so stay here in the city until he arrives, until you’re equipped with power from on high.”

50-51 He then led them out of the city over to Bethany. Raising his hands he blessed them, and while blessing them, took his leave, being carried up to heaven.

52-53 And they were on their knees, worshiping him. They returned to Jerusalem bursting with joy. They spent all their time in the Temple praising God. Yes. (Luke 24:44-53, The Message)

I hope your Easter Sunday included a time of genuine fellowship, energized and God-focused worship, and a message from the Word that challenged you, encouraged you and inspired you to greater service in the Kingdom of God.

As you spent time over the last week reflecting on the last days of the life of Jesus, you also reflected on how you are living your life and how you would want to spend the last week of your life. I hope, now that we have passed through another Easter season, you and I will accept the same role as that of those who were with Jesus after His Resurrection. In verse 48 of the text above Jesus explains their new identity in the Kingdom: “You are the witnesses.”

A witness sees an event. Jesus told them that they had seen the fulfillment of things He had told them would happen. “You can see now how it is written that the Messiah suffers, rises from the dead on the third day, and then a total life-change through the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed in his name to all nations—starting from here, from Jerusalem! You’re the first to hear and see it.” (46-47)

When you are a witness, you can testify as to what you have seen. When you see a crime, you might serve as a witness in court.

When Jesus tells them, “You’re the witnesses” He is challenging them, and giving them an open door to share what they have seen and experienced. He tells them to wait until the Spirit comes to them but be ready to be the witnesses. If you read further in Luke’s writings (the book of Acts), you will see they accept and excel in being His witnesses.

You and I witnessed something yesterday. Because we are witnesses, it is now time for us to share what we saw, what we experienced, or the impact, and why it was so significant. That is what a witness does. That is what we are.

The only question that remains is, will we accept our role as His witnesses?

It is the day after Easter. Will you be His witness?

Tom

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

Getting Back to Normal

A Norvell Note for March 29, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 13

Getting Back to Normal

We hear a lot about how “Things are getting back to normal.”

Really?

For the families of almost 550,000 who have died in the United States from COVID 19, what is normal?

For the business owners who no longer have a business, what is normal?

For the millions who have struggled physically, financially, mentally, and emotionally with the events of the last twelve months, what is normal?

Life is very different, and any normal is difficult to grasp.

I can remember years ago returning home after mission trips to Ukraine and being asked, “What is it like?” The only response I could give was, “Everything is different.” The food, the transportation, the language, the homes, the weather. Everything seemed different.

I feel the same way now. Almost everything feels different. Yes, more fans are allowed to attend sporting events, some restaurants are fully open for business, and the vaccines give us hope and more freedom to move about in our communities, but life does not feel normal.

I wonder if those plotting to kill Jesus, and eventually succeeded, were hoping that if we can only get rid of this troublemaker Jesus, life can get back to normal. They proceeded with their plan and hung him on a cross, then put him in a tomb. Ah! He’s gone!

But wait! Things changed. Jesus did not stay dead. He did not remain in that tomb. And life for those who knew Him and loved him would never be the same. Those who know Him today and experience His love will never be the same.

Life after a pandemic will probably eventually get back to some semblance of normal. Life for the follower of Jesus, the ones who allow Him to impact them truly, will never be the same.

If you have decided to follow Jesus, get used to the new normal.

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

When You Struggle to Pray

A Norvell Note for March 22, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 12

When You Struggle to Pray

A prayer for those days when you don’t know what or how to pray:

All-knowing Lord, you see what is in my heart. All-powerful Lord, I don’t have the power to accomplish what needs to be done, so I spread out my requests before you. All-wise Lord, I know you hear and will act—but I know also I must wait on your wise timing, and so I will. Amen.[i]

Do you ever have days when you need to pray this prayer?

Maybe it is a day when you have so much to do that you know you will never get it all done, but you don’t have a choice. Maybe it one of those days when your mind is so full you can’t think, you can’t relax, and you can’t rest. You try to explain what you are feeling, but you can’t. You hear people talking, but you can’t make sense of their words.

You go about your daily activities without passion, energy, or joy. You open the Scriptures for wisdom and inspiration. You close them without finding either. You decide to pray but have no words. So, “you spread out your requests before” the Lord. You trust that He hears you and will act, and you know you must wait for His timing.

I’ve had several days like that in my life, and especially in the last year. What can I say, how do I pray, what can I do? How am I supposed to feel? What am I feeling?

During times like this, I am grateful for the Spirit of God who steps in to speak what is in my heart.

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. (Romans 8:26-27, NIV)

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

[i] Excerpt from The Songs of Jesus: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Psalms by Timothy Keller and Kathy Keller

C. Bruce White

A Norvell Note for March 15, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 11

C. Bruce White

1939-2021

The first time I saw that name was on a 3 X 5 index card tacked on a bulletin board in the Administration Building at Harding Grad School in 1975. The typed note read something like: The 7^th Street Church of Christ in Columbus, Mississippi, is searching for an Associate Minister. Contact C. Bruce White. I called, I was hired, and a few weeks later, I loaded all my earthly possessions in my red VW and moved to Columbus, Mississippi.

Bruce was the pulpit minister, and I learned that the Associate Minister’s role was to work with the youth and do anything Bruce did not want to do. In January of 1976, Kim and I were married, moved into the house that the church had for us that had lovely yellow, green and brown shag carpet, and had no idea what we were doing. C. Bruce and Judy loved us, encouraged, and patiently introduced us to life in the ministry. Bruce suggested I begin writing a weekly article for our church bulletin which we entitled, A Norvell Note.

Bruce and I shared a weekly drive to Memphis and back for classes at Harding Grad School. During those adventurous trips, we discussed the work, how to deal with church leaders and difficult members, and listened to every song the Statler Brothers ever sang, shared frustrations, planned strategy, and laughed. Oh man, did we laugh!

Since our meeting in 1975, C. Bruce has been a fountain of wisdom, a wealth of knowledge, and consistent source of encouragement. Through the years, in times of frustration and confusion, a phone call or face-to-face visit with C. Bruce helped me gain a new perspective, evaluate my priorities, and restore my desire to fulfill my calling.

The most stress I experienced as the Associate Minister was when Bruce informed me that he would be away on a particular Sunday and would need to preach. I had no idea how to prepare and preach a sermon. Listening to C. Bruce preach through the book of Acts inspired me to learn more and further my education.

When I accepted my first preaching assignment, I asked Bruce for advice. His simple answer has guided me throughout all my years of ministry: “Just love the people.”

My life is richer and fuller because of my relationship with C. Bruce. I am a better minister, teacher, preacher, mentor, and friend, in part because of Bruce. C. Bruce loved God, his family, the churches where he preached, and he loved me. I will miss him, but I rejoice that he is finally home where he always longed to be. Well done, and rest well, my friend.

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

Thoughts on Freedom

A Norvell Note for March 8, 2021

Vol. 23 No. 10

Thoughts on Freedom

Freedom is a popular topic in social media, news media, and daily conversations. We are frustrated and angered when our space is restricted or abused. We struggle to know the privileges and limits of our freedom.

New Testament letters contain messages on how to use our freedom in Christ, which may also help us live within our communities.

It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don’t use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that’s how freedom grows. For everything we know about God’s Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That’s an act of true freedom. If you bite and ravage each other, watch out—in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then? (Galatians 5:13-15, The Message)

Here are a few thoughts that I find helpful in Paul’s writing.

Be joyful with your freedom. Read that again: enjoy. It’s okay to enjoy your life. One of the great blessings of being a follower of Christ is that we can be set free to live free of our sins, free of our pasts, free from our guilt, and freedom to worship God as we choose. That should bring us joy. God created us with unique gifts, talents, and abilities, and He wants us to live and use those gifts and talents for His glory however we feel led to do so. He put very few limitations on how we are to use our skills, abilities, and gifts. He called us to a free life, so live and enjoy your freedom. There is no need to boast about it. Just enjoy it.

Be gracious with your freedom. Just because we are free to say whatever we want does not mean we should say it. Just because we are free to do whatever we please does not mean we ought to do it. In another letter, Paul writes: “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything.” (1 Corinthians 9:13, 23) There is no need to put others down because they do not have the same freedom. Just be gracious.

Be generous with your freedom. When we use our privilege to serve others, it becomes contagious. When someone expresses their love for me by helping me, I desire to return the kindness or pass it on to someone else. Serving others creates a desire to keep doing good, which reminds me that I am free to be as kind I can be. There is no limit to how kind I can be or how much I can serve. There is no need to quash your freedom. Just be generous.

God’s Kingdom is about freedom, and as citizens of His Kingdom, we are to be lights in the world by being joyful, gracious, and generous with our freedom. If you pay close attention this week, you may have multiple opportunities to let that light shine.

You may read past articles at A Norvell Note.

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