The “Little Drummer Boy” Christmas classic is my all-time favorite. The first time I saw it on CBS, I was in elementary school and I cried. For the past three decades I have watched it annually and it still tugs at my heart strings. Yes, “Frosty” was good, “Christmas Vacation” with Chevy Chase is great, Rudolph, was grand but nothing captured the GOOD NEWS of Christmas for me like the wooden animated drummer boy.
We all recall the “Three Wise Men” whom brought “gold, frankincense and myrrh.” It is true, they came with their gold and gifts and arrived with their pagentry, pomp and prestige. They indeed came from a great distance to pay respect to the Christ Child as they followed that Star pointing them to the Son. I love that old adage: “The reason the Wise Men were “wise” was not because they brought Jesus their gifts but because they chose to be in His Presence.”
Enter the Little Drummer Boy. Without a doubt, I am convinced that this little lad who was reverently watching in the back of the barn starring at the crib of Christ knew He was standing on Holy Ground. Not because the world leaders were “in the house” but the “King of ALL Kings” was present and prophecy fulfilled before his very eyes. In that barn was both Divinity and Humanity wrapped in swaddling clothes. A babe yes, but also a Messiah in the making with a message to save Mankind. Christmas really is a story about God and grace.
In one corner of the room we have the Christ-child, a babe with piercing eyes, rosy cheeks and despite the chilly elements a flaw-less face and smile that was wider than Israel. In the other corner; in the back, behind the crowd is a poor lad, with eyes the size of saucers, filled with awe and amazement; his cheeks covered in grime and a hunger in his heart that was too much for any adolescent to know firsthand. This little lad whom was dirt poor and quite possibly an orphan immediately found acceptance in this Babe but he had no earthly idea that Jesus from Heaven was a “Father to the father-less.” Ironically, the “world” had “no room in the inn” for the Christ child that first Christmas morning but Jesus made room for a poor boy born on the other side of the tracks. This is the greatness and grace of God. He always makes room for us to have a seat at His table. Not because we are so good but God is so great. This is grace.
This destitute drummer was in awe. Not only was not used to seeing Divinity and Humanity collide but he was not accustomed to seeing the world’s power either; much less the Lord’s power! Especially, not in the same room. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations that deep inside we know we really don’t belong. The lad knew he was witnessing something special and I am sure that Satan, society and himself was encouraging him to stay in the back, remain silent and don’t embarrass anyone. He felt un-worthy and inadequate and probably believed that he had little to offer The King. He didn’t have gold or expensive gifts but he had a feeling that the King just steps in front of him wouldn’t mock him for his lack of gift(s). However, deep inside he knew that he needed to do something. When you are in the presence of God you cannot remain a spectator but we must graduate from the bleachers and become active participants in His Kingdom Work. At this moment, the little lad left the crowd and came to Christ. The lad realized he had a gift and thought: “Maybe I can play my drum for Him as an act of appreciation of HIs Birth?
Slowly, he eased from behind the crowd and ceased to exist and began to live and He played his beat up, broken down drum with battered drum sticks and played the best he possibly could. To some spectators it meant nothing but in Christ’s eyes it meant everything! God was touched not by his works but his worship. The lad truly “put feet to his prayers.” The drummer boy solitarily sent a clarion message to all; by boldy, yet humbly approaching the Almighty and he did what he did best. He played his drum. Surely, this was the biggest audience he had ever played. In the past, he played to anyone and everyone who would listen locally. He played to those on the street, those on the corner, those in the marketplace but tonight this young lad played before the Redeemer, royalty and even those in rags all rolled into one amazing audience!
Now he is playing before both representatives of earthly kings and “The King of All Kings” on one stage. At this moment, he is playing to eyewitnesses on Earth and God the Father, Angels and those peeking over the portals of Paradise. The Bible says: “If we are faithful in small matters we will be faithful in larger matters.” He played not just to them 2,000 years ago but this Christmas Season that poverty stricken drummer boy continues to play to us and his example encourages us to “play” our part in using our God given gifts in an act of service, gratitude and worship of our Savior.
If this young lad lived locally today; I am convinced he would have continued to “play” the same tune. He knew that the crowds may change but his commitment to the Christ Child would be constant and consistent. Regardless if he was “playing” in La Plata or Los Angeles, Dunkirk to Dallas, Waldorf or Washington, D.C., Solomons to San Francisco, Atlanta to Albany, Baltimore-Bowie-Boise or the Bahamas, Clinton, Maryland - Charlotte, North Carolina, Charlestown, West Virginia, Chicago, Illinois, Cleveland, Ohio, Cozumel, Mexico to Cairo, Egypt, from Fairfax, VA - Frederick, MD to Frankfurt, Germany/ Huntingtown-Hartford-Hollywood to the Holy Land, Jacksonville-Jamaica to Jummonville, New York-New Jersey-New Hampshire, Richmond to Raleigh, Tampa - Tupelo to Tuscaloossa, Miami-Memphis-Monterey-Myrtle Beach back to Maryland, Upper Marlboro or the Outer Banks; his music, mission and message would be identical as when he first starting playing: “Promote God and point as many people to Him as possible.”
The lad never really desired to be “seen” but he knew he had a message and a song that needed to be heard. Ironically, the boy had been playing his drum all along but on this night the audience was a little larger. The stage was now wider and the stakes were higher but he “nailed it” because he knew it was all about Him and because of God’s great grace.
When he stepped forward and played his gift at that moment “all eyes were on him.” But he knew that the attention was not really for him or a result of him so he continued to focus his eyes on Him, the Christ Child. It is true that when we promote Christ; He promotes us. God elevates those that exalt Him.
In the chorus of the “Little Drummer Boy” I love that line: “I played my drum for Him….ba rum bum bum bum.” My favorite verse is “The King smiled at me……ba rum bum bum….me and my drum.” What caught the attention of Almighty God and the angels in Heaven was when a dirt poor shepherd boy gave God all that he had. The song doesn’t imply that Jesus smiled at the wealthy, Wise Men bearing gifts of gold given to God but the song says the Savior smiled, Babe beamed, God grinned, the Lord laughed, Christ cooed and joy came to Jesus when the boy gave his ALL to the Almighty.
Just like the wealthy in the sanctuary who gave out of their “abundance, wealth and surplus” the Wise Men gave extravagant gifts but they still had more in reserves and they didn’t give their all. Like the widow who threw in ALL she had in the offering plate so did the lad who loaned his lunch to the Lord when God fed five thousand and this is true of the Little drummer boy. Something special always happen when we give our all to God. I love that quote: “God is not interested in our ability or in-abilities but our avail-ability.” What is amazing is that we are not only in the Presence of God with a front row seat when we give our best but we are used by God in His Grand Plan. We are partners with the Prince of Peace, Laborers with the Lord and soldiers/servants of the Savior. The greatest thrill in life is being a pawn in God’s Hand on His chess board as He strategically moves us at His leading.
Once we have been in the Presence of the King we are never the same. We are forever changed. Once we see the King firsthand; our actions change, our desires change and our reason and purpose for living change. I learned early in life, that we don’t have to be the best, or bring the best but it is imperative that we do our very best! It has been said: “Your life is God’s gift to you but what you do with your life is your gift to God.”
Looking back the boy never got into it for the crowds but for Christ. Not for attention, acceptance, applause or approval but an act of adoration to the Almighty. Rewinding the reel of his resume he was ministering all along and even the “smaller venues” were just as important in God’s eyes. Yet, all of his early marketplace concerts, corner crusades and small town recitals were preparing him for this one moment. An audience with The King.
The Little Drummer stood Face to face with God and gave his all and used his God given gift for God’s Glory. One day and possibly one day soon we also will stand before God and give an account for what we did or didn’t do with our gifts. The Bible says: “To whom much is given much is required.” That verse has been imprinted on my heart since elementary school.
In 1982, at the age of ten I was at Vacation Bible School and had a enormous burden for my lost friends without Christ. I wanted everyone to come to Jesus before it was eternally too late. I was thinking: “What will my friends think? What if they don’t respond? What if they reject me or reject Jesus? Will they still invite me to play sports with them, etc?” At that moment, I felt like God said: “Frankie, there is a Heaven and Hell what are you going to do?” At that moment, I elected then and there that I cared more what God thought of me than what my friends would think of me. I cared more for their precious souls than my personal popularity. Well, that week at Vacation Bible School I started calling friends and inviting them to come to church. At the end of the week, I had 22 first time visitors (at the age of ten).
The Little Drummer Boy’s goal was never really to be before the popular, powerful or prestigious but he played for the Prince of Peace, the Christ Child and he knew that the Babe born in that broken barn was worthy. He knew personally that God was worthy of his ALL.
Sometimes as a travelling evangelist; I stare out an airplane window, stretch back in my coach class chair on a train, sipping coffee from Starbucks or kicking back at a rocking chair at Cracker-Barrel (my favorite restaurant) and I wonder if the little boy with his drum realized how far God had brought him? Without a doubt, I believe he realized two things: It was because of God and for God that he played from day one. Also, it was because of God’s grace that the doors of ministry had opened, met folks from all over the world and to the very end he was still “playing” for Jesus. Plus, he never forgot that the biggest “star” would always be the SON!
Today, I thank God that he uses “broken” people to bless others and I am extra thankful that God saw fit to use imperfect people to promote His perfect Son. God truly uses the “foolish to confound the wise.” One of my life verses. The beauty about this little lad is that he was “playing” his drum for God’s glory. We never know the rest of the story but I am convinced that if we pause and listen closely, blocking out the “hustle and bustle” of Christmas you can still slightly hear the beat of that boy’s drum today. Friends, when we are in the presence of the King everything changes. People may mock you, Pharisees may question your motives and pundits may make false media about you but you but one cannot be stagnant once standing before the Savior.
I would have loved to attend one of his concerts after playing before Jesus that time. The precision and power on that lad’s life must have been AMAZING! He was both appointed and anointed! It was not a “performance” but from a personal place now lived out in public. Deep in my spirit, I am convinced that wherever and to whomever that boy ministered he knew God was watching and his gift to THE GIFT was from God.
God was watching while he played to individuals early on, viewing Him before small crowds on the street corner, and staring at him Face to face as the boy played before Him in Bethlehem’s barn-like edifice. Years later, God is still watching and I am sure He is still “smiling.” For him, from Day One it was always for an Audience of One.
Christmas is just a holiday for those that don’t know Christ. However, Christmas is not just a mere holiday but a Holy Day and it is every day for Christian believers. It has been said: “You will never find Christmas under the tree but on the tree of Mount Calvary.” That little Babe born naked in a wooden crib grew up to be the sin-less Savior who died naked on a wooden cross. Indeed, there was something special and “holy” about that day when Jesus was born. Christmas is certainly about giving but it is also about receiving Christ as our Saviour, Sacrifice and Source of Strength.
I love that song by Andre Crouch: “Soon, and very soon. We are going to see the King.” Like never before, I long to see Jesus. As a child I used to stare towards the Heavens looking for Santa with a sleigh led by a red nosed Reindeer. Today, my gaze is on God, my sights set on the Savior, concentrating on Christ and I am looking for the Lord because He (not Rudolph) is the Light of the World.
Truth be told, we all have a gift. We can use our gifts to bring others to God’s Presence. The Bible says: “Whatever your hand finds to do make sure you do it for God’s Glory. Friend, if you are a mechanic…..change carbuerators for Christ. If you are a dentist….do root canals for the Redeemer! God is not interested in the title on our door as much as He is with our testimony in our hearts.
This Christmas Season, as snow sticks on the sill of your window while listening to Nat King Cole sing his classic Christmas carol, trading cookies, wrapping presents and tucking your loved ones in for the evening may you pause and consider the true majesty of the ocassion. Even today, 2,000 years later; God allows us to peek into His crib, ponder His cross and point blank come Face to face with the Christ Child.
In closing, Christmas is special that the God of the Universe came to Earth to teach us how to live. Christ taught us how to live but we because of our sin and selfishness taught Him to die. What is even more marvelous is not that Christ came once but He is coming back! That Christmas morning Jesus was a gentle lamb eventually led to the slaughter. The moment he rolled out of the crib and took His first steps He was already en route to the cross. However, when Jesus returns again He is no longer the little lamb but the Lion of Judah.
The word “mas” in Spanish means more. Truly, we need more of Christ this Christmas. This Christmas Season give God ALL that you got! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
This past year has been a whirlwind and the older I get the faster life flies by. The one thing I don’t regret is serving Jesus early in my life. It was 30 years ago this July 2009 (at age seven) that I trusted Jesus as my Lord & Savior. Praise God, I have yet to get “over it.”
The clip above was a promo video that Dr Rick Scarborough’s church in Texas made for my visit this past August with their precious people. Brother Rick is one of my heroes and it was an honor and humbling to preach in his pulpit. He is also founder of VISION AMERICA.
After being bi-vocational in ministry for 17 years, while I worked on Capitol Hill in various capacities my passion was always people and preaching. It has now been two and a half years full-time completely living “by faith” since leaving the salary, benefits, health insurance, 401K, retirement, etc. This past year counting radio, tv, revivals, camps and speaking wherever God opened the door; I was blessed to preach over 200 times in one year. God gets the credit and I say this not to say “look at me” but in the wise words of Tony Nolan: GO GOD!
When I walked away two years ago, I didn’t have a single booking to speak or preach. When God said: “Go” I knew I had to be gone. We are thankful for the invites and open doors to preach and we are already filling up dates into Spring and Summer 2010. We pray daily for open doors and to go wherever, to whomever and whenever God leads. The greatest “high” in life is not alcohol but being used by the Almighty. Its not in crack but Christ, its not mariajuana but knowing the Master, its not playing with PCP but preaching on bahalf of the Prince of Peace. Its not in LSD but the Lord and not heroine but Him!
If you know of a church, camp, conference or concert that could use a glorified goof-ball for your next event - PRAYERFULLY remember my willingness to be a blessing to your church or group. My motto: “Have Bible - will travel.” Stacy at The Robinson Agency in Atlanta, GA helps with my bookings and her e-mail: Stacy@TheRobinsonAgency.com
If you are free in February 12-15, 2010 - JOIN Dr Tony Evan’s son, ANTHONY EVANS and me as we minister together aboard the Royal Caribbean on a Christian Singles Cruise. All Christian Cruises invited Anthony to sing and I have been booked to speak four times leading all devotions on the ship. DON’T MISS THE BOAT and it would be an honor to sail the seas with you into the SON! For more info - www.FrankShelton.com
LOOK OUT next week for my post on “The Little Drummer Boy.” God doesn’t ask that we be the best but DO our best. Lessons we can all learn from this little lad. God bless & go with God.
Michael Tait is a product of Washington, DC and today, one of the most celebrated musicians in Christian music. His father was a pastor for 50 years in our Nation’s Capital and his sister, Lynda Tait Randle is a featured artist/singer with Bill & Gloria on the GAITHER HOMECOMING TOUR.
They say lightening doesn’t strike twice but for Michael Tait does it does. Michael was one of three singers that became a household name with the legendary group dcTALK. The three amigo’s met while students at Liberty University (home of Jesus & Jerry Falwell). Their hits soared to NUMBER ONE and they helped changed Christian music forever.
After the popular group disbanded and chased their solo careers, Michael formed a group that bears his last name TAIT. I first met Michael briefly at a dcTalk concert in the early 1990’s but reconnected with him in 2006, when he was a featured artist aboard the first PRAISEFEST “Cruise with a Cause” to the Bahamas where I was blessed to minister as a speaker. He is humble, gracious and lives life to the fullest. Plus, he loves the Lord with a passion.
This show was taped on my radio program “FRANKLY SPEAKING” and aired on American Family Radio earlier this year weeks after his latest assignment. God opened the door for Michael to be the lead singer to one of the best selling Christian bands of ALL time - NEWSBOYS. This interview talks about music, ministry and matters close to his heart. It also includes a funny story about my Pastor Marvin Harris’ daughter, Melissa who is a childhood friend of Michael. They went to Riverdale Baptist School in Upper Marlboro, MD for high school and graduated together from Liberty University in Virginia.
Michael Tait and his band the “NEWSBOYS” will be touring this Winter with my buddy, TONY NOLAN at WINTER JAM all across America. Other amazing artists include: THIRD DAY, Tenth Avenue North and Grammy Winners NEWSONG! For more info visit http://www.hearitfirst.com/winterjam/default.aspx
After working over 17 years on Capitol Hill, I was blessed to see not only firsthand Democracy work but watch elected officials “work the room.” It really is something to behold (especially as a people person). By my 32nd birthday, I watched and heard “live” FIVE United States Presidents speak. At age 10, I remember as if it were yesterday listening to President Ronald Reagan at the DC Covention Center in 1982.
From there I was fortunate to hear Presidents Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, William Jefferson Clinton, George W Bush, respectively at various venues. I left Washington in July 2007, “by faith” to travel the Globe bringing the Word to the world. When I was a speechwriter to my hometown Member of Congress (now Majority Leader) people often asked me how I could write the speech? I would always laugh and say the only way I could do it was to pretend that I would be the one giving the remarks. Ironically, after awhile if he couldn’t be present to give the speech; he or the Chief of Staff would send me saying: “Frank, you wrote it - GO GIVE IT.” If you can SEE it you can ACHIEVE it!
Looking back, all of the former Presidents were unique and gifted in their own ways. Reagan was the master at rhetoric and Clinton captivated crowds with his charisma. Both Bushes’ were not the most eloquent but elegant in the fact that they said what they meant and meant what they said. That is high marks in my book.
However, I don’t know of anyone that worked a room or crowd like President Bill Clinton. I wish I was a tad older because President Ronald Reagan to me was certainly a statesman and it was like watching the American Flag wave in the wind. He was “patriotism” all the way and I am sure he was wonderful working the crowd as well.
Having volunteered and worked in both the Clinton and Bush WHITE HOUSE, respectively this blog will never serve as a partisan forum. I always wanted more than one particular political party at my funeral and the Apostle Paul was “all things to all men that some might be saved.” However, watching Bill Clinton shake hands and rondezvous with a rope line was almost like reading a romance novel. Some may suggest “poetry in motion.” He resembled Barry Sanders with a football, Michael Jordan with a basketball, DaVinci with a paint brush and Elvis with a microphone. Like Bruce Springsteen’s classic - Bill Clinton was “BORN TO RUN.”
As a former driver and speechwriter to the House Majority Leader of Congress, aide to the Governor of Maryland, floor staff of the United States Senate and worked a year with the United States Capitol Police; I had a front seat (literally) in watching politicans interact with people. The ropeline always fascinated me politically but from a policing or security stand point scared me. When an elected official would complete his or her remarks it was almost always expected for them to work the room, shake hands and touch folks (if not emotionally) than certainly physically. Political insiders and operatives gave this term that most know now as “PRESS THE FLESH.”
Hollywood actor, John Travolta studied hours of President Clinton in preparation for shooting the movie: “Primary Colors.” Once Travolta had his hair dyed grey and practiced what the President did on a daily basis working a crowd; Travolta really resembled the then Commander-in-Chief. Clinton was notorious for gazing deep into ones eyes, smile as bright as Broadway, hit them with that trademark southern drawl and then pretend no one else was in the room. From there he would take his left hand and touch the person’s right elbow and shake firmly with his right hand as his head tilted slightly to the left and the person in his presence (regardless of poltical party) oftened resembled a “deer in the headlights.” From there he would waltz on to the next voter (or victim).
In politics, it is imperative to learn the art of “working the room” and pressing the flesh. It works in politics but in ministry we need to learn the discipline of SUPRESSING the FLESH. The Apostle Paul also said: “I DIE Daily.” It is mandatory that we learn to die to the flesh to run and finish the race the Lord set before us. As Ambassadors of the Almighty, Liaisons of the Lord, Representatives of our Redeemer and Servants of our Savior we must die daily in order to live for Jesus.
I have always said that public service should be self-less and not selfish. Politicians do well when they Speak to Crowds, Serve the Constituents and Stay the Course. Getting out the vote is one thing but our values are everything. We find VICTORY in His virtue.
What we need more of in our daily lives is not contacts, credentials and charisma but compassion, character and Christ-like behavior both in private and public. Regardless of our vocation, it is important that we remember to take an inventory daily of WHERE we are at, whom we may be with during the day and remember WHY we do what we do. Perhaps most importantly we must remember WHO we represent. We must put on the FULL ARMOR OF GOD and resist the temptations of the devil.
We must stay close and stay clean. Regardless, if you are a preacher, principal, plumber or part-time at WAL*MART we are in the ministry as kids of the King. One deterant for folks wanting to be used by God is to learn the discipline of FASTING. This is one thing that many believers fail to utilize and its commanded by Christ. I am going to be writing a post in near future on the FEASTING OF FASTING. Until we learn to die to the flesh we will never be able to “live by faith.” Our greatest enemy outside of Satan is self.
Don’t get me wrong. There is nothing wrong with shaking hands, loving on people and showing Christ-like compassion. But may we “press the flesh” less and SUPPRESS the flesh more. Die to self - live for the Savior because the greatest “high” in life is being used by the Lord.
fs & Frank Shelton Sr, USCP Deputy Chief w/ POTUS
We should agree by now that the quote we learned as kids: “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me” are false. Actually, sometimes we would be fortunate to have broken a bone than bruised the soul or psyche.
In the final installment of “ROCKY BALBOA” we find Stallone shooting the breeze at a bar that he rarely frequented in his hometown of Philly. It was always ironic to me that the “City of Brotherly Love” produced so many fighters! While minding his own business a young teenager approaches him and begins to berate him for no reason. Over the years, I have learned that sometimes your success can scare the daylights out of others. Your gift may bring the best out of you but sometimes it extracts the worse from others. After her hurtful remarks to Rocky when she leaves; ironically his head is still ringing as if he endured another avalanche of assaults from Apollo Creed. When Balboa gets his bearings back he realized that the lady behind the counter is an acquaintance from years gone by.
Rocky says: “Yo, do I know you?” She doesn’t remember him at first but he then replies: “You’re little Marie.” Rocky in the original film walked her home one night because streets are no place for a kid. Rocky remembers a negative word that she (when she was much younger) said to him. She was blown away that he would remember her much less the words she said some three decades earlier.
Rocky, went on to say: “Insults last a long time.” The fact is there is great power in the spoken word. The accuser never lost a wink of sleep over what she carelessly said to the soon to be champion of the free world but truth be told I bet not a day went by that either her words or the negative remarks of another rung Rocky’s bell like no opponent in the ring before or since.
Perhaps that is why the Bible notes: “We will have to give an account for EVERY idle word spoken out of our mouth.” I was taught as a child, if you don’t have anything nice to say - “DON’T SAY ANYTHING.” Just being real, I must admit that I have failed a few times but the older I get I am trying to do my best to take the high road (especially with my remarks). The Bible also says: “To let our words be few.” Maybe my next post will be less than 500 words 
A milkman in the early 1970’s, would say “hello” to a five year old girl with big blue eyes and beautiful blonde hair. When he walked by on his weekly route he would tap her on the head as she played in the yard while dropping milk off on her front porch. He always said the same words: “Hello, Miss America.” She would smile with a grin the size of Georgia and continue to play and jump rope with her friends. Day after day, week after week when the milkman came by he said the same thing: “Hello, Miss America.”
Years, went by and the milkman’s job unfortunately became obsolete with his deliveries but those words danced in her head like a teen on a trampaline. In the early 1990’s that young little girl matured into a southern belle and was crowned Miss America from the Peach State. Most likely, that milkman didn’t see the future with her waving to the world with a sash across her shoulder as she beamed with beauty talking about “world peace” - or did he? We don’t know but the fact is those positive words sown in her life as an adolescent reaped a harvest for her as an adult.
Recently, Evangelist Perry Stone showed a scientific experiment on world-wide television where a scientist had two containers of rice. The scientist had a label placed on the outside of both bottles and after 81 days he revealed his findings. Both containers had the same amount of rice in the cup and after the time alloted he displayed that one bottle had the rice in tact with very little deformation. However, the second cup was filled with fungus that made the stomach turn to look at. He then turned the containers to face the television viewing audience and on the cup that still had the rice looking fresh after 81 days the label had words scribbled from a child: “I LOVE YOU LITTLE RICE. I HOPE YOU HAVE A NICE LIFE and LIVE LONG.” The one filled with fungus had a note that read: “I HOPE YOU DIE!” The lesson speaks for itself.
The Bible notes: “We find life and death in the power of our tongue.” It also notes: “Our mouth speaks both blessings and cursings.” This should not be. Jesus said: “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Friends, some of us need a CHECK UP from the NECK UP and our words should be seasoned with honey not spoiled with hypocrisy.
It has been said: “If one yells at a tree long enough that it will die.” I have not yelled long enough to test that hypothesis but I do know that if words can cripple a soul-less and heart-less grain of rice imagine what our words do to humans in our presence. In case you MISSED the MEMO: Life is a fight but we don’t have to battle everyone in our path. Today, we have the milkman in one corner who was a winner with words and built folks UP or we can resemble the reckless rehetoric of a negative wannabee who tore others down. Why be a chump when you can be a champ! WORDS are WONDERFUL until you use them to hurt others. Don’t delay - BLESS someone today!
Folks stop me periodically and say: “Frank, I love Jesus, I am going to Heaven but I don’t feel obligated to go to church. What do you think?” Perhaps you have had heard a similar statement too. Some suggest salvation is enough. Well, before I answer let me remind you what God says on this subject. He is the Authority (not me or others in ministry).
The Bible is bold and crystal clear about church attendance: “not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more, as ye see the day drawing nigh.” Salvation is found by faith in Christ alone and we can add nothing to or subtract from to gain access to an eternal Paradise with God. However, church attendance should go hand in hand as kids of the King! If you are in a marriage and never eat a meal with your spouse except for the night of your wedding you are struggling to say the least.
Iron sharpens iron and it is imperative that we trust God together and be encouraged by one another. The local church exists from an outline I borrowed years ago from Dr Adrian Rogers: Exalt the Savior, Encourage the Saints, Evangelize the Sinner and remind all to Expect the Son because Jesus is coming back! We find many reasons why we should worship together (especially in these dark, difficult days). Here are just a couple:
1) God’s PRAISE: The Lord is worthy to be praised. If we can sit in the snow cheering with 82,000 fans at a football game we most certainly need to applaud for the Almighty, cheer for Christ, root for the Redeemer and give a standing ovation for our Savior! Give me a “J” - give me a “E” - give me a “S” - give me a “U” - give me a “S” what does that spell: JESUS! When we worship the Lord in our mess - I have found after the preacher’s message many times my problems dissapear and I see Christ more clearly. We need to be together to encourage one another, be a blessing to one another and weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice. Truly, it is good to be in the House of the Lord.
2) God’s PROTECTION: The above video is powerful. No church membership (or lack of) will forfeit your access to Heaven but you are isolating yourself like an island when you choose to face life alone and not with the help of God and His People. We resemble the zebra in this video and Satan is a “roaring lion, waiting to devour and destroy” anyone and anything in his path. We are an open target when we fail to move with the Body of Christ. By God’s grace the zebra made it but most would not be so fortunate.
3) God’s PRAYER: It took me awhile but I have learned a couple things about prayer. First, it is a privilege to speak to Father God. The President may not know me but God does! Secondly, prayer is more me listening to God than me talking to God. Third, prayer gives me peace, purpose and power. You will never lose your footing when you have been on your knees. When we kneel before God - we can STAND before any man. We find courage with prayer. It has been said: “Seven days without prayer makes one WEAK.” Jesus noted His House was a place of prayer. Without question, I gain great peace with prayer but the beauty of hearing the petitions of other people’s prayers thrills my heart and I know touches the Heart of God. The irony is that God prays for us. Jesus told Peter: “Satan desires to sift you like wheat (translation: Kick your butt, embarrass you and put you six feet under) but Jesus goes on to say: “But I have prayed for you” to basically be a VICTOR not a victim. Sadly many in society worshipping lifeless gods chasing false religions pray to a god that can’t hear them and I have a God who not only hears my humble prayers but prays for this glorified goof-ball! As Ric Flair would say: “WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
4) God’s PEACE: Sure, God can speak to us as individuals but He often gives a relevation to others that will benefit the group. When one is down the others may be up (vice versa). Satan wants to make you think that you are the only one going through tough times. When you are isolated and alone you are tempted to buy that lie. When we are surrounded by the saints of God we find not only protection but peace in the process. Many folks have endured what you may be facing. We find great comfort to think we are not weird, wrong or weak while “waiting on the Lord” in a fallen world.
5) God’s PURPOSE: We exist to worship the Lord by our life and lips. A boat can get off course easily and when you worship alone you may miss the mark. Christians are to love each other (even when feeling un-lovely). We graciously rebuke when one is wrong and we politely point back to Christ our Compass when we wander off course. Water, waves and intense weather have a way to lead us away from God’s assignment. With numbers we find safety, solace and our schedule. We must report regularly for our orders to go where God says go and be all He desires us to be. The Lord is our Lighthouse and God is our guide but He uses the church to help steer us to the Promised Land.
5) God’s POWER: We tap into God’s power when we are with fellow believers. Sports teams have been known to be down three quarters of a game but when the momentum shifts they turn the tide and win! In these last days, we must assemble as often as possible. Church attendance doesn’t equal SALVATION but it does help with our SUCCESS. The church has taken some shots over the years. Her sail is torn, the paint has peeled and the bow at times looked broken. But the blessing (like that Ray Boltz classic) is the Anchor Holds (though the ship’s been battered). The Anchor holds though the sails are torn. I’ve fallen on my knees, I’ve faced the raging seas but the Anchors holds despite the storms!”
6) God’s PROVISION: God often uses OTHERS to bless you! There is power in numbers and folks with no finances can find a helping hand to those down and out. Folks with no food have been known to find help to feed hungry stomachs at home. Those with no shelter have found place to lay their head in the midnight hour. Those seeking employment may bump into a job recruiter teaching a Sunday School class. Those trying to sell a house may have a member in the church who works for Century 21. The fact is when we cease to assemble and worship at the church we often hinder our chances to see God work in our midst.
Lastly, we remember God’s PLACE: He is in our heart but Heaven is our Home. Sometimes, when alone we forget where we have been but also where we are going. We are pilgrims passing through. We are adopted to the Family of God and because of His great grace we are kids of the King. If you own a business or minister at a church -Remember, we are out to build His Kingdom not ours. I love the fact that KINGdom has “King” in it. Christianity, Christians and Church is always about Christ. Its ALL His and may we like Jesus at age 12, be about our Father’s Business.
By attending church we worship, fuel our faith, get a glimpse of God’s Glory and remember we are winners not wannabees because we are on the winning side. Christ is our compass and fellow Christians cheer us on to remember Heaven is around the corner. This week if you haven’t been to church in awhile visit a Bible believing, soul saving service this Sunday and you will encounter God’s Praise, Protection, Prayers, Provision, Purpose, Power and may we see your FACE in His Place (church & Heaven).
The Houston Athletic Dormitory has a sign that reads: “I used to complain that I had no shoes until I met the man who had no feet.” Proper perspective is powerful (especially as we enter Thanksgiving).
My friend, Joni Lamb (co-founder of DAYSTAR TV) told me that her interview with Nick Vujicic was her favorite interview of all time. After watching his life story in the video above I can see why. What an inspiration! Not just because he has no limbs but lives a life with NO limits. Even better is the fact that this guy is GRATEFUL!
Make no mistake, I am not the sharpest tool in the shed but I am convinced if “desperation” is the worse cologne than I would guess that wearing “GRATEFUL” is the sweetest fragrance known to man. When we have the ATTITUDE of GRATITUDE we are both appreciative and attractive! Society loves to be around winners but not whiners (complainers).
MARK THIS DOWN - someone always has it worse than you. The grass is NOT greener on the other side and until we can have be THANKful for what we have we will continue to exist but never really live. You cannot cherish Thanksgiving if you 1) don’t give thanks and 2) fail to give to others. THANKSgiving reminds me why we celebrate. To give THANKS to God for what He has done in our lives. Not just material things (certainly thank Him for that) but relationships, health, hope and the list is endless.
TAKE OUT A NOTEPAD and jot a list of the blessings in your life. Satan, the slick serpent in the Garden of Eden told Adam & Eve to stare at the one thing they felt like they didn’t have. They had a million and one blessings free of charge, provided by the Hand of God but Satan had them stare at what they didn’t have that they neglected all they had. They went from having it all to losing it all! It wasn’t the “apple” in the tree that messed everything up but the PAIR on the ground. They were un-grateful, they became greedy and forgot God in the process.
ATTN: Singles - If you are single and “waiting on the Lord” for that someone special don’t let that one area distract you or destroy you from being appreciative for all God has done in your midst. Remember, you don’t need someone else to complete you. When your identity and security is found in Jesus you are COMPLETE in Christ. Plus, we need to learn to become Mr or Ms. Right so when the “right” person comes you will be ready for them! Thanks Chip Ingram
PAUSE AND PRAY and thank God for the provisions in your life. Be thankful for family who love you, friends who support you and a faith that forgives in Christ. We have freedom when we walk and talk with God. No longer should you look down but gaze UP and remember all the things God has done for you and be THANKful.
In closing, I heard a story years ago about a homeless boy who knocked on a door. It was cold outside, ice on the window and snow began to fall. A woman answered the door and saw this eight year old boy shivering in the cold. She invited him and made him homemade soup and hot cocoa.
As he raced down the warm food to his frozen stomach he finally spoke: “Lady, are you rich?” She humbly replied with a laugh: “Heaven’s no! Why would you say that?” The boy replied: “Ma’am, I noticed the saucer matched the coffee cup. Your curtains matched the colors of your kitchen and your two kids are playing with your husband.”
Tears began to stream down her face. She grabbed her purse and handed him $20 as the boy was heading to leave. He didn’t say: “thanks” but he didn’t have to because he reminded me in a most special way of just how “rich” I really am. May we take an inventory of what we have and not dwell on what Satan, society and self tells us we don’t.
Thank you Jesus and Happy THANKSgiving!
Frank & Ruth Shelton
Well, its Sunday and I am flying back home tomorrow from Birmingham, Alabama to Maryland after preaching today at Victory Church of God in Anderson, AL. As my friends down south say: ROLL TIDE!” Over the years, God has opened some AMAZING doors for me to walk through. Honestly, I take no credit for what He has done.
God has introduced me to folks that as a child were my heroes in film and in faith. He taught me early on that the sky was the limit and with God “ALL things are possible.” Why doubt when I could dream! He has allowed me to travel and visit ancient ruins, climb pyramids in Cairo, Egypt (almost got killed doing so), baptized in the Jordan where John & Jesus were, swam in the Dead Sea and rolled down the Nile River. Preached in the Bahamas and watched a movie being made in Las Vegas (ROCKY BALBOA) and even met a few “stars” in Los Angeles.
God has allowed me to do some pretty neat things in life. Regardless, if boarding “Air Force One” or flying on “Air Force Two” and interacting with heads of state, peeking in the Oval Office or driving a Congressman or Governor in my car; my life has resembled Forrest Gump more than once. Another highlight was playing 20 minutes of touch football on the legendary field of the Dallas Cowboys in 2007, and shooting hoops (at age 13) on a NBA court with the Harlem Globetrotters. My friend, Sam Glenn and I drove a $100k Mercedes loaned to us for a weekend while ministering in FL and the list could go on but again it is God’s doing not mine. Another special moment was meeting the late, great Dr E.V. Hill at the Billy Graham School of Evangelism in Monterey, CA in 1998, and he took the time to sign my Bible (I still preach weekly from that same Bible).
However, I will stop here because all of these events have happened not by fate but faith and God being the “Author and Finisher” of my life. It was not my credentials but Christ’s choosing and any success is not in my merits but His mercy. The bottom line is that God (as always) has been way too good to me. Like that classic song: “Sometimes He saves the best for last.”
The greatest thing in my life is not “things.” It is my salvation found “by faith” in Jesus Christ and my wife, Ruth and children, Hannah Grace & Andrew Lincoln. My faith, family and friends are the foundation of my life. The Bible notes: “he that finds a wife is most certainly blessed.” God has blessed me beyond measure and its true “the only good in me is Jesus.”
Monday, November 16, is my wife, Ruth’s birthday. When I first saw her it seemed time stood still. For this Type A evangelist that is in a constant state of perpetual motion when I gazed at her she stopped me dead in my tracks and almost stopped my heart in the process! She had a beauty that I had not seen before and it wasn’t just outside but she radiated for the Redeemer on the inside. She glowed for God and her love for the Lord was both evident and encouraging.
She is pure, precious and a princess. In my eyes, she is perfect and if she has any faults I am not aware of them. Hands down, she is one of the most respected people in radio and she runs three Christian-Spanish radio stations (PA, DC and VA). She is humble, honorable and almost always happy. Plus, she is one of the most hardest working person I know. She encourages me to live for God like few I have known and she is my best friend, cheerleader and wife. She is grounded in grace and never forgot where she has come from. Her daddy is a pastor of 50 years and they grew up in El Salvador. When evangelists come to Washington, DC the joke (but reality) is they don’t solicit or contact clergy of mega churches to announce their meetings but they only call one person - my wife, Ruth. They know if they can get to Ruth she will share with her audience on the radio and crowds come from everywhere. It has been said if she moved back to El Salvador she could run for elected office (no joke) and WIN.
She has been invited to State Dinners at The White House and yet politely “by passed” them to stay at home with our family. Almost daily, I wake up and pause and thank God that out of all the people in the world - I have the high honor to wake up with Ruth every morning. She is the glue in our family and the love of my heart. What I admire about her is not only can she hold her own but regardless of those in her presence she genuinely loves on them like our Lord and makes them feel special. Her mere presence challenges me to do my best and convicts me when I am off track.
The past two posts I discussed rejection and I rejoice more than ever not only by God’s great grace but the gift he has entrusted me with my bride and best friend. Today, may be her birthday but every day serves as an anniversary for me of when and where we met and why God would allow me to walk through life with someone as lovely as her. It is true: “Behind every good man is a great woman.” The fact is I am not “good” because all of us are like filthy rags compared to the righteousness of Christ but without question Ruth is most certainly a great woman. She has more “class” than a college. She has more compassion than a nurse and her value to me is worth all the gold in Fort Knox. She is spectacular and yet satisfied being a servant (the greats are servants). She is a mother to Andrew & Hannah and she is much more than a cook and cute but a confidant, cheerleader and counsellor to this “glorified goof ball” and work in progress.
Ruth also knows the call of God on my life to share the Word with the world. In my heart, I am convinced her reward will be greater than mine because like Billy Graham’s wife, Ruth and so many others in ministry have un-selfishly loaned their man to bring the Message to the masses. Society saw the “saints” speaking on stage but often forgot about the spouse behind (yet beside) their man while ministering. The Bible is clear: “Many who are first will be last and many last will be first.” Ruth and I, both are trying to point people to Jesus on a daily basis by our life and lips but for the record she is not only worth far more than rubies, Rolex, Range Rover and real estate but the greatest gift of my life.
Happy Birthday Baby and I am glad my heart didn’t stop when we met but when it does down the road I have been one rich man because God in His grace allowed me walk and talk with you. My wife, Ruth reminds me of God’s grace - I was smart enough to know I couldn’t earn it but I’m not dumb enough to reject it. Thank you Jesus and thank you Ruth for what you mean to me and so many. I LOVE YOU
This is the second installment of my initial post on rejection. If you go back and glance at the last blog title notice that in the first post REJECTION was in caps. This post it is in small font - Make no mistake it is intentional. When we are first rejected we are distraught, discouraged, depressed and feel like dying. Immediately, following rejection if not careful we become filled with resentment. This post will serve as a remedy to remember that RECOVERING is more important than rolling down the raging river of rejection.
How we handle a situation is just as important as what happens to us. I love that quote: “Adversity causes some to break and causes others to BREAK RECORDS.” I’ve come to the conclusion that adversity, stress, trials, nervousness and rejection are more friends than foes. Jeff Bostic, retired Washington Redskin said after winning three Super Bowl rings with Hall of Fame Coach Joe Gibbs that the one Super Bowl loss to Marcus Allen and the Raiders in 1983, taught him more than the three world championships they won!
Rejection should never be the end. Initially, rejection resembles and appears “larger than life” but remember God has the final say since He is the “Author and Finisher” of our faith. Nothing crosses His desk and catches Him by surpise. Regardless, if you are on the mountain or in the valley God sees your proximity but in His wonderful wisdom He also knows your destiny! Rejection is more a comma than a period but when it happens we assume automatically it is an exclamation mark! Your test today becomes your TESTimony tomorrow. Your mess now is your MESSage later and I love the fact that God never wastes a trial. A tragedy turns to triumph when we worship Him in the storm.
The movie “RUDY” is one of my all-time favorite flicks. Anything with patriotism or perseverance is worth the watch in my book and I love the scene depicted above for this post. If we are not careful we are tempted to dig our heels in the ground and prove the world wrong for the way we were mistreated. It is imperative to remember that TWO wrongs don’t make a right. Without queston, all of us can relate to Rudy in the scene above. Not so much for practicing with one of the best sports teams in the world but trying so hard and still coming up so short regardless of your vocation or venue. What the wise man was sharing in this scene with Rudy is that sometimes the only thing that you need to prove something to is not others but self.
My friend in school had a 1985 Mustang LX with the 5.0 litre engine. Ironically, the word on the street is that the economic LX equipped with the V8 engine is faster than the more expensive GT because it weighed less. The LX equipped with the same upgraded engine (standard in GT) was quicker and the only way to differentiate between the two was if the 5.0 emblem was on the side of the car. The LX with no emblem was a six cylinder but the 5.0 told the world that it was the V8. My buddy had the 5.0 engine in his LX but intentionally removed the insignia. Most of us in life are desiring to step up but he was one brother willing to step back. When asked why he did it he said two powerful points: 1) It makes me a sleeper on the street and by going “under the radar” I blow them off the line in a race because they underestimate my car. 2) I know what’s under my hood and that is all that matters.
I have failed in this category a million and one times and maybe you have too. Some in ministry circles today and “self help” gurus implore us to never say anything negative. The fact is we must not only learn to respect but expect rejection at times. Jesus said the storms of life will come but when the Almighty is your Anchor and Christ your Captain you will win regardless of the waves, wind or weather! One lesson we must learn is never share your present success with past critics. They couldn’t comprehend it then and mostly likely they won’t get it now. It is a FACT that you will never get ahead by trying to get back at those that caused pain. Too often, the one you focus on is no longer focused on you. That is why it is imperative that we focus on God because He cares for YOU!
Over the years I have had some Major League helpers and minor league haters. What I mean by that is God strategically put people in my path to help me when some could care less. The key is we need to recover from rejection and become THANKful not resentful. When we are ACCEPTED by God we no longer need the approval of man.
Christ is the classic example. As He was suspended between Heaven and Earth with His dying words He said: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” We live in a fallen world with less than perfect people. Jesus was mocked, ridiculed, beaten and rejected more than any man in the history of humanity. But despite their wicked ways - He never retaliated but returned their rejection into His acceptance. His grief became our grace and despite Him being torn nearly into two we could be made whole. Wow - that will preach!
In closing, Nelson Mandela was shackled in prison for some 28 years. The guards posted at his prison ridiculed and rejected him day and night for nearly three decades. When he was finally free and he walked out no longer incarcerated he had a dilemma. He had two options: Did he resent those that rejected him (knowing they were dead wrong) or did he recover and move forward. Mandela said: “I chose the second.” He went on to say: “If I harbored any hatred to those that wronged me I would walk IMPRISONED mentally although I am now a free man physically.” He went on to note: “Forgiveness is for me as much as it is for those that hurt me.”
It is a fact that those that wronged you may never ask for forgiveness. Therefore, by forgiving others we exemplify Christ’s character and compassion and we grant freedom to self in the process. Ironically, Mandella was named President of his country and at his inauguration it is customary to invite heads of state from various nations to witness the transfer of power. Surprisingly, Nelson Mandela invited the prison guards to sit in the front few rows of his inauguration. His message was twofold: The past is the past and I forgive you. Secondly, I cannot help but think despite forgiving his new “friends” that they were hit head on with the truth that there was no doubt who was in control now.
Ultimately, God is the One in control but He has a Way of flipping the table, turning the tide and granting us double for our trouble! Christ certainly makes the crooked - straight and the cloudy - clear. Like that old song: “I can see clearly now the rain (rejection) is gone.” But the mark of maturity is will you sing God’s praises in the storm even when you cannot see where the Lord leads and God guides?
We must let go and let God have His way in our lives. Freedom cannot come if we are still in bondage from replaying the reel of rejection repeatedly in the mental movie of our lives. But when we RECOVER from rejection we know the real relationship of our Redeemer because despite our sins and shortcomings He found a WAY to forgive us - may we do the same with others. RECOVER from rejection and you will become BETTER and not bitter and then you will really have something to REJOICE over.
Just flew back tonight from preaching twice yesterday at a REVIVAL in South Carolina at Sandbridge Baptist Church and it never gets old bringing the Word to the world. In the past two weeks, I have been blessed to visit Punta Cana, Dominican Republic / Miami, FL / Charleston, SC / Charlotte, NC and I preach this Sunday, November 8 in Baltimore, MD at 11 AM and then catch a 2 PM flight to Chattanooga, TN to preach that evening and then fly to Birmingham, AL on November 14-15 to preach at two pentecostal churches. While on the road some random thoughts come to mind and I would like to share this two part series on how to Respect and Recover from Rejection. I pray it will bless you and remember your situation is temporal but Salvation is ETERNAL!
It’s ironic how the words: Rejection and Dejection both have the word EJECT in them. Ejection as you know resembles the seat in a fighter plane that is “tossed or thrown out” before the plane crashes below. One flip side about being “ejected” in a plane is that at least you graduated off the ground before being dismissed. Sadly, so many shackled on the sidelines will never know the view from above. In basketball terms if you were “dejected” or REJECTED that means that your ball was not only blocked but usually followed up with some good old trash talk as to say: “Get that outta here and stay out!”
All of us can relate to rejection. For some it was being picked last for a game in recess back in elementary school. No one wants to be picked last but at one time or another all of us can relate to being by-passed for someone or something else. Some have endured a rejection in a relationship, some know the trauma of enduring a divorce or in job circles hearing the all too familiar words: “You are not qualified for this position.” Sometimes, I wonder what is worse - being not qualified or “over-qualified” for the job. Either way you still walk out without work and perhaps that is a polite way of saying “no thanks” or rejection.
The people that I admire most in life are not those that became a success but endured setbacks. Perseverance probably is my middle name and I would like to think that encouragement and evangelism are a close second, respectively. The above video highlights some classic cases of folks who failed forward. The blessings about falling is that if you can fall forward you are still progressing in a positive direction. We can learn much from a cat - notice that they almost always land on their feet. They know the art of how to BOUNCE BACK.
Boxers know firsthand what it means to dangle on the ropes and/or fall backwards. The key to being knocked down is to regroup and get UP. The METRO train by my house is a powerful force. It has the potential to carry hundreds of people from point A to B and back. However, after observing them closely for a couple years while working in Washington, DC I noticed something peculiar. The massive train always goes backwards briefly before moving foward.
QUESTION: How many times have you entered a fitness gym and after a week quit because your muscles were screaming, your body was burning and your spirit was barely breathing? Tempted to throw in the towel (your mind starts talking to you). This is too hard. It must not meant to be - I am going backwards not forward.
We must realize that sometimes in life we have to temporarily lose in order to win. Often we find ourselves going backwards before progressing forward. Consider the sling shot - The greater the resistance equates to the greatest DISTANCE! The adversity you face today just might be God preparing you for His VARSITY tomorrow! I have always said that those that have come the furthest go the farthest. Adversity is a hidden helper. Sometimes man’s rejection is God’s PROTECTION!
Plus, rejection never has to be permanent. Unless, you allow it. Some corporate leaders want to deny you initially just to see what you are made of. Major League Baseball coaches remind players NEVER to swing at the first pitch. My Uncle Bobby Shelton played three seasons with the Detroit Tigers organization in late 1960’s and was playing AAA with them in 1968-1969, the year they won the World Series. My cousin, Missy’s husband, Mike Butler was drafted by the California Angels in the early 1990’s after being the pitcher for NC State with a 96 mph fastball. Ironically, my Uncle Joe hit a 500 foot home run at old Griffith Stadium (home of Washington Senators) and the late, great Ted Williams at the game said that was one of the hardest hit balls he had ever seen. It’s AWESOME when the “big boys” brag on you.
Some rejection is good. Women with class will tell you that in dating, they are known to “reject” a man initially just to see how he handles criticism and will he have the courage and confidence to come back and try again. Because if he is too weak to handle a “no” now he will most likely buckle later in a long term relationship.
In closing, take heart and glean hope from the following initial failures who became lifelong leaders. Evangelist Billy Graham was thrown out of Bible college. Michael Jordan cut from varsity in high school before gaining a gold medal in Olympics and winning SIX championships in the NBA. “Chicken Soup for the Soul” books were rejected 134 times from publishers before selling $1.3 Billion and Hollywood actor Harrison Ford was initially fired from Columbia Pictures and was told: “You will never make it here.” Well, after playing Han Solo, Indiana Jones and portraying the President on “Air Force One” he did alright.
If you have been rejected - you may be on right track! The blessing about rejection is that it keeps us humble in the long run. Secondly, it makes us more determined. Third, it gives us a laser like focus that only “failing” can bring. Perhaps most important, when you succeed it is not to gloat and scream “look at me” but praise God - look what He did because we know now that had God not stepped in we still would have been left out (rejected). But the beauty is that with rejection comes RESPECT for those that endure, run your race, stay in the game and win or lose live with class, act like a champion and realize that “if God be for me - who can be against me?”