Yes, Sandra Bullock won the ACADEMY AWARD for Best Female Actress this weekend for the inspirational movie “The Blind Side.” I saw the movie three times and enjoyed thrice as nice. However, this post will not be about the Hollywood hit and modern day cinema classic.
Special props go out to my friend and fellow Evangelist Clayton King who has consistently reminded all whom he comes in contact with to PROTECT THEIR PASTOR. Jesus is our Coach but the pastor of your church is the Quarterback. At times, I have been too harsh on ministers (even as one) and for that I apologize when wrong. Like Jesus, I am short with Pharisees but show great grace to pastors, people and even prostitutes in need of a touch from God.
Without question, the Shepherd of the Flock may live “by faith” but still lives as flesh. The fact is, we chase Divinity but are still sidelined as humanity until we get our “Glorified Body” in Glory. Ministers are no different. It is easy to play arm-chair quarterback from the comfort of our couch or Monday morning moderator by the water cooler at work and continually criticize how the QB (aka senior pastor or youth minister) missed the “open man” en route to a game scoring drive. Like it or not, 265 lbs line-backers want to bury you on national television and since they sprint like a cheetah one doesn’t always see the “wide open” receiver. Magnify that with the barrage of temptations, stress of life, critics from deacons, complaints from Mrs Jones and un-ending undermining from an un-controlled, callous tongue our pastors deal with more than concussions. Worse, the repercussions are so riveting and damaging that many ministers are throwing in the towell at record rates (not just interceptions).
The “blind side” is the area of the helmet where peripheral vision is blocked and one doesn’t see the heat sinking missles coming from the corner (or worse, BEHIND). What sparked my desire more than ever to touch briefly on this subject today is a tweet RICK WARREN posted on Twitter tonight. He noted he was at a funeral today for a pastor in Texas whom committed suicide. This should not be. How tragic! Years ago, I heard an evangelist say: “How you love, honor, pray, support and protect your pastor is a direct gauge to read how your walk with God is at the present time.” If that doesn’t prick your heart - CPR won’t either.
Like Jesus, I have no time for Pharisees but preachers are precious to me. Actually, they are priceless. In ministry, we either get too much credit or not enough and honestly, I dont have the answers how to find the balance. However, I do know that almost all the ministers I know and been blessed to preach for have a deep love for God and compassion for people. Sadly, but some (if not all) at times find themselves empty emotionally, drained physically, weak spiritually and on fumes financially. Ministers are known to give and give and give but (sad but true) feel as if no one either understands them or folks don’t know how to minister to them. A recent survey showed the alarming rate that 87% of senior pastors feel like they don’t have one real friend that they can confide and just be themselves. Yes, it is true that we find only one road to Heaven and that is through faith in Christ but it shouldn’t be a ONE WAY street for our pastors.
My humble request to you this post is to do three things: 1) READ my college friend, Evangelist Clayton King’s blog on PROTECTING YOUR PASTOR www.ClaytonKing.com 2) PRAY to God and ask how you could in the very near future minister to your minister. We have folks that read this blog and my MOTIVATIONAL MINUTE from Kansas to Kenya, La Plata to Los Angeles, Washington, DC to Spokane, Washington, Dunkirk to Dallas, Indiana to Illinois and a few stops in between (no joke) but wherever you are and whoever your pastor may be; please surprise them and bless them. Reach out to them, invite them to dinner, send a gift, pay their utility bill out of the blue one month (some of them are in the red), mow their grass, baby-sit their child(ren) so they may have a date with their spouse. In a nutshell, show some love to the ones who loved you and lead you to Jesus on a daily, monthly, weekly and yearly basis.
They will be shocked, you will be blessed and Jesus will be pleased. No more preachers need to retire prematurely, no more clergy need to die tragically because they felt unloved and Christians can emulate Christ like never before by practicing what their preacher preaches and to love not only the “least” but those who love you the most: Jesus and your pastor. 3) Maybe send them on the cruise I have the privilege to speak on May 30 - June 4, 2011, with CASTING CROWNS, Dr Johnny Hunt, Pastor John Hagee, Jentezen Franklin, Jason Crabb & others for a much needed PASTOR APPRECIATION gift for some much deserved Rest & Relaxation. Its a tax-deductible gift and they can relax in the Sun while being refreshed in the Son. Contact me directly for more info Frankmotiv8s@aol.com and CRUISE INFO www.CruisewithaCause.org
For the record, outside of Christ and my family, my heroes are friends like Pastor Marvin Harris, Dr Herbert Fitzpatrick, Rev. Jim Wood, Dr Jimmy Painter, Pastor Jay Hurley (formerly from Stevenson UMC) in Berlin, MD, Dr Johnny Hunt, Dr Johnny Pope, Dr Lee Roberson, Evangelist Tim Lee, Dr David Ring, Dr E.G. Jack, Evangelist Eric Fuller, Dr Ergun Caner, Tony Nolan, David Edwards, Evangelist Junior Hill, Jamey Ragle, Nikita Koloff, Dr Matthew Dunaway, Michael English (music), Scott Bailey Smith, Scott Newton Smith, Rev Marcus Tillman, Wayne Layfield, Pastor Frank Santora, Pastor Jeff Thornley, Clayton King, Sam Glenn, Stevie Prather, Guy Latimer, Mike Cramer, Terry Klein, Billy Griffiin, Michael Gottselig, Randy Collins,
Acton Bowen, Robbie Robison, Dr David Jackson, Evangelist Randy Hogue, Dr Richard Logsdon, Dr Wayne Kempson, Rev Randy Accord and countless clergy who not only ministered to me but so many others while lifting up our Lord.
In closing, I want to give a special shout out to my wife, family, parents and countless friends (yes- YOU) who pray for me on a regular basis. We do take some shots and have had our share of horrific hits but we sincerely appreciate your ongoing prayers. These ministers (like me) are just JARS OF CLAY promoting the only God who got up on THIRD DAY and when we said MERCY ME came to the POINT OF GRACE and now just a NEWSBOY with a NEWSONG promoting the Prince of Peace & King of kings! And when we meet Jesus we will be CASTING CROWNS at His Feet because He is the reason we dedicate this short season of our lives. To the contrary what some critics may suggest ministry is not about us but ALL ABOUT HIM (Jesus). We walk by faith and not by sight and that is why we need each other to not only protect our pastor but look out for THE BLIND SIDE.
JESUS & me
This blog post really could be a book and Lord willing, it may be one day but I wanted to just share a snapshot, mini chapter and a run on sentence of what Jesus means to me. First, He is everything! Second, apart from Him - I’m NOTHING! It is a fact that FAVOR comes after faith in the dictionary and travelling hundreds upon hundreds of miles I cannot help but ponder, pray and praise (not so much in that order).
A verse that has touched me for years is the passage Luke 17:11-19 when Jesus met ten lepers. They screamed: “Jesus have pity (mercy) on us.” The Lord told them: “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” The next line notes: “As they went, they were cleansed (healed).” Time won’t enable me to break this down but with the valuable moments of your time I would like to lift Jesus UP. At times, the Lord did touch folks and they were instantly healed. Others, He spoke the Word and they were delivered (even resurrected)! Friends, work the Word because the Word works! Sometimes, the Lord spoke a healing but others had to “walk it out” to benefit from it.
Years ago, I heard a story of a sophmore in college who begged his father for a Mustang. The story goes that the father was a Christian and the boy resembled the prodigal but knew his dad had the means to pay for it. After asking again, the boy was dismayed when he received a Bible instead. The boy became bitter and resented his father for trying to shove “Christianity down his throat.” The boy would write on ocassion: “Send me the car!” The Dad would reply: “Son, did you ever read the Bible?” The boy thought in his mind: “I want a car NOT Christ!” This went on for his junior year and senior year. After graduation, the boy (now young man) so upset at his father that he cut off all communication. It pained his father to see the way his son had isolated himself from him. The father died two years later. The funeral was packed and the son still couldn’t comprehend why the father never answered his request. After the wake, the friends left and the food was gone the young man saw the Bible on his bookshelf. He opened it finally for the first time and in the middle of that sacred Book was a check dated five years earlier for the exact amount at the time for a brand new, red Mustang. The note attached to the check said: “Son, you asked for a car and your Momma and I, are sure proud of you. We have been blessed by God to buy you this but our prayer for you is that you will realize the true treasure is not in a car but Christ. Drive the car but read the Bible. Enjoy! Love, Dad.”
Tears rolled down the cheeks of this ungrateful son who learned only after his father’s passing that he had provided for his request all along but pride kept him from missing out not only on his car but relationship with his now deceased dad. When Jesus speaks the wind, waves and weather listen. Christ calmed Tsunami’s at sea, raised the dead to life and even rocks worship THE ROCK but we as humans should take Him at His Word. Why? For starters, He is The Word!
In a nutshell, when God says “go” we must be gone! My pastor told me I should drive to a preachers’ conference in 1994 (age 22). Ironically, I had $72 to my name and the conference was booked months in advance. I didn’t have a reservation and plus it was for three nights. Financially, we had enough gas for the seven hour trip down and back and maybe McDonald’s once per day. I had more “sense” than cents (dollars) but had a hunger in my heart to hear God’s Word. My buddy, Tim Heddings and I, drove “by faith” for the four day conference. We get to the hotel and it was crowded! We entered this elaborate four star hotel in Winston-Salem, North Carolina and found out the rooms were SOLD OUT. We told the manager running the register that we drove seven hours to attend the conference. He replied: “You didn’t make any reservations?” Now, I felt like I was letting God down and the poster boy for being unprepared. We humbly walked away and he called us back. He said: “I shouldn’t tell you this but we keep a room ready at all times in case staff or visiting family of staff need a room.” Here is what I am going to do. I will give you a room for three nights for $52! I almost fainted. Three nights in a four star hotel for $52 total! We took the glass “see-through” elevator of this fancy hotel and entered our room and shut the door and the room rate on the back said: “$169 per night!” HOLY SMOKES!! That is over $500 for three nights for 1/10th the price ($52)!!
After high-fiving each other; we threw on our suit for the conference that evening (we had been in car for 7 hours) and rushed down the elevator and to my right is a man in his early 80’s, dressed in a navy double-breasted suit and looked like a U.S. Senator. God told me to invite him to the preachers’ conference and so I did and he gladly accepted. We jumped in my 1983 280ZX and my tags were Z U L8R. My 6″4 buddy is now sitting in the back of my 2+2 Z with our new senior citizen friend in the front seat and when we pull up to the massive Gospel Light Baptist Church in Walkertown, NC a huge circle enveloped my car. My first thought was “my car is clean but NOT this clean!” We get out and everyone hands their Bible to the man in my passenger seat but the funny thing is I have no idea who was in my car! We walk towards the church (already 20 minutes late) and when we enter it was as if the RED SEA parted. I’m starting to think I got Moses with me - LOL The church was packed and the 2,400 seat sanctuary was standing room only. Picture this, we are 20 minutes late, not a place to sit but when the people see us for some strange reason they placed us not up front but VERY FRONT and seated us on the front row! I have always said: “Those that come the furthest go the farthest.” This is not just some bumper-sticker but been a reality in my life. Go God!!! Immediately, I thought of the theme song from the Jefferson’s - “Moving on UP - to a deluxe apartment in the sky!” I am a tad slow but started to think the guy I drove may be someone “pretty big.” Five minutes later, the moderator from the platform said: “Our keynote speaker tonight has baptized over 63,000 people in his 65 year ministry. Please give a warm welcome to Dr Lee Roberson.” The next thing I know the place errupts in applause and my new (unknown) friend sitting next to me (who I drove to the event) stands up, walks towards the stage and preaches to the packed crowd. I about lost it at that point - my buddy’s mouth fell to the floor and then in front of thousands the saintly senior said these words I will never forget: “I want to thank the two young men who drove me here tonight. If it were not for them, I wouldn’t be here tonight.”
Tears welled up in my eyes and I thought WOW! This man is just like Jesus. Why? In the midst of thousands He still saw individuals. Keep in mind, we had a hotel (by God’s grace) for three nights but no food. However, at this juncture, I knew what the Lord meant when He said: “I have food that you know not of.” I also love the Bible notes: “Taste and see that the Lord is good.” I was so high at this point I would have fasted for a month and not even realized I was hungry. After the event, the legendary preacher came up to me and said: “Can you kindly drive me for the rest of the conference?” Well, I didn’t have to pray about that and between God’s grace and this famed preacher’s invite (both in their wisdom) knew we were destitute financially for the week and by driving him the next three days the conference had a special “green room” for the keynote speakers to break bread and fellowship with each other. They were granted two meals per day and I’m not talking fast food but like a meal that my mother would make on Thanksgiving with all the trimmings. I love Cracker Barrel but this was as Ed Young, Jr would say: “A WHOLE NUTHA LEVEL!!”
Now we learn that we would eat like princes while worshipping the King (Jesus) at the conference because while driving this preacher we were now invited to eat in the private reception area with them twice daily! Ain’t God good!! We raced back that first night to the hotel and called our pastor, Marvin Harris who told us to go. It was after midnight when we called him but he answered and we were screaming so loud in the phone at first I think he thought someone died! We assured him we were more than fine and thanks to him pleading us to go we were having the time of our young lives and at all places -a pastors’ conference! Friends, those that say Jesus is boring have never STEPPED OUT in faith to follow Christ. Out of 2,400 people we were probably the youngest, drove the farthest and certainly the poorest in the house. On the phone I said: “Pastor Marvin - You gotta come down!” He said: “Frank, its after midnight, its almost a seven hour drive and your in the midst of thousands - how will I find you?” I laughed: “It’s easy - LOOK for the BIG BOYS because we are standing right next to them (since we are now driving them)!! He laughed and to his credit - he and his son, Tommy made the trip and for the next three days we had a time!
God has blessed me like this more than once. Honestly, it would fill a book! Folks that may miscontrue us for “dropping names” didn’t see the faith we had early on to LIFT JESUS UP in our daily lives. God granted me some nuggets when I heard His voice, by His grace - I stood up when many would have sat down, I learned that “obedience was better than sacrifice” and Pentecostal or not - FAVOR comes after FAITH and when God said “go” I was gone. Years later, I was invited to drive Dr Lloyd Ogilvie - Chaplain of the US Senate (and now my dear friend) to meet Mother Teresa and for half a year, every day drove now House Majority Leader in Congress, Steny H. Hoyer to and from his home to Capitol Hill, drove governors of states, Grammy & Dove winners, world champions in my car and the list is almost endless. What is worth mentioning is not who I drove but WHO drives me! It is Jesus who remains the Captain of my ship, the Author of my faith and my Savior who owns the cattle on a thousand hills. You would think my favorite tv show was “TAXI” but actually it resembles “HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN.”
God has been so good to me but He’s dying to not only save us but use us for His Glory. Like the Lepers, the Lord told them: Go and as they went they were healed, delivered but also provided for. God was willing to part the RED SEA in various venues of my life all along but I just had to trust Him at His Word and step out and watch Him SHOW OFF! The first two words of that Scripture I quoted initially was Go, SHOW. You see, when we GO then God SHOWS UP. If you want to know the SECRET of any SUCCESS in my life its God, He gave me amazing parents, a caring family but my child-like faith in Jesus has made me whole. As I went, I was healed. Some suggest that having faith is dangerous - I’m convinced that having no faith is dangerous! It has been said: “Show me your faith and I will show you your future!” Not arrogant but an accurate assessment of “The King & I.” What a ride it has been and remember this great Word my buddy, Tony Nolan told me: “When God guides - He provides.”
Honestly, I never got in it for crowds but Christ. Not fame but faith and not for my pleasure but pleased to do His will for my life. Looking back, regardless if boarding “Air Force One”, meeting influential friends or life experiences that would make Forrest Gump’s head spin to driving ministers to conferences as a young adult and later on preaching at a few myself it was always JESUS & me.
Ruth & Andrew on my birthday
Recently, I shared that I may not die with tons of money but will certainly leave with many memories. It is true: “Whatever we do for self will pass but what we do for Christ will last.” Last week, it was my pleasure to minister in the Bahamas (see post below) and on Thursday, I fly (LORD WILLING) to Birmingham, AL to attend the Board Retreat for PRAISEFEST MINISTRIES - “Cruise with a Cause.” We’re discussing plans for our upcoming seven day cruise next year to Jamaica aboard Carnival’s largest vessel and we are praying to reach over 50,000 Jamaicans for Jesus! Bob Marley sang: “No Woman No Cry” but the fact is without Jesus in death everyone will cry. Not popular but the Gospel Truth!
Confirmed speakers include: Dr Johnny Hunt, Pastor John Hagee, Jentezen Franklin, Bishop Paul Morton, Josh McDowell, Dr Ergun Caner, Jamey Ragle, Nikita Koloff. Artists: CASTING CROWNS, Donnie McCurkin, Jason Crabb, Martha Minuzzi, Anthony Evans, comedian John Gray, SONICFLOOd, Hezekiah Walker, Ayiesha Woods, & countless others! More to be released soon. God has blessed me to speak on all three of their cruises to the Bahamas and I’m HONORED to help bring Jesus to Jamaica as one of their featured speakers on the ship to Jamaica on May 30-June 5, 2011! If you would be willing to sail the seas for the Son let me know and this is the most affordable cruise available and it would be perfect for singles, married couples, churches, youth groups, mission trip and/or a treat to send your pastor for some R&R as an appreciation gift.
Ruth and I, will meet this Saturday, Feb 27 in Nashville, TN and we will be attending the NATIONAL RELIGIOUS BROADCASTERS convention at the famed Opryland Hotel. It will be great to spend time with her and fellow friends in ministry. PRAISE THE LORD - last week, I learned that I’m now also an endorsed speaker for UPWARDS www.Upward.org and they have a wonderful sports outreach. It’s my honor to be linked with them.
Next month, I have been invited to Guatemala with COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL for five days to love on the poverty-stricken children. Those that some consider the least matter most to God. It took three years, but I am now one of only a few speakers nation-wide to be one of their ambassadors and speakers for Compassion. Others include: Michael W Smith, Rebecca St James, Jeremy Camp, David Edwards, my buddy - Grant Norsworthy, formerly of SONICFLOOd and Justin Lookadoo and I, will be flying to Guatemala on this upcoming trip overseas. If you would like to donate to this great group and sponsor a child please click the COMPASSION link.
En route to Florida last week, I was on the phone with one of my childhood heroes - Harlem Globetrotter legend and Evangelist Meadowlark Lemon and he made me feel like an “un-official” Globetrotter willing to travel the world bringing God’s Word. It is neat when your heroes as a kid know Christ and call you friend as an adult. Thank you JESUS! Please pray for open doors and our desire is to exalt Christ, encourage Christians and minister to clergy while in town. It would be my pleasure to minister at your next church outreach. For booking contact Stacy@TheRobinsonAgency.com or visit www.FrankShelton.com
Again, thanks for making my birthday extra special and when our gaze is UPWARD we cannot help but have “COMPASSION on the multitudes.” God bless and go with God.
Snowman & Bandit - Bahamas 2010
We got a total of 37 inches of snow and our scheduled flight for Wed, Feb 10 to Orlando, FL was cancelled. In baseball terms: STRIKE ONE! On Tuesday and Wednesday, my father and I, spent (literally) ALL DAY shovelling snow and more came late Wednesday only to repeat our efforts from the day before. We live 1/2 mile from the road and the county doesn’t come down our drive to pave the road. Therefore, to dig our way through three feet of snow was no small task. I kept thinking, if God could come from Heaven to Earth; then I couldn’t let a few feet of snow hold us back from “missing the boat” to the Bahamas to minister to this great group. Well, round two of snow came and our flight to Florida on Thursday night was cancelled too. STRIKE TWO! Satan was tempting me to think of that SNICKERS commercial: Not going anywhere for awhile?” At last minute, we learned Ruth wasn’t able to make the trip, my parents had already drove 150 miles to baby-sit Andrew and bottom of the ninth; the odds were slowly starting to be (like the snow on our window) stacked against us.
My heart dropped and crushed that Ruth couldn’t come but with her blessing to minister I didn’t want the cruise planners or participants to think we didn’t try or love them nor did I want to get accused of false advertising. Then I thought of the powerful Marines commercial with the slogan: “We don’t accept applications - only commitments!” I learned Thursday at 9AM that if I were to make the trip than I would have to drive 1,000 miles (each way) from Maryland to Orlando, FL in less than 24 hours by car. With faith like a Ferrari with no brakes; immediately, the theme song to “SMOKEY IN THE BANDIT” danced in my head and I can still hear Jerry Reed singing: “We Got a Long Way to Go and a Short Time to get there - we’re eastbound now watch that Bandit (evangelist) run!” 
WATCH the video of that classic movie http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXYBUeiaJcM
Time was ticking, the snow was sticking and this brother had to get his heels clicking. Like Elvis, I left the building (house) drove “by faith” hoping we could just get to Richmond, VA with safer, snow-less streets. My buddy, Randy Collins was able to ride with me and he did the driving and thanks to the great staff at ACC pulling some strings - Randy was able to cruise with us in the process! With not a moment to spare, we arrived in Florida at 2:30 AM on Friday morning only to rush straight to Port Canaveral to board our boat. Burt Reynolds was Bandit and ironically, Jerry Reed in the movie was SNOWMAN. Well, with three of feet of snow - Randy certainly lived up to his name! The irony is our bags were packed, our ticket confirmed, excitement for our temporal vacation and we literally (almost) “Missed the Boat.”
What a weekend we had and it was a JOY to meet new friends and I have always had a heart for students and singles. Sometimes, those that feel “overlooked” matter the most to God. The group was FANTASTIC and the strangers who boarded the ship initially, now left as forever friends because of their faith in Christ. What impressed me most is that the singles had obstacles to get there too and they all came by themselves. They came from Canada, California, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Texas, Kentucky, Virginia, Georgia, Florida and what faith they displayed and they ministered to me! Two nights we were up after 2AM talking about life, loss and living for the Lord. We really bonded as a group and I always said: “Ministry is much more than what one says in the pulpit but how they act off the platform is more important.” As servants of Christ it is imperative that we be accessible, approachable and available. It is easy to communicate but it takes practice, patience and perseverance to connect with others. More personal investment is required but the results are ALWAYS far greater! Today, we posted 50 pictures on Facebook from our recent trip!
In my heart, I am convinced that “favor comes after faith.” It is true in the dictionary too (alphabetically). Show me your faith and I will show you your future. I have found in my own life and journey with Jesus that those that come the greatest distance often get the biggest blessing for their efforts. I love that passage in Scripture where Jesus said: “Your faith has made you whole.” He also noted: “As they went they were healed (delivered) and I have found it to mean blessed as well. Yes, when the going gets tough the tough get going and God shows off while you’re gone!
The drive down was a blast and yes, like Salvation it was God’s grace we made it (much less invited to speak at the cruise) but I kept thinking on the drive south how millions of folks around the world really believe they are ready to meet God, their “bags packed” and convinced they have a reserved reservation but could still miss the Boat (Heaven). Some rely, on their “good” works, religion, grandma’s prayers, daddy’s coat tails, etc but the fact is apart from faith in Christ’s sacrificial death as our Savior and Substitute we are “sitting on the dock of the bay - WASTING TIME.”
Life is not fair, Satan throws curveballs and plans can change (like the weather) on a dime. Time is running out but Jesus died not wanting to leave anyone out and it is a travesty to miss a temporal vacation but don’t die missing out on your ETERNAL destination. It is true, we either arrive safely in Heaven or scorched in Hell. We will arrive at the Gates of Pearl or gates of peril; Paradise above or pain below and don’t gamble on God. Make certain of your salvation because why miss Paradise when you are left taking chances as if throwing a pair of dice. Don’t gamble on God, the Lord isn’t a lottery and all the cash in the world couldn’t buy God’s great grace.
The Gaither Vocal Band sings a song that I have loved for two decades called “The Gospel Ship.” Those that put their trust in God’s Gospel Ship of Salvation will find a ship that will not sink but surely SAVE! Take it from my wife, Ruth who (because of the snow and scheduling conflicts) couldn’t make the trip but praise God has her passport stamped, her name in the Book of Life and when the Lord returns she is ready to go! Whatever you do - DON’T MISS THE BOAT!
Anthony, fs & Dr Tony Evans - Bahamas 08
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).
Ruth and I, will be leaving this Thursday for the Dominican Republic and since baby Andrew was born in January we have yet to spend an evening away together. We are looking forward to spending a couple days away for some R & R. Without question, we will miss our little munchkin but before we hit the beach I wanted to share with you a post that like coffee has been brewing in me for some time.
Two of my friends, Ken Weikel and John Flatley in my hometown of Waldorf, MD both own and operate Chick-fil-a stores and both are BOOMING in business! But then again, I have yet to hear of one or see a store that the drive thru is not wrapped around the building like a boa around its prey. Most folks know the amazing story how Truett Cathy, a commited Christian started with a humble dream and watched it grow to astronomical heights. We all know that they “didn’t invent the chicken - just the chicken sandwhich.” At least that was a more honest statement than VP Al Gore saying he invented the internet.
“Chick-fil-a” has been heralded as “Christian Chicken.” The food is delicious, the service is priceless, their stores exude cleanliness and their mission is obvious: Honor God by serving quality food with a servant’s heart. Nearly 20 years ago my friend Ken who attends my home church and we met in Sunday School told us that he was starting a restaurant in our local mall. Some even thought he was “out to lunch” but man was that brother from another mother right. Ken knew what most of us didn’t that Chick-fil-a was going to be a household name even in my home state of Maryland. To Ken’s credit he overseas one of the top three stores on the East Coast and unless the Lord comes back they don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon! As my buddy, Evangelist Robbie Robison from TN says: “Keep kickin chicken!”
First of all they are successful on several fronts but here are a few “nuggets” in a nutshell. 1) CLOSED on SUNDAY’s. Their competition and customers mocked them at first but they knew their commitment to Christ was more important than critics, crowds or cash! They honored God and God has honored them. Ironically, it is a fact that Chick-fil-a consistently outsells the competition in six days while others are operating seven. One, they get more money and two, they get a day off! God is good like that.
2) COMMITTED to SERVICE: Notice how they respond: “My pleasure.” They grasped the Biblical truth that the greatest among you will be the servants. Plus, in order to get up is to go down and willing to serve. Ironically, their humility and hard work personally has now helped honor them professionally. Wow - applying God’s rules works!
3) CREATED in SIMPLICITY: They don’t serve pizza, lasagna, ribs, steak, sushi or spaghetti. They have stuck with one or two things and hammered it home. You don’t have to be everything to every body to attract anyone to your vision or values. They have built an empire around Christ and chicken but I must admit their seasonal added Peach milkshake is “off the hook.” Less is more and more will flock to you or your outreach if you are known consistently for one (maybe two things) not attempting to be a buffet hoping for a blessing.
4) COST is SATISFACTORY: What I mean by this is that their affordable prices enable almost all walks of life to enjoy their product. Plus, you get plenty of BANG for your buck! Everyone from Hollywood to Harvard to practically homeless can appreciate and afford their food. The beauty is regardless of who walks in the door they are taught to treat everyone the same (regardless of clout, class or cash). Something we all would do well to learn and implement in our lives.
In closing, I have never heard anyone else say this but by remaining closed on Sunday’s not only does it honor God but in sales terms it is called a “take away.” Folks want what they cannot have. Subconciously, all folks realize now that they are closed on Sundays and if you want their chicken you better get it today because they could be closed tomorrow. This is not manipulation but their motivation all along is to honor God and serve society.
This fits in with another powerful point. Over the years, I have learned long ago unless you put a value on you - others won’t value you! ATTN: Young ladies - be a woman with virtue and men will take you seriously. Sadly, too many guys will wait in line to seduce and sleep with you but very few will wait in line to walk the aisle with you if every guy and their brother has been with you. In high school, I lived for God, loved on others and waited for sex until marriage. Ironically, my senior year I was crowned PROM KING at a public school with 1,200 students. Honor God and He will honor you. Dare to be different and do what needs to be done (regardless of the initial cost).
Despite all the obvious, the CHICKEN is SUPER but more importantly, I cannot help but think that CHRIST is SATISFIED with the way this business has been run. They are not perfect but a magnificent model that all of us can learn from in dealing with others, serving society and a daily desire to honor God by the way we walk and talk. Christian or not they got killer chicken but even a better staff, standards and mission statement. For most (if not all) that work there don’t just view it as a job must a ministry to serve God and serve you!
It has been said that those that wait to the 11th hour to make things right with God often die at 10:45. Tomorrow is not guaranteed and the Bible reminds us with great urgency to not neglect so great a salvation. Jesus said: “Today, is the day of salvation.” Christ could come in the middle of the night and it would be too late to make things right in the morning. More than chicken we need to be ready to stand before Christ. Because you never know when that opportunity is gone forever!
It’s not Sunday - so get some of their food TODAY! But more importantly, taste and see that the Lord is good.
Nikita Koloff, Capt Detellius, fs & Chaplain Lewis
As an evangelist, folks may think we are so global or “national” that we don’t do much ministry locally. Honestly, some of my best moments are one on one when no one was looking but God and the one being ministered to regardless if at a funeral home, hospital, church visitation or prison. Folks are almost always surprised when fellow evangelists walk in because I guess they assume we only work on “stage” or so busy saving the world that how would our schedule make room for them? The fact is we should be careful never to get to busy for “them.” Because Jesus was clear: “When we minister to them we are actually ministering unto Him.”
Just last week, I went to the local prison in my hometown to visit a friend incarcerated and as I was walking into the dentention center it dawned on me that all of us are one wrong decision away from being in a similar place. That is a humbling and sobering thought. I have learned the folks that think they will never fall are the ones that too often do. A special thanks to my friend, Chaplain Lewis who cleared me to enter. He is first class and God uses him in a powerful way on a daily basis to minister to those while in prison. Last year, both former Heavyweight Wrestling Champ and now Evangelist Nikita Koloff and I, had the privilege to preach to those shackled in prison at the very same jail.
As always, the Lord showed up then and again last week when I had the chance to minister one on one with my friend now behind a glass wall talking on a phone. He was crying and I was trying to love on him lavishly like the Lord only could and would. It is easy to get miscontrued in ministry as being so “out there” professionally that we don’t have time for others personally. Honestly, the greatest blessing for me is going “under the radar” and loving on people.
Ironically, I have had various members of other churches contact me because they believed their own pastor would be “too busy” to make house calls, hospital visits and seeing folks in prison. Regardless, if I just spoke in eight states in the past month - the blessing is they know I am both accessible and approachable and when they call I do whatever I can (humanly possible) to make the “un-announced visit.” Folks may see friends like me speak at stadiums, television, radio, church services or publicity in the paper but the behind the scene moments are most special to me.
One, it reminds me why I got in ministry to begin with - to help hurting people find peace in the midst of pain and point them to a personal relationship with Christ. Secondly, it keeps me humble because if I get so “big” that I cannot do this then I am either too busy or borderline in the danger zone - The Bible notes: “Pride goes before the fall.” I love that quote: “If you are too big to do the small things than you will be too small to do the BIG things!”
The blessing is ALL ministry is “BIG” when we have a pure heart and sincere motives. Many want to minister to crowds but unless you are content being a representative of Christ when few are looking you will never amount to much in ministry. God got great JOY speaking to a woman at a well as much as He did feeding five thousand with a little lad’s lunch! As Dr Johnny Hunt says: “Bigger is not better - better is better.” Learn to do the little things BIG and major in the minors. Plus, the one you minister to one on one often values God more and appreciates us for taking the time to love on them in their point of pain. I love that quote: “To the world you may be one person but to one person you may be the WORLD.”
The Bible is clear: “True ministry is caring for the widow, orphans, and visiting those in prison.” Man, media and even modern day ministry may not promote it or see it but God does and that is all that matters. Lawyers have to take the “Bar Exam” to practice. As Christians and clergy it is imperative that we too are willing to minister to those that many have forgotten about. Just because they can’t tithe doesn’t mean that God didn’t die to save them, encourage them and bless them.
As I walked up to enter the prison that day I felt like I was taking the Bar Exam myself. The true test is doing what God calls us to do. It’s not to compete with clergy or the church in town but complete the race Christ asked us to run. Lives hang in the balance, real people hurt, souls need saving and ministry can get dirty and ugly at times. The key to passing His Bar exam is not just visiting folks in jail but regardless of the scenario may we all as Christian’s remember to “judge less” and resemble Jesus MORE!
Elvis' TCB Ring
It was a true treat for me to recently grow as friends with Rick Stanley who is step- brother to the late “King of Rock N Roll.” Ricky was with Elvis the night he died at Graceland and had the last full conversation with “E” before he died. Rick accepted Christ after his brother’s death and has been an evangelist and minister of the Gospel for the past three decades.
Rick was gracious to be a guest on my radio show “FRANKLY SPEAKING” and we talked about life, loss, love and living for the Lord. If you missed it feel free to hit the side bar to the left and click “Frank & Friends” and you can listen to the 17 minute interview. Rick accepted my invite in March of this year to preach a three service revival at First Baptist Church of Accokeek - www.FBCOA.org. We had a blast and he bragged on Jesus while sharing stories about what it was like to be a brother to one of the world’s most recognized people.
For the occassion, I pulled out the replica ring that I got while touring Graceland and it is the last ring that Elvis purchased for himself. It is now the world famous “TCB” ring. The real ring was solid 18KT gold with diamonds glittered over it with a massive 13 carat diamond in the middle with lightening bolts surrounding it. Apparently, the famed pianist Liberace had a massive ring and Elvis not to be out done bought one bigger. In 1974, he paid a whopping $30,000 for the ring!
Priscilla Presley designed the symbol while they were flying on Elvis’ airplane named after their daughter: “LISA MARIE.” Ironically, as she was drawing the TCB symbol which would later become the motto for Elvis and his entourage a storm smashed outside of the plane at 25,000 feet and lightening crackled through the sky just missing their personal jet. She then added the lightening bolts to express: “TCB - Taking Care of Business” in a FLASH!
I was adorning the ring at one service that Rick spoke at our church in March 2009, and I was uncertain how to wear the large ring. I rarely wear it because it is too big (larger than a Super Bowl ring). Ministers are already criticized for being in ministry “for the money” and I didn’t want to add any more fuel to the fire. I had the ring on my right hand on the third finger like Elvis wore it but apparently had it on wrong (upside down). Ricky in his southern drawl after the concert came up to me with a smile and said: “Frank, you are wearing it wrong man. You don’t wear it for you but for them (crowd).”
What a powerful point and immediately after being put in place by the brother of one of my childhood heroes it dawned on me that two thousand years ago my hero today, Jesus carried a cross down a Jerusalem street. Exhausted, beaten and almost dead; His nearly life-less body adorned both a crown and cross and Christ is now crucified nearly naked before the community. He was whipped like no other man in the history of humanity, He was bruised, bloodied and beaten and nailed between two thieves on two pieces of wood while suspended between Heaven and Earth.
His followers were no longer following. Women were both worshipping and weeping and soldiers that were just mocking Him and marking Him like meat with Roman swords are at the foot of the cross and feet of Christ and now gambling for the garments of God. Some disciples were lying that they knew Him. Pharisees trying with religious and political tricks to dismiss Him. His mother Mary and others crying while the Son of God was left dying on a dark day just outside of the city gate. That day more than any person in the annals of history, Jesus “TOOK CARE of BUSINESS!” It dawned on me that just as Elvis wore the ring not for himself but for his fans; Jesus carried a cross that was really mine and yours but “wore it for them (crowd).”
Elvis ring was gold but Jesus’ cross was now God’s. He stood up in the Garden of Gethsemane where Adam & Eve failed in Garden of Eden. He taught us how to live and we by our sin and selfishness taught Him how to die. He bore our sin, embraced our shame and became our substitute leading us to Salvation. His sacrifice became our saving grace and because He died we could live. The “American Dream” is going from rags to riches. Elvis went from a shotgun shack in Tupelo, MS to moving into Graceland, a southern colonial mansion in Memphis, TN.
Elvis went from rags to riches. Jesus went from riches to rags. Christ went from a Mansion in Heaven to a manger on Earth. He wore Royal Robes but put on my ripped rags. He had a studded crown but removed it to wear our splintered cross. Born in a wooden crib and beaten to die on wooden cross and because of His great grief we could experience God’s great grace. He died so we could live and to top it all off; Jesus didn’t wear that cross for Him but for them (crowd). Go God and thank you Jesus!
Most Valuable Player
The same is true in life and ministry. The last 30 days I have been invited to speak in 9 states and I feel like a muffler - EXHAUSTED. Just yesterday I returned from speaking five 40 minute messages in less than 15 hours (only to drive 618 miles in 24 hours round-trip) to pull it off.
For example, just the last two days countless people and factors had to come together to get me to speak to nearly 2,500 students in Wild and Wonderful West Virginia. First, it was God’s grace that I am even in the game serving Him. Secondly, I have been blessed with the most supportive spouse this side of the Mississippi. Ruth is awesome and her Daddy was a preacher of the Gospel for nearly 50 years in El Salvador and she understands the pressure but privilege of preaching Christ to a hurting world. Third, Evangelist Randy Hogue graciously extended this invite for me to preach in his absence. Fourth, my mother, Sharon was willing to drive three hours each way to stay two nights at our home to watch baby, Andrew while I was gone.
Last but not least, Pastor Darin is the youth minister at First Baptist Church of Fairlea and he and his church members prayed, prepared and promoted this large youth outreach over six months ago. He got the door open to speak in the public schools. He built the relationship with both teachers and local clergy in his hometown for folks like me to come together to see students IMPACTED with life changing truth. The list is endless but worth mentioning because they are the one’s worthy of recognition.
You see 2,500 students and staff met me yesterday in West Virginia but God saw all the “MVP’s” of my life behind the scenes way before then. Truly, there is no “I” in the word TEAM. Without, the support and “behind the scenes” help of my family this would not be possible. Sadly, too often in sports, business, politics and even ministry we tend to give too much credit on the person “out front” but it is the folks behind the scenes that enable us to be on the scene that are equally if not more important.
Jesus said: “Many who are first will be last and many last will be first.” One element in ministry that the Lord has burned in my heart over the years is to exude class and Christ-like compassion on all whom I meet. Elvis Presley when asked why he would by pass the mayor to say “hi” to the janitor replied: “The big guy doesn’t need me but the little guy does.” God helped me coin a phrase over the years called: “The Greats are Gracious.”
Intentionally, I have gone out of my way to shake the hand of the camera people filming the show, the assistants, secretary, janitorial staff while taping television and radio programs. Why? Because in God’s economy (outside of Jesus) they are the true “star” of the show.
When on the road, I do my best even as an invited guest to pay for the meal of the senior pastor or youth minister to invest into them (even when it is customary for them to pay for the guest). Jesus constantly talked about “going the extra mile” and “honoring those whom honor is due.” Plus, to help dispel the myth that many in ministry are selfish and/or arrogant. I always try to meet folks more than half way and its a JOY to minister to the minister while in town.
Daily I thank God privately for the key players He has strategically placed in my life but I am also over due to share publicly in this blog of what they mean to me, what they bring to the table and how God sees them. Often times, I feel like I already got my reward but those “behind the scenes” now will be ahead of me in line to meet Jesus. I praise the Lord for them now and will even more then. Truly, he that desires to be first must be willing to be last. In order to “get up” we need to get down and by promoting the Lord and others, ironically the Lord actually promotes us in the process.