
Showing posts with label Text. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Text. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Unlimited Miles? Sure! What's The Record?

I always like to see the look on the face of the AVIS airport agent when I bring my rental car back. Here is a rental from a year ago that got caked in mud. The mud eventually baked in the sun to form very tough crust or outer shell on the car. I am actually quite proud of the offroad mess I can achieve in a few weeks pounding highways and searching for backroad shortcuts. To me, mud is character! It's class! It's sassy!
The Exclusiveness Of Jesus
So, Why do people seem to have such anger for Christians?
Well, the truth is … many of us are insensitive jerks in the way we speak to people. By the way … I am including myself here! I have not arrived and God is still working on me. The fact that “God is still working on me” isn’t an excuse or a plea for license to be a jerk. I am just saying sometimes I lack the tact needed in certain situations.
Often we say things that leave people with the impression that we Christians think we are better than them. I say, we are not better AT ALL … but if we have chosen Christ as our Savior … we are forgiven. The fact that we are forgiven is also not a license to lack love in what we say.
Often our concern for others causes more heat than light. I have discovered that there is no reason to keep talking when you are causing heat in a conversation. You can’t argue someone into God’s family. Rarely does someone ever stand up and say … I became a Christian because I lost a heated debate. The only thing I have really ever seen help lead someone to Christ over a varying period of time is a lot of love and a lot of prayer.
There is a time to defend what you believe. Too many people think that … in order to have Christian faith, you must flush your brains down the toilet. Not true! I can rationally debate any subject in support of faith in Christ. I am saying that I have found that choosing Christ … was a step of faith but after years I have learned it was also an intelligent decision.
Notice I didn’t say it was a popular decision.
My defense of the gospel doesn’t always cause a person to see the light (so to speak). In fact, get this straight … if you share your faith with someone, … you’re done!
You can’t cause the blind to see. Look at 1 Corinthians 3:6. This verse clearly states that only God can make a seed grow. Only God gives sight!
So, why do so many people object to Jesus? I mean Jesus … seems to be the cuss word atomic bomb that gets thrown around by everyone. Why not Buddah?
Why is Jesus such a target for religious abuse?
I believe that simply said, … People don’t like the obvious accountability to the exclusive nature of Christ’s claims!
I am saying that people get John 14:6! They just don’t believe it.
I bet if you ask someone, … Who said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” they know the answer!
I also bet you could quote thousands of things other religious leaders have said and people would not be able to tell who said it … nor would they likely be offended by the statement being quoted. John 14:6 and similar statements made by Jesus are considered the most controversial.
Why? Because, … People don’t like that kind of exclusive claim. Before they even examine the claims of Jesus, many decide He was wrong.
Jesus declares many things in this verse.
1. He declares to be the way … not one of many ways.
2. He declares to be the truth … meaning “Hey, I’m not kidding here!”
3. He declares to be the life … meaning you are still dead and have never lived unless you come to me.
4. Then Jesus wraps it up again for those who think He might be saying He is one of the ways to God by saying that no man will get to God except through Him.
Now please remember … I didn’t say this! My words don’t mean a thing.
However, remember Jesus did say this! That does mean something! That means everything!
I believe Jesus!
Jesus was put to death in the most vicious manner because He declared equality with God over and over in hundreds of ways and direct statements. They put Jesus to death some 2000 years ago because they didn’t like the exclusive nature of His claims either. They fully understood what He was saying. They charged Him with blasphemy! They were blind sinners nailing Him to a cross. I did that too! That was me out there nailing Him to the cross with my sin.
People back then and people today are not at all interested in being accountable to any God. People want to believe that they themselves are god or ... people want to believe there is a bit of truth in every religion so that everybody (if they are good by their own standards) gets to go to heaven, no matter how kooky their beliefs may be.
Well, read John 14:6 again! Jesus sure didn’t sign up for being one of many ways to God. Jesus declared to be the only way to God. That makes ALL the difference.
Maybe you think Jesus was a liar? Maybe you think He was a lunatic? But, please do not suggest that Jesus was just another good man! Not even possible! A good man would not mislead people to believe He was God knowing He wasn’t. The power and truth discovered in His teaching was and IS far too incredible for Him to be considered a lunatic!
Anybody can say whacky stuff. Anybody can die for a disillusioned cause. Jesus backed His words up with His actions. The words and works of the Lord Jesus Christ have changed millions of lives. Millions have discovered the truth of His claims!
Consider the Apostle Paul, formerly known as Saul. Paul spent his time chasing down Christians with such vigor in order to put them to death. Paul wanted to squash the message of Christ right in Jerusalem. Paul had a face to face encounter with Christ and discovered he was wrong. He was knocked to his knees and learned from Jesus Himself that He was in fact the Messiah and that He was indeed God and that He had conquered death and had risen from the grave! How did this change the man who went about killing Christians? Paul later died a martyr’s death after living a life spreading the news of the risen Christ. Paul refused to deny what he had seen!
Paul said this about Jesus: Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Read Acts 4:12.
Jesus is exclusive!
People don’t like exclusive accountability.
So why do people seem to have such anger for Christians?
Jesus answered that Himself.
"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. Now, however, they have no excuse for their sin. He who hates me hates my Father as well. John 15:18-23 (NIV).
Friend of mine, … Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. There is no other way to approach God. I pray that my words do not strike you in an arrogant way. I fully understand there is nothing I can do to water down the claims of Christ and still be telling you the truth.
Truth said in love is often not truth read in love. I pray you would see these things clearly. I pray that God opens your eyes to the truth of His word. I pray that when you read these words that something inside you confirms the truth that is found only in Christ.
May God bless you in every way!
NikonSniper Steve
Well, the truth is … many of us are insensitive jerks in the way we speak to people. By the way … I am including myself here! I have not arrived and God is still working on me. The fact that “God is still working on me” isn’t an excuse or a plea for license to be a jerk. I am just saying sometimes I lack the tact needed in certain situations.
Often we say things that leave people with the impression that we Christians think we are better than them. I say, we are not better AT ALL … but if we have chosen Christ as our Savior … we are forgiven. The fact that we are forgiven is also not a license to lack love in what we say.
Often our concern for others causes more heat than light. I have discovered that there is no reason to keep talking when you are causing heat in a conversation. You can’t argue someone into God’s family. Rarely does someone ever stand up and say … I became a Christian because I lost a heated debate. The only thing I have really ever seen help lead someone to Christ over a varying period of time is a lot of love and a lot of prayer.
There is a time to defend what you believe. Too many people think that … in order to have Christian faith, you must flush your brains down the toilet. Not true! I can rationally debate any subject in support of faith in Christ. I am saying that I have found that choosing Christ … was a step of faith but after years I have learned it was also an intelligent decision.
Notice I didn’t say it was a popular decision.
My defense of the gospel doesn’t always cause a person to see the light (so to speak). In fact, get this straight … if you share your faith with someone, … you’re done!
You can’t cause the blind to see. Look at 1 Corinthians 3:6. This verse clearly states that only God can make a seed grow. Only God gives sight!
So, why do so many people object to Jesus? I mean Jesus … seems to be the cuss word atomic bomb that gets thrown around by everyone. Why not Buddah?
Why is Jesus such a target for religious abuse?
I believe that simply said, … People don’t like the obvious accountability to the exclusive nature of Christ’s claims!
I am saying that people get John 14:6! They just don’t believe it.
I bet if you ask someone, … Who said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” they know the answer!
I also bet you could quote thousands of things other religious leaders have said and people would not be able to tell who said it … nor would they likely be offended by the statement being quoted. John 14:6 and similar statements made by Jesus are considered the most controversial.
Why? Because, … People don’t like that kind of exclusive claim. Before they even examine the claims of Jesus, many decide He was wrong.
Jesus declares many things in this verse.
1. He declares to be the way … not one of many ways.
2. He declares to be the truth … meaning “Hey, I’m not kidding here!”
3. He declares to be the life … meaning you are still dead and have never lived unless you come to me.
4. Then Jesus wraps it up again for those who think He might be saying He is one of the ways to God by saying that no man will get to God except through Him.
Now please remember … I didn’t say this! My words don’t mean a thing.
However, remember Jesus did say this! That does mean something! That means everything!
I believe Jesus!
Jesus was put to death in the most vicious manner because He declared equality with God over and over in hundreds of ways and direct statements. They put Jesus to death some 2000 years ago because they didn’t like the exclusive nature of His claims either. They fully understood what He was saying. They charged Him with blasphemy! They were blind sinners nailing Him to a cross. I did that too! That was me out there nailing Him to the cross with my sin.
People back then and people today are not at all interested in being accountable to any God. People want to believe that they themselves are god or ... people want to believe there is a bit of truth in every religion so that everybody (if they are good by their own standards) gets to go to heaven, no matter how kooky their beliefs may be.
Well, read John 14:6 again! Jesus sure didn’t sign up for being one of many ways to God. Jesus declared to be the only way to God. That makes ALL the difference.
Maybe you think Jesus was a liar? Maybe you think He was a lunatic? But, please do not suggest that Jesus was just another good man! Not even possible! A good man would not mislead people to believe He was God knowing He wasn’t. The power and truth discovered in His teaching was and IS far too incredible for Him to be considered a lunatic!
Anybody can say whacky stuff. Anybody can die for a disillusioned cause. Jesus backed His words up with His actions. The words and works of the Lord Jesus Christ have changed millions of lives. Millions have discovered the truth of His claims!
Consider the Apostle Paul, formerly known as Saul. Paul spent his time chasing down Christians with such vigor in order to put them to death. Paul wanted to squash the message of Christ right in Jerusalem. Paul had a face to face encounter with Christ and discovered he was wrong. He was knocked to his knees and learned from Jesus Himself that He was in fact the Messiah and that He was indeed God and that He had conquered death and had risen from the grave! How did this change the man who went about killing Christians? Paul later died a martyr’s death after living a life spreading the news of the risen Christ. Paul refused to deny what he had seen!
Paul said this about Jesus: Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Read Acts 4:12.
Jesus is exclusive!
People don’t like exclusive accountability.
So why do people seem to have such anger for Christians?
Jesus answered that Himself.
"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. Now, however, they have no excuse for their sin. He who hates me hates my Father as well. John 15:18-23 (NIV).
Friend of mine, … Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. There is no other way to approach God. I pray that my words do not strike you in an arrogant way. I fully understand there is nothing I can do to water down the claims of Christ and still be telling you the truth.
Truth said in love is often not truth read in love. I pray you would see these things clearly. I pray that God opens your eyes to the truth of His word. I pray that when you read these words that something inside you confirms the truth that is found only in Christ.
May God bless you in every way!
NikonSniper Steve
Friday, August 2, 2013
Shootin' And Steerin'

So, you're traveling 68mph in heavy traffic when the truck in front of you has a blow out that causes it to start doing a hard pull to the right while the rim is chewin' up the highway. What do you do? That's when I grab a camera and start shootn' and steerin'. It's all just like the Wild Wild West.
If you ever hear of my sudden demise. Check my camera! I'll hit the bottom of the cliff while firing photos all the way down.
Monday, July 8, 2013
NikonSniper 5500 Follower Drawing

Don't miss your next chance to win extra storage space? Make sure you enter this NikonSniper drawing for a chance to win a Western Digital – My Passport Essential SE 1TB External USB Portable Hard Drive.
That’s right! When we cross the 5500 follower milestone in the coming months, we will giveaway yet another 1TB Hard Drive in a continuing effort to say thanks to those of you who follow NikonSniper.
As I have said before, I wish I could give these to everyone of you to say thanks properly ... but I haven’t won a lottery yet. Your comments on this blog and all over the Internet on your own blogs about NikonSniper have been very encouraging and indeed humbling. Believe me, … I know I am not quite the photographer as some of you proclaim … but it is so nice to know that the photos are appreciated. Many thanks to all of you.
Contest rules are simple!
1. You must be a listed follower of the NikonSniper blog. After the drawing, I will check to see if the winner is in the list of followers.
2. Respond to THIS post in the comments with the request, “Please enter me in the NikonSniper 5500 contest.”
3. Wait patiently. The winner will be drawn within days of crossing the 5500 follower milestone.
YES, you can win! ... no matter where you are in the world. If you have an address we can send it to you.
So, far we have had:
a winner in Georgia for a 1TB Hard Drive
a winner in California for a 1TB Hard Drive
a winner in Washington for a 1 TB Hard Drive, and
a winner in New Brunswick of a 200GB Hard Drive. And that’s like … way out there in far eastern Canada, EH! So, no matter where on earth you live you CAN win … unless of course you are one of my relatives or buddies. I don’t believe in kissin’ yer sister with a favor, so to speak.
Thanks again to all of you who make this blog interesting. So many of you provide the words and meaning to many of the photos captured in my moments on the road. I have mentioned many times in the past that I do not comment on many photos on the blog because I like to hear what they mean to you without me explaining much about the photo. You all have a very different thoughts or stories remembered by the same photo and that’s where this blog truly becomes yours too!
Tell your friends about NikonSniper and stay tuned! We will continue to have drawings for future hard drives every time we reach a new milestone.
Good luck and may God bless you all!
NikonSniper Steve
Saturday, July 6, 2013
I Am Resting My Entire Destiny On Jesus
OK, so I gotta say something.
Today I was speaking to someone I have known for years. Let's call her Lucy!
As we were talking, Lucy essentially told me that she did not think that someone should be able to write about their personal faith in Christ or "religious stuff" on Facebook. Lucy told me that someone she knew was doing this ... and that this someone professed to be a "born-again" Christian. In fact, this "born-again" Christian was even shoveling her driveway for her during this recent snow storm. Lucy found his Facebook page and saw that he was speaking about "religious stuff" and she said she thought that it should not be allowed and that it "creeped" her out.
Lucy has told me a couple of times that she believes in Christ so I was really kinda surprised.
I told Lucy for about the hundreth time that I was one of those "born-again freaks"! I told Lucy that I often speak about my faith in Christ on this photo website. I even showed Lucy exactly where to locate my words about my faith in Christ. Maybe I did this so I could creep her out on a more regular basis.
I told you that to tell you this.
Before Jesus ascended into heaven, it is recorded that he came to the disciples to commission them. In Matthew 28:18b-20, it reads:
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Jesus was saying, "Hey, ... Now go tell the world what you have seen and what you have heard. Don't worry because I am going with you and I will be there with you to the very end".
Jesus didn't say ... "Hey, It would be cool if you mentioned that you thought I was a pretty nice guy to a few people".
Now I told you that to tell you this.
You may think I am a complete fool! And if you wish to mock me I will post your reply. I am not trying to edit out objectors as long as you aren't profane.
I am telling you that I believe in Christ. I love Him! And I want there to be enough evidence in my life to convict me of being one of His believers. But, if I say I believe in Him and ... and I really do ... shouldn't I want to tell you? Even if it's on Facebook?
Folks, ... The reason I want to tell you about Christ is because I really believe it. I really believe that YOU must receive Christ as your Savior. Some people may not tell you that so directly ... but that is what I believe because that is what the Bible says.
Jesus Christ sets people free today. I am a flawed man. I am not smarter than you. I am not cooler than you. Take a look at my photo, I am surely not better looking than you! The only thing I have going for me eternally speaking is the blood of Christ has covered my sin. I AM FORGIVEN! Praise the Lord Jesus Christ!
Don't look at me as a model of how to live. I will let you down. The Bible says we are to look at Christ as our example on how to live.
Lucy! I care about ya! Don't live your life so close to me for all these years and miss the message of Christ. Jesus is the way, the truth and life. John 14:6.
God bless you all.
NikonSniper Steve
Today I was speaking to someone I have known for years. Let's call her Lucy!
As we were talking, Lucy essentially told me that she did not think that someone should be able to write about their personal faith in Christ or "religious stuff" on Facebook. Lucy told me that someone she knew was doing this ... and that this someone professed to be a "born-again" Christian. In fact, this "born-again" Christian was even shoveling her driveway for her during this recent snow storm. Lucy found his Facebook page and saw that he was speaking about "religious stuff" and she said she thought that it should not be allowed and that it "creeped" her out.
Lucy has told me a couple of times that she believes in Christ so I was really kinda surprised.
I told Lucy for about the hundreth time that I was one of those "born-again freaks"! I told Lucy that I often speak about my faith in Christ on this photo website. I even showed Lucy exactly where to locate my words about my faith in Christ. Maybe I did this so I could creep her out on a more regular basis.
I told you that to tell you this.
Before Jesus ascended into heaven, it is recorded that he came to the disciples to commission them. In Matthew 28:18b-20, it reads:
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Jesus was saying, "Hey, ... Now go tell the world what you have seen and what you have heard. Don't worry because I am going with you and I will be there with you to the very end".
Jesus didn't say ... "Hey, It would be cool if you mentioned that you thought I was a pretty nice guy to a few people".
Now I told you that to tell you this.
You may think I am a complete fool! And if you wish to mock me I will post your reply. I am not trying to edit out objectors as long as you aren't profane.
I am telling you that I believe in Christ. I love Him! And I want there to be enough evidence in my life to convict me of being one of His believers. But, if I say I believe in Him and ... and I really do ... shouldn't I want to tell you? Even if it's on Facebook?
Folks, ... The reason I want to tell you about Christ is because I really believe it. I really believe that YOU must receive Christ as your Savior. Some people may not tell you that so directly ... but that is what I believe because that is what the Bible says.
Jesus Christ sets people free today. I am a flawed man. I am not smarter than you. I am not cooler than you. Take a look at my photo, I am surely not better looking than you! The only thing I have going for me eternally speaking is the blood of Christ has covered my sin. I AM FORGIVEN! Praise the Lord Jesus Christ!
Don't look at me as a model of how to live. I will let you down. The Bible says we are to look at Christ as our example on how to live.
Lucy! I care about ya! Don't live your life so close to me for all these years and miss the message of Christ. Jesus is the way, the truth and life. John 14:6.
God bless you all.
NikonSniper Steve
Monday, June 24, 2013
Do You Know Christ Today?
I was especially thankful this morning during a special time of prayer at the end of our church service. I was specifically thankful to be in a church that really lays TRUTH on the line rather than to muddy up the Word of God with false but popular thinking of our day.
Recently my reading has been in the Old Testament from ... “In the beginning” ... to the Book of Deuteronomy. After this refresher course, here's something I can tell you for sure. GOD takes sin very, very, very seriously. God takes sin a whole lot more seriously than YOU or I do! God won't be mocked.
Please read this article below by John MacArthur. When it was first penned more than 20 years ago it was extremely controversial. In fact, many said he was adding to the message of the gospel. I want you to read this and consider where you are spiritually because I believe YOUR and MY eternal destination depends on our understanding of what it means to really follow Christ.
Let me say that I DO understand that all believers do not grow in Christ at the same pace. I DO understand that the elderly or more mature believer may be more focused on progress than many a teenager.
But as your Friend ... I cannot let you think that praying a prayer at some point in your life without a pattern of change will ever get you to heaven. Scripture tells us to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12). I am afraid that America knows very little about that as we have become a nation that prayed a prayer … so we think that’s all she wrote!
In conversations, this is where people like to throw the thief on the cross in your face and say it worked for him. That situation was very different but it truly involved life changing faith. So I am not saying there isn't a death bed salvation experience on occasions.
My concern for you and me is based what is normal in life. If you prayed a prayer and the pattern of your life after years and years has been to go on living as you please without regard to what being a follower of Christ should be doing in and through you ... then it is to you that I make this appeal. Please think! God won't be mocked. You aren't going to be able to say, "Remember I prayed a prayer?" To whom is it that Jesus says, “Depart from me, I didn’t know you”.
I want to know ALL of you throughout eternity. I want YOU to know the power of His resurrection. I want YOU to experience the joy and peace that is in Christ even when your world has come apart. Do you know Him today?
NikonSniper Steve
The gospel that Jesus proclaimed was a call to discipleship, a call to follow Him in submissive obedience, not just a plea to make a decision or pray a prayer. Jesus' message liberated people from the bondage of their sin while it confronted and condemned hypocrisy. It was an offer of eternal life and forgiveness for repentant sinners, but at the same time it was a rebuke to outwardly religious people whose lives were devoid of true righteousness. It put sinners on notice that they must turn from sin and embrace God's righteousness. Our Lord's words about eternal life were invariably accompanied by warnings to those who might be tempted to take salvation lightly. He taught that the cost of following Him is high, that the way is narrow and few find it. He said many who call him Lord will be forbidden from entering the kingdom of heaven (cf. Matt. 7:13-23).
Present-day evangelicalism, by and large, ignores these warnings. The prevailing view of what constitutes saving faith continues to grow broader and shallower, while the portrayal of Christ in preaching and witnessing becomes fuzzy. Anyone who claims to be a Christian can find evangelicals willing to accept a profession of faith, whether or not the person's behavior shows any evidence of commitment to Christ. In this way, faith has become merely an intellectual exercise. Instead of calling men and women to surrender to Christ, modern evangelism asks them only to accept some basic facts about Him.
This shallow understanding of salvation and the gospel, known as "easy-believism," stands in stark contrast to what the Bible teaches. To put it simply, the gospel call to faith presupposes that sinners must repent of their sin and yield to Christ's authority. This, in a nutshell, is what is commonly referred to as lordship salvation.
There are many articles of faith that are fundamental to all evangelical teaching. For example, there is agreement among all believers on the following truths: (1) Christ's death purchased eternal salvation; (2) the saved are justified by grace through faith in Christ alone; (3) sinners cannot earn divine favor; (4) God requires no preparatory works or pre-salvation reformation; (5) eternal life is a gift of God; (6) believers are saved before their faith ever produces any righteous works; and (7) Christians can and do sin, sometimes horribly.
What, then, are the distinctives of lordship salvation? What does Scripture teach that is embraced by those who affirm lordship salvation but rejected by proponents of "easy-believism"? The following are nine distinctives of a biblical understanding of salvation and the gospel.
First, Scripture teaches that the gospel calls sinners to faith joined in oneness with repentance (Acts 2:38; 17:30; 20:21; 2 Pet. 3:9). Repentance is a turning from sin (Acts 3:19; Luke 24:47) that consists not of a human work but of a divinely bestowed grace (Acts 11:18; 2 Tim. 2:25). It is a change of heart, but genuine repentance will effect a change of behavior as well (Luke 3:8; Acts 26:18-20). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that repentance is simply a synonym for faith and that no turning from sin is required for salvation.
Second, Scripture teaches that salvation is all God's work. Those who believe are saved utterly apart from any effort on their own (Titus 3:5). Even faith is a gift of God, not a work of man (Eph. 2:1-5, 8). Real faith therefore cannot be defective or short-lived but endures forever (Phil. 1:6; cf. Heb. 11). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that faith might not last and that a true Christian can completely cease believing.
Third, Scripture teaches that the object of faith is Christ Himself, not a creed or a promise (John 3:16). Faith therefore involves personal commitment to Christ (2 Cor. 5:15). In other words, all true believers follow Jesus (John 10:27-28). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that saving faith is simply being convinced or giving credence to the truth of the gospel and does not include a personal commitment to the person of Christ.
Fourth, Scripture teaches that real faith inevitably produces a changed life (2 Cor. 5:17). Salvation includes a transformation of the inner person (Gal. 2:20). The nature of the Christian is new and different (Rom. 6:6). The unbroken pattern of sin and enmity with God will not continue when a person is born again (1 John 3:9-10). Those with genuine faith follow Christ (John 10:27), love their brothers (1 John 3:14), obey God's commandments (1 John 2:3; John 15:14), do the will of God (Matt. 12:50), abide in God's Word (John 8:31), keep God's Word (John 17:6), do good works (Eph. 2:10), and continue in the faith (Col. 1:21-23; Heb. 3:14). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that although some spiritual fruit is inevitable, that fruit might not be visible to others and Christians can even lapse into a state of permanent spiritual barrenness.
Fifth, Scripture teaches that God's gift of eternal life includes all that pertains to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3; Rom. 8:32), not just a ticket to heaven. In contrast, according to easy-believism, only the judicial aspects of salvation (e.g., justification, adoption, and positional sanctification) are guaranteed for believers in this life; practical sanctification and growth in grace require a post-conversion act of dedication.
Sixth, Scripture teaches that Jesus is Lord of all, and the faith He demands involves unconditional surrender (Rom. 6:17-18; 10:9-10). In other words, Christ does not bestow eternal life on those whose hearts remain set against Him (James 4:6). Surrender to Jesus' lordship is not an addendum to the biblical terms of salvation; the summons to submission is at the heart of the gospel invitation throughout Scripture. In contrast, easy-believism teaches that submission to Christ's supreme authority is not germane to the saving transaction.
Seventh, Scripture teaches that those who truly believe will love Christ (1 Pet. 1:8-9; Rom. 8:28-30; 1 Cor. 16:22). They will therefore long to obey Him (John 14:15, 23). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that Christians may fall into a state of lifelong carnality.
Eighth, Scripture teaches that behavior is an important test of faith. Obedience is evidence that one's faith is real (1 John 2:3). On the other hand, the person who remains utterly unwilling to obey Christ does not evidence true faith (1 John 2:4). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that disobedience and prolonged sin are no reason to doubt the reality of one's faith.
Ninth, Scripture teaches that genuine believers may stumble and fall, but they will persevere in the faith (1 Cor. 1:8). Those who later turn completely away from the Lord show that they were never truly born again (1 John 2:19). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that a true believer may utterly forsake Christ and come to the point of not believing.
Most Christians recognize that these nine distinctives are not new or radical ideas. The preponderance of Bible-believing Christians over the centuries has held these to be basic tenets of orthodoxy. In fact, no major orthodox movement in the history of Christianity has ever taught that sinners can spurn the lordship of Christ yet lay claim to Him as Savior.
This issue is not a trivial one. In fact, how could any issue be more important? The gospel that is presented to unbelievers has eternal ramifications. If it is the true gospel, it can direct men and women into the everlasting kingdom. If it is a corrupted message, it can give unsaved people false hope while consigning them to eternal damnation. This is not merely a matter for theologians to discuss and debate and speculate about. This is an issue that every single pastor and lay person must understand in order that the gospel may be rightly proclaimed to all the nations.
Recently my reading has been in the Old Testament from ... “In the beginning” ... to the Book of Deuteronomy. After this refresher course, here's something I can tell you for sure. GOD takes sin very, very, very seriously. God takes sin a whole lot more seriously than YOU or I do! God won't be mocked.
Please read this article below by John MacArthur. When it was first penned more than 20 years ago it was extremely controversial. In fact, many said he was adding to the message of the gospel. I want you to read this and consider where you are spiritually because I believe YOUR and MY eternal destination depends on our understanding of what it means to really follow Christ.
Let me say that I DO understand that all believers do not grow in Christ at the same pace. I DO understand that the elderly or more mature believer may be more focused on progress than many a teenager.
But as your Friend ... I cannot let you think that praying a prayer at some point in your life without a pattern of change will ever get you to heaven. Scripture tells us to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12). I am afraid that America knows very little about that as we have become a nation that prayed a prayer … so we think that’s all she wrote!
In conversations, this is where people like to throw the thief on the cross in your face and say it worked for him. That situation was very different but it truly involved life changing faith. So I am not saying there isn't a death bed salvation experience on occasions.
My concern for you and me is based what is normal in life. If you prayed a prayer and the pattern of your life after years and years has been to go on living as you please without regard to what being a follower of Christ should be doing in and through you ... then it is to you that I make this appeal. Please think! God won't be mocked. You aren't going to be able to say, "Remember I prayed a prayer?" To whom is it that Jesus says, “Depart from me, I didn’t know you”.
I want to know ALL of you throughout eternity. I want YOU to know the power of His resurrection. I want YOU to experience the joy and peace that is in Christ even when your world has come apart. Do you know Him today?
NikonSniper Steve
The gospel that Jesus proclaimed was a call to discipleship, a call to follow Him in submissive obedience, not just a plea to make a decision or pray a prayer. Jesus' message liberated people from the bondage of their sin while it confronted and condemned hypocrisy. It was an offer of eternal life and forgiveness for repentant sinners, but at the same time it was a rebuke to outwardly religious people whose lives were devoid of true righteousness. It put sinners on notice that they must turn from sin and embrace God's righteousness. Our Lord's words about eternal life were invariably accompanied by warnings to those who might be tempted to take salvation lightly. He taught that the cost of following Him is high, that the way is narrow and few find it. He said many who call him Lord will be forbidden from entering the kingdom of heaven (cf. Matt. 7:13-23).
Present-day evangelicalism, by and large, ignores these warnings. The prevailing view of what constitutes saving faith continues to grow broader and shallower, while the portrayal of Christ in preaching and witnessing becomes fuzzy. Anyone who claims to be a Christian can find evangelicals willing to accept a profession of faith, whether or not the person's behavior shows any evidence of commitment to Christ. In this way, faith has become merely an intellectual exercise. Instead of calling men and women to surrender to Christ, modern evangelism asks them only to accept some basic facts about Him.
This shallow understanding of salvation and the gospel, known as "easy-believism," stands in stark contrast to what the Bible teaches. To put it simply, the gospel call to faith presupposes that sinners must repent of their sin and yield to Christ's authority. This, in a nutshell, is what is commonly referred to as lordship salvation.
There are many articles of faith that are fundamental to all evangelical teaching. For example, there is agreement among all believers on the following truths: (1) Christ's death purchased eternal salvation; (2) the saved are justified by grace through faith in Christ alone; (3) sinners cannot earn divine favor; (4) God requires no preparatory works or pre-salvation reformation; (5) eternal life is a gift of God; (6) believers are saved before their faith ever produces any righteous works; and (7) Christians can and do sin, sometimes horribly.
What, then, are the distinctives of lordship salvation? What does Scripture teach that is embraced by those who affirm lordship salvation but rejected by proponents of "easy-believism"? The following are nine distinctives of a biblical understanding of salvation and the gospel.
First, Scripture teaches that the gospel calls sinners to faith joined in oneness with repentance (Acts 2:38; 17:30; 20:21; 2 Pet. 3:9). Repentance is a turning from sin (Acts 3:19; Luke 24:47) that consists not of a human work but of a divinely bestowed grace (Acts 11:18; 2 Tim. 2:25). It is a change of heart, but genuine repentance will effect a change of behavior as well (Luke 3:8; Acts 26:18-20). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that repentance is simply a synonym for faith and that no turning from sin is required for salvation.
Second, Scripture teaches that salvation is all God's work. Those who believe are saved utterly apart from any effort on their own (Titus 3:5). Even faith is a gift of God, not a work of man (Eph. 2:1-5, 8). Real faith therefore cannot be defective or short-lived but endures forever (Phil. 1:6; cf. Heb. 11). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that faith might not last and that a true Christian can completely cease believing.
Third, Scripture teaches that the object of faith is Christ Himself, not a creed or a promise (John 3:16). Faith therefore involves personal commitment to Christ (2 Cor. 5:15). In other words, all true believers follow Jesus (John 10:27-28). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that saving faith is simply being convinced or giving credence to the truth of the gospel and does not include a personal commitment to the person of Christ.
Fourth, Scripture teaches that real faith inevitably produces a changed life (2 Cor. 5:17). Salvation includes a transformation of the inner person (Gal. 2:20). The nature of the Christian is new and different (Rom. 6:6). The unbroken pattern of sin and enmity with God will not continue when a person is born again (1 John 3:9-10). Those with genuine faith follow Christ (John 10:27), love their brothers (1 John 3:14), obey God's commandments (1 John 2:3; John 15:14), do the will of God (Matt. 12:50), abide in God's Word (John 8:31), keep God's Word (John 17:6), do good works (Eph. 2:10), and continue in the faith (Col. 1:21-23; Heb. 3:14). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that although some spiritual fruit is inevitable, that fruit might not be visible to others and Christians can even lapse into a state of permanent spiritual barrenness.
Fifth, Scripture teaches that God's gift of eternal life includes all that pertains to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3; Rom. 8:32), not just a ticket to heaven. In contrast, according to easy-believism, only the judicial aspects of salvation (e.g., justification, adoption, and positional sanctification) are guaranteed for believers in this life; practical sanctification and growth in grace require a post-conversion act of dedication.
Sixth, Scripture teaches that Jesus is Lord of all, and the faith He demands involves unconditional surrender (Rom. 6:17-18; 10:9-10). In other words, Christ does not bestow eternal life on those whose hearts remain set against Him (James 4:6). Surrender to Jesus' lordship is not an addendum to the biblical terms of salvation; the summons to submission is at the heart of the gospel invitation throughout Scripture. In contrast, easy-believism teaches that submission to Christ's supreme authority is not germane to the saving transaction.
Seventh, Scripture teaches that those who truly believe will love Christ (1 Pet. 1:8-9; Rom. 8:28-30; 1 Cor. 16:22). They will therefore long to obey Him (John 14:15, 23). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that Christians may fall into a state of lifelong carnality.
Eighth, Scripture teaches that behavior is an important test of faith. Obedience is evidence that one's faith is real (1 John 2:3). On the other hand, the person who remains utterly unwilling to obey Christ does not evidence true faith (1 John 2:4). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that disobedience and prolonged sin are no reason to doubt the reality of one's faith.
Ninth, Scripture teaches that genuine believers may stumble and fall, but they will persevere in the faith (1 Cor. 1:8). Those who later turn completely away from the Lord show that they were never truly born again (1 John 2:19). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that a true believer may utterly forsake Christ and come to the point of not believing.
Most Christians recognize that these nine distinctives are not new or radical ideas. The preponderance of Bible-believing Christians over the centuries has held these to be basic tenets of orthodoxy. In fact, no major orthodox movement in the history of Christianity has ever taught that sinners can spurn the lordship of Christ yet lay claim to Him as Savior.
This issue is not a trivial one. In fact, how could any issue be more important? The gospel that is presented to unbelievers has eternal ramifications. If it is the true gospel, it can direct men and women into the everlasting kingdom. If it is a corrupted message, it can give unsaved people false hope while consigning them to eternal damnation. This is not merely a matter for theologians to discuss and debate and speculate about. This is an issue that every single pastor and lay person must understand in order that the gospel may be rightly proclaimed to all the nations.
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
I'm Blue Over You

Now there's a country song title for you!
I don't know if anyone ever wrote a song called "I'm Blue Over You" or "I'm Blue Over YALL" ... but it would surely twang pretty good.
This photo was taken by a friend mine that lives in Montrose, CO. I am still somewhat jealous of his LUCK in getting a photo of this quality. This bird landed on a post outside his passenger window seat. He turned and got this shot off with one of my cameras while he was talking on a cellphone ... and I will never live it down. He said, "This ain't so hard!"
The photographer, Gary Engholm is better than simply being lucky ... but WOW does he have an incredible neighborhood in which to take photos! God may have worked a bit of overtime in Colorado.
I don't know if anyone ever wrote a song called "I'm Blue Over You" or "I'm Blue Over YALL" ... but it would surely twang pretty good.
This photo was taken by a friend mine that lives in Montrose, CO. I am still somewhat jealous of his LUCK in getting a photo of this quality. This bird landed on a post outside his passenger window seat. He turned and got this shot off with one of my cameras while he was talking on a cellphone ... and I will never live it down. He said, "This ain't so hard!"
The photographer, Gary Engholm is better than simply being lucky ... but WOW does he have an incredible neighborhood in which to take photos! God may have worked a bit of overtime in Colorado.
Gary still declares he got the shot of the day but my jealous jest was to say that it is also proof that sometimes monkeys can fly! Gary is a great friend and an Associate Pastor (imagine that) at Cedar Creek Church. I like to kid him that he has little to no photographic skill ... but (OK here goes), truth is ... I think he could shoot better photos than me with a cellphone in his backyard. I wanted this bird shot on the NikonSniper blog as a reminder of a fun day on the road with him ... and he insisted that in order to post the photo I must give him a little (small font) credit. We had a blast laughing all day ... especially when a Magpie nearly hit me in the face while driving the rental car. That surely would have made the day memorable for Gary. He would have been roaring in laughter for life. For years to come he would be able to say that he saw NikonSniper get hit in the face by a Magpie! I guess that would put me up there with FABIO.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Life IS A Rough Road

I am certain that if you have lived on this planet as long as I have you know that life can be a very rough road. The greatest character building is done on this road. Most of us hate the road but after the experience we can look back at what the road did for us to make us stronger. I pray your travel here is short but that you are able to gleen from it the very best God would teach you so that you might encourage others on the road. I am on this road right now and God IS faithful.
On another note, I wish I knew why I almost always choose this kind of road for photography. Have a great Monday! Wishing you smooth roads! If not, wishing you divine guidance for the bumps.
nikonsniper steve
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Where Is Your Hope Today?
There's a storm out there folks! Are you watching the news these days? Feeling the tension yet? Are you trusting in our government to fix the problems that have grasped our nation?
I have learned that no matter what political persuasion you are from that there is no party of politicians that will fix this world.
They are corrupt in general. They (both sides) have sold us out. Please, ... I am not saying that every last one them are evil but I am saying that evil isn't divided along a single party line. I tend to trust none of them ... because it is so difficult to distinguish between the good and the corrupt. You have to be on your guard watching these people in congress. So, I DO believe we need to remain active calling out those who are corrupt on either side that we CAN identify. Where are the real leaders out there?
The problems we are facing as a nation and a world are so large. I often steer clear of the news media for months because of the overwhelming feeling of anxiety they seem to be forcing upon us. Do you feel the pressure?
I tend to pick up an old faithful news network that is far more positive when I feel the heat from the world. I could quote many scriptures from the Bible that speak of the things that we are watching take place today. The Bible speaks directly of the coming world turmoil but it also speaks of the ultimate triumph of the Lord.
I have had all the negative news I can handle for today so I want to encourage you with a passage of scripture that is usually only mentioned around Christmas found in Isaiah 9:6,7:
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end.
One day the corruption will be over and Jesus will reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. That's the government I trust!
Where is your hope today? Is it in your 401k, your bank account, real estate investments, your portfolio? Where is your anchor when your world is getting rocked? Do you trust in yourself and your power or do you lean on His everlasting arms?
As for me:
My hope is built on nothing less
than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
but wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
God bless you this weekend.
NikonSniper Steve
I have learned that no matter what political persuasion you are from that there is no party of politicians that will fix this world.
They are corrupt in general. They (both sides) have sold us out. Please, ... I am not saying that every last one them are evil but I am saying that evil isn't divided along a single party line. I tend to trust none of them ... because it is so difficult to distinguish between the good and the corrupt. You have to be on your guard watching these people in congress. So, I DO believe we need to remain active calling out those who are corrupt on either side that we CAN identify. Where are the real leaders out there?
The problems we are facing as a nation and a world are so large. I often steer clear of the news media for months because of the overwhelming feeling of anxiety they seem to be forcing upon us. Do you feel the pressure?
I tend to pick up an old faithful news network that is far more positive when I feel the heat from the world. I could quote many scriptures from the Bible that speak of the things that we are watching take place today. The Bible speaks directly of the coming world turmoil but it also speaks of the ultimate triumph of the Lord.
I have had all the negative news I can handle for today so I want to encourage you with a passage of scripture that is usually only mentioned around Christmas found in Isaiah 9:6,7:
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end.
One day the corruption will be over and Jesus will reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. That's the government I trust!
Where is your hope today? Is it in your 401k, your bank account, real estate investments, your portfolio? Where is your anchor when your world is getting rocked? Do you trust in yourself and your power or do you lean on His everlasting arms?
As for me:
My hope is built on nothing less
than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
but wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
God bless you this weekend.
NikonSniper Steve
Monday, May 20, 2013
Passing On A Torch Of Life
15 My son, if your heart is wise,
then my heart will be glad;
16 my inmost being will rejoice
when your lips speak what is right.
17 Do not let your heart envy sinners,
but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord.
18 There is surely a future hope for you,
and your hope will not be cut off.
19 Listen, my son, and be wise,
and keep your heart on the right path.
20 Do not join those who drink too much wine
or gorge themselves on meat,
21 for drunkards and gluttons become poor,
and drowsiness clothes them in rags.
22 Listen to your father, who gave you life,
and do not despise your mother when she is old.
23 Buy the truth and do not sell it;
get wisdom, discipline and understanding.
24 The father of a righteous man has great joy;
he who has a wise son delights in him.
25 May your father and mother be glad;
may she who gave you birth rejoice!
26 My son, give me your heart
and let your eyes keep to my ways,
Proverbs 23:15-26 (NIV)
then my heart will be glad;
16 my inmost being will rejoice
when your lips speak what is right.
17 Do not let your heart envy sinners,
but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord.
18 There is surely a future hope for you,
and your hope will not be cut off.
19 Listen, my son, and be wise,
and keep your heart on the right path.
20 Do not join those who drink too much wine
or gorge themselves on meat,
21 for drunkards and gluttons become poor,
and drowsiness clothes them in rags.
22 Listen to your father, who gave you life,
and do not despise your mother when she is old.
23 Buy the truth and do not sell it;
get wisdom, discipline and understanding.
24 The father of a righteous man has great joy;
he who has a wise son delights in him.
25 May your father and mother be glad;
may she who gave you birth rejoice!
26 My son, give me your heart
and let your eyes keep to my ways,
Proverbs 23:15-26 (NIV)
Friday, May 17, 2013
Everywhere I Go I See You!
I have been so fortunate to capture so many beautiful places in photos here in the USA as well as around the world. Here are a few more beautiful places where I spent time with my camera, alone with God. Each place displays the results of God's handiwork. You can see His attention to detail in even the smallest things. My friends, ... You were uniquely made by God! You are no accident. God wants a real relationship with you. Doesn't that make you want to know more about Him?
Have a great Monday!
NikonSniper Steve
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
I'm Still Crazy After All These Years!
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
If I Could Spend 30 Minutes With You

If I could spend 30 minutes with you ... I am certain that I could talk to you about photography until I was blue in the face. However, I would rather tell you something really important to me instead.
Blogging really isn't like knowing people in your neighborhood. We may know some people in our blog world more than others but we still tend to remain strangers. You might discover that I like photography or that I own a dog (albeit 90% rat, 10% terrier) but we still remain strangers. We don't really discover what makes each other tick.
If I had that 30 mintutes with you I would want to tell you what gives me real joy in my life.
Life hasn't dealt me aces. I have had my share of trials and my share of blessings. At this moment, I am nearly 54. I am happily married now 32 years. I am unemployed after a 25 year career in one company and another 10 years of work in several places prior to that career. I have 5 grown children, 6 grandchildren and another on the way. We had 17 consecutive years with a high school student living in our home. One of my children deals with a life long disability that requires 65k in medication per year. The road has had many bumps and bruises but I also know that I have seen God's provision through it all. I just want you to understand that I DO know pain and I have seen life's setbacks. I don't have big a 401k and I haven't won a lottery. I have wondered many times why things appeared to be going so badly in my life but looking back I am really convinced that we have seen the goodness of the Lord!
If you know Jesus and are going through a tough period, make sure you run to the Lord quickly. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." He is faithful. We have seen this over and over and I would talk to you at length in specific ways God has shown up during our trials.
If you do not know the Lord, I would have so much more to say to you.
As I mentioned before ... in most cases we don't really know each other in the blog world. We have had no past life together and we may really only know a few facts about each other in the "somewhat" present life. But, we certainly have no depth of relationship.
I want to speak of the future ... because it is really the only part of life in which we might be able to say hello and talk to each other. Here is the good news that is available in Christ alone.
You and I can live forever in eternity with Jesus. AND we can actually KNOW we are going there RIGHT NOW! And that is very very good news!
The world has tried to crush the good news of Jesus Christ. Satan wants you to think that you do not need Christ. Satan wants you to think that ignoring Christ means you won't be held accountable by rejecting Christ in the process. Satan wants you to ignore Christ and run your own life. He wants you to think that if there is a heaven, surely you are good enough to get there on your own. Satan is and has always been a liar!
Get your Bible! Seriously, go find that old dusty copy of the Bible that great-gramma used to read. I want you to get a copy of God's word in front of you if you can to read these things for yourself. What I am about to say is not my oppinion. It is in your Bible. I am only showing you where to find these things quickly. I am using an English Standard Version Bible but use the version you have to read these words for yourself or check them out later after reading. The words may be a bit different but the meaning is the same.
Here is the central message in the Bible.
1 - You were made in God's image. Read Genesis 1:27
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
That was a good plan! Uh, so ..., what happened?
2 - Sin separated you from God. Read Isaiah 59:2
but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.
Who sinned?
3 - You and I and everyone we know. Read Romans 3:23
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
What's the penalty?
4 - Death is the result of sin! Read Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Then what?
5 - Judgment! Read Hebrews 9:27
And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,
Why don't you think I'll be "good enough" for heaven?
6 - Because God does not grade on a curve! Read Matthew 5:48
You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Let's pause here for a moment.
I agree. So far, ... this is really really really bad news.
None of us are "good enough" because being "good enough" isn't the way to heaven. God knew there was nothing that we could do to meet His requirement of perfection after we had become sinners.
Many people make the worst error by simply believeing they are "good enough" when God clearly says that we could do nothing to save ourselves. God requires perfection and He isn't lowering the bar! That's why He offers you a gift to accept that IS perfection.
If we could save ourselves then Christ died for nothing! Read Galatians 2:21, it says, I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose.
God made a way for us because there was no way that man could earn salvation. His mercy and grace made a way. God loved us so much he gave His only Son, Jesus. Read John 3:16! THAT'S how messed up sin really made us in God's sight. Sin IS serious. And God will punish anyone who does not meet His requirement.
So, how do we get to heaven from all this mess?
7- FAITH! Read Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Faith in what?
8 - JESUS! Read John 14:6
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
How?
9 - CONFESS! Read Romans 10:9
because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
That's how we get to God?
10 - YES! JESUS paid for your sin! Read 1 Peter 3:18
For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit,
So, that IS good news! What's the next move?
11- You need to make a decision. Read Revelation 3:20
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.
Jesus wants to enter your life. He wants to make himself known to you in a personal relationship. Right now, Jesus is asking you to open the door of your heart and let Him in. He won't force his way in because he created you with the ability to choose. That ability to choose is part of being created in the image of God. What will you choose to do with Jesus?
Well, what are my options?
12 - Receive the Gift / Reject or Ignore the Gift. Read 1 John 5:11-13
And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.
You mean I can know I have eternal life?
13 - Yes! You have passed from death to life! Read John 5:24
Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.
Now that really IS good news!
14 - It sure IS! Don't DELAY! Read 2 Corinthians 6:2
For he says, “In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
I pray that you will answer that door. Jesus is knocking. You don't know if you will ever stand at this place again in your life. I pray that you will invite Jesus to take control of your life. I pray that you will make Him Lord right now.
You can pray this right now to accept Jesus' payment for your sins and to make Him your Lord and Savior.
Lord Jesus, I am a sinner. Please forgive me for all my sins.
Thank you for showing me how much I need you.
Thank you for dying on the cross for my sins.
Thank you for providing a way for me to live eternally with you.
Make me clean and help me to start a fresh life with you.
I want to accept your gift of salvation and make you my Lord and Savior.
Help me to live each day for you and to pray to you when I stumble in sin.
In Jesus' name. Amen.
Becoming a Christian is just the beginning of an exciting new journey. Jesus called this experience being "born again in John Chapter 3. You have now begun a personal relationship with God as your Heavenly Father. You will never be alone again. If you asked Jesus into your life, the Holy Spirit came into your heart and He will begin to change you over a period of time. The Holy Spirit will now help you understand the Bible more and more. He is now your counselor and He will guide your path to truth. The Holy Spirit will help you to live each day for God and to learn to accept the changes that will begin to happen in your life. You can now depend on His strength and power to help you to grow as a Christian.
What's next?
Here are some things that will help you begin to see these changes in your life.
1. Tell someone. Confess Jesus to someone you know. Tell them that you believe in Christ!
2. Get yourself a Bible and start reading the Gospel of John every day. Try to read as much as possible but ask the Holy Spirit to show you what it means.
3. Talk to God. Pray! Tell Him how great He is for giving you eternal life! Confess your sins to Him when you still sin. He forgives! Thank Him for the good things you have in your life. Ask Him for help to live for Him and for your needs. Talk to Him because He is now your friend and He loves you so much and He can do anything to help you.
4. Find a church where they teach the Bible and encourage YOU to read it daily. Find other Christians and tell them about your decision to follow Jesus! Find a church that has small groups where you can begin to find new friends to talk to about your faith and life.
5. Simply share your faith with your friends. You have discovered the riches of eternity with Christ and you will want your friends with you. Read Romans 1:16. I am not ashamed of the gospel or Jesus! Tell them how much He loves them! You don't need all the answers! No one has all the answers. I can tell you that I was blind and now I see!
6. Find 1st Corinthians 10:13 in your Bible and memorize it. This is one of the most important verses to learn when you become a believer in Christ. After you memorize it, find more verses to learn. Start with the verses on the photo diagram attached to this post. If you need more, keep going ... here are some more VERSES that will help you grow.
7. Want to study more on your own? Find a book called “Growing In Christ (with Lessons on Assurance and Lessons on Christian Living)” by NavPress. It is a thirteen week study that includes the following topics: Assurance of Salvation, Assurance of Answered Prayer, Assurance of Victory over Sin, Assurance of Forgiveness, Assurance of Guidance, Putting Christ First, His Strength, God’s Word, Love, Giving, The Church, Good Works, and Witnessing.
8. Want even more after that? You think I'm surprised? No, I am NOT! Find a book called "Who I Am In Christ" by Neil T. Anderson.
No matter what you study in God's Word, ask yourself these questions!
a. What did the chapter content say to me?
b. Was there something in the content that exposed an area in which I need to grow in faith or trust?
c. How can I apply this content to my daily living?
I will try to help you with anything you need. If you are looking for a church and need help let me know but the Holy Spirit will guide you if you ask Him for help. Pray for help in all things! What a God! He is right with you.
I hope this has been the very best 30 minutes we could ever have together. This is where my heart is for you! I care for you deeply and wish you the very best in Christ. If you accepted Christ, we will meet someday ... and when we do ... it will be glorious to worship the King of kings with you!
As bloggers ...
We had no past,
We had no present,
... but in Christ alone, even bloggers can know each other!
We can have eternity!
May God bless you with the knowledge of His Son, JESUS!
nikonsniper steve
Monday, April 1, 2013
Bye Bye Blackbird

I love jazz. I used to be real big on the blues until I heard a man say, "Blues is something you get! Jazz is what you do about it!" Well, ... I still like to hear the blues ... but I love feel the jazz. I have obtained a fairly large collection of jazz over the years. Here is a sample of what I really like to hear when I am sitting around, driving a car or out dining in the city of Chicago.
Listen to Patricia Barber's Bye Bye Blackbird. I love the feel of the smoke filled piano bar. I like her smokey voice and the live sound of a piano well played. Listen to her wail that piano in the middle of this track. Sassy! I would kill to entertain people like this. Wouldn't you love to swing like that? It just makes me feel good. Give a listen and tell me if you like this feel. This is a jazz classic with a bluesey feel.
Swing baby, you're platinum!
NikonSniper Steve
Listen to Patricia Barber's Bye Bye Blackbird. I love the feel of the smoke filled piano bar. I like her smokey voice and the live sound of a piano well played. Listen to her wail that piano in the middle of this track. Sassy! I would kill to entertain people like this. Wouldn't you love to swing like that? It just makes me feel good. Give a listen and tell me if you like this feel. This is a jazz classic with a bluesey feel.
Swing baby, you're platinum!
NikonSniper Steve
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Thoughts At Easter
Following the resurrection, Jesus appeared on many occasions to His disciples and He also appeared to as many as 500 people at the same time. Paul testified to these events and eventually gave his own life refusing to deny his eyewitness testimony to the risen Savior. Paul had formerly persecuted Christians and had even given approval for the killing of some of them, Then Paul met Jesus and discovered He had indeed risen!
Paul stated the truth of the resurrection in his letter to the Corinthians in this way: For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance : that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:3-6).
At the end of Jesus’ ministry here on earth, He met with the disciples on a mountain near Galilee for the last time before ascending into heaven. Jesus gave the disciples some final instructions at this meeting. Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19, 20)
Notice that Jesus did not say to do this, “if you feel like it”, or “if it’s convenient”, or “if you are a good public speaker”, or “if you will be treated well”, or “if you are perfect. Notice that this is a command to those who believe in Christ, not an option to excuse yourself from doing.
That is to say that Jesus knew the disciples:
a. wouldn’t always feel like it.
b. wouldn’t always find it convenient.
c. weren’t all great public speakers.
d. wouldn’t always be treated well.
e. and … were never going to be perfect.
In fact, Jesus knew they would be terrified at times, travel great journeys to find a willing ear, would be jailed, persecuted, tortured at various times and ways, and would eventually give their lives for making such a bold proclamation of truth.
Now in America like no previous time in human history, the message of Christ is shunned. The good news of Jesus payment for our sins is rejected more and more … even though more people than ever in America call themselves Christians. Isn’t this a bit odd?
Perhaps calling yourself a Christian and really believing in Christ are two very different things.
If you were driving home late at night in a winter storm on a 2 lane highway and you saw several cars approaching you flashing their lights like crazy …
You might say to yourself, “Hmmm, I believe there is danger ahead” and yet you might continue on your way approaching the danger exactly the same as before.
OR …
You might slow down, tell anyone in the car with you that there may be danger ahead, turn on your flashers, drive with your foot gently over the brake, turn down the blaring music, stop drinking your mug of coffee, end your phone conversation … and even stop texting.
Hey, here’s another quick question to think about. Would you be angry at the guys flashing their lights at you from the approaching cars in the storm or would you be glad they cared enough to do so? Just a question!
I believe that both of these drivers could say they believed there was danger ahead. But I believe that really only one of the drivers believed. Would you agree?
Perhaps, it would interest you to know that the Bible teaches there is a difference between these two “believers”. We all know talk is cheap … but somehow we might think we can fool God with lip service.
Jesus said, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' (Matthew 7:21-23).
WOW! Powerful statement. Jesus said that. Who cares what I think! Nothing I think really matters but Jesus Christ made that declaration. I submit to you that THAT matters and that we ought to be mindful of His words.
I guess I am saying this:
First of all, I care enough to risk saying this to you (maybe I’m the guy flashing my lights). And IF I say I really care … and IF I say I really believe there is danger ahead … shouldn’t I be flashing my lights?
You could be sitting in a house that is on fire.
You might smell the smoke.
You might feel the heat.
You might hear the crackling furniture in the next room.
You might even see the brightness of flames flickering off walls in that room.
But I don’t think you really believe the house is on fire unless you move on your instincts and get out.
This means that belief without action is dead.
The Bible declared this is a similar way. In James 2:14, it says, “What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?
I believe this can be applied by saying … something like, what good is it to say you believe the house is on fire if you are unwilling to do something about it?
If you know that deep down in your heart, your faith in Jesus Christ isn’t changing the way you live in any way, then I pray that you would consider these words and seek to change that. I pray that you would commit yourself anew or perhaps for the very first time to actively seek what Jesus would have you do for Him. I pray that when you one day stand before Jesus you are able to hear him say, Well done my good and faithful servant.
Lord bless you and all your family during the celebration of Easter.
He has risen! What glory! What a Savior!
NikonSniper Steve
Paul stated the truth of the resurrection in his letter to the Corinthians in this way: For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance : that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:3-6).
At the end of Jesus’ ministry here on earth, He met with the disciples on a mountain near Galilee for the last time before ascending into heaven. Jesus gave the disciples some final instructions at this meeting. Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19, 20)
Notice that Jesus did not say to do this, “if you feel like it”, or “if it’s convenient”, or “if you are a good public speaker”, or “if you will be treated well”, or “if you are perfect. Notice that this is a command to those who believe in Christ, not an option to excuse yourself from doing.
That is to say that Jesus knew the disciples:
a. wouldn’t always feel like it.
b. wouldn’t always find it convenient.
c. weren’t all great public speakers.
d. wouldn’t always be treated well.
e. and … were never going to be perfect.
In fact, Jesus knew they would be terrified at times, travel great journeys to find a willing ear, would be jailed, persecuted, tortured at various times and ways, and would eventually give their lives for making such a bold proclamation of truth.
Now in America like no previous time in human history, the message of Christ is shunned. The good news of Jesus payment for our sins is rejected more and more … even though more people than ever in America call themselves Christians. Isn’t this a bit odd?
Perhaps calling yourself a Christian and really believing in Christ are two very different things.
If you were driving home late at night in a winter storm on a 2 lane highway and you saw several cars approaching you flashing their lights like crazy …
You might say to yourself, “Hmmm, I believe there is danger ahead” and yet you might continue on your way approaching the danger exactly the same as before.
OR …
You might slow down, tell anyone in the car with you that there may be danger ahead, turn on your flashers, drive with your foot gently over the brake, turn down the blaring music, stop drinking your mug of coffee, end your phone conversation … and even stop texting.
Hey, here’s another quick question to think about. Would you be angry at the guys flashing their lights at you from the approaching cars in the storm or would you be glad they cared enough to do so? Just a question!
I believe that both of these drivers could say they believed there was danger ahead. But I believe that really only one of the drivers believed. Would you agree?
Perhaps, it would interest you to know that the Bible teaches there is a difference between these two “believers”. We all know talk is cheap … but somehow we might think we can fool God with lip service.
Jesus said, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' (Matthew 7:21-23).
WOW! Powerful statement. Jesus said that. Who cares what I think! Nothing I think really matters but Jesus Christ made that declaration. I submit to you that THAT matters and that we ought to be mindful of His words.
I guess I am saying this:
First of all, I care enough to risk saying this to you (maybe I’m the guy flashing my lights). And IF I say I really care … and IF I say I really believe there is danger ahead … shouldn’t I be flashing my lights?
You could be sitting in a house that is on fire.
You might smell the smoke.
You might feel the heat.
You might hear the crackling furniture in the next room.
You might even see the brightness of flames flickering off walls in that room.
But I don’t think you really believe the house is on fire unless you move on your instincts and get out.
This means that belief without action is dead.
The Bible declared this is a similar way. In James 2:14, it says, “What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?
I believe this can be applied by saying … something like, what good is it to say you believe the house is on fire if you are unwilling to do something about it?
If you know that deep down in your heart, your faith in Jesus Christ isn’t changing the way you live in any way, then I pray that you would consider these words and seek to change that. I pray that you would commit yourself anew or perhaps for the very first time to actively seek what Jesus would have you do for Him. I pray that when you one day stand before Jesus you are able to hear him say, Well done my good and faithful servant.
Lord bless you and all your family during the celebration of Easter.
He has risen! What glory! What a Savior!
NikonSniper Steve
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Lunatic Theories Don't Seem To Hold Water

Most of you know I contend that Jesus IS Lord of all. Jesus claimed to be God. That's why He was crucified. BUT ... the story didn't end there.
Do any of you remember the pet rock fad? Some of you younger folks certainly won't ... but millions and millions of these "pet rocks" as shown above were purchased with a box and the complete instructions on how to raise your pet rock. Just about all of these rocks are lost in old dresser drawers of junk now.
Have you noticed that quote "famous" people do not remain very popular after there is no news about them for a while. How about Tiny Tim? Again, younger folks won't know him at all. BUT, Do you really think Justin Whatshisface will be known in ten years after people cease to be aware that Justin Whatshisface has a heartbeat?
Jesus is still changing lives today ... but perhaps you could argue that He hasn't been very visible in bodily form in the last two thousand years! OH, but I DO believe Jesus has been VERY VISIBLE!
Jesus wasn't just a famous person whose fame would die down after He ascended to heaven. The world has tried to assert that the disciples made the whole resurrection story up. For what? People don't make up news about someone to keep their story alive if they will be forced pay the ultimate price of their life for such a lie. Folks, ... the very fact that there are people claiming that Jesus is alive and has changed their life today is worth investigating.
What happened to Paul? He lived to destroy Christians? He pursued them with vigor to put them to death. This made him quite popular and influential with those in power. Paul later wrote about the trials as a result of his change in becoming a devout follower of Christ in 2 Corinthians 11.
After Paul had an encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, he lived out the rest of his life serving Jesus. This was not a popular decision with many fringe benefits. Paul speaks of his great labors, imprisonments, countless beatings often near death. He received 39 lashes with a whip five times from the Jews. He was beaten with rods three times. He was once stoned and left for dead. He was shipwrecked three times and once left drifting at sea. Paul was constantly pursued. He lived in danger from robbers, the Jews and the Gentiles to whom he lived to tell about Christ. Danger was his middle name for it pursued him by day and night, in the wilderness, while at sea from false brothers. He lived working hard having to look over his shoulder and he had many a sleepless night. He knew hunger and thirst and was often cold and exposed without a roof over his head. Many of his letter were written from the hardships of jail!
Paul was no lavish living evangelist! He would ultimately give his life proclaiming that he saw the risen Savior! This story is true of most disciples in the early church. They did not die for a lie!
I believe the evidence that Jesus rose from the dead is overwhelming. He claimed to be God ... and IF Jesus was God, then everything He said is very relevant to you. Jesus shook up the world and He shook up MY world!
In John 14:6, we read, "Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
In order to deny this claim, you must essentially declare one of the following:
a. Jesus was a Legend and the whole thing is made up so it is irrelevant.
b. Jesus' claim to be the "only way" was a bold face Lie because he knew the claim was not true.
c. Jesus' claim was one of grand delusion and he was with at least this claim, a complete Lunatic.
d. Jesus was Lord and exactly who He claims to be ... and I better start paying attention to what He said about consequences of a life lived apart from Him.
Today, I want to dig a bit deeper into the Lunatic option.
There were eye witnesses who saw Jesus and claimed He was a Lunatic. So, this isn't really a new idea.
For example, John 10:19-21 reads, "There was again a division among the Jews because of these words. Many of them said, “He has a demon, and is insane; why listen to him?” Others said, “These are not the words of one who is oppressed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”
This is actually a fascinating question to me so grab a cup of coffee and stick with me here for a bit.
After sitting here and thinking about this for a bit, ... I find it kind of humorous that the Pharisees never denied that the miracles were happening. In fact, the Pharisees expected Jesus to do something miraculous. Really? That's quite a reputation! Imagine that our Lord was so predictable in doing something good! What a life to witness! So, rather than deny their own eyes, the Pharisees often tried to trap Jesus in something that they thought they could insist was breaking the Law. Take a peek at these verses in your Bible.
Luke 6:7 says, "And the scribes and the Pharisees watched him, to see whether he would heal on the Sabbath, so that they might find a reason to accuse him."
Mark 3:2 says, "And they watched Jesus, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him."
Matthew 12:10 says, "And a man was there with a withered hand. And they asked him, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?”— so that they might accuse him."
Wow! Gotta like those Pharisees! Jesus was changing lives for the better with a mere speaking of His will, ... and this was being criticized? I still think it is funny that they just didn't throw up their hands and say, "What? Nothing happened, there was no miracle!", "I didn't see it, it never happened!" Instead they testify that it DID happen.
Folks, there are countless verses in Scripture where the common people and even the Pharisees made irrefutable notice that Jesus was a healer. This healing wasn't the same as a doctor's visit. These were instantaneous and miraculous events. Even the Pharisees, who perhaps hated Jesus the most did not deny that what Jesus was doing was miraculous. The Pharisees were eye witnesses to these events. They couldn't deny what they saw for themselves ... but they needed an explanation for the people ... so they insisted the miracles were being done by demons. This happened over and over in Scripture but let's focus on one of these kangaroo court cases found in John, Chapter 9.
John 9:1-38 (ESV)
1 As he passed by, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3 Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him. 4 We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. 5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” 6 Having said these things, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva. Then he anointed the man’s eyes with the mud 7 and said to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back seeing.
8 The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar were saying, “Is this not the man who used to sit and beg?” 9 Some said, “It is he.” Others said, “No, but he is like him.” He kept saying, “I am the man.” 10 So they said to him, “Then how were your eyes opened?” 11 He answered, “The man called Jesus made mud and anointed my eyes and said to me, ‘Go to Siloam and wash.’ So I went and washed and received my sight.” 12 They said to him, “Where is he?” He said, “I do not know.”
13 They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. 14 Now it was a Sabbath day when Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes. 15 So the Pharisees again asked him how he had received his sight. And he said to them, “He put mud on my eyes, and I washed, and I see.” 16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others said, “How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?” And there was a division among them. 17 So they said again to the blind man, “What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?” He said, “He is a prophet.”
18 The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight, until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight 19 and asked them, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?” 20 His parents answered, “We know that this is our son and that he was born blind. 21 But how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age. He will speak for himself.” 22 (His parents said these things because they fe ared the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if anyone should confess Jesus to be Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue.) 23 Therefore his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”
24 So for the second time they called the man who had been blind and said to him, “Give glory to God. We know that this man is a sinner.” 25 He answered, “Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.” 26 They said to him, “What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?” 27 He answered them, “I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples?” 28 And they reviled him, saying, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. 29 We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from.” 30 The man answered, “Why, this is an amazing thing! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. 31 We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does his will, God listens to him.
32 Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a man born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” 34 They answered him, “You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?” And they cast him out.
35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having found him he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” 36 He answered, “And who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?” 37 Jesus said to him, “You have seen him, and it is he who is speaking to you.” 38 He said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him.
Friend of mine, ... If a Lunatic by the power of demons or by sinning could open the eyes of the blind ... this would have been done over and over prior to Jesus in order to mislead people and even nullify the power of what Jesus was doing. The people would be able to say, ... "Big deal, we have seen this before!"
Also, If a Lunatic by the power of demons could open the eyes of the blind today ... this would be done in order to mislead people and even nullify the power of what Christ did. The people would be able to say, ... "Yeah, yeah, yeah, we have seen this before. Jesus was just ahead of his time!"
Jesus answered the Pharisees declaration that He was performing miracles by demons in many ways. In John 10:37-39 Jesus responded to them by saying, "If I am not doing the works of my Father, then do not believe me; but if I do them, even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father.” Again they sought to arrest him, but he escaped from their hands.
So, I ask, ... What is your response to Christ today? Are you with the Pharisees seeking to arrest Him for His claim? Or would you bow at His feet with the words "Lord, I believe"?
Jesus loves you and He is seeking to break through to your heart today. God bless you all with the saving power found ONLY in His Son.
Have a great weekend.
NikonSniper Steve
Monday, February 11, 2013
Let Me Encourage You Today
A while back there was a comment from Bush Babe. She is from Australia and was speaking about "photography snobs". I won't repeat the whole comment here ... but if you want to read it you can click here on comments and scroll down to where Bush Babe comments and I replied.
Near the bottom of that string of comments is another one from MCCasey. MCCasey said, "I thought I would use my camera for stock photography, but every photo I submitted was rejected. So, I thought to myself, why do I like taking photos? I love it because I can't draw or paint, but I want to share the beauty I see around me. I am not good enough for stock, but if I can share some of what I see with others I am happy."
MCCasey, here's what I think ... IF no one in the entire world liked my photos ... I would still take them ... just because I like them. I'm really not competing with anyone in photography ... except myself. I am constantly trying to improve my own ability but even if I don't ... I am still going to take pictures.
If you want to know more you can read this older article My General Guidelines To Photography that was written in response to frequently asked questions that were sent to me.
MCCasey (or any of the rest of you), ... never give up shooting! If you get up every day, turn your camera on and put your life on continuous fire, ... sooner or later your bound to hit something awesome ... and in that process you will learn. And the next time you will hit more and more. You are getting better over time. I am living proof you can get better beause my photography was truly horrible when I began with my first camera. You couldn't even tell what was in the pictures. MCCasey, keep shootin'.
NikonSniper
Near the bottom of that string of comments is another one from MCCasey. MCCasey said, "I thought I would use my camera for stock photography, but every photo I submitted was rejected. So, I thought to myself, why do I like taking photos? I love it because I can't draw or paint, but I want to share the beauty I see around me. I am not good enough for stock, but if I can share some of what I see with others I am happy."
MCCasey, here's what I think ... IF no one in the entire world liked my photos ... I would still take them ... just because I like them. I'm really not competing with anyone in photography ... except myself. I am constantly trying to improve my own ability but even if I don't ... I am still going to take pictures.
If you want to know more you can read this older article My General Guidelines To Photography that was written in response to frequently asked questions that were sent to me.
MCCasey (or any of the rest of you), ... never give up shooting! If you get up every day, turn your camera on and put your life on continuous fire, ... sooner or later your bound to hit something awesome ... and in that process you will learn. And the next time you will hit more and more. You are getting better over time. I am living proof you can get better beause my photography was truly horrible when I began with my first camera. You couldn't even tell what was in the pictures. MCCasey, keep shootin'.
NikonSniper
Thursday, February 7, 2013
The Light Of The World
In Matthew 5:14-16 it is recorded that Jesus said to his followers: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Huh? Me? Too often those of us who sincerely believe in Christ want to just be silent. We fear introducing Christ into a discussion because if we do ... we think we have to have all the answers.
Jesus says, "You are the light of the world." If you believe in Jesus as your Savior, you represent Christ here on earth ... until He comes OR at least until your days here are finished. You may be trying to avoid being a witness ... but that doesn't change the fact that you are His light.
The question is ... Are you trying to shine brightly or as dimly as possible? I really believe if you’re trying to be as dim as possible you may still need heart change.
Can you imagine that the mission of the body of Christ would rely on us? Is that a big enough task for you? It’s a monumental task.
Think! What if the people who saw the risen Savior ceased to talk about it rather than risk their own lives? If they did, how would we know about Jesus? Perhaps, you and I would never have learned about Christ. I am so thankful for those who came before me and told me about Jesus.
Basically the story is this ... someone saw Jesus alive! And that story has cost them their lives but that story continued to reach to you. Do you really believe?
But, ... Am I thankful enough to be that same kind of torch of light that is being passed to the next generation? May it be so! I pray that we would be a faithful people to let His light shine. I pray that you hear the words "Well done" from the Savior.
Some of us shine more brightly the older we get. The darker the world becomes … the brighter our lights ought to shine.
You are a light for the world to see. Jesus said these things knowing very well that we would not be perfect nor would we have all the answers for our faith. Jesus knew that the light within us would shine brighter as we yield to His control in our lives.
Dear Lord, I pray for all who read these words. I pray that you would reveal Yourself to them. I pray that You would use us to be that light in the world. I pray that You would provide peace, love, grace and mercy in all of our lives. Lord, I pray that I might be a better witness for You in everything that I do. Amen.
I hope you all have a great day.
NikonSniper Steve
Huh? Me? Too often those of us who sincerely believe in Christ want to just be silent. We fear introducing Christ into a discussion because if we do ... we think we have to have all the answers.
Jesus says, "You are the light of the world." If you believe in Jesus as your Savior, you represent Christ here on earth ... until He comes OR at least until your days here are finished. You may be trying to avoid being a witness ... but that doesn't change the fact that you are His light.
The question is ... Are you trying to shine brightly or as dimly as possible? I really believe if you’re trying to be as dim as possible you may still need heart change.
Can you imagine that the mission of the body of Christ would rely on us? Is that a big enough task for you? It’s a monumental task.
Think! What if the people who saw the risen Savior ceased to talk about it rather than risk their own lives? If they did, how would we know about Jesus? Perhaps, you and I would never have learned about Christ. I am so thankful for those who came before me and told me about Jesus.
Basically the story is this ... someone saw Jesus alive! And that story has cost them their lives but that story continued to reach to you. Do you really believe?
But, ... Am I thankful enough to be that same kind of torch of light that is being passed to the next generation? May it be so! I pray that we would be a faithful people to let His light shine. I pray that you hear the words "Well done" from the Savior.
Some of us shine more brightly the older we get. The darker the world becomes … the brighter our lights ought to shine.
You are a light for the world to see. Jesus said these things knowing very well that we would not be perfect nor would we have all the answers for our faith. Jesus knew that the light within us would shine brighter as we yield to His control in our lives.
Dear Lord, I pray for all who read these words. I pray that you would reveal Yourself to them. I pray that You would use us to be that light in the world. I pray that You would provide peace, love, grace and mercy in all of our lives. Lord, I pray that I might be a better witness for You in everything that I do. Amen.
I hope you all have a great day.
NikonSniper Steve
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Enough With The Green Already

Well, here I am on the road again. Tonight I am barricaded in a hotel in Kokomo, IN. I have done all my emails for work. Ready to relax!
Not so fast! My wife just called and informed me that a water pipe in our shower has split in the cold weather back in our Chicagoland home. This day went really well compared to most. It just didn't end well. A faithful friend will go in to see the damage tomorrow morning. This one is gonna get ugly.
The shower in this hotel looks good though. I even have the opportunity to save the world with this shower by going green. Too bad we can't leave the towels hanging in our rooms when we depart and just check a box on the bottom of the card that forces the next guest to use our hanging towels. Wouldn't it be great to impose green on each other. I think Al Gore would want us to use towels on the floor. It may only be a few years away.
Think of all the world that we could reach with clean water just from the dollars used to advertise the green campaign. I know, I know ... It's not cool to say but ... enough with the green already.
I need rest.
NikonSniper Steve
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