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“If Only …?” No, Only Christ!

“But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

The English language has a lot of “dangerous” words.

Some are risky because of reactions they can incite in others. Others are hazardous only from the damage they inflict on our own hearts and souls.

Here are two when, used in combination, are lethal to the spirit: “If only.”

“If only” is a hymn of regret, a capitulation to remorse, a soliloquy of sadness. It desperately grasps for a second chance, in a world where they are few and far between. It’s about decision-making, sure, but on a raw, emotive level laid bare like few others.

“If only I’d applied for the job …”

“If only I’d asked her (or him) out …”

“If only I had one last chance to tell him (or her) I loved them …”

The words themselves aren’t emotional. Sports fans are big on “what if” – the shot had gone in, the player had held onto the ball, the coach had made a different decision. When winning and losing are so cut and dried, “what if” is part of the everyday vernacular.

For most people, though, “what if” conjures up bad memories, lost hopes and broken dreams. Its use cries for consolation and reinforcement, sometimes to shore up a mountain of self-doubt.

Does the Bible offer comfort? Depends on where you look.

Consider the dark images from these literal uses of “what if,” in consecutive verses in Job 17: “What if I go to the grave and make my bed in darkness? What if I call the grave my father, and the maggot my mother or my sister?”

Or this fear of personal failure expressed in Genesis 24:39: “But I said to my master, ‘What if I can’t find a young woman who is willing to go back with me?’”

The doubting voice in the back of our minds is part of the human condition. As these verses illustrate, even Biblical characters questioned their own abilities and chances for success.

It’s not all gloom and doom – not by a long shot. So let’s shift to the other side of the equation, using probably one of the most-loved Bible verses of all time.

“But Jesus looked at them and said to them, ‘With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” – Matthew 19:26

Here is the crux of the issue: As long as the spirit of Christ dwells within us, nothing is impossible. We can overcome anything, even the fears and self-doubts that hold us back.

We doubt ourselves because we’re sinners. We know it. God knows it … and through Christ’s crucifixion, our transgressions are forgiven.

Yet we can’t let go of our doubt, similar to a panicking Peter amid the raging sea in Matthew 14:31, before Jesus grabbed his hand and asked, “Oh man of little faith, why did you doubt?”

Peter was just one of the sinful people God has always used to do his work. Think of the others: Noah. Jacob. Moses. David. Paul. The list goes on.

Are you somehow excluded?

Whether we realize it or not, we’re all on the list. Despite our sinful ways, and constant self-doubt, we’re put on this earth to be Christ’s disciples. God entrusts us, with all our faults, to further his kingdom. Is there any higher purpose in life?

God grants us the ability to move beyond hopelessness and regrets. He grants us a fresh start every time we bow our head in prayer. Revel in it, draw power from it, and know that, because Christ is in us, our potential is unlimited … and the impossible, is possible.

“If only” is an outdated concept dashed upon the rocks of God’s life-saving shore. Remember this, the next time you temporarily lose sight of His vision for you.

If only I had the power to …

If only I had the strength to …

If only I had the courage to …

You have all three – power, strength and courage – emanating from Christ’s filling your being. Go into the world, and use these qualities to spread God’s love and word, every day. And if you end up saying “If only I’d realized this sooner” … well, that’s OK.

(If you’re ready to embrace Christ, He’s ready for you. Visit C Suite for Christ to join in Christ-centered fellowship with other professionals. Submit a prayer request for a pressing need in your life. Participate in a virtual prayer session to ask God to be with those who have submitted requests. Follow C Suite for Christ on LinkedIn and Facebook. Questions? Contact Paul M. Neuberger at (414) 313-8338 or pneuberger@csuiteforchrist.com.)

There is no “Christmas” Without Christ

“Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.” – 1 Chronicles 16:10

When should Christmas decorations be put up?

Before Thanksgiving? After Thanksgiving? Wait until December? It’s an annual debate that’s never goes away.

Here’s a solution: Whenever the spirit moves you, because Christmas is ultimately about the Holy Spirit. Christmas celebrates God’s incalculable generosity of giving the world his only son, Jesus Christ, who sacrificed himself so that the rest of us would be saved.

There. Case solved.

A very merry Christmas to all of you … and we heartily mean “Merry Christmas,” not some alternative milquetoast, watered-down holiday greeting!

Jesus is our Lord and Savior, plain and simple! Despite what the mass media and its insatiable consumerism tells you, Christ is at the center of Christmas, just as He is at the center of our lives. There’s no Christmas without Christ!

Like it or not (and we do), the first six letters of “Christmas” will always be C-H-R-I-S-T! And we will always celebrate Christ’s birth as the most important part of Christmas. Even the secular progressives can’t stamp out a holiday that goes back centuries … not that they won’t stop trying.

“A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.” – 1 Corinthians 12

Is your shopping done? Have you even started? No matter where you are in the process, here’s a gift idea you might not have considered.

The apostle Paul writes of the spiritual gift we’re all given. So how about passing on that invaluable gift, by giving others the gift of Christ? It’s the best possible gift in the world … and one guaranteed NOT to be returned.

The gift of Christ offers hope in a time that desperately needs it. It revives people’s souls, even after they’ve been beaten down by a world seemingly determined to marginalize them. Think about having your own Lazarus moment with someone – how great would that feel?

Oh sure, a sweater is a nice Christmas gift, but it can be destroyed by one of nature’s most menial creatures: a moth.

The Bible warns of moths, by the way. James 5:2 admonishes that “Your wealth is rotting away, and your fine clothes are moth-eaten rags.” Take Jesus’s advice in Matthew 6:20, where he instructs to “Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal.”

Do you really want to give people the same old, same old for Christmas? Hopefully not, after the year we’ve had! We’re all waiting for something that improves our well-being and sense of humor.

Think about all that Christ has done in your life. What could he do for others? Don’t you want to give them this opportunity?

“Declare your glory among the nations, His marvelous works among all the peoples!” – Psalm 96

We are commanded to spread God’s love, both to fellow Christians and our secular brethren. In the second chapter of his first letter, the apostle John says “Those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him.” James 1:22 warns “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise you are only fooling yourselves.”

So how does this play out? How can you give others the gift of Christ? Start by considering all the events to which you invite others. Golf? Dinner? Play dates for the kids?

OK. Now, think about where you spend Sunday mornings. Why not invite these same people to join you in church? Or at a Bible study? Or maybe a group like C Suite for Christ … what are the odds?

“The farmer plants seed by taking God’s word to others.” – Mark 4:14

Want a more subtle approach, yet one that will be noticed? How you speak to others – literally, the language you use – can plant seeds. Try using Biblical language in everyday conversation. It has plenty of synonyms for our common verbiage. Try these examples, and see how easy it is:

In your next e-mail, instead of writing you “hope” someone is well, mention you “pray” they’re well instead.
In everyday speech, rather than citing how “lucky” or “fortunate” you are, note how you’re “blessed.”
When an opportunity arises to agree with someone, respond with “amen” or, to really make a point, “hallelujah!”

Not so hard, right? Speaking of speaking, many of you probably use social media. How about sharing your faith on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or another preferred platform?

You don’t have to bombard people, or be in their faces. Just share one post a week that reflects your Christian beliefs. Not too difficult, right? Sure, you might get a nasty remark or two in return. Turn the other cheek, as Jesus told us to do. We build God’s kingdom by demonstrating his love, not battling social media trolls.

You might be seeing a big picture here. Giving the gift of Christ is about actively, unapologetically sharing our faith. Don’t hide yours under a hat. Be ready to tell others why you’re a person of faith, and how you’ve seen God at work in your life.

“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5

Glorifying our father in heaven – doesn’t this sound like something you not only know you should do, but truly want to do? The best way is by being an active disciple of Christ, which means seeking out opportunities to open others’ eyes to the wonderment, and majesty, and ultimately soul-filling salvation that comes from embracing Jesus, and holding him tight every day.

We’ve all had a rough year, and now we’re upon one of its biggest holidays, one whose first six letters just happen to spell out “Christ.” Let this be a final encouragement to give others the gift of Christ this Christmas … and to make 2021 a far better year by continuing to bestow this gift, even after Christmas is long in the rear-view mirror.

God Calls Us to Gather!

“For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” – Matthew 18:20

I certainly won’t speak for others, yet will state this: It felt awesome to see everyone in person at our October C Suite for Christ gathering. Yes, masks and all.

Do you get the feeling that people are burning out on virtual gatherings? I do. There’s something about being able to look another person in the eyes, and feel their physical presence, that a computer screen will never replace.

We humans are social creatures. God made us this way. He didn’t intend for us to live hidden from others. We’re called to gather, especially to worship Him.

“Gather to me my faithful ones, who made a covenant with me by sacrifice!” —Psalm 50:5

Yes, God calls us to fellowship—together. We should put all else aside to do so, and jointly proclaim His word from the rooftops (Matthew 10:27)

COVID-19 has decidedly changed our society. Some changes, you could argue, are for the better. How can families spending time together, or more people engaging in outdoor activities, be anything but good?

Some changes, though, are decidedly negative. Continuing a growing wave I described at our September gathering, COVID-19 has accelerated attacks upon faith communities. Local governments banned church services. Angry critics accused churches that dared to meet in person of holding “spreader” events.

In other words, COVID-19 was weaponized against people of faith. Those who want to censor the Gospel, and close churches, seized upon the pandemic as another means to pursue their sinister, secular goals.

Let’s stand together and answer resoundingly: NO! The world needs Christ more than ever. In a time of stress, of loss, of uncertainty for so many, His presence is the balm that can heal our wounds, and salve our souls. Now is the time to stand together with God, not disintegrate into scattered, wandering tribes.

I ask you to strongly consider attending our Nov. 18 gathering in person. Mark your calendar, too, for what promises to be an amazing two-year anniversary celebration Dec. 16.

Let’s rekindle a spirit of true community and solidarity among C Suite for Christ members. Let’s mirror our LinkedIn page, which is alive with energy from new followers and loud hosannas.

“Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise.”—Psalm 106:47

Let’s follow our Biblical calling, and join together at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Menomonee Falls. I make on promise to you: It’s going to be awesome.

Proclaim Your Faith to the Heavens!

Proclaim Your Faith to the Heavens!

“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!” – Psalm 96:3

Behold this magnificent verse of Scripture. With proclamations such as this, is there any doubt that God commands us to spread his Good – no, “Marvelous” – Word?

The Bible is full of verses exhorting Christ’s followers to speak their faith. The message couldn’t be clearer. Our voices should echo God’s glory at every opportunity.

Yet, few of us do.

Being a disciple of Christ means many things. We should demonstrate love. Act with kindness. Be slow to judge, and quick to apologize. Help our fellow man (and woman) whenever possible.

The verbal part, though, eludes many. Why do most people of faith hold their tongue?

We’re all capable. Scripture is loaded with guidance on the “how.” Similarly, we know God empowers us.

Let’s be blunt: It’s because Christians have been instructed from many secular corners -some would say beaten down – that they should be quiet, lest they “offend” someone. Heaven forbid (pun intended) that a non-believer’s ears should be scorched with words of the Gospel.

Yet, the Freedom From Religion Foundation (based in Madison, Wis.) and secular progressives never shy away from public pronouncements against God. Just mention inserting God into schools, public places, workspaces or anywhere that people gather, and they go ballistic. If a person of faith is offended by their words or actions … well, suck it up, you religious rat.

Yet, all around us, we see chaos, division and hopelessness. Any doubt these are connected with society increasingly turning away from Christ … and his directive that “just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another” (John 13:34)?

As described in our last post, God’s Word is needed more than ever. His guidance is the only salvation for a society seemingly coming apart at the seams. It’s time to cover the world in Christ.

“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.” – Matthew 28:19

Covering the world in Christ was a founding goal of C Suite for Christ – and indeed, we’re doing so. More than 600 Christian business executives are associated with the
organization, with several in faraway lands (South Africa, anyone?) joining our monthly gatherings via the web.

Still, covering the world in Christ is a lofty goal. A team effort is required.

We all have a role to play. No one expects you to be Billy Graham, or Joel Osteen, or Janice Meyer. God provides all the ability you need.

Never fear, either: You don’t have to step too far out of your comfort zone … although what’s the worst that could happen? Your secret identity as a Christian is revealed to the world?

For starters, consider a few tweaks to your everyday discourse. Insert some Biblical language, which offers plenty of synonyms for common verbiage:

In your next e-mail, instead of writing you “hope” someone is well, mention you “pray” they’re well instead.
In everyday speech, rather than citing how “lucky” or “fortunate” you are, note how you’re “blessed.”
When an opportunity arises to agree with someone, respond with “amen” or, to really make a point, “hallelujah!”

See the difference? Minor, perhaps … yet maybe just different enough that someone could ask, and you’ll have the chance to share the love of God with them.

Spend time on social media? Who doesn’t these days, right? So, here’s a challenge: Share one post a week on your favorite platform that reflects your Christian beliefs.

If we all do this, and each post gets 300 impressions or so, we’re reaching a seriously large number of people. Not everyone might agree with you – which is their right – and you could have the opportunity to turn the other cheek to a nasty remark or two.

Following Christ’s guidance is not always easy. Nor fun. We know it’s right, though.

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

God commands us to go into the world and spread the Good News. This is what covering the world in Christ is all about.

You don’t need a soapbox, or a bullhorn, or even a stage. You just need to make clear, in ways subtle and overt, that you will not hide who you are.

You see, it’s really not important who you are. It’s Who’s in you that makes all the difference. Speak out, and see if God doesn’t find his way into those awaiting him … because they just needed to hear it from someone already fulfilled.

Let’s Cover the World in Christ!

Let’s Cover the World in Christ!

“For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” – Matthew 7:8

The news can be pretty depressing these days.

Illness. Death. Disruption. Chaos in the streets. Economic uncertainty. Hopelessness.

Some bright spots persist – among them, churches reopening to in-person worship. People can again reconvene – albeit sparsely – to thank God for comfort during dark days, and perhaps for answering prayers in a trying time.

Will we see renewed emphasis on faith? Perhaps new faces who have turned to Christ?

Hopefully so. People’s confidence in taken-for-granted aspects of life – toilet paper, anyone? – has been shaken. Searching for a stable, reliable rock on which to center their existences is a natural outcome.

“He said: ‘The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer.’” – 2 Samuel 22:2

Despite the bad news – which maybe you’ve tuned out and, if so, who can blame you? – opportunity is in our midst. It’s one we absolutely, positively can’t ignore.

Ready? Let’s cover the world in Christ!

It’s abundantly needed. People are grasping for hope. How many do you know who are anxious, or upset, or searching for a light to follow? As disciples of Christ, it’s our duty – no, our mandate – to show them a better, more fulfilling way.

Only God can cure society’s ills. We’ve fallen into a pit of despair because we’ve allowed ourselves to drift from His purposes. How did we wind up in a place where the mere mention of God or Jesus can cause howls of indignation from so many?

On a personal level, only a relationship with Christ can fill the yawning gaps in one’s life. Not a job promotion. Not a new relationship. Not a shiny new car, or an expensive bottle of bourbon. Only Jesus … and we’re sent out to be His role models.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” – John 15:5

We need to be connected to Christ. We die – spiritually, emotionally and even physically – when this bond is severed.

What’s more, we need to connect others to Jesus. Now, more than ever, we need to cover the world in Christ.

Need evidence? Suicides in the U.S. have increased 35 percent since 1999. It’s the 10th leading cause of death. Think the pandemic might drive these numbers even higher?

Divorce, already claiming nearly 50 percent of U.S. marriages, is expected to spike when courts closed by COVID-19 finally reopen.

Only 50 percent of Americans belong to a church, according to recent Gallup polling. The number was nearly 70 percent just two decades ago. Three out of five young people do not actively practice a faith. Does this fill you with confidence for the future?

The biggest reason, though, is because God commands us to do so.

“Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me.” – Matthew 10:38

More than 600 Christian business executives are associated with C Suite for Christ. This is a powerful faith-based army, one that can make a difference … at a time when this difference is so needed.

Our next post will explore ways that you can help us cover the world in Christ. The cross is waiting. Jesus is calling. Will you take it up, and follow Him?

Put God to the Test? Yes, by All Means!

“God intends to give us what we need, not what we now think we want.” – C.S. Lewis

As the COVID-19 pandemic wreaks economic and social destruction, the costs on a human level add up like a calculator stuck in overdrive.

Millions are experiencing a profound sense of loss. Valued intangibles have been ripped away from our existence, including many connected with personal identity: jobs. Daily routines. Lifestyles. The simple ability to interact closely with friends and loved ones.

Anxiety, stress and fear pile up … at a moment when far too many have time on their hands, allowing them to manifest.
As suggested in a recent post, the time is ideal to try something new: Embrace Christ. He’s willing. He’s open. He wants a personal relationship. You won’t look back.

He’s ready. Are you?

So many things of this world have been taken away. Maybe it’s time to dive into those not of this world.

Myriad elements of life that previously sated us are gone. We can’t turn to them for solace, to prop us up when the chips are down.

Oh sure, temporary escapes exist. Alcohol sales have shot up. A few stiff belts can dull the world’s increasingly rough edges. Dull them too much, and the next day’s hangover will define “regret.”

Yet, isn’t it ironic that liquor and marijuana stores are deemed “essential” in most states … while church gatherings are not? And pastors are arrested for ministering to their congregations in a time of desperate need for so many people?

The world seems to be turning upside down. You’ve heard our call to turn to Christ … but maybe you just need additional proof. You know, what’s in it for you.

OK, then. Put God to the test. Seriously. He’s up to it.

Come up with a request – not for a million dollars, or a new Ferrari, or a monolithic mansion. Consider a life situation you’re facing: a challenged relationship. Fading hope and optimism. An ill loved one. Fear about what lies ahead.

Ask God for help. Pray earnestly and often. Be vulnerable. Put yourself at His mercy.

Don’t expect God to grant your request immediately. His sense of time isn’t ours. Nor is His sense of possibility … which far, far exceeds our comprehension.

“Well,” you might be saying, “this just isn’t logical!” Perhaps, but in a society upended by a virus, what is?

So, try something you maybe wouldn’t do otherwise. Read a Bible. Pray daily. Attend church (virtually, at least for the time being).

You’ll discover that God has a long history of helping those who trust him. Consider David, the second king of Israel. He rose from humble beginnings. Slayed the giant Goliath with a small stone. Ruled Israel with a renowned sense of wisdom and fairness.

Or Daniel, facing down ferocious beasts for the crime of praying to God. Or Job, who had everything taken away, yet never wavered in his faith.

God sent His only son, Jesus Christ, to die in this world so that we could be redeemed. Is there any greater evidence that He’s monumentally, completely committed to forming meaningful relationships with us?

God wants us to know Him. He grants us grace. We don’t earn our way into heaven. We accept it.

By all means: Put God to the test. We’re not here to say “We told you so.” Just know that, when you’re ready, we’ll be ready to welcome you into the fellowship of Jesus Christ. We promise it will surpass any you’ve ever known.

Growing Faith … in a Storm of Loss

Image courtesy of UK Daily Express.

“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.” – Psalm 34:17

The numbers alone are almost enough to make you lose faith.

More than 20 million Americans are out of work. Some are temporarily furloughed. Others are truly unemployed – their workplace shuttered, or jobs permanently destroyed by the COVID-19 storm.

Many businesses report dwindling cash reserves. Some estimates predict a quarter of small businesses might never reopen.

Who’s doing well? Alcohol sales, for one. Wine and spirits sales have increased more than 25 percent. Sales of beer 24-packs are close behind.

The kicker? Sales of 3-liter box wines – you know, the ones where you can’t tell how much you’ve drank, because it’s inside a cardboard box – have risen 53 percent!

Divorce lawyers stand to profit, too. Facing government stay-at-home orders, couples are experiencing a lot of togetherness. Maybe too much, if a partnership was already troubled.

Or, relationship cracks could develop just from being cooped up, without the usual outlets of work, sports, entertainment and socializing. Spare time doesn’t necessarily mean good times. Social welfare agencies are bracing for a significant uptick in domestic violence, similar to what European countries experienced as coronavirus swept through.

What to do? These are perilous, unpredictable days.

We are lovers of routine. Wake up. Eat breakfast. Go to work. Come home. Spend time with family or friends. For many, this familiar daily cycle has been vaporized. It’s gone … gone … gone.

Human beings are social creatures … yet much of our social interaction has been lost. Zoom, Skype and phone calls only go so far. Not being able to look someone in the eye, and appreciate their physical presence, forgoes a large element of a strong relationship.

The resulting void is unfamiliar and intimidating. Don’t be ashamed if you’re scared. Many are. In these times of upheaval in society and our daily lives, what are we supposed to do?

Turn to Christ. There you go. Simple, true and abundantly fulfilling.

Yes, it’s a simple answer … but following Christ isn’t simple. A relationship with Him requires discipline, commitment and a new routine.

Yet, as so many foundations of life fall down around us, what do you have to lose?

Maybe, before, you were too busy to think about it. Or, things were going so well, you didn’t need to. That Jesus stuff was for others who needed a crutch. Not you.

Well, if we’ve learned one thing in the past month, it’s that life can change in an awful hurry. Many comforts and taken-for-granteds have disappeared. If you sense an emptiness, it might be more than just loss of routine.

Consider the bigger picture. The bedrock your life rested upon has shifted, or broken apart completely. The yawning gap looks large and deep. You might be frightened. It’s OK.

Christ is waiting. As he said in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Don’t let challenging times make you lose faith. Rather, trust it to Him who leads his followers to hope and peace.

The question deserves to be posed again: What do you have to lose?