Daily Jewel

by pastor Carnell, McAlester, OK

“An Invitation to a Coronation!”

“Blessings crown the head of the righteous….”– Proverbs 10:6 (NIV)

As I read this verse I felt the best thing to do in understanding its meaning was to do a background on “crowns.” This is what I discovered. A crown was an emblem of power and legitimacy and a symbol of authority upon monarchs and rulers throughout history. The crown is a valued and ornamented headgear worn by rulers especially when appearing in public or in their official role as king or queen. Ancient heads of state surrounded themselves with the optics of glory beginning with the coronation ceremony when they were crowned and seated upon a throne indicating their authority, power and importance to the audience they ruled and intimidated into submission.
The predecessor to the crown was the browband called the diadem, which had been worn by the Ancient Persian Emperors, and then adopted by Constantine I, and was worn by all subsequent rulers of the later Roman Empire.
Numerous crowns of various forms were used in ancient times, such as the White Crown, Red Crown, combined Pschent Crown (ancient Egypt) and the subsequent Blue Crown of Pharaonic Egypt. The corona radiata, the "radiant crown" known best on the Statue of Liberty, and perhaps worn on the ancient Greek statue of the Titan Helios and then worn by Roman emperors prior to the Roman Empire’s conversion to Christianity.
Crowns are often (though not always) made of gold and contain items of cultural value such as jewels and precious stones. Since we just concluded the Olympics it is interesting to note that the ancient Greek Olympic victor might wear a simple wreath, but the meaning is still one of great accomplishment and personal glory. (bible-history.com & ancienthistory.com) I see three things a crown represents: Royalty, Authority, and Honor.
Whatever earthly glory a crown might represent, the Scripture reminds us that it is temporary and fading. The twenty-four elders in Revelation 4:10 cast down their crowns at the feet of God acknowledging that He alone is the true King and the symbols of their own glory must be humbly submitted to God’s honor and glory.

“And Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a garment of fine linen and purple: and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad.” – Esther 8:15

Xerxes recognized Mordecai for saving his life but for his dedicated service to the kingdom. He gave him the “royal” treatment! As “children of the king” we too are considered royalty which means we have responsibilities that come with being “royalty.”

“Then Jehoiada and his sons brought out Joash, the king's son, placed the crown on his head, and presented him with a copy of God's laws. They anointed him and proclaimed him king, and everyone shouted, "Long live the king!" – 2nd Chronicles 23:11

By placing the “Law of God” in his hands, Joash was given God’s authority to rule the land. Jesus said that all authority in heaven was given to Him and on the day of His return to heaven He transferred that authority to His disciples. (Matthew 28) Are we using that authority?

“You welcomed him with rich blessings and placed a crown of pure gold on his head.” – Psalm 21:3

David understood where his real blessings came from and the honor that was bestowed upon him. His earthly crown was nothing compared to all the blessings that were his. So again I ask, do we fully grasp what we have and what we have been given by God? God offers those who accept His forgiveness, salvation and lordship, the Crown of Life (James 1:12, Rev. 2:10) and a Crown of Glory (1 Peter 5:4) perhaps referring to God’s own Presence radiating His authority and rule through those He loved and redeemed.
As a king and one who had received an earthly crown—his statement is the reminder that God’s blessings far outweigh anything we can receive here. I am not suggesting that we should not strive to be better people—better workers—better husbands, wives, etc. But do those efforts include being better Christians? If you are a Sunday School Teacher are you giving 100% to that class? Are you spending any time at all in prayer? In the Word? Do you have lost loved ones that you are attempting to have saved?
Righteousness is a crown that each of us should wear proudly and visibly. And it is one that no one except the person wearing it can remove!
Pastor J. T. Carnell

Daily Jewel

by Pastor Carnell, McAlester, OK

“Set Your Alarm Clocks!"

“…he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.” – Proverbs 10:5 (NIV)

A college student was preparing for a final in one of his classes. It was an extremely important test and the grade on this test would determine if he were to pass the class or not. After studying for a couple of hours a couple of his friends came by his room encouraging him to get out for a little bit and have some fun. “But I have this big test tomorrow!” he said. “So do we,” his friends responded back. “…you’ll have time to study. We won’t be gone long.” So he set down his books and went with his friends for what he thought would be a just short time. Three hours later he walked back into his room. He was now tired and the thought of spending even an hour more studying just was more than he could handle. He lay down on his bed and before going to sleep, breathed a prayer: “Lord, please get me up early so I can study before my test.” And with that, fell fast asleep.
The next thing he knew it was 9:25 a.m., and his class was at 8:30. Not only did he not get up in time to study, he missed his test entirely! Angry, disappointed, he looked up to heaven and asked, “Lord, why didn’t you wake me up? I missed my test and now I won’t pass the class!” To that the Lord calmly and lovingly responded, “Son, why didn’t you use the alarm clock I had made for you?”
I don’t know if you have been keeping track or not, but it appears Solomon has been working on another one of his theme’s here—and it comes down to this: Being a morally responsible person. In his commentary on the book of Proverbs, Stephen Lennox writes regarding this verse:

“The theme of diligent labor continues, but with a slight shift in focus. Here the contrast is not only between the lazy and diligent, but between the one who knows when to work and the one who does not. Further, while Proverbs 10:4 spoke of the financial effects of laziness and diligence, 10:5 addresses the moral effects: wise or disgraceful. The relationship between God’s blessings and human brought out in one verse. Diligent labor is a by-product of wisdom which flows from a fear of God.” (Proverbs: A Bible Commentary in the Weslyan Tradition)

As I often noted, the Apostle Paul (once again) is not silent in this matter. Look at these words to Christians in the city of Thessalonica: “For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." (2nd Thessalonians 3:10) Paul made it a practice that wherever he went he made certain to take care of his needs by working. He was rewarded by having his needs provided. We are told that the Philippian church sent him a love offering at some point…when he was in of all places…Thessalonica! Because he was not afraid to do some work he was able to write the following: “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” (Philippians 4:12)
What a great reminder of where our real blessings come from and why! Solomon, in his wisdom has shown us in these past several verses that God responds to those who are willing to work for Him and with Him! What more incentive do we need? There are too many people “sleeping through” life and not near enough helping with the harvest! It’s time to wake up! It’s time get in the fields and do some work for the Kingdom! That is where you will find God’s blessings.
And the best part…you don’t have to study for a test. Life is the test!
Pastor J. T. Carnell

Daily Jewel

by Pastor Carnell, McAlester, OK

“Small Window of Opportunity”

“Make hay while the sun shines—That’s smart...” – Proverbs 10:5 (MSG)

“We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work.” – John 9:4 (New Living Translation)

I’m not a farmer, although I have lived at one time on one. I have also lived in communities where farming was the major industry so I have just enough knowledge to help understand what makes it work.
When we lived in northern Oklahoma we were surrounded by wheat fields. Several people in the church either grew wheat and/or made a living harvesting it. When it was time to harvest the wheat the window of opportunity to “get it in” was narrow, with little room or time for delays. If it rained, that would delay the process. High winds could also hinder it as well. We had one family who owned a couple of combines. They spent the end of the month of May and most of June doing nothing more than harvesting wheat. It was non-stop, around the clock. That was their life—and their livelihood.
You probably have noticed that I like using little “catch-phrases.” Idioms…clichés I suppose. One such catch-phrase I used in the paragraph above—“Window of Opportunity.” And when it comes to farming—and to life, our windows can be narrow with few chances to make a difference. Several scriptures (and thoughts) come to mind here: “Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die.” – Psalm 103:15 The Psalmist certainly put this window into perspective. He compared the span (or days) of our lives to that of grass or wildflowers. They do not last long—so our “window” to do what is right is not long.
The Apostle Paul takes an even stronger stance in his letter to Christians in the city of Ephesus. “Be very careful, then, how you live —not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16)

I don’t think it takes too much imagination to understand Paul’s message here: when that window is open you have to take advantage when you can. Jesus’ message to His disciples were along the same line—only He compares daytime to life itself, and night referring to the time when the window will be closed for good. On the surface, that may appear we have plenty of time to do God’s work but in reality it is not!
In researching material for today’s Jewel, I came across this sentence written by an unknown author: “Life is too short to start your day with broken pieces of yesterday; it will definitely destroy your wonderful today and ruin your great tomorrow.”
Harold and Joan brought their 6 year-old grandson Zach over to their friends, Tom and Madelyn during Christmas to see the Madelyn’s famous Christmas decorations. Zach was interested in everything—ornaments, wreaths, trees, lights. He wanted to see and touch every-thing. At one point Joan decided it was time to go. But Zach resisted. He repeated, over and over, “two more minutes.” He understood that if he left right then, there might not be another chance for him to see Christmas at Madelyn’s. He realized the value of “the moment.” Tomorrow could wait. Today was all that counted. We should learn from children. They are very uncomplicated. To them, yesterday is gone and tomorrow holds no promises. Today is what they live for. Today is their “Window of Opportunity.” Someone once said, “We have to live but one day at a time, but we are living for eternity in that one day.”
The Apostle Paul understood this truth. He wrote to the Church at Corinth (2nd Cor. 6:22), “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” I think this truth can be summarized in three statements: Learn from Yesterday; Live for Today; Hope for tomorrow The Window of Opportunity may not be open long.
Pastor J. T. Carnell.

Daily Jewel

by Pastor Carnell, McAlester, OK

“Homeless to Heaven”

“Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth. – Proverbs 10:4 (NIV)

I love success stories. You know the kind; the ones where individuals when faced with overwhelming odds conquer them and what appear to be hopeless situations and find success. There is one in particular that comes to mind.
Breaking Night is the autobiography of Liz Murray which describes her life growing up in a dysfunctional family with drug-addicted parents. Her mother was not only a drug-addict but an alcoholic as well. She contracted AIDS after sharing needles with other addicts. They would often be homeless, living on the street. On one occasion, when Murray got head-lice, she had to deal with it alone. She and her sister went days without food, once eating toothpaste and lip balm to quell their hunger.
After all the years of neglect, living from shelter to shelter, Murray left home at 15. She spent her adolescence sleeping on the streets, the subway and the couches of friends. Liz’s life, like so many like hers could have ended tragically or she could have followed the pattern of her parents, addicted to drugs and/or alcohol. It certainly would have been the easiest road for her to take and the one that so many chose.
When her mother died, Liz took a look at her life and decided she wanted something better. She began her work to finish high school which she finished a year early. Seeing her ability her teachers encouraged her to go to college. But how could someone like her afford college? One teacher in particular saw her potential and encouraged her to enter an essay contest sponsored by the New York Times. She did…and she won! She earned a scholarship to Harvard University where she excelled as well.
Today, Murray tours the nation as a motivational speaker sharing her story, especially to high school students and to underprivileged kids—encouraging them to give their best. Liz is living proof that diligence, along with determination can pay off. By the way, you might have seen Liz’s story. Lifetime made her book into a movie called Homeless to Harvard. Not only has her story been heard by thousands, but also seen by thousands as well.
What might our story look like? Could we, or would we, given similar circumstances overcome the same odds? Since we probably cannot answer that question maybe there is another question to ask instead: What are you willing to do to improve your life now?
Diligence is one of the Seven Heavenly virtues. It is described as the following: A zealous and careful nature in one's actions and work; decisive work ethic, steadfastness in belief, fortitude, and the capability of not giving up. Budgeting one's time; monitoring one's own activities to guard against laziness. Upholding one's convictions at all times, especially when no one else is watching…this is what we would also term, integrity.
In a way…we all are like Liz. We enter this life with a great number of uncertainties and in a spiritual sense, homeless. We cannot rely on others to make a way for us—instead we must follow the example of Christ. And then be diligent in what we do.
Winston Churchill could be the greatest motivational speaker (and person) of the 20th century. His most famous speech was all of 11 words. “Never give up. Never give up. Never, never, never give up!”
That is the essence of diligence.
Pastor J. T. Carnell

Daily Jewel

by Pastor Carnell, McAlester, OK

“Heart Poor”

“Laziness leads to poverty…” – Proverbs 10:4 (CEV)

Poverty is the pronounced lack of well being. It is the inability to satisfy one's basic needs because one lacks income to buy services or from lack of access to services.
Absolute poverty or destitution refers to the state of severe deprivation of basic human needs, which commonly includes food, water, sanitation, clothing, shelter, health care, education and information. Relative poverty refers to as being below some relative income threshold, where this threshold differs for each society or country. One may be relatively poor, without being in the state of absolute poverty; relative poverty is often considered as an indirect measure of income inequality. For most of history poverty had been mostly accepted as inevitable as traditional methods of production were insufficient to give an entire population a comfortable standard of living. Jesus Himself stated, “…the poor you will always have with you.” (Matthew 26:11)

The World Bank estimated 1.29 billion people were living in absolute poverty in 2008. Of these, about 400 million people in absolute poverty lived in India and 173 million people in China. In terms of percentage of regional populations, East Africa at 47% had the highest incidence rate of absolute poverty in 2008. Between 1990 and 2010, about 663 million people moved above the absolute poverty level.
I find it somewhat interesting that areas (regions/Countries) that have the highest amount of poverty either in numbers or percentages are those that have some of the lowest amount of Christians (by percentage) globally. According to a US State Department International Religious Freedom Report taken in 2010, it is estimated that 5% of the population in China is Christian; in India the percentage is 2.3% and East Africa (comprised of primarily Muslim countries), the percentage is approximately 3.6%.
What does all this mean? How does this relate to Solomon’s statement? From my perspective there appears to be a direct parallel between spirituality (Christianity) and prosperity as opposed to the opposite which was described above. When reading the above verse I did some research (which led to the information I shared earlier) and in that study I found some astounding but not altogether shocking results—the countries (areas) that had the highest percentage of Christians had much lower absolute poverty rates. MUCH lower! Here is my conclusion—where Godly principles are accepted (and followed), people are more apt to be far more resourceful in how they live. I am not saying these individuals are wealthy or that they do not struggle with finances. Some may have practically nothing—but they are taken care of because they trust in more than themselves or in a government to take care of them.
Here is another way to approach this: There is more than a physical laziness that leads to poverty—there is a spiritual laziness that exists as well. And it is this spiritual laziness—the refusal to accept God that leads to a suffering beyond poverty. They hunger for purpose. Understanding. Direction. Something no dictator can give, and no amount of burning incense can soothe away.
Interestingly enough—Biblical historians record that during Solomon’s reign, relative poverty did not exist in Israel. And the reason? The nation trusted in God!! And attached to that trust was the fact the people served wholeheartedly. As a result, God blessed them. Isn’t it amazing how that seems to work?
To be “heart poor” is without question the worst poverty that exists and yet one that can be resolved immediately.
Pastor J. T. Carnell