RED MAN
image courtesy of Google
I used to hate the taste of coffee… A vicious winter in Texas with an unusual snow while living outside wore that hate down a bit. It was a long twelve hour drive from my own shelter, albeit humble, it was home and I sorely missed it while struggling to sleep in the elements.
With a snow falling, ice forming and only a sleeping bag along with a portable cot, sent me and the other two guys I was working with to the public library for a time and finally to the shelter of a restaurant. We sat there for hours… I feel bad for the waitress in hindsight, but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do…
As much as I disliked the taste of coffee, enough cream to cut the bitter taste and I was happy to warm myself with what I could barely afford, but the refills were free… That started a habit I still practice today… Everyday…
This wad of Red Man chewing tobacco I have in my mouth as I pen this post reminds me of another habit… I sure enjoy the taste of spicy tobacco. It’s been about three months since my last chew and after I finish this pouch it will be probably be another three months till I partake again. I know it’s a bad habit, but aren’t most habits?
I remember being down in a trench that we were digging in Oregon, leaning against the wall of the ditch, head spinning dizzy, spitting with urgency and disgust the chewing tobacco out of my mouth… then I barfed… Not sure how I got from there to here, but that’s not the point I guess.
I know tobacco is a very hot issue in the modern church and while I’ll be the first to admit it’s a bad habit, even if only partaken occasionally, I’m pretty certain it won’t keep St. Peter from letting me through the pearly gates.
Before anyone condemns me to eternal torment, I want to consider habits, their effects and origin. Some habits we come by honestly, like the coffee, but I think most of the bad habits we come by less than honorably. That free will is a double-edged sword to be sure.
While none of us will have to be put in a position to fail like Adam and Eve did, all of us are given like choices and all of us are prone to develop bad habits in our fallen nature. Even the good things, including gifts from God, can be used to lead our weak flesh down the wrong path.
I’m not trying to give myself a pass, I’m guilty as charged, but what about the people that use the gift of voice to gossip? How many of us can say we haven’t over indulged on dinner or dessert? I don’t always fall into that category, but sometimes I do… Kinda like a do this plug of chew.
What about the habits we can’t see? How many of us have helped as many people in need as we could have or were called to but didn’t? I wonder how many reading this have ever broken the speed limit? I fall into all the categories mentioned, not all the time… just occasionally. Like this wad of tobacco leaves in my mouth.
My guess is that all of us are weak and flawed. Sure some of us more than others, but does that mean our hearts don’t know truth? Hardly… I think it means, “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak…”
What say you?
Sunday, November 25, 2012 @ 6:11 pm
I agree, most habits are labeled bad and the good ones have a different name called discipline, according to society. On my about me page, I state that I don’t take a public position on things that have nothing to do with salvation. I’m trying hard not to take a private one either. The daily issues we face that have nothing to do with salvation are just that, issues. Nothing that is uncommon to every man, the good book says. I think your heart is right with God, Floyd and when it’s not,you allow Him to take you to the woodshed and get it right. That is what God asks of us, He wants a relationship, not rules. Luckily I know He can still hear you through that wad of chew. LOL
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 7:04 am
Thanks, Audra. Much wisdom in your words. Unfortunately I’ve been to the woodshed more than my share! I’ll be thinking about your words today, Audra; very powerful.
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 7:16 am
Great point Audra, we all have “issues”. It reminds me of what my pastors says, “Don’t judge me because my sin is different than yours.”
We all have certain areas of weakness and God loves us all the same…despite our “issues”.
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 5:57 pm
We all have weaknesses, but some of them seem to be a little more society motivated so we begin to “grade” the degree of sin. Crazy stuff! Thanks, TC.
Sunday, November 25, 2012 @ 6:30 pm
My Grnndad on my father’s side chewed tobacco, and spit in a coffee can. That is my main memory of him. Although tobacco is a bad habit, you are correct when we forget to include gossip and other sins of the tongue such a telling lies and using God’s name in vein. Thanks for shaing this post on Tell Me a Story.”
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 7:05 am
Thanks for adding and let me add it at your site, Hazel. You know I don’t too many controversial ones…
Sunday, November 25, 2012 @ 7:11 pm
My brother has struggled to give up chewing tobacco off and on for years. Still hasn’t succeeded so I’ve seen up close what a hard battle it is. Saw this quote today and want to remember it:
“Don’t judge someone just because he sins differently than you.” –Unknown
We all need grace, every one.
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 7:06 am
Thanks, Lisa. Those are profound and true words. We all have them, they’re all just come in different wrappers.
Sunday, November 25, 2012 @ 7:13 pm
Some of those habits are just sins we condone. A pregnant teen? Whoah. Eat too much? That’s okay; I did, too.
I like the statement that popped up on Pinterest: Don’t condemn me for my sin just because it’s more obvious than yours.
Blessings,
Voni
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 7:07 am
Well said, Voni. We all have that in common; the need of forgiveness and the grace that He gives from. Wisdom comes…
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 3:14 am
I don’t imbibe. Never have. Never had a cigarette. Never had a drink. Never had tobacco. Never had a drug. Never drank coffee. I am righteous…self-righteous that is, since I know there are other sins I am guilty of. this is not the place or forum to get into them but let’s just suffice it to say that I have no room to talk. Personally, I don’t think non-essentials are going to send anyone to hell. There are a whole lot more things to concern ourselves with, like our neighbor’s struggle with singleness and the latchkey kid next door who gets molested or abused. You are right Floyd…no room to talk here.
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 7:09 am
Thanks, Bill. For your wisdom, but also your strength to live a life above reproach, yet have the humility of our Father to see it with His eyes. I guy could learn much from you, my friend. Your flock is blessed…
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 7:21 am
God’s timing is so awesome Floyd. Just last Sunday night my cell group got off topic of worship (we usually get off topic) and began discussing gambling and drinking. Not a fun conversation. Those who feel convicted in those areas have a hard time with those who don’t (and vice versa).
I just don’t get why we can’t let God do His job and we mind our own businesses. I’ve yet to find in the Bible where Bingo is wrong. However, if Bingo leads one to spending their entire life savings, losing their home and not providing for their family- then ya, that’s a problem.
This is a sore spot for me. I’ve been praying about writing a post on how I’ve been more beat up INSIDE the church than by the world. Why then would lost people want to join a church or come to know our God? For me, I would never set foot in another church again if I didn’t have a relationship with Christ that compelled me to draw near to Him and the Family of God. Makes me realize the challenges the Church faces in drawing in unbelievers. Please don’t get me wrong. I love my church, but it’s full of sinners (many of which have forgotten they were saved by grace)!
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 6:02 pm
TC… That was awesome… You summed up my sentiments exactly. It’s all the same and the legalism is destroying the church from the inside out. We as the church know the verses, but seem to full of pride to be able to act out the truth of God in love and action.
I agree with you 100%. If the lost world sees only loathing and hatred for them, what in the Holy name of God can they see in them? It is certainly not God!!! Following rules is the very thing that Christ blasted and the blind legalists that are being used by the enemy can’t grasp it! It is truly mind boggling… Well said, my friend. I think you should let it fly on your site!
Wednesday, November 28, 2012 @ 8:34 am
Thanks Floyd, I’m working on it. Can’t wait for your take…then again, I think maybe you should post on it too! Spread the word…maybe it will stick.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012 @ 10:10 am
You know, I think I will. Although I might be a little more subtle than you!
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 12:24 pm
I think it comes down to personal conviction. If God tells us not to do something(even though it’s not breaking the law) then we should strive to not do it. For example, I’m fine with drinking every once in a while. However, my wife has a personal conviction not to drink so she does not. Great thoughts.
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 6:04 pm
I’m with you, Dan. We all try to impose rules on others that might not be called to the same rules by God himself! Even if it is a sin, it is no different the the sins of others… “For ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Nice add!
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 6:41 pm
Great passage and point.
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 12:45 pm
We are all in the process and it’s His process. He’s changing us–sometimes in big leaps and other times slow and steady. As long as a person has named Jesus as Lord and has submitted to God’s process, there’s no room to judge because God’s not finished yet! Interesting how we think we’re judging people when really we are judging God (since He’s the Lord of the process). That should wake us up a little! Thanks Floyd.
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 6:06 pm
Wow! That was a powerfully wise comment, Jason! How true and well said. We really do try to take the place of God in calling the shots in the lives of others don’t we? This comment woke me up!!! Thanks, Jason.
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 5:56 pm
I’m not crazy about that habit, but I still like you and I know God still loves you and I’ll see you at the Pearly Gates for sure some day. 🙂 And if I’m supposed to now write down my bad habits, well. . . .let me ponder on that for awhile 😉
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 @ 6:59 am
Thanks, Kristin. I appreciate your kind heart. We all have weaknesses that’s for sure. I know you will do some pondering… That’s what you do!
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 6:05 pm
Your story triggered my memory thought about my grandpa and the forth coming post about Remembering Grandpa. Thanks for sharing at Tell me a Story.
http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/
Monday, November 26, 2012 @ 6:12 pm
You and I have a way of doing that for each other don’t we? You know what they say – Great minds think alike! I can’t wait to read your story, Hazel. They always lift me up.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 @ 10:45 am
Can I just say amen to all the replies from some very gracious people. If there is one area I want to grow more in, its not being judgemental. The more I walk close to Him, the less I stumble in this area. My heart is never to offend with my sin which would be a reason to give something up. I think all who have written want to give glory to the Lord who is perfect yet loves the imperfect in all it’s fraility. Everytime I eat a BIG BAG of peanut butter M&M and I know I am choosing to put weight on which will be harmful to me, God temple but this is acceptable to me. It’s so true we pick and chose which sins are acceptable to us instead of God. I believe He wants us to walk as sinless as possible here on earth yet He covered His desire for us in the blood of His Son. That kind love is humbling and brings sweet convictions at different times. He has chosen us who are saved to house His Spirit and yet He gives us freedom how we decorate the temple. Great post my brother…one I will ponder for a while.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 @ 5:17 pm
Thanks for the wise words again, Betty. I struggle with many of these less consequential type of sins. In truth, I don’t believe eating M&M’s now and then is a bad thing. It’s like all things. Moderation and the position of the heart is what’s at stake. I really try not to justify my actions. That’a why I’m okay if someone wants to call the small things sins. I know for sure I’m not perfect and strive for honesty, but mostly with myself. It is a struggle in this flesh. This free will is some kind of good gift isn’t it?
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 @ 12:22 pm
OK….you know it’s coming…
Dude, I didn’t know you were old Skoal!
Sorry…couldn’t resist! You know I love ya bro’!
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 @ 5:20 pm
Ohhhhhh, the mind of Chop is scary!!!! No, that’s good stuff, Jay! I love it! I can say that not too many people literally make me laugh out loud when reading this stuff! You do! Nothin’ like the love of a brother in Christ… You got mine too…
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 @ 5:47 pm
I smoked for 28 years, but quit 10 years ago. I tried chew but it always made me gag. 🙂 I have other bad habits that have taken its place though. I do tend to go over the speed limit a bit, eat more than I should at times, and drink my homemade beer or cheap boxed wine more than I should. The spirit is willing, but the flesh can certainly be weak.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 @ 5:54 pm
You know, Mike, I was hoping you’d stop by and get to read this one. I was actually thinking of you yesterday and wondering how you’d take this, especially since we’re always on the same page about most everything. I just had a feeling you wouldn’t throw rocks at my glass house, brother! Thanks for your honesty and humor. The flesh is indeed weak… Thanks, Mike.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 @ 6:13 pm
All of us have something that ain’t OK. NOW… if you were a smoker, I could deal with that better than the chewer. But we live a few states apart..;-). We all are less than perfect, but one of my concerns is that if I allow myself to put my body at risk too often, I might not serve Him as He has asked me to. Do I have bad habits? YEP. Not as serious as in the past, partly b/c my age won’t let me any more, but ain’t perfect. Darn; should be/could be. Oh, well… and then there’s heaven and it won’t ever be that issue again.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 @ 6:46 pm
Sorry to gross you out, Joanne! I don’t do it often or not in the house. When I’m outside and the wind is just right, it almost seems natural… I don’t do near what I used to do either… Good thing, we probably wouldn’t be alive to tell the tales! Thanks for your good ole’ fashioned style and grace…
Thursday, November 29, 2012 @ 9:30 pm
Well, praise the Lord that salvation does not depend on who has good habits and who has bad ones! Have a blessed weekend Floyd. God is good. 🙂
Friday, November 30, 2012 @ 6:49 am
“Salvation does not depend on who has good habits and who has bad ones.” There is a ton of simple wisdom in that statement. We all have them and probably tend to the weak side, albeit different than the person next door… Thanks, Vilisi.
Friday, November 30, 2012 @ 4:51 pm
Funny thing, Christ died to destroy our sins – not our bad habits. He leaves that up to us to not be conformed to the world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds….
Alright, you got me to thinking, so I’m going to think “out loud” for a bit.
Flesh appears to be the nemesis of The Body of Christ. I guess that’s why Paul enlightened us on the subject so many times.
God admonishes us to walk in a manner worthy of our calling. He has provided the source in which we can do it. That is to exercise the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives by being continually yielded to Him. It’s only through God’s provision that we can achieve the excellence that reflects a life of holiness in a dark world.
All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. Holiness is the target , then. God’s Word instructs us to “put away our old habits” and “put on the mind of Christ.” In doing so, we can know what is good, holy and right.
One of my callings is to lay hands on people and pray for their healing. God showed me a little scenario. In the daydream, I was about to pray for someone, but just before I did, I hurried up and did my vice, right there ,while they were watching. Afterward, I felt a bit of condemnation and didn’t want to pray any more. The person didn’t want me to pray either. Yeah…no, that’s not what I wanted to be shown. Change occurred.
I find that the world is often a bigger judge of a Christian’s habits, than we are of our own. They give themselves a pass, but want us to be pure and holy. They don’t want us to be like them – not really – especially when it comes time for us to minister life in their behalf. We are not supposed to so anything that causes someone else to stumble. Easy to say.
I know people of the world who are better stewards of their bodies than people in The Body of Christ. Embarassing.
Watching God’s kids gives me a hoot. We get by with a lot of things. When God shines His light on it – whatever “IT” …then it has to go!
Empowerment by the Holy spirit, and the ability to really be used by God seems to be what is at stake . We are told to “lay aside the sin which so easily besets us” If it weren’t possible, I guess God wouldn’t have told us to do it.
One Christian friend always says, “my bad, my bad”. Well, he eventually got fired because, although he was always owning up to shortcomings and mistakes, he never got empowered to change his behavior that contributed to failure.
Maybe Holiness is such an issue, because its too easy for us to indulge in whatever and slide by, since our salvation doesn’t depend on it. I am not so sure that’s a solid position either.
So much for my ramblings. Well….I’ll get back to you on all this “When I’m perfect”
Friday, November 30, 2012 @ 5:51 pm
I hear you and respect your perspective for sure, Nancy. I also think that one person’s sin might not be for another, and I say that not giving my self a pass in this regard. I also think God might use different people in different ways and some of the lost may be drawn to a person they see as much like themselves without the most precious ingredient in this life that has everything to do with the next; salvation.
When the lost world is looking for things to use as excuses to bash Christians they will find whatever it is they want to soothe their conscious temporarily.
I knew a man pretty well when I was younger that helped me out in business in more ways than one. He quit going to church because the people that were there asked him to. I was a kid when it happened and he never seemed bitter about it. He just casually mentioned the people that were there that drank and smoked when they weren’t at church kind of put us all in the same boat. When he passed away about ten years ago the church that kicked him out couldn’t house all the people that showed up and most of them not regular attenders of that church.
People were outside standing listening and inside standing against the walls. When the pastor who didn’t know the man asked if anyone wanted to say anything about the man, I thought to myself, “I should stand and say something, he’s probably done more for me than anyone here. I never got the chance… After a close to an hour of person after person standing up and sharing how this man helped out countless people in all ways, mostly financially, the pastor finally had to stop that part of the service to proceed and there was no sign of it ending any time soon.
I can only imagine how many people came to know the hand of a true Christian and God personally for my old friend. He wasn’t perfect, but God must have loved his heart for caring for the others and never one time letting his left hand know what his right hand was doing. God took him in his sleep…
I’m not sure some shortcomings make much difference.