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November 2006

Dear Friends of ICA,

         It is always a delight for me to take this time each month to greet you with some words of hope & encouragement for your journey.

         I was challenged today during my time of inspirational reading, by the thought of what it means to take some “risks” for the cause of Christ. Maybe some of you are currently experiencing some difficult times right now, simply because of your obedience to Christ. Here are some thoughts for you to consider…

         First, let’s define the word, “risk.”  RISK is an action that exposes you to the possibility of loss or injury.  This has both positive & negative results. What if not taking a risk will result in loss or injury? It may not be wise to play it safe.

         What if a successful risk would bring great benefit to many other people, & its failure would bring harm only to yourself? It may not be loving to choose comfort or security, when something great may be achieved for the cause of Christ, & for the good of others.

         Second, we would rather choose safety & security, than to take a risk for God. I think this is a myth! RISK is a part of our everyday lives. All our plans for tomorrow’s activities can be shattered by a thousand unknowns whether we stay at home under the covers, or drive on the freeways.

         Please don’t accuse me of being negative, but we need to be delivered from the enchantment of “security,” because it is a mirage. Why? Because in every direction you turn, there are unknowns & things beyond your control.

         Consider 2 Samuel 10:11-12;

          Israel was surrounded by the Amalekites on one side & the Syrians on the other side. Joab, the Commander in Chief, divided the troops into two; he led one troop & his brother, Abishai, led the other troop. In (v.11), they pledged to help each other. Then in (v.12), comes this great word; “Be of good courage, & let us be courageous for all our people, & for the cities of our God, & may the Lord do what seems good to Him.”

         Joab made a strategic decision for the cities of God, & he did not know how it would turn out. He had no special revelation from God on this matter. He had to make a decision based on sanctified wisdom. He had to risk or run. He did not know how it would turn out. So he made his decision, & handed the results over to God. And this was right.

         Now, what about you? Are you caught in the enchantment of security, paralyzed from taking any risks for the cause of Christ?  Ask God to free you by the power of His Holy Spirit. Take some risks for God, even if it means it could threaten your own security. But, do so, mainly to positively affect others in a greater way &, always for the glory of God.

         Don’t take risks for the wrong reasons, namely…

1. To become fixated on self-denial
2. To do so for self-exalting reasons
3. To feel the adrenalin of heroism rising
4. To scorn the lazy & cowardly & feel superior
5. The lust for adventure
6. The courage of self-reliance
7. The need to earn God’s favor

          Take some risks for God, but always for the proper motive; that others may be affected & impacted, all for the “glory of God!”  

God richly bless you.

Your Loving Shepherd,
 Pastor Kevin

(click here for more messages from Pastor Kevin Barner)