friends – CadreMen Press

What Burdens Do You Carry?

What Burdens Do You Carry? by Kirk Hunt

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Smith ducked out of the party. The great celebration of his return had overwhelmed him. For the first time in months, Smith set foot inside his own workshop. Jones, and a crooked smile, sat at the workbench.

New tools hung neatly on the pegboard. Fresh materials were stacked in the bins. Three books lay on the workbench.

The mortgage book was current through the next month. A pink slip stuck out of the car payment book. A scrapbook held notes and pictures detailing Smith’s family, for every month, since his absence.

Jones leaned over and opened the secret cabinet. Smith hung his head and looked away. A new Bible and various devotional texts were stored in the hiding place.

Jones stood, his eyes locked on Smith’s. Smith looked away then tried to say something, but no words came. Jones gripped Smith in a tight embrace. Some one whispered.

The two men separated, finally. Jones made his way to the door. The noise of the party surged into the workshop, only to be quickly swallowed by silence when the door closed.

Smith selected tools and raw stock. He laid out a project. For the first time, Smith’s workshop would make something for someone, besides Smith.

Think: Real Christians step up and carry someone else’s burdens.

Pray: “Lord Jesus, help me to help others.”

This devotional is a ministry of CadreMen Press.

Greater Love

“Greater Love” By Kirk Hunt

This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.

John 15:12–13 NKJV

Jesus taught, than demonstrated, the pattern of greater love. Determine you love a group of people so much that you are willing to serve them. If your love is great enough, even the threat of death will not stop you from giving your service.

On Memorial Day, Americans celebrate the men and women who died while serving in the armed forces of the nation. Their great sacrifice for America is to be sincerely remembered and deeply appreciated. Still, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for His “nation,” anyone who chooses to accept Him into their heart, sets the greater example.

Jesus first gave up heaven to come to earth. Then He agreed to live as a mere man, so that He would truly understand our lives. Finally, He sacrificed His sinless life as the last and final payment for our sins.

Jesus demonstrated His love for mankind on the Cross. Men and women can freely kneel at the Cross and receive the salvation they so desperately need, from His willing sacrifice. Jesus does not restrict the benefit of His service on race, nation or past behavior.

The only restriction on salvation is your confession of sin and acceptance of Jesus as your Savior. He has already proven His greater love. Have you accepted His love? Do you demonstrate His love in turn?

Think: How am I demonstrating my greater love?

Pray: “Lord, help me to love greatly for Your Name and people.”

This devotional is brought to you courtesy of CadreMen Press. You can purchase a copy of Blessed and Blessing: Devotionals For Gospel Champions from your favorite bookseller or directly from CadreMen Press.

Born For Adversity

“Born For Adversity” By Kirk Hunt

A friend loves at all times,
And a brother is born for adversity.

Proverbs 17:17 NKJV

I have complained that my siblings do not gather well. A breakfast or lunch for the pleasure of their company is a labored exercise in logistics and scheduling. On the other hand, they appear instantly if there is trouble or adversity.

I pray your life consists of smooth waters and gentle breezes. I would prefer you never need help or assistance. More likely, you know that even God’s favorites can experience raging storms and violent winds.

It is when adversity batters you hardest that true friends and faithful brothers are revealed. You may have to pick up the phone and ask for their support. Their response may start with an awkward silence. Perhaps their response will begin with hesitant stuttering.

You will know before the end. The fair-weather posers will disappear. Your real kith and kin will be revealed, standing at your side. Those who refuse to leave until they know you are okay are the best of the lot.

God does not always send angels. Sometimes He sends folks you did not know were watching or cared. Not even the pelting rain and howling winds of the worst circumstances can drive off true friends or faithful family.

Be certain that God has appointed men and women, boys and girls, to love you in sincerity and faithfulness. They will not abandon you in adversity. In the choice between the pleasant lunch or the difficult lurch, I’m certain you know when it is best that they show up.

Think: God has surrounded me with true friends and faithful family.

Pray: “Lord, if You do not send angels, please send true friends and faithful family.”