http://ryw.palau.org/ en-us ℗ & © 2012 Luis Palau Association Reaching Your World with Luis Palau Luis Palau Listen to Luis Palau's daily radio program, Reaching Your World with Luis Palau. Listen to Luis Palau's daily radio program, Reaching Your World with Luis Palau. Luis Palau radio@palau.org no Luis Palau Our Own Families Sometimes we can spend so much time looking for opportunities to share the Good News with our friends or acquaintances that we neglect to reach our own families. Maybe your immediate family is following Christ whole-heartedly.  If so, that's wonderful!  But, what about your aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, or grandparents?  Do they have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ?I know of a missionary family who has been serving as a witness for Jesus in a foreign country for the past 20 years. But, they don't stop there! Though they're actively sharing their faith overseas, they haven't neglected their extended family who also doesn't know Jesus.  Whenever they have an opportunity, they share their faith - regardless of if it's to their neighbors overseas or their family at the dinner table. Even if we are used to being a witness outside our homes, let's not ignore the opportunities that lie within our own family circles. Do you know of anyone in your family who hasn't heard the Good News? I would guess we can all think of someone.  Let's work hard to fulfill the great commission of "go and make disciples of all nations" - starting with our own families. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-16-12.mp3?id=2012-05-16 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Organizations the Follow Christ The station manager in the studio had been listening intently to our radio program. "I don't understand," he said to me as the program signed off. "I attend church every Sunday. I partake of holy communion. I do confession at the stated times. And yet I have no assurance of eternal life." Despite being a part of a television station that preached Christ, this man didn't have the assurance of salvation. He had participated in religious activities without having a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. It is sad to learn that some workers in godly organizations do not have the personal assurance of eternal life. Jesus says, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Friends, Jesus' statement makes is clear that good motives or activities don't guarantee salvation. If you work in an organization that is Christ-centered, or know someone who does, don't assume the employees know Jesus. Let's take some time this week and ask the Holy Spirit to show us if there is someone who needs to hear the Good News - even someone in a private Christian school or a local non-profit ministry.  Let's not overlook opportunities that may arise to share the Good News, even in God fearing workplaces. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-15-12.mp3?id=2012-05-15 Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Participants in Church Kristine grew up in her local church but didn't have a relationship with Jesus. She sang in the church choir and was a "regular" on Sunday, but didn't know God for herself. It wasn't until an evangelist visited her church that she finally found true peace. She said, "As he was preaching, it seemed like he knew exactly what was happening in my life. I understood one thing: I needed forgiveness. My life hadn't been right, not the way it should be, and I finally heard that I could say no to my past and start a new life with God."Sometimes, even participants in our very own churches haven't heard the Good News. We can easily take for granted that everyone in our church has a personal relationship with Jesus. But, that's just not true. The person sitting right next to us during a service may not know the peace of God. Jesus says, "In me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." This week ask the Holy Spirit to show you if there is anyone in your church who still needs the peace Kristine was searching for. Then reach your world by telling them of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-14-12.mp3?id=2012-05-14 Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: The World Anew The day I walked into the orphanage to bring my daughter home, she had no idea I was coming. A beautiful baby from Ethiopia, Sadie lay vulnerable and open to the harshness of life. But when I entered the room and held her in my arms, she knew my protection and became my precious child.This is what God did for me too. When I was young, I struggled through life as a spiritual orphan. Then, God stepped into my life, picked me up, and said, "I'll take him." I found a new eternal home. Like Sadie, I was vulnerable, but only until I surrendered to God and let Him hold me and love me.Above all else in life, I want other people to know that same experience. I was made alive and complete in Jesus Christ. In Revelation, God says, "I am making all things new." Our creator wants to make each of us new. He wants to be in an intimate relationship with every person He has created. But, millions of people have yet to experience this Good News for themselves. This week, let's purpose to share God's love with the people in our life. Let's not shy away from the greatest gift we have to offer - the gift of Jesus Christ. There is nothing better and, as followers of Jesus, it's our responsibility and joy to introduce others to Him. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-11-12.mp3?id=2012-05-11 Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Our Heavenly Father My wife and I were recently in Florida, and we had the pleasure of meeting the mayor of a major city there.  As we chatted, this woman mentioned she was struggling with the recent death of her father.  She said she wasn't prepared for her dad to die, and his death had left a big void in her heart. This mayor told us, "My dad was my best friend."Then she said, "Mr. Palau, you've got to write a book and you should title it, 'Orphans at 50.' Because so many 50-year-olds are losing their parents, and we feel abandoned in the world." I thought, Isn't that amazing? The mayor of one of the biggest cities in America says, 'I feel like an orphan.' It made me realize that no matter how old someone is, they can feel abandoned when their parents are no longer around.  Whether it's a 5-year old boy, or a middle-aged woman, people are searching for hope and security.  God alone can fill the void and emptiness that comes when a parent is gone or when we feel abandoned.  He promises to be a father to the fatherless.  The Lord says in John chapter 10 that He knows His own by name.  Isn't that a wonderful promise?  And, you and I can be the voice that reminds people of this truth.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-10-12.mp3?id=2012-05-10 Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Family of God Years ago, my team and I were in Guatemala, sharing the Good News at a Festival.  One of our counselors noticed a young boy who was standing all by himself.  So she went over to talk with him.  She asked him why he came to the festival. The boy told her, "My mom left my dad and me, and every night I hear my dad crying in the bedroom."  "But," he said, "I'm here because I heard Mr. Palau was going to tell us how to have a happy home."Twelve years old, and already he'd gone through the pain of abandonment!  Yet this boy also knew that a different life was possible.  When he heard the message of the Good News Gospel that night, that boy gave his heart to Jesus Christ. Today, this man is married and a national leader.  His life was changed because he had an opportunity to respond to the Good News.   Do you know a young boy or girl who comes from a broken home?  These children need all the love and direction we can give them.  But most of all, they need to know that God wants to be their Father and be with them forever.  Hebrews 13:5 says that God will "never leave us or forsake us."  Ask God who, in your world, needs to hear this message.  Then, take a step of faith, and invite them to enter the family of God! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-09-12.mp3?id=2012-05-09 Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau A New Life A few months ago I met a man in his early 40s who told me his story.  He said that his dad left the family when he was only two years old.  Then, when he turned eight, a group of people began to abuse him.  This abuse went on for many years.  Now, this man's family never talked about God - they never went to church. And yet, he told me, "As a teenager, I was in such darkness and torment, that I began to think, There must be a God. There has to be a better life than this one."  A few years later, this teenage boy attended a festival that our team put on in his hometown.  For the first time in his life, he heard the Good News of Jesus Christ.  And that night, he surrendered his heart to the Lord!  God gave that man a new life.  Today, he's married, has a beautiful family, and is a leader in his church.  Most importantly, he has peace with God.  What a wonderful illustration of how God can reveal Himself to the loneliest of hearts!  Ecclesiastes 3 says that God "has put eternity in the hearts of men."  Meaning, the Holy Spirit has put a desire for the eternal truth of God in each person's soul.  But, the Lord calls you and me to be His messengers of the Good News.  It's our calling, and privilege, to be just that! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-08-12.mp3?id=2012-05-08 Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Fatherless Gang A few years ago, my team and I were hosting a live TV show in Texas.  One of the calls that came in was from a young boy.  He told me, "Mr. Palau, I'm 13 and I belong to a gang."  I asked him what kind of a gang it was. "Well," he said, "we call ourselves the fatherless gang.  We get together because we all have one thing in common: our fathers left our home.  So we help protect each other."  When I asked him how many were in this fatherless gang, he told me there were over 400 boys!  You know, there really is a huge increase of fatherless and motherless children in our world today.  When a mom or dad abandons the family, their rejection leaves such a hole in a child's life.  Many times the kids act out in wild ways, but they are just lonely and lost, wanting to be loved.  Jesus Christ offers the best answer to this abandoned generation.  He tells us that God wants to be the father to the fatherless. Ephesians 1:5 says that we are "adopted as His sons and daughters."  Do you know a boy or girl who has been rejected by a parent?  God has you in that child's life for a reason!  Pray for an opportunity to share the Good News with them.  Tell them that God wants to adopt them into His family!  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-07-12.mp3?id=2012-05-07 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Life on Fire Early on in life, I started pushing the envelope to gain attention. Fire was an easy attention grabber. My friends and I would play pranks with gasoline, smoke, and explosions. I created havoc and loved it - all to have a story to tell. In this and many other ways, I planted seeds of destruction without ever considering the consequences of my actions. Sadly, these decisions would mark my life for the next two decades.I lived the secret life of a fool that really is no secret at all. It's a reality we all wrestle with. Do we live for ourselves, or is there a greater call on our lives? Living for ourselves leads nowhere. At 27 years of age, I began a journey to something so much more thrilling - a dynamic relationship with Christ. By the Grace of God, the fruit of my story has turned from horror to hope, from recklessness to stewardship. Now, I love to tell people about my wayward years and the God who rescued me from destruction and despair. No matter what your story has been up until now, the Lord can change your course too. If you know Him, share your story with others. If you don't know Him, won't you start a relationship with him today? To pray with someone, right now, call 1-888-NEED-HIM. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-04-12.mp3?id=2012-05-04 Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau He Fills You with His Peace The book of Acts chapter 9 tells the story of a man from a classy, high-ranking family. He was educated at the feet of the best known professor of his day. But there was an anger in this man, a bitterness and hatred to the point that he became a rampant murderer. His name was Saul. But Jesus Christ met Saul on the road to Damascus. Saul, a short time before had been involved in killing Stephen. He was on his way to kill more Christians and suddenly he met Jesus Christ. His life was changed. And the anger was suddenly gone. Saul -- who later became the much-loved apostle Paul -- was filled with a peace that can come only from God.       Do you need peace today? Jesus Christ longs to meet with men and women and turn us around.      Right now Jesus Christ is saying, "I stand at your door and knock. Have you heard my voice?" he asks. "If you open the door, I will come into you."       Open the door to Jesus Christ and the peace he can bring you. He will change your life, and the world will take notice. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-03-12.mp3?id=2012-05-03 Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau He Gives You Eternal Life One of the ways God chooses to change us is by giving us eternal life. John 10:28 says, "I give them eternal life. They will never perish and no one can snatch them out of my hands." Eternal life is the gift of God. But there are still countless souls who have not surrendered their lives to Christ.  For many, it's because no one has told them.      Several years ago, I met a distinguished professor right before Good Friday. He was searching for God but said to me, "I am unworthy." I put my arm around him and said, "Professor, what are we remembering on Friday?"       He replied, "The crucifixion of Jesus Christ for the sins of the world."       "No, sir," I told him. "Jesus was crucified for your sins." The university professor began to cry right then and there. He decided it was time to receive the gift of eternal life -- and he did!      That professor is just one of millions waiting to hear that Jesus Christ died for their sins.  Will you be the one to tell them?  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-02-12.mp3?id=2012-05-02 Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau He Sends His Holy Spirit to Live Within You First Corinthians 6:19 says, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?" An amazing truth is that your body, whether thin or not so thin, tall or not so tall, young or not so young, becomes the temple of the holy God.       The Bible says that God doesn't dwell in temples made by human hands. God dwells within his people. He begins to work in our lives by the Holy Spirit.       If you haven't had that experience, today you can! Say, "Lord Jesus Christ, I want to experience what it is to become the temple of God. Come into my life. Give me your Holy Spirit, Lord." Imagine the change that will take place.Look at the apostle Paul. From the moment he received the Holy Spirit, he was changed. From becoming a persecutor, he became a proclaimer. The enemy became a friend. Why? What changed so suddenly? It was simply the powerful presence of God.  Do you have that presence in your life?  Once you do, your body becomes the temple of God and will radiate His glory. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/05-May/05-01-12.mp3?id=2012-05-01 Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau He Clears Your Guilty Conscience You have probably found that it is nearly impossible to change things in your life by yourself. It's God who works us over and changes us. To begin with, He rids our conscience of shame and guilt. He puts the past behind us. He buries all the ugly stuff at the foot of the cross of Jesus Christ.        In Hebrews 10:17, God says-and has repeated many times-"Your sins and evil behavior I will remember no more." I love that phrase. "No more."       You might say, "Luis, I have a burden of things I did in the past. I don't think God could ever forgive me." Don't ever say that.       Kipling, the English writer, once said, "Nothing is ever settled until it is settled right." The reason why Jesus Christ died on the cross was to get rid of guilt and to forgive us once and for all. The cross settles things right.       There is a decision to be made. It's an action of the will. When you ask for forgiveness; God gives it. And he will remember your sins no more. Do you know someone who needs to hear this life-changing truth? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-30-12.mp3?id=2012-04-30 Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Al Egg The first two decades of my life were tumultuous. I was reckless and inconsiderate. I remember going to one of our high school basketball games after drinking too much. As my friends and I noisily celebrated our team's win, I felt a tap on my shoulder. It was Mr. Al Egg. Al was one of the most godly men I knew. He cared greatly for the young people in our school and community. Al's eyes were filled with concern. His daughter, Lisa, had been in a drunk-driving accident the year before. Of all the people to see through my charade, he was the one willing to confront me. He gently said, "Andrew, promise me you'll be careful. Please don't drive." I lied to his face and turned away.Years later, I gave my life to Jesus Christ and everything changed. But, even during those rough years, I respected people like Al - people who were willing to lovingly confront me. Years later, I found Al Egg and told him I was grateful for the things he said when I walking far from the Lord. He showed Jesus' love to me even when I wasn't responding. I am living proof that even those who seem beyond reach are worth the time. So, pray for your friends who aren't walking with the Lord and, like Al, love them through the rebellious times. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-27-12.mp3?id=2012-04-27 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Go Into All the World During a recent festival in Manchester, England, one of our counselors asked a young man on the street, "Do you believe in Jesus Christ?"  He replied "No, I didn't know you were supposed to believe in Jesus Christ.  I'm not sure that I've even heard of him before."Isn't that sad?  Here we are, supposedly living in the Age of Information, but this young man had never even heard of Jesus Christ!  When we hear stories like this, we've got to realize there are people like him in our country, in our neighborhood, and in our family who still haven't heard the Good News of Jesus Christ.   Jesus commanded us to go and make disciples of all nations.  [Matthew 28:19]  One way to do this is by simply asking, "Do you believe in Jesus?"  And then pray for the Lord to do what He does best: Changing hearts and minds for eternity! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-26-12.mp3?id=2012-04-26 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Persevering in Evangelism As we enter the twenty-first century, it's become obvious that atheism has lost most of its credibility.  Yet, the apostles of atheism are adamantly unwilling to consider the facts about God and the Bible.  Instead, these people oppose God's truth with all their might.  We should not be surprised by the opposition of atheists.  As the apostle Paul says in 2 Timothy 4: "For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine.  Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear." So, what should we do?  Again, Paul writes: "But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist..."  [2 Timothy 4:5]Are you afraid to share your faith because you think people might disagree with you?  I encourage you to start a spiritual conversation with one such person this week.  You may be surprised at how open they really are to the Gospel!  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-25-12.mp3?id=2012-04-25 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau A New Creation One night, a man called me in my hotel room and wanted to meet me in the lobby.  It was 1:45 a.m.He was a rather distinguished looking gentleman--a well-known psychologist--but he was visibly shaking.  "I watched your TV program tonight," he said, "and it hit home to my problem."  Then he confessed his drinking problem, as well as his unfaithfulness to his wife."I can't control myself," he said.  "I'm living like a dog!"  He pounded his fist on the coffee table, then pleaded:  "Is there any hope of change for a hypocrite like me?"I presented the Gospel, and without hesitation he said, "I want to receive Christ right now."  A week later, his wife called.  She had seen a change in her husband's life and wanted to invite Jesus Christ into her life, too.  The Bible says we can become new creations in Christ.  [2 Cor. 5:17]  Is there someone you know who needs to hear this message?  If so, let me challenge you to share this verse with them this week.  It could change them forever! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-24-12.mp3?id=2012-04-24 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Daily Obedience New York Herald reporter Henry Stanley converted to Jesus Christ after he went to Africa to find the legendary David Livingston.  Later, Stanley wrote:  "I went to Africa as prejudiced against religion as the worst infidel in London....  For months after we met, I found myself listening to him, wondering at the old man carrying out the words `leave all and follow me.'  But little by little, seeing his piety, his gentleness, his zeal, his earnestness, and how he went quietly about his business, I was converted by him, although he had not tried to do it."God is relevant today because He is constantly conforming us to the likeness of His Son, Jesus Christ as Romans 8:29 tells us.  And as we follow God in our daily lives, people will notice the difference in us.     Even the smallest action can draw someone to Christ. So let's commit to take those daily steps of obedience to the Lord.  Let's make evangelism part of our everyday life because you never know who may be watching! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-23-12.mp3?id=2012-04-23 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Vapors with a Purpose A few years ago, my family faced the unthinkable. En route to a family vacation in Jamaica, our airplane crashed. When that plane broke apart, I saw my whole life flash before me. More than ever before, I saw the fragility of life - how quickly life can and does pass like a vapor. It made me realize that since life is so short, we'd better make the most of it.It's easy to let the brevity of life define how we live. And, that's not necessarily bad. But, it can mean that we only live life for today, do whatever we want, take risks, become as famous and powerful as possible, and make and spend money. But, while our time on this earth may be short, what we do with this time will resonate for eternity. The crash reminded me that God holds the world in His hand. More than ever, I understood that the most important things in life aren't things. Rather, what matter most are God and the people He loves. Yes, in the grand scope of time, we are small; we are fragile. But we have the honor and challenge of reaching others for Christ so that they might know eternity. Don't wait for a jarring reminder. Live your life in light of this calling. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-20-12.mp3?id=2012-04-20 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Serving in His Strength Douglas Copeland, author of "Generation X," confessed something that I've heard from many other young adults:  "My secret is that I need God--that I am sick and can no longer make it alone.  I need God to help me give, because I no longer seem capable of giving; to help me be kind, because I no longer seem capable of kindness; to help me love, as I seem beyond being able to love."Copeland is right--we all need God to help us through life. The key, however, isn't tapping into spirituality for our own benefit. Instead, we must realize we were put here on earth for God's benefit; to serve Him with everything we've got.  But, we can't serve Him in our own strength; we must be directed by the Holy Spirit.  As it says in Romans 8:8, "Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God.  You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you."So, take a moment today to serve someone else.  It's another great way to share the love of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-19-12.mp3?id=2012-04-19 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Only God Can Satisfy Katharine Tait had this to say about her famous father, atheist Bertrand Russell:  "Somewhere at the back of my father's mind, at the bottom of his heart, in the depths of his soul, there was an empty space that had once been filled by God and he never found anything else to put in it."  Russell himself once admitted:  "The center of me is always and eternally a terrible pain--a curious wild pain--a searching for something beyond what the world contains."We will never be satisfied until we turn to God.  King David acknowledged this in Psalm 62 when he wrote, "My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken."Maybe someone you know is searching for his purpose in life.  Share Psalm 62 and tell him about salvation through Jesus Christ because only God can satisfy his heart.  Our friends will never find peace any other way. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-18-12.mp3?id=2012-04-18 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau We Need to Rest in God In moments of intellectual honesty, even the most committed atheists agree life makes sense only if God is in the picture.       Jean-Paul Sartre, a French existentialist, faced life honestly right before his death.  In an interview with a Marxist journalist, he said, quote, "I do not feel that I am the product of chance, a speck of dust in the universe, but someone who was expected, prepared, prefigured.  In short, a being whom only a Creator could put here; and this idea of a creating hand refers to God." We need God.  We always have.  From the very beginning, God created us to have a relationship with Him.  In fact, Psalm 139 says God made us and knew everything about us before we were even born! [verse 16]  It's no wonder that we cannot rest until we come to know our Creator.So, don't be afraid to tell your friends about Jesus Christ. They may not know it, but their hearts are in desperate need of the Prince of Peace.  And you might be just the person God has planned to tell them. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-17-12.mp3?id=2012-04-17 Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau God is Relevant During a Christian rally a few years ago, a heckler shouted, "Atheism has done more for the world than Christianity!""Very well," the speaker said, "tomorrow night you bring a hundred men whose lives have been changed for the better by atheism, and I'll bring a hundred who have been transformed byChrist."  The heckler frowned and said no more.Whether our friends realize it or not, God is relevant to their lives today.  Atheism brings only tragedy and despair.  Yet, the saving power of Jesus Christ offers hope and healing to people from all nations.  To me, it's more clear than ever that God is relevant to the well-being of every one of us! But we should not be surprised when people are reluctant to accept the Gospel. The apostle Paul said: "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." [1 Corinthians 1:18]When you're sharing the Good News, remember that no matter how people respond, Jesus Christ is still relevant to their lives. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-16-12.mp3?id=2012-04-16 Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: A Wakeup Call I've spent quite a bit of time writing a book about my life. My personal story is so crazy that sometimes people say, "You're exaggerating. You didn't really live that way." But, the stories are true. I'm ashamed to say, before I knew Jesus Christ, my life was really messed up. While writing my story, "The Secret Life of a Fool," I was reminded of one particularly bad night. I was hanging out with my friends at a bar. I was drunk and high. Suddenly, a random stranger asked, "Are you a follower of Satan?" That was my wakeup call. I knew I was living in sin and knew my behaviors were wrong. But, when that guy asked that question, everything hit me. I was not a follower of Satan but I certainly wasn't following God either. As awkward as that evening was, I'm glad he said something. His comment made me stop and realize that my life was going downhill fast. Do you know someone who needs a wakeup call? Someone who is not walking with the Lord? Be the one to lovingly tell them of another way. First off, pray that God will give you a clear opportunity to talk to them about Him. Then, don't shy away from saying that, because you care for them, you're worried by the direction their life is going. Your loving conversation may be the wakeup call they need to get back on track with the Lord. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-13-12.mp3?id=2012-04-13 Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Keep Praying Evangelism means opening up our mouths and sharing the Gospel with those around us. But, before we can open our mouths, we must first bow our heads in prayer.      Prayer is essential to effective evangelism, especially in this age of awakening. In I Thessalonians 5:17, Paul tells us to pray continually. Prayer keeps us connected to our Heavenly Father. And this is crucial, not only to evangelism, but to living the Christian life!      We have got to see ourselves under God as instruments of God to awaken cities and states and nations. Pray for boldness. And pray this new awakening will catch on fire in such a way that historians will say, "In the first years of the third century there was definitely a national awakening in the United States of America."       God willing, this awakening will spill over to other parts of the world, too. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-12-12.mp3?id=2012-04-12 Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Don't Be Discouraged Another thing to remember when it comes to national awakenings is this: It takes time to see the fruit of our labors. The Bible talks about first planting a seed and then waiting for it to grow and produce fruit. And that's the way it is with evangelism.      The problem is we want instant fruit. People say, "Well, where's the fruit?" But, we've got to give it time to grow! Give it time. It'll happen! Don't let your impatience rob you of your joy in evangelism.          When we share the Gospel with someone, it may take years for us to see any growth in that person. And very few people are changed overnight. Even with the apostle Paul it took three to five years for anyone to realize that he was actually converted and bearing fruit for God.        So, don't be discouraged. Keep sharing your faith and leave the growing to God. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-11-12.mp3?id=2012-04-11 Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Don't Be Afraid I think the number one roadblock to evangelism is fear. We are afraid of what other people might think. And we're afraid of persecution. But, our fears shouldn't keep us from sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.      Take Paul for example: The apostle Paul knew all about persecution. He was chased from town to town. He was thrown in jail. He was whipped, stoned, beaten up and left for dead. On the surface, this does not look like a promising career in evangelism!      But in Acts 18:9 the Lord told Paul not to be afraid and to keep on speaking the truth. God told Paul He would protect him from harm. And Paul trusted that God would keep His promise. So, Paul obeyed and continued speaking. As a result, the Gospel spread throughout the country.      Don't be afraid to share your faith. Instead, let us continue speaking the truth in love. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-10-12.mp3?id=2012-04-10 Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Be Prepared Did you know that America is going through a spiritual awakening? It's true! You can tell because, all around the country, people are starting to talk about spiritual issues with less embarrassment.       You see it in everything from the national debate over the definition of marriage to ethics on Wall Street. People just seem more eager and willing to talk about spiritual matters.      We live in a day of incredible opportunity for evangelism. We must be ready to take advantage of the opportunities that come our way.      1 Peter 3:15 says "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." Now is the time to share the good news of Jesus Christ. So, be prepared! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-09-12.mp3?id=2012-04-09 Mon, 09 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Living a Lie After I graduated from college, I moved to Boston. I wanted a new start. I had gotten myself into bad situations in college and figured that after school, I'd move away and begin again. But, you know what happened? The same exact thing! Even though I had a university degree, lived in one of the premier American cities, and was working my way up the corporate ladder, life was empty. Once again, I got involved in partying and drugs and everything I hoped to leave in my past. I was lonely. Life seemed futile. Even though I was an "adult" and looked like I had things figured out, I was falling apart - living in despair. Can you relate? Do things look really good on the outside but inwardly you're a mess? I've been in those shoes. I perfected the art of living a lie for years and years. And, my attempts to change never worked. Real change didn't happen until I met Jesus Christ for myself. It was only through him that I found freedom, forgiveness, and a new life. Because Jesus died on the cross, the payment for our sins has been met. We don't have to look good on the outside but be dying inwardly. We can have life through and through! If you've been living a lie, give your heart to Jesus Christ and find freedom today. To pray with someone, right now, call 1-888-NEED-HIM. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-06-12.mp3?id=2012-04-06 Fri, 06 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Yes, and Here's More Australian David Smallbone felt God leading him to promote Christian concerts. When too few fans filled seats during one major tour, David went into massive debt. Soon after, he lost his house and everything he had worked so hard for. David was offered a new job in Nashville,Tennessee, so he packed up his family and moved to America. Upon their arrival, he was told the job was no longer available.As they were wondering what God could possibly be up to, they were miraculously provided with bags of groceries, a mini van, and several odd jobs. Soon after came the biggest blessing of all...God provided a recording contract for David's oldest daughter, Rebecca. Today David promotes his own daughter's sold-out concerts. Rebecca St. James has been one of the hottest Christian artists in America for years. God knew what he was doing!The Bible says in Jeremiah, 'I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" So, my dear friend, trust God- He wants to bless you, and if you walk with Him, He longs to give you more than you ever thought possible as you seek to serve Him. God has a plan for your life.  Spend time with Him. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-05-12.mp3?id=2012-04-05 Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Yes, but Differently than You Thought Have you ever asked God to use you? If so, expect the unexpected! National Football League running back Sherman Smith was one of the most popular players for the Seattle Seahawks. He was incredibly talented, and also a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Without warning, the Seahawks traded Smith to the San Diego Chargers. After a few weeks on his new team he blew out his knee. While his knee was healing, Sherman had the opportunity to lead one of his teammates to Jesus Christ. That converted party-man, Miles McPherson, has since become an outstanding youth evangelist and a pastor of a massive church, who reaches tens of thousands each year for Jesus Christ.So why was Sherman traded to San Diego? He now knows God wanted to use him! The book of Proverbs says to 'trust in the Lord with all your heart [...] and He will direct your path,' in Proverbs chapter 5.If you are trying to reach your world, and things aren't making sense, keep trusting God. He knows exactly what He's doing. He's sovereign.  Don't give up telling people about Jesus Christ.   And look around to see what God is trying to do with your life.  In time, you will see the fruit of your labor. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-04-12.mp3?id=2012-04-04 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Yes, But You'll Have to Wait We all want immediate answers to prayer don't we? But God's timing does not always work that way. Phil Callaway's wife, Ramona, suffered horrible seizures. His children asked him if Mommy was going to die. He couldn't answer. He wondered if she would even make it to her thirtieth birthday. He prayed constantly that Ramona would be healed.One night Phil cried out to God in desperation, and a doctor's name came to his mind. Phil called the doctor, who saw Ramona the next morning and diagnosed a rare chemical deficiency. Within a week, Ramona was a different person. The seizures ended and she was completely healed. God answered, but it took a while.Jesus said in the Gospel of Matthew, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." Sometimes God's answers come at the last minute, so be patient. Don't lose faith. He is listening. God knows best.  If you have a friend who is nearing spiritual death, keep praying! Don't ever think the situation is hopeless. Persevere in prayer, because that's God's will for you.  And you know, if you wait patiently on the Lord, you will see amazing answers to prayer, and it will teach you to watch for God's intervention.  It is very exciting to walk with God. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-03-12.mp3?id=2012-04-03 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau No, I Love You Too Much The Lord isn't under obligation to say "yes" to every prayer. That's a good thing considering some of the things we request at times! Sometimes, though, God says "no" to even our best and most sincere requests.  "No," God is saying.  "I love you too much to answer the way you want."God said "no" to my most earnest childhood prayers. Shortly after my tenth birthday, my father, Luis Palau Sr., contracted pneumonia and died ten days later.  God said 'no' to my request to heal him. But, without a doubt, the death of my father has had more impact on my life and ministry than almost anything else. My desire is that people know Jesus Christ, as my father did, so they will be with the Lord forever when they die, "which is better by far" as St. Paul wrote in Philippians.Does a "no", mean that we should stop praying? "Always pray and not give up," Jesus said.  Keep praying! God loves to say yes, but we must trust Him, even when He says no. Keep praying, even if the answer isn't what you want. Pray for your family, your friends, your co-workers. Pray that they will all come to Jesus Christ. Pray that God will open a door for you to share the Good News Gospel. Now that would be a tremendous privilege: that God should use you to lead someone you love to faith in Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/04-Apr/04-02-12.mp3?id=2012-04-02 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Asking for Manna My friend, Steve Jameson, proposed an idea that I had never thought about... He asked, "Why didn't the Israelites pray that God would send them manna when they were wandering in the wilderness?"  The question made me stop and think.  Of course they didn't ask for manna because they didn't know that manna existed!  They didn't know they could ask for manna.  They didn't know they could ask for bread from heaven to come down and meet their need.God wants to work powerfully and tangibly in our lives too.  Often we pray for specific things.  We say "God, if you would just do this..." or "God, if you would just do that..."  But, let's remember that God's resources and ideas are far greater than ours.  Let's live with expectation that He is going to work in and through us.  Let's pray that He would reveal himself in miraculous ways - reaching our friends, family, and neighbors in whatever way is best for them.  This week, as you pray about sharing your faith with those in your world, remember to pray that God would reach people, through you, in ways you can't even imagine. After all, God wants to reach people. Let's be active participants in His plan by telling others the Good News of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-30-12.mp3?id=2012-03-30 Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Give a Verse Someone asked me, "How do you deal with someone who claims to be an atheist and who constantly responds argumentatively?  How do you get through to them and manage to give them the gospel?"  Okay, first of all, I've done it a few times myself.  The first thing is: don't be nervous.  Often atheists are people who suspect that there's a God but don't want to believe in Him and they begin to argue, rather loudly most of the time, and very insultingly sometimes as some of the British atheists that are trying to dismiss the faith of believers today.  The first thing I do is I pray instantly.  "Lord, give me wisdom."  Secondly, I listen very carefully.  Listen to what the atheist says.  Ask him questions.  For instance, "Oh, so you don't believe God created the world.  Okay, how do you think the world was created?" and he'll give you some long story and listen carefully and give him time to do it and don't mock and don't roll your eyes.  When you've listened, then say, "Lord, give me a Bible verse that I can give this person."  I read that years ago.  Pick one verse and drive it home.  And, when you begin to do your part in sharing the gospel, repeat that verse over and over. I remember doing it very clearly, the first time, with a Communist secretary in South America and she gave her life to Jesus Christ. So, those are the beginning answers on how to handle an atheist.  In another program, I'll give you more suggestions. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-29-12.mp3?id=2012-03-29 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Starting a Conversation I had a friend in Connecticut that went to be with Jesus Christ after a long battle with cancer.  He was not young, but he loved God. He was one of my best friends - a lovable guy.  One day, about a year before he died, he said, "You know, Luis, I desire to be a better personal witness. How do I do it? How do I do personal evangelism? How do you start a conversation?"  I said three things.  First, Reggie, start the conversation wherever you are.  If you're sitting in the hospital waiting for treatment, start talking about treatment.  If the other person says, "I'm afraid," there's an opportunity to talk to them in the hospital about their fear.  Usually people without Christ fear death even though they often don't talk about it.  Then, number two, I said to him "Reggie, ask appropriate questions - wise questions." For instance, "Why are you here?" if you happen to be at the hospital.  "What does the doctor say?"  Begin a conversation to understand the other person - to see where they're coming from and then, if you really want to witness, I said to him, "Reggie, you have to give them the basics.  You have to tell them that God loves them in spite of their illness.  That God wants them to go to heaven when they die, not to be lost out in the outer darkness."  And thirdly, tell them about the cross and the resurrection and how to receive Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-28-12.mp3?id=2012-03-28 Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Repentance We received a letter, not so long ago, from somebody saying, "I have believed in Jesus Christ but the thing that bothers me is this: Have I repented truly? Have I repented enough? How can I know that I have truly repented?"  You know, I have thought about that and don't have the complete answer but want to say this:  First, don't compare yourself with other people. Compare yourself with God, your Creator, and what He reveals in the Bible.  So, read it and think for yourself.  "But, how do you know you're repentant?"  First, when you say to God the Father, "God, I have sinned against you. Lord, I am truly sorry for my sins. I deserve to be punished but have mercy on me and forgive me."   The Apostle Peter, when he saw himself in the light of Christ, do you remember what he said? He said "Depart from me, oh Lord, for I am a sinful man."  In other words, he saw himself in the light of God and he recognized that he was in a sinner.  And, you know, in another place Peter himself said, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ." One of the signs that you've repented is that you go public by being baptized and confessing Jesus Christ.  When you repent, you're willing to admit to the whole world, "I am a sinner but I am forgiven by God."  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-27-12.mp3?id=2012-03-27 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Persist I believe that many Christians are afraid to give the Good News because they give up.  And, they give up because they don't see immediate results.  Some people get very critical and they say, "Oh yes, yes, but where are the converts? Where are the converts?"  If you're one of those, let me tell you something.  Timothy, converted to Christ through the Apostle Paul, one of God's great servants in the Bible, as you know, nevertheless got discouraged and Paul had to write him a letter from jail, can you believe it? And, he said to him, "Timothy, persist, persist, persist. Don't be ashamed. Don't be ashamed. Don't be ashamed."  I want to encourage you today to persist. Don't be discouraged. Don't give up. Just because you don't see a conversion on the spot doesn't mean that God hasn't used you.  In Second Corinthians chapter 5, God says to the apostles, "We walk by faith not by sight."  In other words, we sow the seed and we leave it with God.  Sometimes we have the privilege of seeing people, on the spot, give their lives to Christ. That's so exciting, and not very common, to be honest.  We do our part, somebody else participates, and eventually, sometime, they come to Christ.  When we get to heaven we look and say, "Wow, I had a part in that person's conversion. How exciting!" But, don't give up now no matter what other people say.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-26-12.mp3?id=2012-03-26 Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Milk vs. Meat When our daughter, Sadie, came to our family she was a baby. I remember holding her. She was precious, beautiful and tiny. She's grown now and is still just as precious and beautiful, but is now a lively little girl. When she was a baby, to feed her solid food would have been wrong. She needed milk. But, I'm thankful that she has grown. She now can eat anything. In a letter Paul wrote to the Corinthian church he said, "I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly - mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready." Just as my daughter grew and now eats hearty meals, we must grow in our spiritual lives. Let's not be like the Corinthian church who could only handle spiritual milk. Rather, let's focus on what really matters - reaching our world for Jesus Christ. Take a step in your relationship with God. Don't just do what you've always done because it's comfortable. Rather, ask God to show you what is next. Then, be prepared for Him to do just that. He will likely give you many opportunities to show the love of Jesus and tell His story to the people in your world.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-23-12.mp3?id=2012-03-23 Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Now is Not the Right Time Sometimes we fall into the habit of giving God deadlines, especially when it comes to the salvation of others. Once I gave God a deadline, "If I don't see any converts by the end of the year, I'm quitting." I wasn't giving up on my faith, just evangelism. The end of the year came and went, and nothing happened. No one was converted.But, four days after my deadline expired, the right moment came: the Lord moved, and I led someone in a prayer to invite Christ to take over their life. God has his own timing, and many times it does not match up with what we think it should be.Maybe you've shared your faith in Jesus Christ over and over again with someone who is very dear to you, but they haven't responded. I know what that feels like. I prayed for my wayward son for 27 years! Not seeing God move can be discouraging and disheartening. But, don't give up. There are many stories of followers of Christ who have prayed that their spouse, parents, friends, children, or neighbors will come to the Lord. And, they have! These men and women were faithful to pray and share their faith and they have seen results. Sometimes it takes years, but persistence pays off. Never give up. The Lord's timing is the best timing - we just need to be patient and ready. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-22-12.mp3?id=2012-03-22 Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau I'm Not Prepared As followers of Christ, we should always be on the lookout for opportunities to share the Good News with those around us. Opportunities can come at any time and in any place.  Sometimes, opportunities arise in public places - as was the case between two ladies on an airplane. We were flying from Hungary to London and I listened as one woman shared her faith with the lady next to her.  By the end of the flight, they were praying together - asking Jesus to be the Lord of their lives.  Other times, opportunities arise at a Bible study or church service. Even there, we have to be on the lookout for how the Lord wants to use us to lead another to Him - like the time I had an individual stop me in the middle of my teaching and say that she wanted to accept Christ. I was not expecting that!Regardless of where we are, we always need to be ready to stop and lead another to Jesus Christ.  It says in 1 Peter to "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." For this reason, it is important to have an understanding of the Gospel and of verses that explain what it means to receive Christ. Learn those words and write them on your heart so that you will have them ready at a moment's notice. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-21-12.mp3?id=2012-03-21 Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau I'm Not Wise Enough As a young man, I was inspired by the things I read and heard about Billy Graham's ministry. But, I knew I didn't have his gifts. I knew I could not communicate and explain the gospel exactly like Billy Graham. But, one day, the small church I attended in Argentina held a home Bible study. The fellow who was supposed to lead the Bible study never showed up. So the man of the house said, "Luis, you are going to have to say something." I was completely unprepared. I had been reading a book by Billy Graham on the beatitudes. So, I read Matthew 5:1-12 and simply repeated whatever I remembered from Dr. Graham's book. When I did so, a woman was convicted of her sins and decided to follow Christ. I led her in a prayer and she committed her life to the Lord.While I might not have felt wise enough to lead the group in my own strength and knowledge, the Lord provided. God gifted Billy Graham, and he also gave me the gift of Billy Graham's godly wisdom through his books and sermons. Since that time, I feel much more confident speaking to groups. But, I still never underestimate the wisdom of other strong Christ-followers. If what they are saying matches up with God's Word, then their wisdom is another tool to use when sharing the Good News.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-20-12.mp3?id=2012-03-20 Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau My Gift is Not Evangelism Sharing our faith is not easy, especially if we don't feel gifted in evangelism. I should know -- as a young man, I was convinced I didn't have the gift of evangelism. It was obvious. No matter how hard I tried, no one was coming to faith in Jesus Christ. Nothing I did seemed to make a difference. So, I decided to resign myself to simply teaching other believers. In the middle of a lesson I was leading, a woman felt convicted of her sins and asked Christ to purify her heart. Through that, I learned that God uses my gift of teaching to bring people to Jesus.The Lord has created each of us differently with different gifts. We have different tendencies and different personalities. But God still calls us to be salt and light to those around us, regardless of whether he has called us to be teachers or firemen or full-time evangelists. Each one of us is an evangelist. We may just use different gifts to evangelize or prefer different methods of sharing our faith. For example, if you have the gift of hospitality, use that to lead others to Jesus. If you have the gift of service, use that to lead others to Jesus. It doesn't matter what your gift is, each of us can lead another to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-19-12.mp3?id=2012-03-19 Mon, 19 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Loneliness I met a young boy from Rwanda who lives in poverty. God has done a miraculous thing in his life. He now has joy and fellowship with others. But, before he met the Lord, he was very lonely. He said that he would look around and see people going here-and-there. They all had somewhere to go. How he longed for that. He dreamt of the day when someone would expect him - someone would look forward to seeing him. Nobody even knew that he was alive. He was a lonely lonely boy.  Though this is an extreme tale, there are millions of people in similar situations. They may not be living in poverty in Rwanda, but their hearts ache just the same. They are lonely.  Today, won't you reach out to a lonely person in your world? I promise, no matter where you live, there are lonely people very close by. Be a true friend. Really get to know the people in your life. Listen to them. Spend time with them. Then, when God gives you the opportunity, tell them of Jesus Christ. Tell them that God promises, in the Bible, that He will never leave us or forsake us. There is hope! All we must do is tell the people in our lives of Jesus Christ. God will do the rest. Will we be faithful to do our part? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-16-12.mp3?id=2012-03-16 Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Choose to Forgive Forgiving someone who wronged you is tough. The other day I met a man whose wife decided to leave him and their three children. Months later she returned, trying to gain custody of the kids. This man had reason to be angry, but not forgiving his wife only caused more pain.After years of tearful court hearings and visitation swaps, the man finally asked God and his wife to forgive him for his part of the breakup. Then, he asked God for the strength to forgive his wife, regardless of her actions. When this man finally chose forgive, he found true peace. People around him commented that it were as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.This man's story isn't at all uncommon. Broken relationships leave wounds. It's only when we forgive that these wounds can begin to heal. When we forgive, in Jesus' strength, the door opens for God to work. And, our decision to forgive might be the first step in others learning of the great forgiver - God's son, Jesus Christ. Whom do you need to forgive? Perhaps your wholehearted, not-looking-back, forgiveness will pave the way for someone to meet Jesus today. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-15-12.mp3?id=2012-03-15 Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Guilt No More It's a fact. We've all done things we regret. We've all lived with guilt. BUT, praise be to God, we have a Savior! Jesus Christ came to this world and paid the ultimate price so we may be forgiven. Yet, even if we do know Christ's forgiveness, guilt and remorse over past wrongs may still linger.I spoke with a woman from Peru during a radio program recently who told me of her deep pain and guilt. She believed in Jesus, but she couldn't accept that she was really forgiven. She felt horrible for what she had done and didn't know how to move on. After leading her in a prayer, I told her that God had forgiven her. Then I reminded her of what the Bible says in 1 John 1:12 - "to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." When she finally accepted God's forgives, she found such peace and joy and hope. She was truly forgiven. What about you? Are you feeling the pain and remorse of a past wrong? Or is there someone in your life struggling with overwhelming guilt? There is forgiveness for us all! If you or someone you know would like prayer, please call 1-888-NEED-HIM. We'd be honored to guide you through asking for forgiveness of your sins so those chains may fall away. Forgiveness is available through Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-14-12.mp3?id=2012-03-14 Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Lost in Logistics Have you ever been frustrated by the choices of other people? Sometimes the right decision seems so clear to everyone but the person in the situation. That's frustrating. But, sometimes the right decision isn't super clear. That can be frustrating too.However, regardless of the circumstances, one thing is certain - people need Jesus Christ. As His followers, we don't have to get caught up in the details of our friends' struggles. Regardless of what they're going through, the answer is Jesus Christ. The bottom line in every situation is that people need the forgiveness, peace, hope, and love that comes from God alone.Proverbs 4 remind us of God's guidance: "I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble."Rather than getting lost in the logistics of someone's sticky situation, let's focus on leading the people in our world to Jesus Christ. The best thing that can happen is for others to know Him. After that, we can rest in the fact that Jesus will take care of the details. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-13-12.mp3?id=2012-03-13 Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Darkness to Peace I distinctly remember a few times in my life when I've been overwhelmed, when the weight of the world seems too much to carry. During these times, I'm especially thankful that I know Jesus Christ. Without him, those times would have been unbearable. But sadly, there are many people who are going through life without knowing His comfort and peace.In today's world, with economic turmoil, political unrest, and a general unease, we don't have to look far to find hurting people - people who need to know God's comfort. One of these was a dear lady from Peru. She called during a radio program and was suffering from deep depression. I shared Psalm 107 with her, telling her that the Lord could "bring her out of darkness and take away her chains" - just as he said he would. What a joy it was to share the Good News of God's comfort with her and lead her to Jesus Christ.Whom do you know who is struggling with depression or discouragement? Their dark time is an opportunity for you to show them the light of Christ. The peace of God surpasses all understanding. Such peace is deeply needed by those who are hurting. As you reach out to those in need, share the peace of Christ. Our hurting world needs it. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-12-12.mp3?id=2012-03-12 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Shining Together I was in Rwanda a few months ago. We were preparing to put on an evangelistic festival but the projector we had wouldn't shine bright enough so that the images could be seen in the daylight. We didn't know what to do. Then, one man said, "Don't worry, we'll use multiple projectors and line them up. If we project the same image in the same place, the picture will be clear."What a great illustration! We are like those projectors. Alone, our acts of service and love for our community may be seen, but not as much as if we stood together. If we're unified in our efforts, we will make a bigger difference than we could on our own. The Bible describes the blessings of unity in Psalm 133. The Psalmist says, "How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity. It is like precious oil poured on the head [...] it is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion." The oil describes the richness of unity. The dew describes unity's refreshment.  Live and work in unity with your fellow believers. Where some would strive to divide, let's purpose to bring unity and peace. Together, we can accomplish so much more than we could apart. Working together, we can reach even more souls for Jesus Christ.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-09-12.mp3?id=2012-03-09 Fri, 09 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Born Again Have you ever thought about what it truly means to be born again?  The idea is radical, and yet it's what Scripture teaches!  The Bible says that we are born for the first time physically, but that we also have a second spiritual birth into a new, abundant life in Christ.  When I think of someone who has been born again, I think of St. Paul.St. Paul, before his conversion known as Saul, hated Christians!  He persecuted them and spent much of his life trying to kill them.  He angrily defied God, and sought out those who honored Jesus for punishment.  One day God literally blinded Saul, and spoke to him, asking why Saul persecuted Christ followers.  Saul was converted on the spot, his sight restored, and he was given a new name, Paul!St. Paul as you know went on to be a great missionary, and he wrote much of the New Testament Scriptures!  He experienced a genuine conversion, so when he talked about new life in Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to change human hearts- he knew it!  Paul referred to himself in the Scriptures as, "the chiefest of sinner."Paul had a radical encounter with the living God and his life was completely transformed.  That is the same God that you and I worship, and that is the same Good News we are called to share with the world.  Share the story of Paul with a friend this week- God's Word is living and active and the story of Paul is an amazing testimony of God's desire for all people to come to know Him.  Do it this week, won't you? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-08-12.mp3?id=2012-03-08 Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau New Life The Bible is full of stories of changed lives!  One of my favorites is the story of Peter.  Peter was working hard as a fisherman, when Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God, stepped in.  Jesus called Peter to follow Him, and immediately, the Bible records, "he dropped his net and followed Him."  And Peter would never be the same.  Peter often gets a bad rap.  People focus on his denials of Jesus- but how many of us do the same?  How many of us are ashamed of Christ, and decide not to share the Good News?  I love the story of Peter, because he's just like us, and God used him mightily!  He became a pillar of the early church!  He made mistakes, yes, but don't we all?  Peter lived a glorious life of loving Jesus and boldly proclaiming Him as he began the Christian church.The Christ who made Peter the great apostle he was is the same Christ who lives in you and me.  He can make us into the men and women He wants us to be when we give Him control of our lives.  All He asks is to take over.  And when he takes over it's amazing what He can do through us!  The same Peter that denied Jesus three times, began the early church, and the book of Acts recorded that thousands were added to the church each day!  He was an evangelist who spent the rest of his life boldly proclaiming the Good News!  Let Christ take over your efforts to reach your world, and you will be amazed what He does! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-07-12.mp3?id=2012-03-07 Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau The Beauty of Redemption My son spent much of his early life far from God.  He didn't walk with Jesus- in fact he rejected Him.  He lived a life in opposition to God.  My wife Pat and I prayed for years that Andrew would return to the Lord.  Our hearts were broken that our very own son wasn't walking with God.God did not answer our prayer immediately.  But He did answer!  After a trip to one of our festivals in Jamaica, Andrew was convicted of his sin, and committed his life to Christ!  Today Andrew is married with a beautiful family, and he too travels the world sharing the Good News- the very Good News that redeemed him and changed his life!People listen to Andrew because his life demonstrates the power of God!  He is a living testimony of God's love and forgiveness. Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life, and life abundantly!"  Jesus didn't come so we could just "get by."  He didn't come so we could just "skate through."  Jesus came to give us the most full, real, passionate, incredible, fulfilling life imaginable!  Life in Christ is glorious- and much better than the alternative- as my own son Andrew experienced!  If you have been made new, you know this!  Go share about the abundant life that Christ promises, and live it out! Share your story of redemption when you go out to reach your world!  God will use the work He's done in your life, to work on others!   http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-06-12.mp3?id=2012-03-06 Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau The Fall Many people today think that people are basically good.  That we're born with good in our hearts, good intentions, good will towards others... you get the idea.  This is a nice thought, but if you've lived on earth very long- you've realized this isn't true!  People are sinful from birth!  Have you ever noticed that you don't have to teach a child to lie?  Have you seen the capacity for evil within the human heart when you turn on the evening news?I'm not saying these things to be a downer- I think an understanding of our sin, helps us to rejoice that much more in our Salvation!  If we didn't have the problem of a sin nature, we wouldn't need the solution of a Savior!When you go out to reach your world, you cannot neglect our fallen nature.  Many people reject Jesus Christ, because they don't realize they need a Savior!  Some think, "I'm not a murderer, or a thief. I love others, and I'm honest."  But the Bible teaches in the book of Romans, "There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God."When you go out to reach your world, don't point fingers. You're a sinner too- just one who is redeemed.  But let the Holy Spirit work- because the Spirit convicts of sin- not other people. Keep this in mind as you go out to reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-05-12.mp3?id=2012-03-05 Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Patience I'm impatient. I mean, really impatient. I don't like to be stuck at a red light. I don't like to be held up in line. I don't like waiting. I get fidgety. Eventually my mind wanders to issues that are burdening me. I start to worry and feel anxious.Do you ever feel this way when it comes to leading people to Jesus Christ? You plant the seed and wait and wait and wait but it seems that the seed will never grow! Don't be discouraged. Don't give up. James 5 says, "Be patient then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains..."And so it is when leading another to the Lord. Sometimes it takes time - and lots of it! Keep praying. Keep testifying. Only God can draw your friend's heart to Himself. Leave that part to Him. In the meantime, as I Corinthians says, "Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." Friends, be encouraged. Your labor for the Lord is not in vain. Don't let discouragement take root but rather lean on Jesus Christ for the strength to reach your world.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-02-12.mp3?id=2012-03-02 Fri, 02 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Are You Time Wise? Are you a procrastinator? Maybe you like the adrenaline rush that comes with waiting until the last possible moment. Or, perhaps you're a planner. As soon as you're given a deadline, you set to work right away. In either case, both kinds of people have a fire lit under them. The procrastinator jumps to action in the eleventh hour, while the planner gets moving right away. Both are acutely aware of time. One just uses it a little more wisely.Did you know that God values time, too? He wants us to make the most of the time He has given us here on earth. In speaking about His second coming, Jesus says, "Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come." Because we do not know the day or hour, we must maximize today as though Jesus is coming back tonight!How can you live with this sense of urgency? You can spend time every morning asking God how He wants to use you that day. Ask Him to open doors so that you may tell others about His son. Ask Him to provide just the right words in just the right moment. And get ready - because God will use you, a willing vessel, to reach your world for His glory. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/03-Mar/03-01-12.mp3?id=2012-03-01 Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau That You May Pray What do you do in your spare time? "Spare time?" you say, "Luis! I don't have spare time!"  You're right.  Life does seem to be moving faster than ever.But, God designed each day with 24 hours. He thinks that's sufficient. He knows we can get everything done that He wants us to get done in that amount of time. So, what are some of His priorities? One thing is clear from His Word, the Bible - God wants us to pray. In I Peter we read, "The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray."What we learn from this verse is two things. One, time is short. It says, "The end of all things is near." And two, God gives direction for what to do with our time. We are to be praying! Your schedule may be overflowing, but that's no excuse with God. Praying is not a burden. Rather, it is a joy and honor to communicate with the living God, our Creator! Won't you use the time you've been given today to talk with God? Snag a moment in the car. Check in with God while waiting in line. He wants to hear from you, even in your busyness. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-29-12.mp3?id=2012-02-29 Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau No Fear in Death Life is short. Life is fragile. Reminders of this fact are all around us. We see gorgeous flowers bloom and then fade. We read obituaries in the daily newspaper. And then ... we ourselves lose loved ones. That's the most heart-wrenching reminder of all. No one stands outside the fact that death is imminent. The 98-year-old great-grandpa may be close to death, but he might not be closer than the 16-year-old basketball star. We just never know when our last day will be.The Bible says, "Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity." What does this Scripture mean for you today? It means that every moment is precious. It means that to maximize our days, we must be wise and discerning.You do not stand outside the grip of death. It awaits all of us. But those who do not follow Jesus Christ have no peace at the thought of death. They have only fear. When you introduce someone to Christ, you give them the hope of eternal life with God in heaven. Won't you let God use you today? Yes, YOU can reach your world today with the Good News. Do it! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-28-12.mp3?id=2012-02-28 Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Waiting on 'Someday' My son Andrew and his family recently survived a plane crash in Jamaica. This was no small accident; the plane skidded off the runway in a pouring rainstorm, came to a halt at the edge of the ocean, and broke into three massive pieces. Andrew, Wendy and the kids all escaped with only bruises and abrasions. Immediately after the accident, Andrew couldn't stop exclaiming, "Life is short!"Now, it doesn't take a near-death accident to realize that. But it does take a wise person to make the most of this truth. Wisdom is numbering our days. Wisdom is seizing the moment and making the most of every opportunity to tell others about Jesus Christ. Because - life IS short! The Bible says, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."Are you numbering your days? Here's how you can start living wisely right now: tell someone what Jesus Christ has done in your own life. Share the hope of the Gospel. Only God's power can transform lives. And He has given you a story, the story of your faith journey. It's time to share it! Why? So that others might find eternal hope and security in the only One who can provide it: Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-27-12.mp3?id=2012-02-27 Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Our Inheritance What do we desire in terms of an inheritance?  I cannot help it and I'm sure that you'd be sympathetic to this...  when I think of an inheritance I think of a house, money, security, an inheritance that solved all my problems.  That's a human thought.  But God has so much more for us.  As followers of Jesus Christ, pray instead for an inheritance that makes a difference.  The Bible says in the Psalms, "I will proclaim the LORD's decree: He said to me, "You are my son; today I have become your father. Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession."Ask God for nations of saved souls. Why not? Ask God for the kind of inheritance that will make a lasting difference for eternity.As you faithfully work to reach your world, God will bless you beyond your wildest dreams. We would love to hear how you're reaching your world! Would you consider writing us today? Your stories will encourage us and other listeners. As each of us faithfully tell the people in our lives about Jesus Christ, news of Him will quickly spread. How are you reaching your world? Send us your stories at stories at stories@palau.org. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-24-12.mp3?id=2012-02-24 Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Call His Name Listen to these verses- Isaiah 58:9, "Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I." Psalm 141, "I call to you, LORD, come quickly to me; hear me when I call to you." Are you struggling right now? Struggling with family? Struggling with depression? Struggling with how to reach your world? No matter what it is, big or small, call to the Lord. Those verses are just two of many where we see the importance of crying out to the Lord. Call to the Lord and He will answer you. Often we have pious prayers. We think we can only talk to God about certain things - That we must be formal and proper. If you feel that way about prayer, I would encourage you to read the Psalms. Many are filled with anger, sadness, doubt and fear. But all those emotions were poured out to God and God answered! God knows all of your thoughts anyway; you're not surprising Him. But what you are doing is going to Him for wisdom, direction, and the love of a Father. If something is difficult right now, you may want to pour it out to a family member, or a close friend. And that might be fine. But I would encourage you to first and most often pour out your heart to the Lord! Cry out to Him. He will meet you! And as you do this, He will empower you to share His love with the world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-23-12.mp3?id=2012-02-23 Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Don't Turn Back, Don't Back Down I love how God empowers those who love Him. When Moses was being chased by the Egyptians, he could have panicked and backed down. Instead, God gave him the power he needed to stand his ground. Moses stood his ground, and parted the Red Sea. When David was confronted with the giant Goliath, it would have been easy to run away, but he stood his ground and God gave him victory. There is story after story of God-empowered strength.  In Deuteronomy, we are commanded to, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." If you are facing seemingly insurmountable odds, you may be tempted to run away. But God may be asking you to follow in the footsteps of many heroes of our faith who didn't back down. With God's strength they faced their trials head on, and God gave them victory. From Old Testament heroes, to our own Savior who faced the ultimate trial in crucifixion, God gives victory to those who follow Him. Think of soldiers staring down enemy fire. They could run away, but they stay. They fight for their lives and their brothers.' God is asking you to fight for lives too. Fight to reach those who don't know God! God will give you the power needed for victory. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-22-12.mp3?id=2012-02-22 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau The Greatest Adventure Sadly, I think many people reject faith in Jesus Christ because they have the misperception that life as a follower of Christ is boring. They think that if they follow Jesus they can't have fun.  But, that couldn't be farther from the truth. There is more life in Jesus Christ than anywhere else. In fact, the only real life, the only life really worth living, is found in Jesus Christ. The "fun" that people think they're having apart from God, is shallow compared to knowing the depths of God's love and the endless reaches of His mercy. When we get to know Him, we encounter the "life abundant" that Jesus promises His followers.I love to read old missionary stories. The faithful missionaries of the last several generations are heroes to me. In fact, it was missionaries in Latin America who were responsible for me coming to know Jesus. Missionaries reach their world every day and I praise God for their work. If you are tempted to think life in Jesus Christ is boring, pick up an old missionary biography. You will see all the adventures that await you as you throw yourself completely into reaching your world. There's nothing better or more fulfilling than leading another to Jesus Christ. Are you up for the adventure? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-21-12.mp3?id=2012-02-21 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Adopted by Christ My son, Andrew, and his wife, Wendy, have two biological sons and one adopted daughter. Sadie, or as Andrew refers to her, his "African Princess" is loved just as much as if she was their biological child. Andrew and Wendy chose her, traveled across the globe to get her, and she is now a very special, loved part of our family. You know, adoption is a beautiful picture of God's love for us! Beyond our own family, I know many others who have been blessed by the beautiful gift of adoption. There's something magnificent about choosing another and bringing them into your family. Did you know that just as Andrew and Wendy adopted and cherish Sadie, so God adopts and cherishes us?  Each of us who believe in Him have become part of His family through adoption. Paul writes in Ephesians, "he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will..." Jesus wants to adopt each of us for his pleasure. What a loving God we serve! As we think about our own adoption into God's family, let's also think about how we can bless those around us by welcoming them into our lives. Today, share the Good News of our loving Father in Heaven, who longs to welcome His children home. And consider how God might use your family to welcome and embrace another. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-20-12.mp3?id=2012-02-20 Mon, 20 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: In Front of Jesus Do you remember the story of the paralyzed man in Mark 2?  Jesus was teaching in Capernaum and four men decided to take their paralyzed friend to see Jesus.  But, there were so many people listening to Jesus that they couldn't get their friend to Him.  What did they do?  They made an opening in the roof and lowered the paralyzed man through the hole - right in front of Jesus!  Now, that's determination!  They were convinced that if they could get their friend in front of Jesus, He would do the rest.  They were so determined that, even though it was hard at first, they wouldn't stop working until their friend met Jesus face-to-face.Are we that determined in our resolve to get our friends in front of Jesus?  All we have to do is get them there. He'll do the rest - just as He did for the paralyzed man.  Though He did heal the paralyzed man physically, He first forgave his sin - which is far more important.  Our friends need forgiveness and the assurance of eternal life too.  Work as though getting people in front of Jesus really matters.  Work at it with all your heart and don't give up.  There is nothing more important than leading another to Jesus Christ. Keep at it and don't give up.   Because it does! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-17-12.mp3?id=2012-02-17 Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Word and Deed For years I have said that evangelism is the best type of social action. I believe that wholeheartedly, and frankly, without evangelism we can't see real change in our nation. But we must live our faith as we speak it.  If we're going to see change in our world today, it must be done through word AND deed. Sharing about the love of Christ is a must, but are we reflecting that love too? Sharing about the forgiveness of the cross is foundational, but are we extending to others the forgiveness shown to us? Proclaiming our new life in Christ is critical, but do our lives look different from those around us?  Do our lives look new?Are we truly loving our neighbor as ourselves? Are we putting Christ first in all we do? Are we sharing the Good News Gospel "as we go into all the world" as Jesus asks us to in the Gospel of Mark?What we share is of immense importance, but how we share it many times dictates whether it is heard. If our words aren't backed by our love for others, they will fall flat.  Our words, proved by our actions, are what will show the world that Jesus makes a difference. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-16-12.mp3?id=2012-02-16 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Turning the World on Its Head Even as early as the book of Acts, those who believed in Jesus were known as having influence throughout the entire world. In fact, they were accused of turning the world on its head!If you read the account in the book of Acts, chapter 17, Jason and several other followers of Christ were actually dragged from his house and put on trial. Why? Because they were living differently than others and proclaiming the Good News!Because of Jason and believers like him, within a matter of years, the Good News of God's son had spread throughout the world. The name of Jesus had traveled to distant lands, and people who followed him became known for their "unusually holy" lives. They had set a new standard for living.So now - 2,000 years later - as we sit in our homes, this is my question: Are we still turning the world on its head? Like the members of the early Church, are our lives causing others to question theirs - in a good way? What are we doing to stand out? What are we doing to reflect Jesus Christ? Our world is watching. Will they see Jesus in you and me? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-15-12.mp3?id=2012-02-15 Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau How Believers Changed the World Recently, I was reading a book about the influence followers of Jesus have had on the world. It was a powerful reminder. More than any president, any nation, or any other group of people, followers of Jesus have made an overwhelming difference in our world. It's not often talked about, but it's staggering. Did you know that we have men and women who know and love Jesus Christ to thank for hospitals, freedom, dignity to women, charity, equality, brotherly love, and the moral code? When people begin trusting in Jesus Christ, it revolutionizes not only their soul, but also their lives, their families, their cities, and their world. It overflows into their actions, speech, and all of their beings. This is what the Bible calls the indwelling Christ - the hope of glory.  It is Christ in us that motivates us to change our world.  Following the indwelling Christ means that He can use us to give hope to others and make an eternal difference.  And he will!  Isn't that amazing!?! God wants to use YOU and ME to change our communities and our world. All we need to do is follow Him and be willing to tell others of His love. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-14-12.mp3?id=2012-02-14 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Your Involvement Matters Every few years, it's a given. Whether you are old enough to vote or not, you'll be hard-pressed to find a place where a political campaign isn't ringing in your ear. Everywhere you look - newspapers, television, online, and magazines - candidates ask for your vote. Why? Because YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE! These candidates work so hard to get their message in front of you because they believe that your vote can change a city, a country, and even the world. That's impressive. And it's true!While casting our vote in an election is good, without Jesus Christ people are still lost. But, we can make a difference.  Just as political leaders make changes on a national level, we are the ones who make an impact on our neighborhood, school, and workplace. Friend, it's up to us as followers of Jesus to tell others of His love. You and I have people in our lives that only we can reach. Jesus said that we are the "light of the world." While making a civic difference is important, let's be people who are actively making an eternal difference as well. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-13-12.mp3?id=2012-02-13 Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Waiting Time When I'm sick, I don't want to take the time to go to the doctor. But, recently my fever was so bad that my wife said I had to go.  As I sat in the little room, all weighed and measured and blood pressurized, I waited. Then I waited some more. And some more. I sent a text. I called my wife. I absent-mindedly flipped through a magazine. I was frustrated. What was taking them so long?Then it hit me, the doctor knew I was there but there were things going on that I couldn't see. In another room, there may have been an emergency. Another patient may have needed more time because of a serious condition. I needed to trust that the doctor was coming and would make the call as to the proper time.Life can be like this. Often it is. We must learn to wait patiently and not put our trust in our timetables but rather have faith that God is working in His time. We can't see the entire picture. If it seems like it's taking forever for a friend to come to know Jesus Christ, be patient. God sees everything and He is working. Continue to pray but don't stress. God is at work and knows all things. In His time and in His way, everything will work together for good.  Just be patient and be faithful. God will do the rest. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-10-12.mp3?id=2012-02-10 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau When the Going Gets Tough... It seems as though many people these days are looking for the path of least resistance.  Have you ever noticed that? If a class is tough, you want to switch classes. If a marriage is strained, you pursue divorce. If a church is struggling, you go to a different church. I'm convinced of something - as followers of Christ, when the going gets tough we should step up, not run away. Often, things worth pursuing are difficult. Don't jump ship because it requires effort - work that much harder.  Every worthwhile goal will cost something, whether that's time or effort or energy. If you want to reach your world and leave a legacy that will affect generations to come, you can't just lazily try to evade anything that requires hard work.In the words of Jesus, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." Are you willing to deny your comfort, ease, and human desires, in order to accomplish something worthwhile? In order to reach your world for Jesus Christ? It won't be easy. It will take discipline and hard work. It may require pressing on, even when things are difficult. But, I guarantee that when you are committed to working hard to doing what is right, telling others about Jesus Christ, you will find joy and peace, and you will leave a lasting legacy. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-09-12.mp3?id=2012-02-09 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Prone to Distraction I've seen the same evening play out many times... I'm sitting in a restaurant with my family and inevitably, there's a couple sitting at a nearby table that I can't help but notice. They don't have anything to say to each other. The wife is staring blankly into the distance. The husband is rudely typing away on his phone. They are physically together but their minds are elsewhere. We've all been in that situation at one time or another. We've all been distracted from what really matters.But, if you are trying to reach your world, you cannot treat people that way. Try to fully engage with whomever it is God has brought before you. It's easy to get ten steps ahead and already be thinking about the next conversation, or meeting. But, God has you where you are, this moment, for a reason! When you're spending time with friends and family, commit to turning off the phone, shutting down the laptop, and disciplining your mind to really listen to them. The Bible says in Proverbs, "To answer before listening- that is folly and shame." You can't listen to someone's words, or the Holy Spirit's promptings, if your attentions are elsewhere. This week, try to focus on each interaction. There is bound to be an opportunity to share the Good News in at least one of them.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-08-12.mp3?id=2012-02-08 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Flaky It's about that time of year... How are your New Year's resolutions going? Statistically, you probably stopped following through on them weeks ago. Perhaps you set out to work out every day, or to skip dessert, or to save a certain amount of money. Have you done it? Did you do it for a week? Or two? Why is it that we can discipline ourselves for a short time but inevitably go back to our old habits so quickly? Why are we so fickle?You know, one of the greatest truths of Scripture, a truth that has made a remarkable impact on my own life, is that Christ is actually alive in those who love Him. That is the key to joy and discipline - all of which lead to lasting Kingdom fruit! If you feel like you're never able to follow through on goals you set, ask God for His power. Christ has given you new life, including a new mind and a new heart. And the mind and heart of Christ will allow you to persevere in doing good things! You will experience new focus and determination - not fleeting motivation but actual, long-lasting, life-change. In Galatians, the Bible says, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." Do you believe it? Will you live a life of excellence that draws others to Jesus? Draw near to Him, and experience real change - not some half-hearted resolution. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-07-12.mp3?id=2012-02-07 Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Discipline Receiving Jesus Christ is 100% free. It is not dependent on our good works or effort. Though salvation costs us nothing, discipleship should cost us. The moment of salvation is not the whole story. Often when reaching our world, we are concerned only with the moment of decision. Which of course is important - it's the first step and most critical! But God desires so much more for His followers. He desires a life of commitment and pursuit and devotion and discipline. Be careful never to confuse the two. Don't ever think that your devotion earned you a way to God. But, do remember that a disciplined life should follow a genuine conversion. The spiritual disciplines are so important that Jesus Himself practiced them. Jesus prayed and fasted and studied God's Word. How much more should we pray and fast and study God's Word? As you reach your world, be careful how you present the Good News. Yes, God's grace is free. It doesn't cost us a thing. But, being a follower of Jesus requires a radical life change.  Jesus said in Luke, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me."  Share the Good News with your world. It IS good news. But, remember to also demonstrate what it means to live a life for Christ - a life of true devotion. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-06-12.mp3?id=2012-02-06 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Doubt A 13 year old boy once told me about a conversation he had with a friend. Although his friend had confessed Christ, his faith came to a standstill because of a troubling doubt. "I'm not sure I can believe in a God who condemns people, even good people, to hell for not believing in Jesus," he said. How would you respond to this? The boy told his friend, "Consider that maybe God isn't condemning these people, but offering a place of forgiveness for all of us who have already been condemned by sin." He certainly had the right idea. John 3:17 says "God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." When confronted by someone who is struggling with doubt, our best recourse is to turn to the Word of God.We need to take powerful steps to be prepared when questions like these arise from those around us. But we don't need to have all the answers. In fact, taking the time to search the Bible together creates space for discussion, fellowship and spiritual growth. Who knows, maybe by not having all the answers we can help our friends learn to turn to the Word. What could be better than that?  The Word of God has the answers to life's biggest questions. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-03-12.mp3?id=2012-02-03 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Who is Lord of Your Ambitions? From my youth, I have felt that God has called me to evangelize in the great cities of the world. Much has been accomplished by His grace. Yet so many doors still need to be opened! But when it seems as if God is going a little slower than I want Him to go, I risk the danger of trying to twist God's arm to get things moving a little faster. It's so subtle a temptation. Have you ever tried to put into action God's revealed plan with your own methods? That's just what Jacob did when he deceived his brother, Esau. He wanted his brother's birthright, and he wasn't willing to wait for God's timing. He took things into his own hands, he manipulated events, and was quickly entangled in a web of deception. God's way is never a tangled web. His way is that peaceful way of Proverbs 3:7, "In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Is Jesus Christ the Lord of your ambitions?  With all your heart, make Him Lord today.  Then, He will use you in mighty ways to bring colleagues, friends, and others into His kingdom. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-02-12.mp3?id=2012-02-02 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Choose Life! Jacob was cooking up a stew of red lentils to entice his big brother's appetite because he was after Esau's birthright. Jacob was determined to get it, no matter what it took! When Esau came home from a long day of hunting, he was famished. He begged Jacob for a hot bowl of stew. Jacob, the sly guy that he was, told his brother that he could certainly have a bowl of soup, if he'd hand over his birthright. Sure enough, Esau responded with, "Look, I'm dying of starvation! What good is my birthright to me now?" In a moment of weakness and passion, Esau ruined his hour of opportunity just to fill his belly. What a momentous decision!While God is always sovereign, man also has a great measure of responsibility. God gives you the opportunity to exercise your free will every day, too. Deuteronomy 30:19 says, "I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live." In moments of desperation, gain strength from God's mighty hand on your life. Choose life, and share the life of Christ with those around you. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/02-Feb/02-01-12.mp3?id=2012-02-01 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau God Revealed Through Man When Esau and Jacob were born, Esau came first. They named him after his red, hairy skin. Jacob came second. His hand was grabbing his brother's heel, so they called him Jacob, which means "Grabber." Both of these guys from the Old Testament lived up to their names: Esau with his wild, hairy, mountain-man attitude, and Jacob with his cutthroat desire to climb to the top. He went after his brother's birthright, and he got it. Later, of course, he was on the run, hiding from his brother who wanted to kill him.  Although Jacob was deceitful and sly at first, God had a wonderful plan for his life. The Lord worked on him and changed him over many years. Beyond Jacob's faults we see God's character as He reveals Himself in the life of a man. God reveals Himself in your life and through your life, too. Paul's letter to the Philippians says, "For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose." Let the Lord speak through your life to others. Just be obedient and faithful, and let God's character shine through you!  That, my friend, is influence! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-31-12.mp3?id=2012-01-31 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Before You Were Born Do you remember Jacob? His story is recorded in Genesis. He was the son of Isaac and Rebekah.  After being childless for years, Rebekah finally became pregnant.  The Bible says she felt like there were two babies fighting inside of her. And sure enough, God told her that her twin sons would become rival nations. Two sons, unborn, and God is declaring what will happen with their lives! That's God's brilliance in action. He knows the end from the beginning. He saw those two sons of Rebekah and Isaac when they were conceived and He determined how they were going to be used by God. God knew you before you were born. Jeremiah 1:5 says, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart." What a fantastic verse! While you were still inside your mother, God set a plan for using your life. And He continues to work out His purposes in your life year after year. Encourage those around you today with this amazing truth: God made you and has a fabulous divine plan for your life.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-30-12.mp3?id=2012-01-30 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Jesus Christ - Our Hope In today's world, we all know that people are looking for hope.  Politicians run entire campaigns recognizing that hope is a need of man.  People are searching. They wonder. And they often, sadly, look in the wrong places. Where does hope come from?  We can offer true hope, not just political hope or surface-level hope, but real hope. We can offer this real hope to people desperate for good news.  We can be the evidence that hope is available as we sacrificially serve.  Hold out the evidence that the presence of God is true hope in our lives. The Bible says in the Psalms, "Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him." "The LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love." Our hope does come from the Lord- will you share this hope with someone today? I know that there are people in your life, just as there are in mine, who need to hear the Good News. As followers-of-Jesus, it's our joy and honor to tell others of Him. Will you do it today? Sharing the hope of God with a hurting friend or family member is what Christ-followers were made to do. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-27-12.mp3?id=2012-01-27 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Rules of the Game The rules of any game are used to create boundaries to make a fair playing field for each team.  These rules are enforced by a referee or umpire and compiled in an official book of regulations for that sport.  The life we live can easily be compared to a game and the boundaries we live by, God's rules, serve as guidance for how to play on God's team.So what are the rules we are called to follow as we try to reach our world for God's team?  Rule Number 1: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.  Rule Number 2: Love your neighbor as yourself.Are we following these rules daily?  Are we caring for our neighbors when they are in need?  Are we showing love to our co-workers despite a difficult project or deadline?  Remembering God's Word, His rules set forth for us, can guide our steps, our words, as we reach out to those around us.  And, the better we know God, the more we'll realize that these rules bring freedom and confidence.  These rules don't tie us down, but rather set us free to live life as He intended.  As we do, we'll be more and more excited to share God's Good News with our world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-26-12.mp3?id=2012-01-26 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Team Effort Many members make up a team. And, each has a specific role that contributes to the outcome.  The success of a team is not only the success of an individual, but the team's successes combined.In the same way, our efforts to reach our world are not a game of solitaire.  Each follower of Jesus is part of the body of Christ, as described in the Bible in 1 Corinthians.  Each serves a purpose in bringing those around them to the Savior. Your position on the team may be to plant the seed - to be the first one to tell another about Jesus Christ and His love for us.  Or, your job may be to water the seed - to encourage others in their spiritual life. The end goal, lives surrendered to Jesus Christ, is met when each part of the team, each part of the Body of Christ, participates in reaching their world.Be faithful to your role in the body of Christ. Encourage your fellow believers to share their faith and share your own with boldness, knowing that you are communicating a message of Good News and great hope to a hurting world. Imagine if each of us in the body of Christ worked diligently to tell those in our world of God's son. What a difference that would make! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-25-12.mp3?id=2012-01-25 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Try, Try Again When it comes to reaching our world, it is often easy to be critical of ourselves.  As part of God's team, we are asked to share our faith with others, but we can easily become discouraged if an effort isn't successful.  So what can we do to remain encouraged? One thing I like to do is compare it to sports. Just because a play doesn't work the first time, doesn't mean it won't work the second. When a soccer or football team runs a play, it sometimes works and sometimes doesn't. Just because a play doesn't work, doesn't mean the approach wasn't valid; it just means they have to try it again. In the same way, if you are trying to reach out to a co-worker but they don't seem to be responding, try again. Keep sharing. Don't give up. You are planting seeds in their life and, eventually, will likely reap the reward you seek. Remember, as the Word of God says, "Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid or discouraged."  As you try again, talk to our heavenly "coach" through prayer, and resolve to be determined, you will be a powerful player for God's team - His Kingdom. Reaching your world is challenging.  Don't be too hard on yourself if you don't see immediate results. Just keep on being faithful. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-24-12.mp3?id=2012-01-24 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Not Our Strength Often when our extended family gets together, there is a sports game. We seem to have just as much fun cheering for our favorite team from the couch as we do from the stadium. After a touchdown, or a successful sprint, a final inning, or the game-winning goal, there are wild celebrations. Sports victories are great, but there is a greater team and greater victory yet.As followers of Jesus, we're on a team too.  It's called the Body of Christ. And, in God's strength, we can be victorious.  In Paul's Letter to the Philippians he says "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." As part of God's team, we are winners, but not because of what we do, not by our own strength.  We are winners, we are successful, because of God's forgiveness, God's love, and God's grace.In what ways can we celebrate what God has done in our lives to make us winners?  One of the main ways, I think, is to share our faith.  When we tell others what God has done in our lives, we are giving Him credit and honor. By sharing our stories, and reaching out to others, we are celebrating that it is He who gives us strength. Today, let's give God the glory and be an active participant on His team by telling another of His love. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-23-12.mp3?id=2012-01-23 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Ask and Believe Is there someone in your life who seems far from God? We all know people who don't walk with the Lord. But, is there a person in your life who has purposefully turned their back on Him? Someone you love deeply, whose poor decisions are painful to watch... Guess what? I was that person. I was that person to my parents. For twenty-seven years my mom and dad watched me make poor choices, turn my back on the Lord, and live a life that was destructive. But, you know, they didn't give up. They continued to pray for me each day of those long twenty-seven years. The Bible says that God wants all people to come to him. Your loved one is no exception. God wants to save them too. So, don't give up. Believe that God wants to reach those in your life that you feel are hopeless. Continue to love them and pray for them. Ask God to bring your loved one to Him. When you feel discouraged, or disheartened, remember that God brought you to Him and wants to do the same thing for your loved one. It is not too late. Keep praying and believe that God will work a miracle. He has done it thousands of times and wants to do it again. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-20-12.mp3?id=2012-01-20 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau The Disciples When we are looking to strategize in reaching our world, I think the best place to start, is the life of Christ. How did Jesus prioritize His life? What did He spend His time doing? Where did He go? Who did He spend time with? What did He say? A careful study of Jesus' life will uncover many important truths that we can incorporate as we strive to reach our world. Jesus preached, performed miracles, and confronted religious hypocrisy. But, He also spent much time with his small group of disciples. This group of fishermen and the like were called by Jesus to follow Him, and they did. He poured Himself into their lives, teaching and training this group of twelve. He knew that the impact of those relationships would change history! Think of all that those twelve did for the Kingdom...Paul wrote to Timothy in Corinthians, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." Who in your life can follow your example? Whose example are you following? That sort of relationship can have a tremendous impact! Look for ways to invest in others and share what God is teaching you. Relationships matter to God, hence they should matter to us. Spend time this week investing in relationships. Most often, it's through relationships that people come to know Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-19-12.mp3?id=2012-01-19 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Taking the Time We live in a very busy, hurried society. Why all of this busyness? Many people find their value and worth in how full their schedule is and how many tasks and to-dos they're juggling. But I would challenge you, just what are you busy about? Your schedule reflects your priorities. Are you busy loving God, serving others, and reaching your world? Or are you busy doing trivial things? I've heard it said that there are very few roles in our life where we are irreplaceable. What are some of those essential roles? Well, I'll tell you. Friend, only you can be a father or mother to your children. Only you can be a loving spouse to your husband or wife. Only you can spend time at the feet of Jesus to get His wisdom and direct guidance for you personally. Often it seems that clubs or jobs or meetings take up our time making it difficult to focus on what really matters. What are our priorities? Do we reflect things of eternal value? Things God has uniquely planned for us? Or are we neglecting the things that really matter? Let's not allow the everyday tasks to crowd out our calling. The Bible says in Ephesians, "I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received." How can we re-prioritize this week? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-18-12.mp3?id=2012-01-18 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Be There I find the advice we get from our cultural "experts" very interesting. Some of it is helpful, and some of it isn't. Some of it has wisdom, but some of it is horrible advice. Open a magazine, read an article online, or watch a morning talk show, and you'll hear some consistent themes. One of them is the theme of "putting yourself first." Culture sometimes talks about people who spend their time serving others as if it's a bad thing. You'll actually see wonderful Moms and Dads admonished for spending so much time on their children or their spouse. One article recently said the best way to help your marriage is to "spend time apart and focus on yourself." This focus on fulfilling our selfish desires isn't a good idea to me. So I have a challenge for you. Don't listen to that advice. Rather, take your advice from God and His Word. St. Paul writes in Philippians, "...in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Pour yourself out in the service of others, and God will fill you up in ways that "me time" never could. Serve others. Love others. Care for others before yourself and you will be following in Jesus' footsteps. And did you know, that following in Jesus' footsteps is the best way to reach your world? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-17-12.mp3?id=2012-01-17 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Jesus, Our Mentor Statistically, many of you listening grew up without your Dad as an active part of your life. Even if your Dad was around, you probably know someone who's Dad wasn't. There is a growing epidemic of fatherlessness and a rising number of Christ-followers trying to figure out what to do about it. Many are jumping in to mentor fatherless children so that they have a positive adult in their life. I think that's great. Mentoring is a great thing and a great way to reach your world.But, do you know the ultimate mentor? It's Jesus Christ Himself. A mentor is supposed to be a friend, give you guidance and direction, and help set you on a good, positive course for life. Jesus does all those things. If you're a mentor to others, that's great. But, make sure that you are introducing people to the ultimate mentor. It's easy to spout off answers to questions but are we pointing people to the one who can answer absolutely every question? Life with Jesus provides the Father figure that so many of us are missing. He is a father to the fatherless. Life with Jesus provides wisdom, direction and life in abundance. Jesus promises to be "with us always."  He will never walk out on you, or disappoint you. Turn to Jesus and find the mentor you're looking for - and the Savior you need. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-16-12.mp3?id=2012-01-16 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Temptation Redeemed My wife and I have been counseling a young woman who has been struggling with sin and temptation. She's so frustrated with this battle that she sometimes becomes angry with God. We can all relate to this frustration in some way or another. But, how we handle it is critical. Many of us often cover up our struggles because we feel as though we're the only one going through it. Consider the words of Psalm 139:13: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." God created each of us to be unique. To get angry with God is to presume that he made a mistake in how he made you. But he did not. And He will not forsake you. Even as we battle sin, God is always faithful and will find us a way out.  In this light, our problems and frustrations become a powerful part of our testimony. As God guides us to overcome these struggles, we become equipped to reach out to others in similar situations. Realize that even our faults can be used in the process of leading another to Jesus Christ. Nothing is "off limits." God uses both the good times and the bad times for his glory. Never be ashamed to tell the entire story of what he has done in your life.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-13-12.mp3?id=2012-01-13 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Second Chance at Following Have you ever felt personally called by God? An ophthalmologist from New York did, but for years he ignored that call. But, that's not the end of the story. As long as we are on this earth, we have a second chance. Even if we've messed up the first time, God can definitely give us another opportunity to reach the world around us. Even though the ophthalmologist didn't respond to God's call at first, later he ended up excitedly going to Afghanistan with his wife. Towards the end of his life, I had the privilege of seeing him one more time before he went to be with the Lord. His body had grown so weak that he couldn't stand anymore. But, on the inside he was very much alive. He had peace because he had been obedient. As we respond and act on God's calling in our lives, we will experience a satisfaction that only a life devoted to the Lord can bring.The Lord promises in His word, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." Do not be afraid that the Lord will not guide you because you've messed up. Rather, let's be thankful for the mercy He shows us even when we don't respond immediately and be quick to act on the second chance we receive. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-12-12.mp3?id=2012-01-12 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau When We Don't Respond A man from New York once told me that he felt called to be an ophthalmologist in the Middle East. Unfortunately, he didn't end up responding to the call. He told me, "when graduation came, I married and my friends and relatives began to warn me about the dangers of living in the Middle East, the sacrifices a missionary must make, and about foolishly wasting my education. They said, 'Don't do it.' And the pride of life got a hold of me and I never did go to the mission field."This man's decision to ignore God's call ate away at his peace. He always wondered what his life would have been like if he had been obedient. He told me, "I haven't had one day of peace in 42 years." I felt so bad for him. No one wants to end up living without peace. His story reminds me to always, always, always respond when God asks us to do something. 1 John 2:3 says, "We know that we have come to know Him if we keep His commands." Therefore, I encourage you to not only follow the dictates of the Gospel but to also follow Christ's unique calling on your life. How is He compelling you to be a light to your world? Friend, let's respond to His call today. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-11-12.mp3?id=2012-01-11 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Responding to the Caller's Call I met a man while preaching at a church in New York one snowy January. This man told me, "When I was in university, some 42 years ago, a missionary by the name of John R. Mott came and spoke about the need in the Middle East for ophthalmologists to help treat eye diseases, and I felt the call of God. When he gave the invitation, I made a commitment to go and serve Jesus Christ on the mission field. I made a commitment to use my medical skills for God's glory."Have you felt called by God to do something? As followers of Jesus, we all have a calling. And, if we love God with all our heart and soul and strength, we will do what He calls us to do. Love and obedience cannot be separated. The Lord Jesus Christ made this clear to His disciples when He said, "'If you love me, you will obey what I command.'"What is Jesus Christ asking you to do? Is He calling you to share the gospel with the people in your work place? Or to bring food to a neighbor in need? Regardless of what we may or may not "feel," God has called us to reach our world. Obedience to His call, whether it is something large or seemingly small, is an expression of our love for our Savior. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-10-12.mp3?id=2012-01-10 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau The One Thing We are Called to Do A 10-year-old girl made this observation: "Heaven is a nice place to go, but nobody's in a hurry to get there." And, you know, she's right. Many followers of Jesus aren't excited about going to heaven and seeing the Lord. Maybe it's because, unless they change, they will have little or nothing to show for their lives.Sadly, many followers of Jesus have opted for the "good life" instead of the "best life." They go to church, read their Bibles, serve on church committees and tithe.  But, that's not what will count most in eternity. The main thing God asks of us is to love Him with all our heart and soul and strength.If you were to look back on your life, can you say that you loved God with all your heart, soul, and strength? If we love God with every fiber of our being, then we will long to please Him with our life's work. We will say with the Apostle Paul, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." If we have that kind of love for our Creator it will be evident to those around us and provide opportunities to share the good news of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-09-12.mp3?id=2012-01-09 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: The Whole Story In the film industry, sometimes footage of short, unimportant scenes are cut in order to keep the film within a certain time limit or to keep the story focused. In some cases, the director's original vision for the film can end up on the editing room floor. As strange as it seems, this reminds me of something that often happens when we share our testimonies. Many of us leave out the parts we believe are insignificant or won't matter to anyone else. We think we know the "moral" of our story; the big, impressive epiphany or the rescue from danger and sin. But God has a knack for surprising us with the way he uses everything about us to draw people to Him, even our "deleted scenes." We need to remember that even as we tell our own stories, God is the one who is working--not us. Don't let the impact of your testimony become limited by your "theatrical version." Leave room for God to work through your ENTIRE story.  You never know how he'll use it, but he will. As we're faithful to tell people about him, he'll be faithful to draw their hearts. All that we are asked to do is tell what he has done. Ask him to guide your words each time you share. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-06-12.mp3?id=2012-01-06 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau God on the Bus People, people everywhere! Do you live in a big city or near a large metropolitan area? Chances are greater than 80% that you do. Along with most cities comes public transportation. These transportation networks - busses, the light rail, subways, etc. - are ideal places to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.Have you ever sat next to a complete stranger and wondered how in the world God could use you to reach them? It's not difficult. Just be yourself! Be friendly, be open, be honest. One idea I suggest is to carry a book - either the Bible or a book by your favorite Christian author. When someone sits next to you, simply engage them in everyday conversation. Ask things that would be of interest to them. Develop a rapport. And in the course of conversation, they may ask about your book, or you may refer to it. Then, you can begin to freely share what God has done in your life.The Bible says, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes." As you take public transportation, remember to be bold, open and ready to share the love of Christ in a gracious way. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-05-12.mp3?id=2012-01-05 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau A Thank-You Note that Shares the Gospel It's never an accident when someone crosses your path. There is a purpose for every interaction, the potential for God to use you in a special way. Listen to this story... A few years ago, my friend Jodi had Lasik eye surgery. She had been legally blind but the surgery restored her vision to 20/20. Not a day passes when she isn't praising God for restoring her sight. One day she realized it was good to praise God, but what about her surgeon? Had she thanked him properly? And did he know the Gospel?Eager to reach out to him, my friend wrote a card to her surgeon. She not only thanked him, but she shared the clear Gospel message.  Jodi quoted a couple of scriptures and let her surgeon know that she was thankful for him and Jesus' healing through him.  This man certainly couldn't read that note without hearing the Gospel from a thankful heart.  Jodi found a practical and personal way to share the Gospel with a healthcare professional. Will you share the Good News of Jesus Christ with someone today? Ask God to help you recognize such opportunities. Ask Him to make you His bold vessel for sharing the Good News. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-04-12.mp3?id=2012-01-04 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Like a Good Neighbor Everyone likes a good neighbor. And anyone can be the "standard" good neighbor.  All it takes is saying hello in passing, chatting over the fence, and keeping an eye on each other's homes.  But when you truly care for someone, it's more than just those physical things.  You care for ALL of them - including their spiritual well-being.God has placed you in your neighborhood for a reason. Perhaps you'll be the first person to ever share the Gospel with the lady down the street or the family next door.  Are you praying for opportunities to do this? Keep alert and ready to seize the opportune time. Just be you. And be honest about what God has done in your life. In the meantime, bring your neighbors flowers from your garden, or bake them cookies, or invite them over for dinner.  It doesn't matter what you do, just do something.  Tangibly bring God's love into their lives. The Bible says, "Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up."So, what are you waiting for? Time is short. Begin praying now for open doors to share Jesus Christ with your neighbor. And begin showing God's love in practical ways. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-03-12.mp3?id=2012-01-03 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Reach Your Waitperson I love to eat out. That's probably a good thing because I travel so much. I eat at all kinds of places; places with waiters and waitresses whose job it is to take my order and serve my meal. These are the very people I look forward to reaching with the Gospel! I've found a way to accomplish this that is both natural and powerful. It's easy, and you can do it, too! As you are chatting with your server, when it's appropriate, just say, "We are going to pray before our meal. How can we pray for you?" This opens the door for a candid response. Let the conversation go where it may. And before you leave the restaurant, give your waitperson your business card or contact information. Say, "When God answers our prayer for you, call me. I want to hear about it."  (And, always leave a good tip.  Be generous.)Your bold compassion may touch their life with the love of Jesus Christ. The Bible says, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." All it takes is a simple offer to pray. In so doing, you take a bold stand for the Lord. You touch someone's life in a thoughtful way. The next time you eat out, won't you reach out and pray for your server? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2012/01-Jan/01-02-12.mp3?id=2012-01-02 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: In but Not Of As a follower of Jesus Christ finding balance in life is critical. We are called to be in the world but not of it. We can't do our work of being salt and light if we are hiding. But there is one place that we realize that we do need to be cautious - we need to be in a place where our light can shine NOT a place where we start to lose our identity.  People influence us deeply and we can easily put our identity in other things to please them.  Ephesians 5 tells us that we are to 'be imitators of God." Be careful how you allow the impact of culture to bump you off the path.  Do not be partners with the disobedient.  It's one thing to be in relationship with the disobedient but it's another thing if you start to partner with them or are influenced by them. Your intentions might be good, but our weaknesses are real.  We must be cautious.  We are to, "Live as children of light."  Find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but expose them.  You are either exposing the darkness or you're embracing the darkness.  It can be easy to rationalize certain things but we must strive to honor God in all we do if we are to reach our world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-30-11.mp3?id=2011-12-30 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Personal Taste As generations collide, there are often conflicts. As a member of the older generation at a church with many members of all ages, I see this often. Many people my age don't like the loud, upbeat music that the young people enjoy. Many young people don't like the hymns that we enjoy. Did you know that even when the style is different, the heart of the message can remain intact? I've chosen to pay attention to the heart of the message because if it's reaching young people, that's all that matters.  I don't really care if I enjoy the style or not.  Do the lyrics honor Jesus?When picking a church home, we must distinguish between personal taste and biblical truth. Look for a church that teaches God's word.  If it looks a little different than what you're used to, that's okay. Paul said in 1 Corinthians, "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some."Perhaps your new worship pastor with a contemporary style is an evangelist at heart like Paul - and his new music is his way of using all means to save some. Don't despise his style and miss his heart. Embrace different styles of church and evangelism, and you will reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-29-11.mp3?id=2011-12-29 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Lack of Discipline Someone recently asked me if it's ever okay to leave your church. I don't think so, except in very extreme cases. A good friend of mine once said "we shouldn't leave to get away from something, we should only leave if God is calling us to something." I think this is generally a good rule of thumb. If God is calling you to a new location, or to plant a new church, or to serve somewhere else, then you should be faithful to that call! But I do think in some cases, you do need to leave to get away from something. For example, if there is a major wrongdoing in your church leadership and the biblical model of discipline is not followed, you may have reason to move. In extreme cases, if something goes undisciplined it may even be unsafe for you to stay. And what a sad situation that would be! Of course, there is no perfect church, but there are some things that we cannot compromise.  God may want to use you to make a positive change where you are, but sometimes, He's simply calling you elsewhere. You'll have to pray and seek wise counsel to make the right decision. As you do, God will "direct your paths" and use you in new ways to reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-28-11.mp3?id=2011-12-28 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Heresy On a recent webcast, I was responding to viewers' questions. One person asked, "when is it time to leave your church?" My gut response is you should never leave unless you move, but there are a few exceptions. I think commitment to your church family is essential to spiritual growth and success in reaching your world... but there are a few reasons to leave. One such reason is consistent, unbiblical teaching. Hopefully you've chosen a church that loves God's Word, but perhaps something has changed and it's no longer Biblical teaching. If this is your church, be just like the Bereans and examine the Scriptures. In Acts it says the Bereans, "received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true."  If you are in a position of leadership at your church, do your best to make a change before leaving. But if the entire church adopts unbiblical beliefs and embraces and teaches them on a regular basis despite your best efforts, it may be time to take your family elsewhere. You may be better equipped to reach your world if you do. It should be a prayerful decision made carefully, but sadly it may be necessary. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-27-11.mp3?id=2011-12-27 Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Immaturity Robert and June are a typical moral, yet spiritually immature, couple. They don't drink, smoke, or do drugs. They keep a long list of "don'ts" and they follow it religiously. But, following Jesus is so much more than what we aren't supposed to do. While there are some "don'ts" in Scripture, there are a lot of "dos!" One of these "dos" is committing to a church home and serving in your church family.  Robert and June weren't necessarily committing any overt sins, but they weren't "doing" a lot of good either. As a couple they would move from church to church when they felt like it. Never staying too long. Moving as soon as something rubbed them the wrong way or didn't meet their perceived needs. Rather than serving to make their church better, they jumped ship at the smallest things, always thinking they'd find the "perfect" church.  Friends, the Bible says in Hebrews, "let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together... but encouraging one another." If we are going to effectively reach our world we need to fellowship with other like-minded believers. Will you commit to your church family for the long-haul? It's not always easy, but it's worth it. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-26-11.mp3?id=2011-12-26 Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Remember and Tell All throughout scripture we're reminded of two exercises that God desires of us - to remember what He has done and to tell others of His good deeds. When we stop and remember the works of God in our life, we are revived. When we share these with a friend, we are reaching our world with the Good News.For myself, I remember being in the pit of despair. I was insecure and fearful. It was at this point that God intervened in miraculous ways. I saw the strong testimony of young people who had recently come alive in their faith. I heard wonderful stories of God miraculously working in their lives and healing them from addictions. Hearing their stories was the beginning of my return to the Lord.Psalm 77 says "I will remember the deeds of the Lord." I want to leave you with a challenge. List three things that God has done for you in your life. Dwell on them. Think about them. Thank the Lord for them. Then, ask God to give you the opportunity to share them with another. I guarantee that within a week you will have an open door. Be prepared, pray, and walk in expectation that God is going to use your story to lead someone to Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-23-11.mp3?id=2011-12-23 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Joy to the World We sing so many songs during the Christmas season and many of them share profound, biblical truths. Listen to the lyrics of this song: "Joy to the world, the Lord is come. Let earth receive her king. Let every heart prepare Him room." And then it continues with "No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow, Far as the curse is found..." and finishes with "He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love."Friends, those lyrics speak truth about Jesus Christ! This is what Christmas is all about. Jesus came, and because of his life, death and resurrection, we are able to experience joy. Sin and sorrow grow no more and His blessings flow! We really can experience the glories of his righteousness and wonders of his love. The Bible says in Habakkuk, "yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior." Rejoice in God this Christmas.  And, as you sing some of the most famous Christmas songs, think about the lyrics. If they're speaking truth about Jesus Christ, point it out to a friend.  There's nothing more powerful than the Good News of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-22-11.mp3?id=2011-12-22 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau The Manger The Great hero of the faith, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, had this to say about the manger in the Christmas story, "For the great and powerful of this world, there are only two places in which their courage fails them, of which they are afraid deep down in their souls, from which they shy away. These are the manger and the cross of Jesus Christ. No powerful person dares to approach the manger, and this even includes King Herod. For this is where thrones shake, the mighty fall, the prominent perish, because God is with the lowly... Before Mary, the maid, before the manger of Christ, before God in lowliness, the powerful come to naught."God's ways are not man's ways! It's remarkable to think of the simplicity of Jesus' arrival that first Christmas. The Bible says the "first will be last and the last will be first." God truly is with the lowly. This Christmas, remember the humility with which our King arrived. And rejoice in God's plan for our salvation! Share the hope you have with a friend.  Tell them of the power of our Lord who came quietly to a manger, and died in humility and agony on a cross.  Tell them that though He died, he rose again.  He lives right now and wants to save each of us. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-21-11.mp3?id=2011-12-21 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau God with Us Charles Spurgeon, the great preacher, whom many called "the prince of preachers" wrote this about our Savior, "Immanuel - God with us in our nature, in our sorrow, in our daily work, in our punishment, in our death, and now with us, or rather we with Him, in resurrection, ascension, triumph, and Second Advent splendor."I love that one of the names for our Savior is Immanuel.  Immanuel means God with us. That is the beauty of the Christmas story. God became a man. He came to us. We call him "Immanuel" because he's here. He not only was with the people who lived 2,000 years ago, He's here now too - with us. He came to save us - each of us who live right here and right now. And, as Jesus said just before He ascended back to Heaven, "surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."What a miracle to know that God is with us always! He pursues us. He seeks us out. And He remains with us through everything. This is what makes the Good News so very good. Tell someone about the God who is with us this Christmas season. Tell them that He came 2,000 years ago, died to pay the price for our wrongdoing, rose again, and now wants to live with us every moment of every day.  There is no better news. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-20-11.mp3?id=2011-12-20 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau The Greatest Gift What do you want for Christmas? Many children make Christmas lists and ask their parents or Santa for a special toy or book or game. Gift giving is a tradition in many families during the holiday season. But you know, the greatest gift of all came 2,000 years ago. It's the only gift with eternal value. It was the first Christmas gift and the most profound and enduring! Jesus Christ is the best gift to celebrate.  And, it's one that we should celebrate every single day!  But, it's especially good to celebrate His coming right now - during the Christmas season.  Jesus said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Jesus Christ lived out His teaching by giving of Himself throughout His life.  He ultimately gave up His very life by dying for the sins of the world. But, He didn't stay dead.  He rose again and offers each of us eternal life with Him.  Jesus is our greatest gift. He is the greatest giver. How can we focus on giving the greatest gift this Christmas? We can do it by reaching our world. We can do it by telling others what Jesus did for them.  Share the Good News. Explain to someone the greatest gift ever given, Jesus Christ. Give the blessing and hope of this Good News to someone this Christmas. You will never regret it. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-19-11.mp3?id=2011-12-19 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Looking for Doves Sherri came from a very difficult past. Her life certainly hadn't been a "walk in the park." As do a lot of people, Sherri had doubts and was skeptical that there was a god. God hadn't seemed to be present in her life before, why should she believe now? But then, Sherri's nephew invited her to his baptism at our church. Sherri decided she'd go, she'd give God one chance.  "Okay, Lord" she said aloud. "If you're real, then let me see a dove today - before my nephew's baptism."All day long Sherri kept looking to the sky - wondering if God would send her a dove. All day long, no dove came. That evening she drove to our church and walked inside, certain that there wasn't a God because she hadn't seen a dove. As she stepped into the foyer, she was overwhelmed. Pinned all around the foyer were paper doves! There were dozens of them! In that moment, Sherri knew that they were for her and she gave her heart and life to the Lord.Don't be afraid to ask God to reveal Himself to you. He wants to and He will. He may not respond in the exact way that you expect, but He will respond - in His time and in His way. Ask Him to reveal Himself, then have faith that He will. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-16-11.mp3?id=2011-12-16 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Wise Men Still Seek Him Do you set up a nativity scene in your house each Christmas? There are typically the usual characters - Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus. Usually a few farm animals and shepherds. Sometimes our nativities also include wise men. But did you know that history tells us the Wise Men actually didn't make it to Jesus until he was a couple of years old? I think in many ways that makes the story even more remarkable! They were so determined to find Jesus that they would not rest until they found him. Do you have that same passion to seek Jesus? I love the saying, "Wise men still seek him." The wise men of the Bible were wise because they knew Jesus was Lord and sought after him. Are you wise? Are you seeking Jesus with the same passion and determination of the first wise men? The Bible says the wise men sought Jesus to "worship Him." They traveled many miles. And when they arrived, "they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy," and, "fell down and worshipped him." What a great example of wisdom for us all! Are you seeking Jesus, and falling down to worship Him?Share the Christmas story with someone this week. You'll be amazed how God uses you to reach your world during this time of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-15-11.mp3?id=2011-12-15 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Establishing Traditions What are your favorite Christmas traditions? Perhaps you love to chop down your Christmas tree and decorate it. Perhaps you like to cover your house in lights. Maybe you like to listen to certain music or read certain books. There are so many wonderful Christmas traditions. And you know, I think Christmas traditions can be a great way to reach your world. Try establishing traditions that point people to the reason for the season, Jesus Christ?Perhaps, as you celebrate the advent season leading up to Jesus' arrival, you can read certain Scriptures to your children about longing and waiting for the arrival of our Savior. Or maybe you could participate in a Christmas program that shares the Good news. Or maybe you could make an effort to help those in need this Christmas. Perhaps you could welcome someone without a family of their own to experience the joys of this holiday season. Maybe you could make a point to feed the hungry or give more generously. The Bible says that Jesus came "to serve, not to be served." How can we demonstrate who Jesus is by serving others, even through our Christmas traditions? You'll be amazed how you can reach your world while celebrating the coming of our King. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-14-11.mp3?id=2011-12-14 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Simple Faith of a Teenage Girl One of the most amazing aspects of the very first Christmas is Jesus' mother, Mary. Many scholars think Mary may have been as young as 15 years old when she found out she would conceive. Mary wasn't married at that time and knew there was no human possibility of that conception. It was a miracle. Imagine the fear she may have felt as a young teenage girl. Imagine the judgment she would have faced. People didn't believe her story and gossiped, taunted, and ridiculed. But Mary did not question or wonder or fret. Scripture tells us a remarkable account of her faith. When Gabriel told Mary she would conceive and give birth to the King of Kings, her reply was simply, "Behold, I am the Servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." What bold faith! What an inspiration. Imagine if we all had the faith of this young girl, even when God is doing things that we don't understand at all. Even if it means we are rejected, despised and alone as we follow Him. Can you imagine how we could reach our world if we trusted God, even when what He was doing did not make sense to us? This Christmas, think about the faith of Jesus' mother, Mary. Ask God to give you that same faith in reaching your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-13-11.mp3?id=2011-12-13 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau He Came Like the Winter Snow Have you ever heard the Christmas song, "Winter Snow"? It says this of the very first Christmas: "Could've come like a mighty storm, With all the strength of a hurricane. You could've come like a forest fire, with the power of Heaven in Your flame. But You came like a winter snow. Quiet and soft and slow. Falling from the sky in the night, to the earth below." The Jewish people had been waiting for years for their Messiah. They were waiting to be delivered by a mighty King. It's no surprise that a tiny baby born in a barn to a poor family was not what they had in mind. St. Paul writes in Philippians, "Christ Jesus, who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross." Jesus really did come quietly, like winter snow. He entered into human history in all humility. This is our King! And through his humility and obedience He rescued the world. That is a King worth following. This is Good News worth sharing! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-12-11.mp3?id=2011-12-12 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Overcoming Tragedy Tornados. 911. A major earthquake. At some point in our lives, we will all have our world shaken. Sometimes it happens in these massive community-wide tragedies where the entire world takes notice. But for most people, our tragedies aren't witnessed by the entire world. Though the world may not know what you're going through, the impact can be just as devastating.Have you been through a tragedy?  Maybe your parents got a divorce or your spouse left you.  Maybe you've been the victim of abuse.  Maybe violence has robbed you of a loved one, or a dear friend is facing cancer.  Maybe you're 60 years old and feel empty inside, or a teenager and feel that life is hopeless.  What do you do?  How do you go on?One thing that I have found to be very helpful in these heartbreaking situations is to memorize the Word of God.  In the gospel of John, Jesus says, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."  That is a promise of God!  Hang on to it with all your might. When difficult times hit, remember that though there will be trouble, God is with you and He will help you overcome. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-09-11.mp3?id=2011-12-09 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Vain Imaginations Author Ed Welch has a very interesting idea about anxiety and fears.  His idea is essentially that we have a tendency to turn into false prophets.  We begin mulling things over in our minds, thinking about everything that could go wrong.  We become convinced that we will lose someone, or that our business will fall apart, or that we won't graduate.  It's a dangerous, illogical cycle, and most times those fears do not come to pass.Where have you been a false prophet?  When you imagine all the things that could go wrong, you forget about the all-knowing, all-powerful God who saw your entire life, past, present and future before you were born.  You have nothing to fear.  I'm sure you've heard the saying, "If He brings you to it, He'll bring you through it."  As the Bible says in 1 John, "God is love."  If He's good, He will carry you through even an unlikely worst-case scenario. Trust God with your family.  Trust Him with your finances. Trust Him with your future. Your trust will end the vicious cycle of predicting things that won't happen - and you will embrace freedom that comes with faith in Christ.  Watch how God works as you trust Him.  He very well might use you to bring another into His Kingdom.  Wouldn't that be exciting!?!?! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-08-11.mp3?id=2011-12-08 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Trusting Have you ever heard the popular quote, "Let go, Let God"?  Sometimes it can be an excuse to do nothing.  Don't just sit and say that you're "letting God work."  We are responsible to use our gifts, our education, our time and our finances to reach our world.  We are to do everything possible to live lives of holiness that are "worthy of the Gospel of Christ."  There is a time to be still and let God work, but that is after we have told our friends and family about Jesus Christ. If we hear the quote "Let go, Let God" and think we can now stop making an effort in reaching our world, we are off track.  But, if we hear that quote and remember to trust God in our efforts and leave the outcome to Him, then we're doing great.  If you are discouraged in your attempts to share your faith, pray and ask God to give you greater faith.  But, if you are lazily sitting around and telling yourself you're just "letting God work" it's time to take action! A patient, persistent faith that translates into powerful action will cultivate reliance on God and draw others to Him.  Will you trust God with your efforts this week?  He wants to partner with you to reach people in your world with the Good News of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-07-11.mp3?id=2011-12-07 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Death by Anxiety The human body is amazingly strong and resilient- but for some reason we like to test its limits.  I'm not talking about athletically pushing yourself.  I'm talking about never taking a Sabbath, working too many hours, worrying, and neglecting your general well-being.  The number of people with heart disease, obesity, and cancer is on the rise. Many studies have linked all these ills to continuous, overwhelming stress in people's lives.  When you continuously tax your body, it will eventually say, "enough!"You may wonder why I'm talking about physical ailments on this radio program. First, if you die, your time of ministry on earth is over. Second, it's important to remember that your body and soul are connected. When we don't take care of our bodies, it can negatively impact our ministry, and those around us. Paul emphasized the necessity of our efforts on earth by writing in Philippians, "I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body." So take care of yourself. Pray instead of worrying.  Not only will this help you physically, your fearless faith will be a means of reaching your world.  Daily commune with the Lord, put worry aside, and respond to His voice when it comes to sharing your faith. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-06-11.mp3?id=2011-12-06 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Accepting What You Cannot Change Saint Francis of Assisi wisely stated, "Lord grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." In our culture, stress is commonplace.  Worry is often a driving force in decision-making, life choices, and emotional stability- or instability for that matter!  We spend hours worrying about things we have no control over.  Perhaps worry is even keeping you from reaching your world...   Are you worried the person will no longer like you? Are you worried because you don't think you'll know what to say?The Bible speaks often about this issue.  Paul writes in Philippians, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."  Do not respond to situations with fear.  Respond in faith!  As St. Francis wisely stated, there are some things you can't change.  People's ideas about you and their responses to the Good News are God's business, not yours.  When you choose to respond in faith and do what you can anyway- you will more powerfully reach your world.  So today, put your worry and fear aside and tell a friend about the Lord Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-05-11.mp3?id=2011-12-05 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Your True Identity From the time I was seven years old, I hung out with the same group of friends. I carved out a role for myself among them, an identity that fit in. I was "the crazy one." When I went off to college and left my familiar group behind, the reputation I had built for myself disappeared. I realized that I didn't know who I was because my friends weren't there to define me. I was plagued by the question: "Who am I really?" Left without an answer, I felt lost and out of place.But once I became a follower of Jesus, that question took on a new and exciting dynamic. "Who am I?" The answer filled my heart with joy, confidence and a sense of eternity. When we accept Jesus Christ, our identity no longer relies on anything or anyone in this world.Many of us let things such as our jobs, talents, and the people around us define our perception of who we are. But these things are fallible and temporary. Romans 8 call us "God's children" and "co-heirs with Christ." God has claimed us as His own and promised us eternal life! This is our true identity. Share this exciting truth with someone today. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-02-11.mp3?id=2011-12-02 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau God is Wise Doing the "wise" thing is often not the same as doing the "fun" thing. Think about getting a vaccination before you travel overseas. That's not fun. But it IS wise. Think about taking your car in for a general tune-up. It's usually a hassle, but it's always wise. Now think about God's wisdom. It is perfect. It is without flaw. And what He is doing in your life is driven by His infinite wisdom. He seeks to make you holy, not just happy. He longs for you to become more like His son. And for that to happen, in His wisdom He refines you. In the book of Romans, the author, Paul, excitedly writes, "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!" And in the Old Testament, God says, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."Have you ever meditated on the wisdom of God? Take a moment to ponder His infinite wisdom. Try to "zoom out" of your own self and recognize your place before the Lord God, Creator of the entire universe. You will find rest and peace there, knowing that He is guiding you in His infinite, loving wisdom. This is Good News worth sharing! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/12-Dec/12-01-11.mp3?id=2011-12-01 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau God's Love is Constant I was getting a glass of water the other night when the Lord gave me a powerful metaphorical image. Turning the faucet on and off made me think about finicky human love. We can "turn it on" whenever we want. And if someone upsets us, we can "turn it off." Human love is inconsistent. It's based on our own, fluctuating desire. Praise God, the love He has for us in Jesus Christ is nothing like that. God's love is constant. God's love for you and for me is mightier than an awesome waterfall! Envision Niagara Falls. God's love is even more constant and free-flowing than that mighty waterfall. Does His love fluctuate depending on how He is feeling? No. Listen to what the Bible says: "I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power ... to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ." Imagine that! God's love is constant. You can count on it. God is faithful. His love knows no bounds. Is there someone in your life who thinks God's love is like a faucet - on again, off again? Won't you be the one to introduce them to the reality of God's love - constant and mighty as a waterfall? God's love transforms lives. There is nothing like it. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-30-11.mp3?id=2011-11-30 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau God is All-Knowing Why do we go to school? The answer is obvious: To learn. We study so that we might learn things we do not know. Now, stop and think - would God ever enroll in school? I pose the question tongue-in-cheek, of course. I say it to help us realize the simple truth that God is all-knowing.God does not need an assistant to keep Him informed about what's happening in the world. He already knows. He does not need reference manuals on certain subjects, nor does He read background files on people. He already knows. The Bible says, "Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account." That may be an intimidating thought, but I suggest the contrary. Serving an all-knowing God actually brings utmost comfort and security. Every problem you face, every worry you have, every deep inner need ... God already knows it. You don't have to try to explain it or hope that He understands. He knows. And He cares. If you are resisting God's all-knowing nature, I encourage you to turn your fear upside down. Let yourself instead be comforted and encouraged to talk to Him in prayer.  After all, he knows you and he loves you.  Who, in your life, needs to hear this message? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-29-11.mp3?id=2011-11-29 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau God is Eternal and Infinite When is the last time you lost yourself in the act of stargazing? I mean - literally staring up into the night sky, letting yourself be awestruck. There is nothing like the feeling of being so tiny in the grand scheme of the entire universe.What captures me when I'm stargazing is God's greatness. God is the creator of the heavens, and He's the creator of me. He is eternal and He is infinite. The very first verse in the Bible reveals His eternal nature. Genesis 1:1 says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." That means God existed before anything else, even before time! While that may baffle your brain, let it kindle your heart. God stands outside of time and creation. He was and is and will forever be! Do you know someone today who does not know the Lord Jesus Christ, yet is searching for something great and mighty? Our human minds struggle to comprehend what it means to be infinite and eternal ... and yet we long for the One who is. We desire God because He has created us to be in relationship with Him. Who can you take with you to go stargazing tonight? It would be an opportune time to share God's truth and love as revealed in His son, Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-28-11.mp3?id=2011-11-28 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Not a Lack of Information Mark Twain once said, "Most people are bothered by those passages of scripture they don't understand, but the passages that bother me are those that I do." When it comes to discussing your faith with others and prayerfully attempting to lead them to faith in Christ, the roadblocks that come up are often the secondary and third level issues. But those issues are just a distraction from what really matters.  If any person will ever accept Christ, it is going to be a matter of faith.  There are thousands of secondary issues to be argued over, but what about the primary issues? Ultimately there are certain facts that have to be wrestled with- Jesus lived. Jesus died. Jesus rose. Jesus lives today. What do you do with these facts? Faith requires the humbling of ourselves to say we don't understand it all but we do believe it.  We don't deserve it but we want it. It is all about God and it is not about us. The Bible says that if we confess with our mouths and believe in our hearts that Jesus is Lord that we are saved. It's not necessarily a lack of information that keeps people from loving God- it's a lack of formation, a lack of faith. Pray for your friends. Faithfully share the Good News. And watch as God grows the seed you plant in their life. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-25-11.mp3?id=2011-11-25 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Distinct The Bible says in Romans, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind..." Do you think your neighbors can tell that you are different?  If they were to read that Scripture in Romans, would they see you are capitulating or remaining faithful?  Why is it that the church in many ways can become completely blended in with the surrounding culture?  What are our defining characteristics?  Is it okay to blend in?  The Bible calls Christ followers to a radical life- a life that should cause you to stand out.If you are just the same as everyone else- why would anyone want what you have?  The world is hurting.  People are confused.  They have real questions about death and life.  Are you someone they would turn to for answers? Or do they see you as just as confused as them?  You don't have to know everything - but you should be seen as someone who has met the all-knowing God!God has something much bigger for you than blending in. I once heard it said, "Stop trying to fit in when you were born to stand out." Keep these words in mind as you go about your day.  Stand out and show the world what a life surrendered to Jesus looks like.  Your example, followed by an explanation of who Jesus is, may lead many to the Lord. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-24-11.mp3?id=2011-11-24 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Wise Choices Do you struggle making wise choices with your life?  I suppose we all do at times.  I'm reminded often of these words found in Proverbs, "The fear of God is the beginning of all wisdom."  If you're struggling to determine what is wrong or what is right- consider the God of the universe.  Do you have a healthy fear of Him?  This is not the same as terror or being frightened- God is good and He is love.  Rather, this fear is an awe-inspired respect.  It is a healthy awareness of God's power and glory and justice.  It is proper reverence.  Have you become too casual with God?  If the fear of God is the beginning, then we have to start there.  If we are going to live lives that are, as Paul writes in Colossians, "worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God..." then we must begin with reverence for our Creator.  Kneel before Him every day and acknowledge who He is.  Humble your heart before Him and give Him glory and praise.  Honoring the Lord is the first step in spiritual growth and wise decision-making.  As you do this, listen for God prompting you to tell others of the personal relationship you enjoy with the creator.  They too, desperately need to know Him. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-23-11.mp3?id=2011-11-23 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Not of the World A great hero of faith, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, once wrote to his fiancee, "Our marriage must be a 'yes' to God's earth. It must strengthen our resolve to do and accomplish something on earth. I fear that Christians who venture to stand on earth on only one leg will stand in heaven on only one leg too."  I think his quote, while humorous, actually reflects Jesus' words in John 17, "I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world."Jesus has sent us into the world.  He does not want to take us out of the world.  We are on a mission while we're here!  We are not of this world- but we are in it, and we can work to do God's will while we are.  Resist the temptation to separate, vacate, and alienate. Stay when others leave. Build relationships.  Share God's love. This will radically transform you and those you're trying to reach, as well as open doors to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-22-11.mp3?id=2011-11-22 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau City on a Hill What did Jesus mean when he said we are to be a "city on a hill"? We are not just to hear God's Word, we are to do God's Word- but in order to do it, we must understand it.The phrase "city on a hill" comes from a passage in Matthew- Jesus' sermon on the mount.  Jesus says, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 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."Are you shining?  Standing out?  Living differently?  Or do you live just like everyone else- blending in with the culture and going completely unnoticed?  As followers-of-Jesus, we need to live differently than the rest of the world.  Our love and service should be evident.  Our lives should be characterized by things of God.  Today, ask God what you need to change so that your life is like a city on a hill- an example for others.  Then, make a correlation between your good deeds and the Lord Jesus Christ.  Tell those in your life that they too can know the same God who has made such a difference in you.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-21-11.mp3?id=2011-11-21 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Inspiring Your Church to Evangelism I've recently been motivated to not only see evangelism happen in my personal life, and on a bigger scale in festival evangelism, but to also take it back to the local church and make a difference there.  We can all work to mobilize and inspire others to be evangelistic.  We can show our brothers and sisters faith in action.  Your actions can be more impactful than just those you share the Good News with- you can set an example for others in your church to follow. You can lead others to more consistently, powerfully, and boldly reach their world!Our role in evangelism, should be to evangelize, but should also be reviving faith and expectation.  Let your pastor know that you're excited and want to be part of helping your church in evangelistic efforts.  Grow your church to the next level.  Be the catalytic person.  Start with a prayer time.  Ask God to spark a revival in the hearts of the people. The Bible says that God is patient, "not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." Perhaps you are the person God will use to share his saving grace in your church and beyond!  Have a posture of faith and expectation and God will use you to make a lasting impact! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-18-11.mp3?id=2011-11-18 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau More Life, Less Time So many amazing heroes of the faith died young. Have you ever noticed that? Some lived into old age, but the pattern of many dying young is undeniable.  But, wouldn't you rather live a short life that glorifies God, than a long boring life that accomplishes little? It's not how much time we're on Earth but what we do with the time that we're given that counts.Jesus did not live into old age. He lived on earth 33 years and altered the course of human history. And it was the same for many of His followers. Living a long full life is a blessing! But living fewer years can have even greater impact. It has often been said, "the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church." Isn't this true? Their stories of courage and bravery inspire generations! They believe the words of Jesus, "For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it." God may not be calling you to an early death, but He may be calling you to "lay down your life" by re-ordering your priorities, or by more fully devoting yourself to Him. Learn from those who have given it all for Jesus Christ and share their stories as a way of reaching your world. God will use you powerfully. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-17-11.mp3?id=2011-11-17 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Finally Free Zac and Mandy were a wonderful couple. Their life was blessed and they were happy. And then suddenly, Zac was diagnosed with stage four cancer. At only 32, death was imminent. And then a miracle! After surgery, a scan showed he was cancer-free. They rejoiced and praised God for His miraculous healing.  But then, the unthinkable... A routine follow-up scan months later showed the cancer had not only returned but had spread. Zac was no longer responding to chemo. It was at this time that Zac said, "If God chooses to heal me, God is God and God is good. And if He doesn't and I die, God is still God and God is still good." Zac died several weeks later, full of faith. His grieving wife, echoed her husband's sentiments sharing through tears, "God is still God and God is still good." These responses of faith as people face death, show that they understand that death is just the beginning. Jesus promises life eternal! The Bible says in John, "whoever believes in Jesus shall not perish but have eternal life." If you or someone you know is close to death, share with them that there is life beyond death - an eternal home with Jesus Christ. We can believe and say with faith, no matter what, that "God is still God and God is still good." http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-16-11.mp3?id=2011-11-16 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau For Those Left Behind For those who love God, death doesn't have to be a scary thing.  The Psalms say, "Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants." God rejoices in welcoming home His children, and His children rejoice in going home. But you know, for those still living, it's not so simple. Even though we know intellectually that our loved ones are home, it's still difficult at times because we miss them so much!  I'm sure you've experienced those feelings of deep grief and pain. Remember that God is a God of comfort and He wants to give you His peace. If you know someone who is feeling this way, perhaps God wants to use YOU to comfort them. Lending a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on can be a powerful way of reaching your world.  When my Dad was dying, he quoted St. Paul's letter to the Philippians saying, "I am going to be with the Lord Jesus, 'which is better by far.'" I've clung to those words countless times.  As I child I wanted my father to be with me, but I was assured by my earthly father's faith that my Heavenly Father's promises are true.  If you feel left behind by your loved one who is with the Lord, believe God's promises, and persevere- knowing that this life is short and you'll be with them soon. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-15-11.mp3?id=2011-11-15 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Death is Inevitable Brandy was beautiful and talented and popular. She seemed to have everything going for her. But what most didn't know was that her parent's marriage had fallen apart and she moved out at a young age. I met Brandy at a London outreach just as all this was happening. After I gave the invitation to receive Jesus Christ, she leapt up and came forward. She told me her story and how she felt hopeless and confused. But God was speaking to her, and the Gospel penetrated her heart.  She was radically changed! Several years later I received a phone call I wasn't expecting- Brandy was killed in a car accident. She was only 16. They asked me to speak at her funeral. I flew to London immediately. The funeral was filled with celebrities, business leaders, and politicians.  They all spoke of how Brandy influenced their life.  Countless people, including her family, came to Christ because of her example. I was overwhelmed by the impact this young girl had in only a few short years! You know, we're all going to die, and it may be sooner than we think. Ask God, just as Moses did, to teach you to "number your days." Remember to make them count! Because we never know when God will take us home. I will never forget the way 16-year-old Brandy changed the world. Will you change your world with God's love?  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-14-11.mp3?id=2011-11-14 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew: Nothing Can Seperate Us When hard times come, it can sadly lead us to ask the question, "Where is God in all of this?" It's in these times of difficulty and doubt that we must look to God's promises. Jesus said, "never will I leave you never will I forsake you." That is a fact. So, even in the face of all kinds of trouble, we can live our lives as more than conquerors.  In the face of all kinds of trouble, we're not separated from his love. Hunger, poverty, divorce, depression, adultery, and cancer can't separate us. Impending dangers, harsh situations, physical attacks and even death can't separate us.  Confidence in God's promises of his faithful love, especially in the face of the inevitable problems in life, is the testimony that will lead others to say, "I want that, I need that." Proving that your life is perfect is not the testimony that draws people.  Proving, through Christ, that we live in victorious confidence, draws people.  God's love in trials is an attractive faith.  With that you can reach your world.  That's the kind of love that's worth sharing. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-11-11.mp3?id=2011-11-11 Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau The Blame Game It's much easier to blame others for our problems than it is to take responsibility.  But, once we take responsibility we are better able to make changes and help others make changes too. Dwelling on how others have hurt you, and focusing on others wrongdoing will only end up hurting you more.  You're not hurting the person who hurt you by focusing on it, you're only lengthening their negative impact!  If you want to reach your world, you cannot allow the people who have hurt you to hold you back. Breaking the blame cycle will lift your spirits, allow you to focus on the big picture, and free you to allow God to work in and through you.  You cannot love others if you're busy blaming them.  Next time you're tempted to blame another person, remember Jesus' words in Matthew, "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?"  Once we really become aware of our own shortcomings, we will concern ourselves less with the negative qualities in others.  By doing this, we will better love others and most importantly, we will be more able and excited to share God's love with them!  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-10-11.mp3?id=2011-11-10 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Humility In order to find true contentment, we must be willing to humble ourselves.  In a culture where contentment and humility are both lacking, the link between the two is self-evident.  If you are lacking contentment, you may be lacking humility.  We all need to humble ourselves in order to find true peace and tranquility. Contentment is a blessing - but it requires humility, which is often difficult.Jesus Christ, the God of the Universe, humbled Himself, so surely we can try.  After all, it's for our own good!  If we willingly humble ourselves we would likely find true happiness and would be better equipped to reach our world. The Bible says that pride goes before a fall. It also says that with humility comes wisdom.  And with wisdom comes the ability to know when enough is enough - to be satisfied with enough - to be truly, wholly content.  This week, focus on being content.  Be content with your job, your home, your car, your possessions. As you model joy in contentment, our discontent world will notice. Then, you'll be well-equipped to share the reason for your contentment - Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-09-11.mp3?id=2011-11-09 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Live Generously One of the most commonly quoted and well-known verses of the Bible is John 3:16. You likely know it by heart or have at least heard it many times. Today I just want to look at the first part. "For God so loved the world that He gave."  We serve a God who is love, and out of His love He gives. If we're trying to be like Him, we too should be givers!  God gave more generously than we could ever repay.  He does beyond what we could ever ask or imagine.  He works in incredible ways and gives us things we don't deserve and could never earn.  And, the gift of His Son is the greatest gift ever given.Are you giving generously?  If God has been so generous to us, we should be eager to give generously to others! If you're keeping all your things to yourself, you're missing out on one of the main secrets to true joy and contentment.  Paul says in Philippians that he has learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  In 1 Timothy, the Bible says that, "godliness with contentment is great gain."  In Hebrews, the Bible says, "be content with what you have."  The first step toward true contentment is giving of yourself, your time, and your money.  Give.  In so doing, find contentment and reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-08-11.mp3?id=2011-11-08 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Exalt Christ First We live in an age where nothing ever seems to be enough.  We are constantly trying to acquire more, make it to the next level, and outdo others.  Have you ever noticed this?  While there is nothing inherently wrong with things or achievement, we must be sure that we are always seeking to exalt Christ first.  We must seek to proclaim His name and give Him glory before anything else.  St Augustine said it well, "Jesus Christ is not valued at all until He is valued above all." St Paul writes in Philippians, "Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.  What is more I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things." Take Paul's words to heart and exalt Christ first!  As you do, you will more effectively reach your world! Don't miss out on God's calling and purpose for your life - the calling to reach as many as possible with His love and forgiveness. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-07-11.mp3?id=2011-11-07 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 Luis Palau Andrew - Everyday Vocations I come across people all the time who say, "Wow, you are so important.  You share the Good News of Jesus Christ with thousands of people."  Each time I hear this I cringe.  While it is a blessing to share the Gospel every day, evangelists and pastors are neither more important than others nor is their calling any higher.In fact, I'd like to tell you a story... I have a friend in Vietnam who is an engineer.  He designed a communication device, like our radio, that could share the Good News with thousands.  Then, a businessman financed the operation.  Sure, an evangelist shared the Good News, but if it hadn't been for the engineer and the businessman, the evangelist would have no audience and many would not have heard the Good News on that day.God has you where you are for a reason.  There is a task in His Kingdom that he wants accomplished through YOU.  God has given you gifts, talents, and abilities for a reason.  Paul says in Philemon, "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ."  That challenge is just as important to you, in your place of life, as it is for me.  Take it seriously today. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-04-11.mp3?id=2011-11-04 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Man Plan My wife, Pat, told me about a major turning point in her life. It came one summer when she was working as a counselor at a Christian camp. One of the main reasons she was there was to look for a marriageable man. All summer long as she counseled, her "antennae" were out, looking, looking. But it didn't work. And in her soul she knew she had to quit scheming. So, Pat made the final decision to stop trying to force God's hand. She decided to register at Multnomah Biblical Seminary in Portland, Oregon to become a missionary. That November, she and I came face to face. God had a plan all ready-for both of us!Are you trying to live the Christian life through self-effort? 2 Corinthians says, "And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for him who died for them and was raised again." Christ in you is what others need to see. Let go, and witness for yourself the great opportunities God has for you!  He will use your life in a tremendous way to reach others for Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-03-11.mp3?id=2011-11-03 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Restoring Blood I recently heard about a man I've known for many years. He was a a minister. He graduated from one of the best universities in the southwestern United States, and one of the best seminaries in the land. He attended some of the best training courses and pastored great churches with good elders and staff. Yet he ended up getting a divorce. I don't know how or when the problem started with my friend, but divorce doesn't happen overnight. It builds over a long time. Many times, immorality is involved. It was so sad to see my friend turn from the Lord to gratify sexual desires.How do you respond to someone like that? Galatians 6:1 says, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently, but watch yourself, or you also may be tempted." Although you might want to hit him over the head to wake him up, remember your own sinfulness! Ask God to help you respond in truth and in love. Then share with him the restoring power that comes from one place, and one place alone: the blood of Jesus Christ!  "It purifies us from all sin." http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-02-11.mp3?id=2011-11-02 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Believing Lies I had a good friend in Argentina. When we were 17, we started to seriously serve the Lord. But one day when he was 21, he went to live in another city. He had a physical problem and went to see a doctor. This doctor told him that his problem was due in part to the fact that he had been chaste. He prescribed an immoral experience for my friend. Then my friend followed the advice of this physician, even though he knew better! I didn't know anything about all this until I saw him years later. I noticed something completely different on his face. Something happens, you know, when a person commits immorality. Something leaves you that never quite comes back. My friend repented.  He's sort of back with the Lord, though not the church.  What a pity!  Too many people fall away from the Lord because they believe lies instead of God's Word. So often we judge them, when instead we need to show the compassion of the Savior. The book of Jude says, "Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy." It's "God's kindness that leads you to repentance," Romans 2 tells us. Show someone that divinely-given kindness today! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/11-Nov/11-01-11.mp3?id=2011-11-01 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau A Great Awakening When I first moved to the United States, the Lord used a man named Ray Stedman in my life to deal with me very strongly. That summer I served as one of Ray's first pastoral interns, along with the now famous Charles Swindoll. Ray knew there was something in my life I needed to settle. He told me that I had to settle this matter now-and settle it right. But very self-confidently I said, "Oh, don't worry. I'll fix it." Ray put his arm around me and quietly said, "You know, Luis, you think that you can talk your way out of anything, don't you?" He told me that one day I was going to dig myself a deep hole and bury myself so deep that nobody would be able to get me out. Not even God. Whoa! Was I ever put in my place! That was the beginning of a great awakening in my life. Self-confidence like that could have hindered God from working through me. The Bible says, "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him." Confidence in Jesus Christ, not in yourself, will make the difference in God changing lives around you. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-31-11.mp3?id=2011-10-31 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew - Reaching the Lonely While taking out my garbage the other day, I saw Jim, my 85 year old neighbor. Jim can't get around very well anymore and has done everything in his power to orchestrate his life so that he doesn't need to leave his home. But the more he sits in his 5500 square foot house, the lonelier he seems. I see him watch cars and people walk past him all the time. In our busy world of suburban life, some of us are often left with a sense of having been left behind. We may look like everything is fine on the outside, but we really want to cry out "Does anyone even realize that I'm here? Does anyone realize that I'm in pain?" I feel constantly convicted and challenged to reach out to Jim. His greatest need can only be filled by God. I bring him books and literature, but the only thing that will truly alleviate the loneliness is a relationship with Jesus Christ. I'm not sure when and how the Lord is going to draw his heart, but I know that I want to be part of it. Don't you want to be part of the amazing and miraculous act of a soul turning to God? Look around... your neighbors, your coworkers and the other kids on the playground... and ask God to use you in transforming their lives. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-28-11.mp3?id=2011-10-28 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Misbehaving Religious If you're like me, you've probably encountered many people.  When you try to talk to them about the Lord Jesus and about God the Father and how you can be forgiven of your sins and have the assurance of eternal life and heaven when you die and the Holy Spirit here on Earth - who will say to you "I know religious people who really misbehave."  You know, I used to get very defensive in the old days.  Now I say, "So do I.  I know a lot of religious people who misbehave and it's appalling.  But, I'll tell you what.  First, I'm not here to talk to you about other people.  I want you to get your eyes off other people and put them on Jesus Christ."  For you, as a believer in Jesus Christ, I want to tell you this.  Jesus said, remember, "If I be lifted up I will draw all people to myself."  My job and yours is to lift up Jesus Christ.  Speak well of Him.  Speak reverently.  Tell them what He's done for you, what He means to you, who He is, and let the Holy Spirit use what you say about Jesus Christ.  By lifting Him up, you're really helping to draw people to Himself.And secondly, quote key Bible passages.  That's the key to sharing the Good News.  The Word of God has power and when you give it out it carries power.  The Lord bless you as you try to win others to Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-27-11.mp3?id=2011-10-27 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau A Question for Atheists We were in France, not so long ago, and a journalist interviewed me (in fact, two female journalists).  And they said to me, "Why are you here in France?  Most of us are atheists, you know."  If somebody talks to you and says, "You know, I'm an atheist.  I don't believe in the Bible, in God, in Jesus Christ.  I don't believe in the church."  How do you answer that?You've got to do it gently.  Usually I would say, "are you really an atheist or are you searching for truth and want to know for sure that there's a god?"  Secondly, you know what I do (and I've done it since I was a teenager) when somebody says they're an atheist I say, "Do you really want to know if there's a God?  If you do, I can tell you how to meet Him."  And they usually say, "Okay, tell me."  (If you're handling it nicely and gently and courteously.)  And the secret is this: if you really want to know God, get yourself a copy of the Bible.  Open it to the Gospel of John.  Get on your knees by your bed and begin to read from chapter 1.  As you read say, "God, reveal yourself to me. I want to know you."  By the end of that book God will reveal Himself to you.Do that with your atheist friends and let the Holy Spirit do the work. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-26-11.mp3?id=2011-10-26 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Ready with an Answer Many Christian sincerely say to me, "How can I answer a question when I don't know the answer?"  I've got two observations here.  First of all, don't be shocked.  I have been asked questions for which I don't have an answer.  The first answer to that question is "Give me time. I will research it. And if I find an answer, I will come back to you."  That gives you a chance to take your time, to talk to a more experienced Christian, to research it in books or on your computer and then come back and it gives you a chance to talk again.Secondly, when you have a question that you don't know the answer you can say "Look, why don't you read the Gospel of John for yourself.  Why don't you study it."  For instance, in 1 Timothy chapter 3 it says, "From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ."  And then it goes on to say in 2 Timothy 3, "All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness."  You know, you don't have to answer every question but you can always give a passage of scripture and the Holy Scripture has great power.  That's why I encourage our listeners always - you memorize as many Bible verses as you can because it'll help you to answer questions from God's point of view. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-25-11.mp3?id=2011-10-25 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Fishers of Men Last night I was thinking about talking to you on the radio and this thought came to my mind: do you want to be a fisher of men?  If so, there's one big condition and here it goes: Jesus said, "Follow me and I will make you fishers of me."When I was a child, in our church, we used to sing a song based on that church.  "I will make you fishers of men, fishers of men, fishers of men.  I will make you fishers of men if you follow me."  And I thought as a little boy, "I want to lead people to Christ.  I want to fish for men."  And, by God's grace, I've been doing it all these years.Many people say, "I don't have the passion.  I don't seem to have the words.  I don't have the answers."  Listen.  The key is this:  You follow Jesus Christ with all your heart, spend time with Him, read His Holy Word, think about the people you love in your neighborhood, at work, at school, and then say, "Lord Jesus, I am following you.  Please use me and make me a fisher of men and women and children and everybody else.  The secret is really not a secret.  You follow Jesus Christ closely and before you know it you'll consciously or unconsciously share the faith and He will use you to lead other into eternal life.  That'll be the greatest day of your life. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-24-11.mp3?id=2011-10-24 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew - Little Interactions The other day my wife, Wendy, was out jogging.  A well-dressed woman came out of her home.  Now, this woman owns a very lucrative upper-class business and seemed to be doing rather well.  However, Wendy had a feeling that she was supposed to stop and ask this woman if she could pray for her.  Many would think that a thought like that couldn't be legit since this woman seemed to have it all, but Wendy didn't hesitate.  She went over to the woman and asked her if she could pray.The woman was shocked that Wendy would reach out to her and offer to pray.  It turns out that this woman had just been diagnosed with terminal cancer.  For this woman, to have Wendy pray for her, was a huge blessing.  Wendy's simple act gave hope and peace to a woman in need.  God whispered gently to Wendy that this woman needed her, and Wendy listened. In our lives, are we listening to the whispers of God - telling us to invite a lonely couple over for dinner, encouraging us to babysit a single mom's child, urging us to make a meal for our neighbor down the street?  These things may seem like little things, but they aren't.  These acts of kindness may be exactly what is needed to build a bridge and, eventually, introduce another to Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-21-11.mp3?id=2011-10-21 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Service with a Purpose Community service is a great thing! I'm sure that everybody would agree.  It's good for those who serve and good for those who are served.  It's good for our communities and cities.  It's a win-win situation.But, what about personal service? Do you embrace it as a win-win situation for both the person you are serving AND for yourself? Because it is! Jesus Christ Himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." The Bible also says, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."If you're like most people, you do not wake up in the morning eager to serve. Frankly, you'd rather BE served. It's easier. It's more fun. But what if you truly believed that it IS more blessed to give than to receive? Think about the radical personal transformation you would undergo! Instead of living for yourself, you would be living for God. You would look forward to making personal sacrifices for the benefit of others. Through everyday service you will bless others. And this will open doors for you to reach your world with the Good News of Jesus Christ. Today, serve those in your world and tell them the reason that you do - because of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-20-11.mp3?id=2011-10-20 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Each One Win One When you want to win a competition, what do you do? You prepare. You strategize. And if you're on a team, you cast the vision so your teammates will catch it. In other words, you DO SOMETHING.Now, I want to share with you an idea from a listener of this very radio program. He calls it "Each One Win One." I like it so much I'm going to share it with you. It's a bold and daring challenge for achieving God's Great Commission, which is found in Mark 16:15 of the Bible. It's where Jesus commands us to "go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation."The "Each One Win One" challenge is for you to win just one lost person to Jesus Christ this year. Yes, YOU! First, won't you pray about it? Who would God have you reach? Next, commit to witnessing to and serving those who don't know the Lord. Finally, imagine bringing just one person to a faith commitment in Jesus Christ! Imagine if we all did this - just one person per year becomes a multitude of people saved for all eternity!Please think about this "Each One Win One" challenge. Be intentional with your time and efforts this year. Let God use you for His glory! Together, let's "each one win one!" http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-19-11.mp3?id=2011-10-19 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Tend to Relationships, Watch Them Grow When you tend to something, you see results. Think about a garden. No one who expects a beautiful, thriving garden merely throws some seed on the ground and walks away. Instead, care must be taken to plant seeds and water the ground. Then, when the plants are grown, we must trim and maintain the foliage.In the same way, if you want to enjoy successful relationships, you must tend to them. You cannot wake up every morning and merely HOPE things go well. Rather, you must take conscious action to keep relationships healthy. The Bible says, "Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another." Love is not passive. Love is a verb; something you choose to do.How great is your vision for your relationships? If you want to enjoy healthy, thriving relationships - with your spouse, your children, your coworkers or your neighbors - you must take action. So, make up your mind today to strengthen your relationships. Ask God to give you His love for the people in your life. Ask Him for the courage to put that love into action. As your relationships are strengthened, you will have more and more opportunities to share your faith.  There's nothing more fulfilling than that. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-18-11.mp3?id=2011-10-18 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau God's Word is Alive What does it mean to be alive? Think about it. In nature, life means fresh growth and green leaves. For humanity, life means physical activity, relational interaction, learning, growing, and changing. Hebrews 4:12 says, "The word of God is living and active."  Have you ever wondered what that means?  How can a book be alive? Well, things that are alive have breath. And breath is what we use to speak. The very pages of the Bible are the breath that God uses to speak to us through His living Word! But the Bible is not merely a vehicle used by God to communicate with us. The Bible is in and of itself dynamic and life-changing. It discerns the good and the bad within us. We must not only read and hear God's Word, we must let it shape us.How much time do you spend in God's Word? I challenge you today to intentionally increase your time studying the Bible. Your spirit feeds on God's Word; it comes alive through this nourishment. Please, make sure you are well fed! You will never regret the time you spend reading Scripture. It will equip you to better reach your world. When you're intentional about being in the Word, it's easy to be intentional about reaching lost souls.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-17-11.mp3?id=2011-10-17 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew - A Masked World Have you ever walked down the street, or through a store, or stopped at a park and just watched people?  People are masters at wearing masks to hide what's really going on in their lives.  We all do it, to some extent.  We don't want people to know what we're thinking or feeling so we put on a happy face and try to fool the world.When Jesus comes into our life, He sees past the facade.  He sees past the pretty face we like to portray and sees into our heart.  And, he loves us just the way we are.  Once you've experienced His love, you can't go on as if everybody else is just fine.  Think back to the first time you knew that God loved you, even though you weren't perfect.  Remember the freedom that came from taking off the mask?  Today, let's reach out to hurting people living behind a mask.  Let's be the ones who are consistently reaching out, laying the foundation, and living in freedom and relationship with Jesus Christ.  That way, when God softens the hearts of those around us, and masks start to come off, we'll be there to gently lead our hurting friends to the feet of Jesus. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-14-11.mp3?id=2011-10-14 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Everlasting Joy True joy and happiness can only be found in Jesus Christ.  That alone should motivate us to share God's Good News with the world. Since many people are missing out on this true and lasting joy, we should be all the more willing and eager to share it with them.A famous quote sums it up well, "Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls."  Our goal in reaching our world is ultimately to win as many souls as possible to Jesus Christ.  And you know, our joyful countenance is one means of doing just that. The Bible says in Habakkuk, "Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my savior."  Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians that we are to be "joyful always."C.S. Lewis made an important distinction on the topic of joy, saying, "Joy is never in our power and pleasure often is."  We have to lead people to Jesus Christ because only He can give true and sustaining joy.  People are looking for joy in all the wrong places and coming up empty. Ask God to give you His lasting joy this week.  Then, share with others the reason for your joy. Tell them that they too can have a relationship with Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-13-11.mp3?id=2011-10-13 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Be a Blessing In Romans, St. Paul says, "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse."  I recently read a great example of blessing someone who hurts you.  You may have heard of a very large family from Arkansas - the Duggars. Their life is documented on a television show and they recently wrote a book.  In their book, Mr. Duggar explained how, early on in their family life he ran a used car lot.  Mr. Duggar shared how several cars they were trying to sell were stolen. Most of the car thieves ended up in jail.  Mr. Dugger could have been furious.  But, you know how he responded?  He visited the thieves in jail and gave them Bibles.  Mr. Duggar offered a blessing and prayed for them. He gave them God's word which has the power to save and transform lives.  He chose to be a blessing even to those who wronged him.  This week- seek to bless not only those you like, but those who have persecuted you as well. You will be amazed as God works through your efforts to bless everyone He brings across your path.  In the process, you may even lead another to Jesus Christ and nothing is better than that. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-12-11.mp3?id=2011-10-12 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Happy in the Lord A lot of people are very sad these days. As followers of Christ, we can make a difference for those who are depressed.  We can shine a light of joy and peace in places of sadness and turmoil.  We can do all these things and reach our world, but only if we really are joyful ourselves. How can we offer others hope if we aren't living a hope-filled life?  How can we offer others peace if we aren't peaceful?You may have heard of George Mueller.  He's a great hero of the faith who spent much of his life running orphanages in England. He was an evangelist and a man of prayer, and he witnessed many miracles in his lifetime of ministry.  He could have been sad many times.  He sacrificed much in his efforts to pursue God's calling.  But he was often quoted as saying that his first duty of every day was to be "happy in the Lord".  What an inspiration Mueller's words are!  Psalm 68 says, "May the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful."  Are you happy in the Lord? Spend time in prayer and God's Word each day so you can find your true happiness and peace in Him- only then can you effectively reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-11-11.mp3?id=2011-10-11 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Nightly News Turn on the nightly news and what do you see? Fires. Murders. Current wars and nations on the brink of war...  When we see these things it's easy to become fearful. We wonder if one of these terrible things will happen to us or to someone we love.  But God is love and He has a plan for your life - one that doesn't include living in fear. The enemy would love nothing more than to have Christ-followers paralyzed by the evil in this world.  He would love to see us retreat and do nothing.  He doesn't want us to tell people about Jesus Christ.  He wants us to live in fear.  Friends, don't give in to his lies! The Good News of Jesus Christ has the power to transform lives.  As Jesus transforms lives, He will transform neighborhoods and cities and countries.  And, He wants to use YOU in that process.  So allow God's spirit to encourage and strengthen you.As King David said in the Psalms, "I sought the Lord and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears."  Next time you're tempted to be fearful, pray with great faith that the Lord would deliver you from your fears. Pray that He would use you to reach our world that is hurting and desperately needs Jesus Christ.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-10-11.mp3?id=2011-10-10 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: The Power of Your Story The book of Revelation in the Bible says they "triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony."  There is power in a testimony.  I share mine all the time.  And, I'm in good company! Paul's testimony is recorded in the scripture three times.  Imagine if you traveled with him...  You'd probably hear his story every day!There is nothing more authentic and powerful than your mouth sharing your testimony and your life exemplifying change through the power of God.  Though your story will be most powerful for you, when you are sharing your faith, the testimony of others can be helpful too.  Many people don't resonate with my story so sometimes I tell Dad's.  His father died when he was 10 years old.  He came to know the Lord at a camp when he was 12.  Though Dad's story is much different than mine, he uses his story just as much!  It doesn't matter what your story is.  It might be coming back to the Lord after walking away from him for 27 years, like me.  Or, meeting the Lord as a child, like Dad.  Or living through a horrible experience like my friend, Bethany Hamilton, who had her arm bitten off by a shark.  It doesn't matter what your testimony is.  The important thing is that it's yours and that it's shared. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-07-11.mp3?id=2011-10-07 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Disciplined for Service I've met some very disciplined people and I've seen discipline used for God's glory, as well as perverted for Satan's pleasure.  If you observe the Sabbath religiously, pray continually, and spend hours in solitude- good for you!  But all that spirituality is somewhat empty if it doesn't motivate toward action.Pursue Christ.  Pursue Him through the various spiritual disciplines.  But it's not all about you!  There are others who are questioning, confused, seeking... use the wisdom you are gaining through your spiritual practices to make a difference- an eternal difference- in another's life!You will never regret taking action when it comes to sharing the Good news.  St Paul wrote that the Gospel is the "power of God".  If we have access to the power of God for salvation- we better not be keeping it to ourselves in our spiritual bubbles.  Don't be content to practice the spiritual disciplines without inviting others to also join the family of God.  Don't be content to know the truth for yourself but not to tell it to others.  Get out there and share your insights with someone else.  Your words, spoken from a heart of love, may lead another to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-06-11.mp3?id=2011-10-06 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Purpose of Discipline An ordered life- one that honors God's commandments, and sets aside time for Him, will see great blessing.  It may not be the kind of blessing you're thinking of- a new house, a fancy car, or freedom from any sickness or sadness.  No, it's a blessing far greater.  Those that pursue Christ through the spiritual disciplines will see more and more of the greatest treasure of all - Jesus Himself!  And while external circumstances may be difficult, you will have Christ Himself.The Bible says in the Psalms, "I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever." Well-known pastor John Piper said, "It is about the greatness of God, not the significance of man."If through the spiritual disciplines God becomes greater and more significant- you are heading in the right direction!  If through your spiritual practices you are compelled to worship Jesus Christ- you are getting there.  If you are motivated to tell other people about Jesus, you are on the right track.  Remember the goal of the spiritual disciplines is not discipline but to become more Christ-like, to worship more fully, and to help bring others into a relationship with our Lord Jesus.  Nothing is better than that. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-05-11.mp3?id=2011-10-05 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Freedom in Discipline Legalism is a heavy load to carry.  It means that you have to be good and stay in line to earn God's love.  It means you live by rules and regulations.  That's a lot of pressure.  The Spiritual Disciplines can often be confused with legalism- and many times that's what they become.  Do not allow this perversion of what God originally intended to creep into your relationship with Christ.  Rather, heed St. Paul's words in the book of Galatians, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." When you are beginning to establish the spiritual disciplines in your walk with the Lord, beware of the enslavement of legalism.  Guard against it.  Pray against it.  If the disciplines are not bringing greater freedom- then they are not of Christ! There are many spiritual disciplines- but perhaps the most important are time in God's Word and in prayer. Both of these activities will help keep you from legalism. They will give you freedom to truly enjoy your ever-deepening relationship with the Lord. And, through your relationship with Him, you'll be able to reach your world with the Good News of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-04-11.mp3?id=2011-10-04 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Discipline for Discipline's Sake Many people work very hard to cultivate the spiritual disciplines.  They desire to live a structured, ordered life.  They begin to observe the Sabbath, read the Scriptures, pray continually and more- and yet sometimes in the midst of all these things they lose sight of why they're doing it in the first place!The point of the spiritual disciplines is not to be disciplined!  While discipline is a good character trait, and should be evident in the lives of all Christ followers, it is a means to an end.  If you are very organized, self-controlled, and orderly, but those disciplines are not leading you to love others, serve others, share the Good News with others, and become more Christ-like- then your discipline has missed the mark!St. Paul writes in Philippians, "...in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." Pursue discipline in your life this week- but do so that you might grow in your humble service of others. As you do, more and more opportunities for you to share your faith will arise. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/10-Oct/10-03-11.mp3?id=2011-10-03 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: You are Watched I'm so proud of my friend, Bethany Hamilton.  Have you heard of her?  She's the girl who had her arm bitten off by a shark in a tragic surfing accident.  And yet, even through that horrible situation, she continues to honor the Lord.Recently a movie was made about Bethany's life.  It's called "Soul Surfer."  The movie depicts what happened to Bethany.  After the accident she received a lot of publicity, attention, and limelight.  Yet, she utilized every moment to bring glory to the Lord - it's as simple as that.We might not all have moments when the world is watching us, but we all are watched by someone.  God says "Those who honor me, I will honor."  You don't have to have notoriety or a position that is seen by thousands to honor the Lord.  You don't need a story like Bethany's to make a difference and be a light.  Wherever you are, whomever you are with, honor the Lord today.  God has placed you where you are for a purpose, just as He did with Bethany.  Give him honor, credit, and speak of him often.  In so doing, you will be a seed-planter.  You will have the opportunity to show and tell your world of the great love of God's son, Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-30-11.mp3?id=2011-09-30 Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Pointing the Finger Because of the work we do on radio and television I've become acquainted with many journalists through the years.  One day, at a luncheon, I was talking to a journalist who was going to denounce a certain politician who had really, really messed up his public life and personal secret life.  And then, when I talked to this journalist I said to him, without meaning to, I said, "You know, pointing the finger is not going to solve your problems."  And suddenly - we were having lunch at a restaurant - he broke down and said "That's me."  He said, "I do a lot of drinking.  I've been stepping out on my wife.  Who am I to point the finger at this guy and do an expose on him when I myself am such a hypocrite?" At that point I realized, in a restaurant, a classy restaurant downtown, that this man really had a conscience and he'd been brought up in a Christian home, in a Christian school, but he never received Jesus Christ.  And right there, at the restaurant, when he suddenly became aware of his own weakness and his own duplicity, I was able to tell him how through the cross of Jesus Christ and the blood that He gave on the cross, our sins can be forgiven, and his life was revolutionized.  Today, he speaks for Jesus.  He is a new man.  And, he's still in journalism. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-29-11.mp3?id=2011-09-29 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Discipling New Believers I'm sure that you've heard the phrase, "discipling someone."  Now, what does that mean?  What it means is that a person who has been a Christian earlier helps a new Christian to grow in their faith, to understand the Word of God, to get involved in prayer, to join a good biblical church, and to begin to share the faith and give financially to spread the Kingdom of God.  I have a friend, in my city, his name is Jim.  He was in horrendous trouble. He had messed up in his personal life, successful in business, but he had some secret practices that his wife had no idea about.  Then, one day, when she found out all hell broke loose.  But, God led him to read a little booklet I'd written. It's called, "What is a Real Christian?" and when he read that booklet his conscience was absolutely shaken, he fell on his knees all by himself, and said, "God have mercy on me."  Then he wrote a little note and he and I became friends.  I didn't know him until then.But, you know, the verse that I have been drilling into Jim is Galatians 2:20, "I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live but it's not I it's Christ living in me."  What Jim has needed to learn from the get-go as a new follower of Jesus is that Christ lives in him and Christ is the power to live a holy life. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-28-11.mp3?id=2011-09-28 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Not by Good Deeds You and I are always talking about reaching your world, reaching your world.  Well, I live in a city on the west coast and I'm trying to reach my world on a day-to-day basis with a whole series of individuals in the general geographical area.  One of them is a very wealthy, successful man.  He has tried to walk with God and understand God but his idea is that good works will definitely get you right with God and get you peace with God.We spend many luncheons together and we continue to do so.  We have breakfast together.  We go on trips.  And, I'm always trying to get through to his soul.  But all these years, my friend is still always thinking, "If I do enough good deeds, if I help the poor and send some high school kids who can't afford it to college and they become doctors and lawyers," (and many have, by the way), "I'll be okay with God."But, you know, in Ephesians, chapter 2, and I brought it up to my buddy many times, "it is by the grace of God that you have been saved, through faith, this is not from yourselves.  It is the gift of God."  Many people find it very hard to realize that eternal life and peace with God is not something we earn by good deeds but a gift of God that we receive by faith.  And, the gift of God that gives eternal life is Jesus Christ.  Help your friend to receive Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-27-11.mp3?id=2011-09-27 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau A Changed Drug Dealer We were having one of our festivals in Tulsa, Oklahoma and we had live television at night, besides the rallies in a coliseum earlier in the evening.  One night I get a phone call while we're live on television and he says, "My name is Nick. I'm from California. I'm hiding from the gang who is trying to kill me."  He told me three of his friends had died in his arms when they were shot by opposing gangs.  And then he said to me, after a long conversation which I can't repeat, he said, "Do you think God would receive a sinner like me and take me back?"And I said, "Oh Nick, absolutely!  That's why we're in Tulsa, to let everybody know, even visitors from California, even those who have been drug dealers and have shot and been shot at.  You can find peace with God and forgiveness."  He said, "How?"  And so I told him, "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved.  Saved from your guilt, saved from your problems, saved from your emptiness, saved to start a new life."  That night, live on television in Tulsa, Oklahoma, I led Nick in a prayer and he gave his life to Jesus Christ.  Today, one of his sons is in the ministry, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ and his life has been totally turned around because of one night when he gave his heart to Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-26-11.mp3?id=2011-09-26 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Living Water The other day my wife, Wendy, and I were walking our dog.  Suddenly, a car zipped around a corner and almost hit us.  The driver, a young girl, was visibly shaken when she pulled over to make sure we were okay.  My sweet wife didn't see this girl as a crazy stranger who almost hit us, but rather as a person who was in need of the love of our God.  Wendy invited the girl to our home, encouraged her to join in a Bible study, and ended up leading this girl to the Lord.  After she prayed, the young girl said, "I'm so glad I have a new life, because I didn't want to wake up tomorrow and be the same as I am today."This girl's comment made me think of the woman at the well.  She also was just going through the routine, trying to find peace and satisfaction.  She had been through so many different marriages and relationships.  Nothing satisfied her soul.  There was dryness and a sense of desperation. But then she met Jesus. What a privilege we have, as followers-of-Jesus, to introduce these people to the Lord.  Our world is full of people just going through their routine, not wanting to wake up tomorrow the same as they are today.  We can offer these people - just as Jesus offered the woman at the well - hope, peace, and living water that quenches the thirst in the soul. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-23-11.mp3?id=2011-09-23 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Heaven is His Throne I want you to listen to this.  This is what the Lord says in Isaiah 66:1, "Heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool."  Heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool.  What is that talking about?  It's talking about the glory, the enormity, the seriousness, and the reality of heaven.  Do you know that in the book of Revelation, when you open it up, it says in chapter 4, "I saw a door open in heaven and one seated on the throne."You see, heaven is not a joke.  It isn't something that you can treat lightly, though some people do.  Heaven is the destiny of everyone who humbled themselves, who prayed, and who received Jesus Christ into their heart.  They go to heaven when they die.  I expect to go there myself.  Heaven is God's throne.  It's a beautiful city. In the book of John, Jesus said, "In my father's house there are many mansions."  And when Jesus ascended to heaven it says that the heavens opened and He went up into heaven and he's going to come back from heaven.Heaven is God's throne.  Heaven is the Father's house and everyone who knows Jesus Christ can look forward to the day when he will live in heaven forever. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-22-11.mp3?id=2011-09-22 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Trembling at God's Word When I was a teenager a man approached me who was a leader in our church.  He said, "I'd like to spend time with you, Luis, now that you're 18 and you're serious about God."  So, for three years this gentleman, three times a week, would spend three hours with me, on our knees, teaching me the Bible, praying, and expressing what God wants from a young man.I remember so many things he said.  The one I want to talk to you about is this: he read a passage in Isaiah 66:2.  Listen to what it says, "This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word."  You know, I'd never noticed that verse.  "This is the one I esteem," says the Lord, "whoever is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word."  And you know what that is talking about?  About taking the Word of God to heart.  About honoring and revering our creator.  That when you are on your knees, with a humble and contrite heart and spirit, you tremble at the Word of God.  In other words, you don't mock it.  You don't despise it.  You don't take it lightly. I want to challenge you today.  If you want to reach your world, take the Word of God seriously and learn to tremble at God's word. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-21-11.mp3?id=2011-09-21 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau A Letter Within a Letter You know, getting a conversation going with someone about spiritual things and, particularly, about Jesus Christ and the Bible isn't always easy.  There are several ways you can practice that will make it a little easier.  For example, if you work with someone or you go to school with someone, and you want them to read the New Testament, but you don't know how to do it, here's a suggestion, okay - why don't you write them a little note and say "This book has helped me tremendously through the years.  I especially like the Gospel of St. John on page such-and-such."  And then, put that note inside the New Testament right where the Gospel of John begins.  And then you can say to them, "I want to give you a letter, but a letter within a letter.  My letter is inside and this book is a letter from God to you."And you know, just the intrigue of the whole idea when you make such a presentation makes it a little easier.  Inside, in your note, you can be honest, you can be transparent, you can speak the truth and demonstrate that you really care for them because, at the same time, you're telling them how much you enjoy the Word of God.Remember this, the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword.  It penetrates even to divide soul and spirit.  So, as you give your friend the Word of God you can trust its power will do its work.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-20-11.mp3?id=2011-09-20 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau God has Written You a Letter One of my favorite friends from England is Dr. J.I. Packer.  One day I was so pleasantly surprised when I read this phrase and I hope it will encourage you today.  He said, "I have never seen my Lord Jesus Christ but He has written me a letter."  You know, the letter is the Bible, the Word of God. That is a letter from God for you and for me.  And, you know, we need to take it seriously.  We need to take it personally and cherish it.  Just like a person who loves another and they're far away for a trip or something and they get a letter, they take it in their pocket, they carry it wherever they go, they put it away for history because it's a sign of love.  And, God has written us a letter. The Apostle Paul says in 2 Timothy 3, "From infancy, you have known the Holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ."And you know, when you try to win people in your world to faith and eternal life, always count on the power of the Bible.  And if they doubt the love of God you tell them, "Look, read this love letter from God.  Begin reading in the gospel of John and keep reading all the way and you will sense the love of God speaking to your heart."  So, the Bible is God's written letter for you.  Take it to heart and enjoy it.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-19-11.mp3?id=2011-09-19 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Back to the Cross If the statistics are accurate, most of you listening spend a good amount of time in the world of social media. Most of you listening probably have a Facebook account, and many others use Twitter, youtube, LinkedIn, and others.  But for me, I'm just learning about it.  I have a long way to go.  If you haven't yet involved yourself in social networking it may seem very contrived and surface-level, but for the people who live there, it's a very real medium of communication.  Now, I'm not saying that it's all good, but I am saying that if you're in that world, you have an opportunity to speak positively about Jesus.  You have a chance to influence the people there.  Paul said that he wanted to become "all things to all men so that by all means he might save some." Social media is just another means to connect with people, pray for them, and share biblical truth and wisdom.  If, in reaching our world, the message never changes but the methods should- this is one way to adapt your evangelism methods to reach more people! Use social media for God's glory and others' good.I would love for us to connect and encourage each other as we learn about social media.  You can find me on Facebook.  Just one more way to reach our world together! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-16-11.mp3?id=2011-09-16 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Relationship, Not Religion You know, in your effort to reach your world, you're going to find an argument that will come up again and again, and I'm sure you've already heard it many times and it's this: "I don't believe in religion. I'm not interested in religion. Religion is selfish, it's fundamentalist.  Religion leads to wars."  All sorts of arguments. "Religion is blind. Religion is obtuse."  The answer to that is very simple.The answer is "I absolutely agree with you. I don't believe in religion either. I believe in a personal relationship with God by meeting, personally, with his son Jesus Christ."  You see, that makes a big difference.  Yes, religion is us human beings sincerely, often, trying to organize ourselves spiritually.  But, when Jesus Christ came into the world He became a man, though He was God almighty, and the creator of the universe, just to show us Himself, in person, to reveal His character and give us forgiveness and eternal life when He died on the cross and rose from the dead. So, it's not religion.  Agree with the person! It's relationship with God.  Jesus put is this way, "Come to me all you who are tired and burdened down and I will give you rest.  Take my yolk upon you and you will find rest for your souls."  So, you come to Jesus Christ by faith.  You open your heart.  You surrender to Him.  You receive the forgiveness of sins and you begin to walk with Him for the rest of your life.  So, you see, it's not religion, its relationship. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-15-11.mp3?id=2011-09-15 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Two Ways of Resolving Guilt When a person begins to feel guilty about their sins, how can you help them?  You know what happens - most people who know the Bible and then stumble into a serious sin, whether it's cheating or lying or sexual immorality or some other form of sinfulness. There are two ways to try and solve the problem of guilt.  One is incorrect, the other is absolutely the way to go. The incorrect way is to deny the existence of God, or to deny Jesus Christ, or to deny what the Bible says, or to mock those who believe in Jesus and the cross of Jesus Christ.  The correct way is to be honest and open and humble yourself before the Lord and to say, "Oh God, I know better. I failed You. I feel awful.  I have offended You and there I'm in pain.  Lord, I confess my sin. Please forgive me. Please wash me. Please cleanse me. Please give me the Holy Spirit's power again."The Bible says, "If we confess our sins God is faithful and just. He will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."  So, go the right way.  Don't make excuses and don't accuse others.  Confess to the Lord. He will forgive you, and you can walk with Him again. That's the way to solve the problem of guilt. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-14-11.mp3?id=2011-09-14 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Confess Your Sins I just received a letter about a girl who has denied Jesus Christ, renounced her faith, and said that she doesn't believe in God anymore, much less religion. Now, we found out that she's living with a guy, practicing sexual immorality, and that, to me, is the reason why she denies Jesus Christ.  I have followed this up for 45 years.  I have met people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures.  Every time a person is born in a biblical home, in a Bible-believing home, and then suddenly they deny the faith, deny Jesus Christ, look down on the work of the cross, every single time that I have checked - and I've checked hundreds of them - it's because they're living in sexual immorality and they have to get rid of their guilt.So, instead of confessing their sin and being forgiven by God, they deny the existence of Jesus and the work of the cross.  Big mistake.  If you, because of unresolved guilt want to come back to God, get on your knees.  Don't make excuses.  Confess your sin.  Ask God to purify you by the blood of Jesus and begin to walk again with God.  You will be free and you will never deny Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-13-11.mp3?id=2011-09-13 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Unresolved Guilt This week I received a note from a husband and wife who said, "Luis, will you please pray for our daughter?  Two years ago she told us that she didn't believe in Jesus anymore.  She said she believed there was a creator, but he wouldn't have done what he did to his son on the cross. I led her to the Lord when she was 10 years old.  I just left from visiting with her in Hawaii and she told me she doesn't believe in any religion.  I told her it wasn't about religion but a heart relationship with our creator."  And, the note goes on. As I read, I said to myself, "Uh oh, who's she sleeping with?"  And, sure enough, when I turned the page over, this note from the dad and mom, it goes on to say, "She is living with a guy who was raised in a certain religious church and was beaten up by his father because he wouldn't go to church on weekends.  So he feels exactly as our daughter."Now this is the point, when people are brought up knowing the Bible and knowing about Jesus Christ and then they insist that they don't believe anymore, the reason basically is this: unresolved guilt.  You either confess your sins and are forgiven, or you find excuses.  We'll go on with this one some other day. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-12-11.mp3?id=2011-09-12 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Calling Clarified There are three types of calling:  You are called initially to come and follow Christ , to repent and receive Him.  Then you are called to a certain vocation.  That means more than just your job but also the work that God has for you in His kingdom.  It doesn't mean a full-time ministry position, necessarily.  Your calling is to your workplace or your home or wherever you find yourself.  When you're there, you are not a second-rate minister of the gospel. Wherever you are is where God wants you to tell others about Him. The third calling is the calling of the day-to-day, moment-by-moment following Jesus. How are you reaching others in your sphere of influence?  How are you responding to the Holy Spirit?  How are you growing?  How are you being discipled and discipling others?I love this verse in Romans- "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."  Isn't that incredible?  We have been called according to God's purpose!  God has a purpose for each of our lives and it's our job to be faithful and obedient.  Will you wholeheartedly respond to God's call? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-09-11.mp3?id=2011-09-09 Fri, 09 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau What is God like? When you're trying to reach your world, your friends, your family for Jesus Christ, more than once people will ask you, "What is God like?"  People's ideas of God often is just a spin from their own mind.  But, we know from what the Bible teaches, and because you and I have met Christ, what He's really like.  First of all, "God is a spirit" the Bible says.  Those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and truth.  That's the first thing about God.  Secondly, what is God like?  He's omnipotent.  That means that He has all power in heaven and earth.  God is almighty.  He is omnipotent.  Thirdly, God is omnipresent.  That means he's everywhere.  He sees you, He knows you, even your thoughts.  God knows us because he is omnipresent.  And then, lastly, you can say God is omniscient.  Don't try to limit God.  God knows everything.  And, therefore, we cannot hide from Him.  And when He says, "I love you and I will forgive you," He knows what he's doing.  He's doing it on the basis of knowing how sinful we are.Tell them that God knowingly, because he's omniscient, laid on Christ the sins of the world.  That may help them to really know what God is like. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-08-11.mp3?id=2011-09-08 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Who is God? How can you reach your world?  Well, you reach them for God, that's how.  But, if the person says "Who is God?  How can I talk to Him?  How can I know Him?" you can give him at least three points to begin with.  First, you can say, "God is your creator."  In Genesis 1:1 it says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth."  In Jeremiah 1 He says, "Before I made you in your mother's womb, I knew you."  So, the first answer to who is God is this: God is your creator.  Not only the creator of heaven and earth, but your personal creator.  Secondly, God is calling you.  The very fact that the person asked the question, "Who is God; how can I know Him? is a sign that God is calling the person, and the Bible clearly says in John chapter 1 that God enlightens every man who comes into the world.  So, yes, He is calling.  And when the person says, "Who is God?" you can say lovingly, patiently, and kindly, "The very fact that you asked the question is a sign that God, who created you in your mother's womb, is calling you."Thirdly, you can say, "God wants to be your Father - Your spiritual Father - Your God.  So if you give Him your life, He will come into you life and become your heavenly Father."That's the beginning of the conversation... http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-07-11.mp3?id=2011-09-07 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Can I Trust the Bible? When you say to someone, "If you really want to meet God, and you're sincere, lock the door, get on your knees and say 'God, I want to know you. Speak to my heart.'" And then you say to them, "begin to read the Bible starting with the gospel of John.'"  The person often comes back and says, "But, how can I trust the Bible?  How do I know it's the word of God?"  The answer to that is very simple.  You say, "Give it a try. Just get on your knees and say 'God, I'm going to read your book. My friends tell me that you speak through the book. Speak to me, Lord. Speak to my heart. Speak to my soul. Explain yourself to me.'"  And you know, when that person begins to read the holy Word of God, the Word of God has power."I am not ashamed of the Good News Gospel," St. Paul said, "because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes."  If you can encourage your friend to simply open up the Holy Bible and read, beginning with the Gospel of John - I'm a great believer in the Gospel of John - then you can expect God to do a great thing in his life. So take that as a method of reaching friends - sincere people who have an open mind to meet God. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-06-11.mp3?id=2011-09-06 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Is there a God? When you are trying to reach your world, haven't you found many people who say, "I don't know if there's a God.  How can I know?  How can I meet him?  Who has ever met him?"  How do you answer such a question?I think you have to go at it from several angles and here's one:  I would say these words from Jeremiah 29, "'You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.  I will be found by you' says the Lord."So, when a person says that they don't know if there's a God and how can they know if there is one, you've got to say, "Look, if you truly want to find Him, He will be found by you because He says 'Seek for me.  Seek for me with all your heart.'"  So, one suggestion I like to say to people when they ask "How can I know?", I say, "Look, if you really, really want to know Him, go to your bedroom or some private room, lock the door so nobody sees you but only God, get on your knees and say, 'God, I want to know you.  I want to experience you. Please speak to me.  Please reveal yourself to me.'"  And the Lord says in Jeremiah, "I will be found by you."  So say to the person, just ask God that, and then begin to read the Bible.  He will speak to your soul.  Try it! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-05-11.mp3?id=2011-09-05 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Fishers of Men Growing up in the beautiful Pacific Northwest gave my three brothers and me lots of opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.  One of the things I especially liked was fishing.  When I was younger, I thought all it took to be a good fisherman was getting to the river, at the right time, in the right season, and casting a line.  But, catching a fish is only the first step.As critical as catching a fish is being prepared to handle the fish afterward.  You need to know what you're going to do with the fish once it's caught.  Being unprepared to handle my catch didn't keep me from fishing, but it did make it much more difficult. The Bible says that Jesus will make us "fishers of men."  Just as it's important to "fish for men" it's also important to have a follow-up plan.  Get out there and "go fishing," for sure!  It's better to fish and be unprepared than not to fish at all.  But, even better yet is to pray and ask the Lord to show you how to disciple, come alongside, and encourage a new believer.  Today, let's get out there and be "fishers of men" but let's also be prepared to take care of and nurture our catch. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-02-11.mp3?id=2011-09-02 Fri, 02 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Use Every Available Method Somebody once asked me, "Do you think if Jesus were here He would be on television?"  Of course.  If Paul were here, would he have a press conference?  Definitely. He would do anything to get the attention of the city. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 9:22, "I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some."  Through Paul's preaching, thousands committed their lives to Christ and the church in Corinth was established.  Why?  Because Paul actively proclaimed the Gospel using every available method. That's why my evangelistic team and I use radio and television, large festivals, and small group meetings to reach out with the Good News.  Any method is valid as long as it is ethical and moral.  So don't be afraid to try some new or different approach for reaching your friends and neighbors for Jesus Christ.  Just keep your message true to the Bible, and step out in faith! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/09-Sep/09-01-11.mp3?id=2011-09-01 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Leave the Results to God What's the best method for evangelism?  You know, I've traveled around the world, proclaiming the Good News to thousands of people, but I still don't have an answer for that question.  Oh sure, there are techniques we can use and preparations we can do to make sure our message is reaching people who have never heard.  But, evangelism methods aren't sacred.  They are simply vehicles for proclaiming the Good News to the unsaved. In this age when millions don't believe in Jesus, we can't waste time arguing about which approach to evangelism is "best." It is through the power of the Holy Spirit and by God's grace--not our impressive techniques--that people are saved.  Zechariah 4:6 reminds us, "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit' says the Lord Almighty." God does the work of evangelism through us, no matter what method we use.  Just use the style that fits your personality.  Then leave the results to God! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-31-11.mp3?id=2011-08-31 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Pure Gospel I heard a story about an old minister from the Church of Scotland who went to hear Billy Graham each evening during an evangelistic campaign.  Afterward, the minister told Billy, "Dr. Graham, I've heard you every night for six weeks, and you've preached the same sermon every time."  Except for the introductions and illustrations, this is still true of Dr. Graham's ministry.  His core message will never change because there is power in the unchanging Good News of Jesus Christ! But too often today the pure Good News is not being proclaimed.  Teaching about the family is good, but it's not the Good News. Calling for a return to values is important, but it's not the Good News.  We have to get back to the basics.  John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."  Let's take the time to share this simple, but powerful, message of truth. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-30-11.mp3?id=2011-08-30 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Message As Our Mission There have been thousands of evangelists during the past few hundred years.  Just think of Moody, Wesley, Luther, Spurgeon, Corrie ten Boom, and Billy Graham, to name a few!  The question is: What made them great evangelists? I have found the answer to this question has little to do with their methods or techniques.  No, it wasn't their method, but their message--and their passion for souls-- that drew people to the Savior.  Now, you may not be an evangelist, but sharing the Gospel should be your mission as well.  The Bible tells us we are Christ's ambassadors and God has "committed to us the message of reconciliation." (2 Cor. 5:19-20)  You can start by praying for just one person this week.  Ask God to give you the words and opportunity to share the pure Gospel message.  You'll be amazed by what God will do with your heart-felt prayers for the lost!   http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-29-11.mp3?id=2011-08-29 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Sunday School Answers There's a great song that came out several years ago with simple but powerful lyrics.  The chorus says, "He is the answer to the question, He is the cure for the infection, He is all He says He is.  He is the ultimate reflection of holiness and true perfection. He is all He says He is."  I love this song because it emphasizes that Jesus really is the answer! I've found it strange that Christians talk with condescension about the so-called Sunday School Answer.  People talk like it's absurd to answer something with the theological acumen of a child.  And yet, didn't Jesus tell us that we are supposed to have faith "like little children"? It seems the Sunday Schoolers have something to teach us. If the Sunday School Answer is Jesus, then the Sunday School answer is always, 100%, in every situation, the correct answer.  Jesus is the answer to every question. The only way.  The only peace.  The only hope. The only love.  The only joy. We tend to over-complicate things and get sidetracked on secondary issues- when Jesus is the only thing we need to be sharing.  Will you share THE answer with someone today?  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-26-11.mp3?id=2011-08-26 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Finding the Wanderers You know, of course, that the world is full of wandering lost teenage boys and girls.  Sometimes it's because of abuse in the home.  Sometimes because of rebellion.  Sometimes because of drugs or drinking.  Sometime because of sheer stupidity.  But, there they are, wandering and victims of abusers.  I have a little poem that I read once before, let me read you the last verse of this poem.  It says:  Go for my wandering boy tonight.  Go search for him where you will.  But, bring him to me with all his blight and tell him I love him still.  Oh where is my boy tonight?  Oh where is my boy tonight?  My heart overflows for I love him, he knows.  Oh where is my boy tonight?And, you know, when you think of downtown any city, wherever you live, it's full of wandering teenagers.  Poor guys and girls who, for whatever reason, are the victim of the violence of the streets.  Some go into drugs and destroy their lives.  But, basically, inside they long for success.  They long for happiness.  They long for victory.  They want to live but they're almost dead while still alive.Like Jesus, the good shepherd that goes looking for the lost sheep, you and I can go and look for them.  Do it.  You'll never regret it. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-25-11.mp3?id=2011-08-25 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau My Wandering Boy Would you let me ask you a very very deep question?  Are you a wandering boy or a wandering girl today?  Have you walked away from your family?  Have you walked away from your church, if I may put it that way?  Have you walked away from God?  Are you wandering in the world?  There is a poem that I hope I can finish because I usually cry when I read it.  You see, one of my four sons wandered away for 17 years and, finally, he came back to God and to the family.  This is the first verse of this poem:  Where is my wandering boy tonight?  The boy of my tenderest care.  The boy that was once my joy and light.  The child of my love and prayer.  Oh where is my boy tonight?  Oh where is my boy tonight?  My heart overflows for I love him, he knows.  Oh where is my boy tonight?  You know, that's the cry of a parent whose children have walked away from them or from God or from Jesus Christ.  If you're wandering away from God today, I beg you in the name of Jesus Christ, be reconciled to God.  Ask him to forgive you and come into your heart.  And then go home and ask forgiveness from your parents and begin to walk a new life.  You'll never regret it.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-24-11.mp3?id=2011-08-24 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Science of Evil Let me ask you a question... is evil a matter that science has to resolve or does it have a deeper root that only God can resolve?  I think scientists have every right, and even duty, to study the problem of evil.  It's been discussed since the beginning of creation.  But, on the other hand, evil is a spiritual issue and a moral issue.  Therefore, we have to listen to God.When people ask, "Why does God allow evil in the world?" you have to say "you cannot blame God for evil, you have to blame the person who commits the evil for evil."  It's all too easy to shove the responsibility on someone else, even our Creator, who is love, who is good, and who is perfect.  But evil is a fact we have to deal with, don't we?  Every one of us, in our hearts.  Sometimes we go to bed and think "What a cruel thing I said. What a wrong thought I allowed."  Evil can only be dealt with deeply by the Lord Jesus Christ and that's what we have to tell people when we're trying to reach our world.  You know, "the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked," says the prophet Jeremiah.  "Who can understand it?"  And, it's true.  "I, the Lord, know the heart."  God reveals what we're like.  That's why the reading of the Bible, especially the New Testament, is a key point in reaching your world.  Encourage people to read the New Testament.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-23-11.mp3?id=2011-08-23 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Hope for Teenagers We were in Florida when the newspaper that morning told this story:  "As the freight train grew closer, 15-year-old Brittany and 16-year-old Shawn stepped onto the track, kissed each other in a tight embrace.  The conductor tried to stop the train but it was too late."Why would these two teenagers, 15 and 16, take their lives?  They had lost hope.  They're parents opposed their going out together.  And, consequently, the only way to prove that they really loved each other, they said, "we are like Romeo and Juliet and if we cannot live together they we are going to die together" and they took their lives.  My dear friends, do you know that there are thousands of teenagers in America who take their life every year?  Why?  Because they are hopeless.  They need friends who will tell them that there is hope.  They feel there is no way out.  In this case, because their parents opposed them.  But, there is always a way out.  The way out is no one less than Jesus Christ.  Remember what he said in the famous John 14:6 "I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me." So, you gotta' tell teenagers if they talk about suicide "There is a way.  There is a way out.  There is a beautiful way and it's the way of Jesus."  So, show them how to receive Jesus and walk with Him.  Help teenagers who are in despair.  They are looking for help. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-22-11.mp3?id=2011-08-22 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Christ-Focused The other day I spent several hours talking to an acquaintance of mine.   For him, the conversation only focused on the hurt that the church had caused him years and years ago.  He couldn't get over that.  I tried to encourage him not to focus on imperfect people, but to focus on the perfect Savior who would never hurt him - Jesus Christ. Hurt is legitimate and real and something that needs to be worked through.  And as followers of Jesus, we should be aware that the way we treat others can and actually does hinder people coming to faith. The words of Jesus in John 14:6 are so important- Jesus says, "I am the way the truth and the life, nobody comes to the father except through me."  When sharing our faith, we must center every conversation on Jesus - not ministry, or church, or missions, or anything else.  Jesus and Jesus alone.  When you come across people who have a roadblock to coming to the Lord, keep bringing it back to Jesus and what He says and what He has done for them and is doing. Jesus is everything and will never disappoint.  Share Him with the people you love. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-19-11.mp3?id=2011-08-19 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Reaching the Children Many people rightly feel awkward when they want to start to reach their world, giving them the Good News of Jesus Christ.  This is understandable.  It happened to me.  You may not think so, but it's true!  When I was a teenager I wanted to reach my world down in South America.  It was very hard but the first step that I took, the elders of my church were wise enough to say "start working with the children."  So, they gave me a class of about 8 or 10 boys in Sunday school.  I took it gladly.  I was about 18 and a half.  I'd just been baptized.  And, it was a fabulous experience.The first boy that I led to Jesus died only a few weeks later.  He was run over by a street car.  I thought, "Wow, if I hadn't led him to Christ what would have happened to this boy?"  I think his name was Marcos.  You know, Jesus said, "Let the little children come unto me because such is the Kingdom of Heaven." Don't stand in their way.  Woe to the man who causes a little child to stumble.  Little children are so open.  They believe the Word of God.  When they hear the truth the Holy Spirit resonates in their hearts.  When a child is converted, their whole life will be directed better than if you're converted at age 47 or 50 or 56.So, reach the little children because Jesus loves the little children. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-18-11.mp3?id=2011-08-18 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau David Pickford: An Example of Love I've told you about my British friend, David Pickford who died just recently.  What a brilliant man he was.  How he loved young people - teenagers, children.  He worked in the Boys Brigade, a British organization, but he also worked with some of the highest people in the realm.  One of the princesses of the royal family and her husband came to know Jesus Christ because he was unashamed of Jesus.Jesus said, "If anyone is ashamed of me, in this sinful and adulterous generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes into glory with the holy angels."  David was never ashamed of Jesus Christ.  He was a terrifically brilliant man - successful, very wealthy, gave away tons of money for the kingdom of God.  He spoke so lovingly, so humbly, so cheerfully, so kindly to people that people from the top levels of the government and business to the humblest and poorest in London loved David Pickford.Are you that kind of person?  Am I that kind of person?  I always ask myself... do I love the children like Jesus loves the children?  David Pickford was an example to me of a wealthy successful man who loved the children of the world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-17-11.mp3?id=2011-08-17 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau David Pickford: Reaching a Nation I've told you about my friend, David Pickford, and his wife, Betty, who died only a short while ago.  Both were born into poverty, both brilliant, both received Jesus Christ quite early in their lives and they were some of the most cheerful and happy Christians that I've ever met around the world.  The most amazing thing was that they served their country the United Kingdom, Great Britain, in an amazing, amazing way. They worked with teenagers and children in a youth movement over there - Boys Brigade.  And then, he reached out to amazing numbers of young people by the tens of thousands.  In fact, the festival that we had in London in '84 was a great measure worked on by those young people that he ministered to for so many years.  But, there was something else... David and Betty also reached the Queen's first cousin, Princess Alexandra, whom the Lord used me to lead to the feet of Jesus Christ.  God willing, in a few weeks I will go and see her and her brother who is also a very distinguished man in the United Kingdom.  But, it all happened by this successful businessman, with his wife Betty, who were unashamed of Jesus.  Who openly testified.  Who believed the words of Jesus "If you follow me, I will make you fishers of me."  Do you have that joy?  I hope you do. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-16-11.mp3?id=2011-08-16 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau David Pickford: Assurance of Eternal Life Just a short while ago, a friend of mine in England died.  His name was David Pickford - a fantastic gentleman, a great brother, a great friend and counselor.  He was born in a poor family but was extremely intelligent.  He was chairman of a festival that we had in 1983 and 1984 in London, England.  He was an amazing man.  He had connections all over the city of London and even overseas.  He became chairman of our association in the United Kingdom and across Europe.  He married Betty.  Betty also came from a very poor family.  In fact, she was given away by her parents very early on and she never saw her mother until 3 years before she died.  She was a bright woman - a happy Christian woman.You know, it made me realize that all of us, every one of us, one of these days will have to face the fact of death.  We will die.  "It is appointed unto man once to die."  David and Betty Pickford died absolutely cheerful, knowing that they were going to see Jesus Christ face-to-face.  It reminds me of John 10:28 "I give them eternal life" said Jesus "they will never perish and no one can snatch them out of my hand."Do you have that kind of assurance?  Do your friends? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-15-11.mp3?id=2011-08-15 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Saved To Something In the Gospels, when Jesus would call His disciples, He would say, "come follow me and I will make you fishers of men." When God rescues us, He not only rescues us from our past, He also rescues us to something... as soon as you're rescued from death you're moved to a new way of life.  You're not just rescued FROM but you are rescued TO.  He doesn't want you just to be the receptacle of God's mercy but also the overflow of it to others.  In the same sentence where Jesus said, "repent and believe and follow me," He also said, "and I will make you fishers of men."  God doesn't just call you to save you.  He calls you so He can work in and through you to reach others!  He wants to use you to impact others and draw them into the same saving grace.Don't receive God's grace and sit idly by as others go through life not knowing Him.  You have received God's grace for the purpose of sharing it with others. Praise God we have eternity with Him- but are you using that knowledge to bring others into eternity with God?  Or are you just resting comfortably in your salvation?  God has you on earth for a reason and He wants to use you, right now, today, for something amazing.  Never forget what God rescued you from- but what is He calling you to?  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-12-11.mp3?id=2011-08-12 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Be Gentle You've heard it said: "Be gentle." I most often hear parents telling this to young children who are around pets, newborn babies, or glass dishes. But there are lots of times and places where gentleness is required of all of us. Contrary to its reputation, gentleness is not a trait for women only. It is listed in the Bible as one of the fruits of the Spirit, which are for all humankind. In the book of Philippians in the Bible, St. Paul exhorts his readers to, "Let your gentleness be evident to all." I speak to men today who might try to dismiss God's call to be gentle because they view it as a feminine trait. Guess what? Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ Himself, was gentle! He was truly a gentle-MAN. He showed us what it means to handle other people with care; to reach out and be merciful. Is your gentleness evident to all? One way you can reach your world for Jesus Christ today is by treating others gently. Many times, all it takes to show someone the love of Jesus Christ is a gentle response. Won't you be a gentle man or woman today? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-11-11.mp3?id=2011-08-11 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Kindness Undeserved A popular bumper sticker awhile ago said "Commit random acts of kindness." Maybe you've seen it. I like it because it's a positive message. Kindness is one of the fruits of the Spirit listed in the Bible. Scripture is clear in its command to, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Think about that. We're not to be kind just because it's a good idea; we're to be kind because God Himself is kind! The Old Testament says: "I am the Lord who practices loving kindness." Whether random or carefully planned, acts of kindness allow others to witness God at work in this world. Do you practice kindness in your everyday living? Or, are you withholding kindness because you're waiting for someone to "deserve" it before you give it? Don't wait any longer! Think about the Lord Jesus Christ reaching out to you with new life. Did you deserve it? No, you did not. And neither does your neighbor deserve your kindness. Be kind anyway; it's the Lord's will for you and is the first step to leading another to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-10-11.mp3?id=2011-08-10 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau If You're Joyful and You Know It "If you're happy and you know it" is a fun little kids' song. The tune captures the lightheartedness of the word "happy." But did you know that while being happy is great, being joyful is even better! Happiness is a light and momentary feeling. It is marked by a sense of pleasure or gladness. Joy from Jesus Christ, on the other hand, runs deeper. It is a sense of fulfillment at the soul level. Joy allows for feelings of contentment and satisfaction. Even if you're in an "unhappy" situation, you can still be joyful. Listen to what Paul writes in the Bible: "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." I'll tell you Paul's secret. The source of his deep-rooted joy was Jesus Christ! Joy is a "fruit of the Spirit" that reveals itself in increasing measure the more you grow in Christ. It's impossible to hide the joy of the Lord, and people certainly notice when you have it.  Are you filled with the joy of the Lord? Do not be afraid to show it! Joy is an attractive fruit. Reach your world with it today! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-09-11.mp3?id=2011-08-09 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau To Get or to Give At the end of the day, the world measures success by how much you have. Did you MAKE money? Did you GET your way? Did you COMMAND power? But at the end of ALL your days, none of these things amount to anything. The world prizes the opposite of what God prizes. The world values external accumulation of things and increasing personal status. God values internal growth and increasing "fruit." What kind of fruit? Fruit that lasts forever. Galatians 5 says, "the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." The Lord Jesus Christ wants to grow these character qualities in you every day. Are you working with Him in this endeavor? Are you making decisions that allow the fruit of God's Spirit to grow? When you begin to do this, you will find an entirely new world opening up to you. You will become free to reach your world with the love and hope you've found in Jesus Christ. What's not to love about this fruit?! Won't you share it with someone who needs it today? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-08-11.mp3?id=2011-08-08 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: No Second-Class Citizens Most people think that they aren't in full time ministry because they don't have a "ministry title."  Many people think that because they aren't getting paid to "do ministry" their work is less important.  But, that couldn't be farther from the truth!  Not everyone is a pastor or evangelist or works for a church or ministry, but that is a good thing.  YOU, not working directly for those things, are building relationships that pastors and evangelists can't.  YOU are in a position to build relational platforms that those in the stereotypical "full-time ministry" could never build.  YOU have an incredibly important position.  Being right where you are, and reaching out to the people around you, is the very best ministry you can have. Jesus said, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." I think he was talking there about people like YOU.  I think he's talking about everyday people reaching their world with His Good News.  In God's kingdom, there is no such thing as a second-class citizen.  Your role here on earth is just as important as anyone else's.  So, reach your world to the best of your ability. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-05-11.mp3?id=2011-08-05 Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau No Favorites People always say "God doesn't have favorites".  That may be true, but He does have intimates.  While God loves us all the same, some of us spend more time with Him than others.  God knows each of us perfectly. He created us.  But a relationship takes reciprocation, and intimacy requires time and effort. While God loves you regardless of time you set aside for Him, you should not let that excuse your off-base priorities.  As a lover of God, you should desire to know Him more - that is the natural result of true love. The Psalmist writes, "In his pride the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God."  Have you claimed to love God but taken no time to think about Him or seek Him in your life? You can change that today.  Start reading your Bible.  Spend time in prayer.  And as you integrate these spiritual disciplines into your life you will naturally go out to reach your world! You will! Try it today. Spend time with the Lord and see if He puts someone on your heart who needs to be introduced to the Lord Jesus Christ.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-04-11.mp3?id=2011-08-04 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Perfect Father There are 30 million fatherless children in America.  30 million.  It's no wonder many people have a difficult time understanding how "God the Father" is good.  How could children raised without a father conceive of a loving, good, faithful Father in Heaven?  It's very difficult. I would encourage you to think differently about this situation. If you or someone you know were abused or abandoned by your earthly father - resist the temptation to judge the only perfect Father based on your earthly father's mistakes.  Instead, find refuge in God. He is a true father - one that will "never leave you or forsake you." The Psalmist writes, "In you, O Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame... be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go, for you have been my hope... my confidence since my youth." The Lord is your refuge and strength!  He will never leave you.  He loves you with a perfect love.  If your earthly father let you down, turn to your Heavenly Father who is waiting for you with open arms, longing for you to come home. Today, turn to Him and then tell others of the true Father you have found. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-03-11.mp3?id=2011-08-03 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Brothers and Sisters What does it mean to be brothers and sisters in the Lord?  Many people throw these terms around without pausing to think through what they mean.  I think the best explanation of the family of God comes from the book of Romans, where St. Paul writes, "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited." Well, that's a tall order, isn't it?  Pray and ask God to show you how you can be a better "spiritual sibling" to those God has brought into your life.  Your genuine love for others in God's family will be a witness as you reach your world.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-02-11.mp3?id=2011-08-02 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau No Grandchildren In my early days of ministry, I thought if we could just take a capital city by converting a president or several influential business leaders, there would be a natural trickle-down affect on the entire nation.  While there may be a grain of truth in that, I'm realizing it's slightly misguided.  God must work in each person's heart - individually!  He must work in His own way and time to draw them to Him. God only has children - he has no grandchildren.  The Bible says in Romans, "The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ."  If a President were to convert, and subsequently many citizens followed suit- that would be a fabulous blessing!  But that's no guarantee that their children, or their children's children will follow in their footsteps. All we've been given is our generation.  We must do what we can to preach the Good News.  But we must not assume that the effect will continue.  Preach the Good News, and pray that those who turn to the Lord will continue to preach the Good News to the next generation. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/08-Aug/08-01-11.mp3?id=2011-08-01 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: The Author of All I love the verse in Hebrews that says, "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus the author and perfector of our faith..." What does it mean that Jesus is the author of our faith?  An author scripts a story and moves the story forward.  The Father had a story written for the Son and it included great pain and suffering and yet it was the right story for Him.  We need to remember that our lives are also authored by God Himself and we know the end of the story - just as Jesus did - so we can persevere.  We know that God is going before us in the life He has written for us. Let's not grow weary and lose heart. Jesus' life was also authored by the Father and, though it was hard, it was victorious.  You too can be victorious!  Know that your life is written by the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and Creator of the Universe. Though our lives don't always go according to what we plan, we can move forward with courage, because we know that He wrote it for a reason and is going to use it.  He's writing the story of your friends and families as well and God may be using you in their story to bring them back to Him. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-29-11.mp3?id=2011-07-29 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Find Comfort in Prayer Ever had a bad day? Or even worse - a string of bad days, months, or even years? Maybe you think, "No one understands what I'm going through." And then what do you do? Do you open the refrigerator? Do you hit the gym? Go shopping? Turn on the TV? You see, the things we turn to for comfort are not truly comforting. They are counterfeit. Any temporary feelings of comfort they bring will rapidly dissolve. And then you feel even emptier! The Bible talks about the specific source of true and lasting comfort - God Himself. Maybe you know that's true, but you don't know how to experience it. I have a practical solution for you. Pray! Take your concerns directly to the God of comfort. The Bible says: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." This is not a nice-sounding phrase. It is the gospel truth - God cares for you! Communicating with the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ will fill you with an indescribable and lasting comfort. Don't believe me? Try it yourself! Choose to turn off the TV, close the fridge, and shut down the distractions. Go to God in prayer, casting all your anxiety onto Him. And you will experience His great comfort today. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-28-11.mp3?id=2011-07-28 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Flat on Your Face Are you at the end? I mean, totally and completely flat on your face? It could be because of a number of things - financial hardship, a ruined relationship, a doctor's diagnosis... Circumstances in life can make you hopeless. But, believe it or not, this could be the most exciting season of your life. You may say, "That's impossible, Luis!" But, it's true. When you have come to the end of yourself, no more trusting your own abilities or strength, that's when you have no choice but to surrender. Surrendering may feel like losing control, but you actually have nothing to lose. When you confess your complete dependence on the Lord Jesus Christ, that's when He steps in. He is the God of the broken. He will fill you with His Spirit and peace as only He can. That's what St. Paul meant in the Bible when he wrote, "this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead." You see, being at the end of yourself means you're at the beginning of complete reliance on God. And that is how you were made to function. You were created to lean wholly and completely on the God who loves you and gave His life for you. Won't you turn to Him today? He is more than enough for whatever you are facing. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-27-11.mp3?id=2011-07-27 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau How Are You? "How are you doing?" No, really, I mean it! Asking someone how they are doing is so common today that we don't take the question seriously. The problem with that is that we rarely get an honest answer. If someone is truly struggling, they can easily hide it. They say, "I'm fine." But in reality, their marriage may be on the rocks. Their family may be falling apart. And you would never know it! But the wonderful thing about knowing God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, is that He already knows our heart. He not only knows our troubles, He cares! Perhaps you are struggling today. Maybe your situation seems so bad that you feel you are beyond God's comfort. To that I declare the truth: Nothing is too difficult for God. In the Bible, He says, "I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?" Wouldn't you like to give your problems to someone who can handle them? That's God - the God of all comfort! Talk to Him in prayer, and hold nothing back. God the Father is your ultimate source of encouragement and consolation in every life circumstance. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-26-11.mp3?id=2011-07-26 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Cycle of Comfort My dad died when I was 10 years old. As a teenager I desperately wanted a father. It wasn't until I was 23 that a missionary reached out to me. He said, "I know you don't have a dad, but I'll be your friend. If you've got questions, talk to me." As a fellow believer in Jesus Christ, this man stepped in to fill the father role for me. But I had to wait 13 years for that! The only consolation I received as I waited was my mother telling me over and over, "God is your Father. He can comfort you." Sure, God comforted me, but I wanted a flesh-and-blood father. No one volunteered for that role for 13 years! Second Corinthians in the Bible says that God "comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." Notice the cycle there. We have troubles, God comforts us in them, and then we are free to pass along His comfort to others! God uses other people - that's me and you - to comfort the hurting. Who in your life needs to experience God's comfort? Would you let God use you to reach this person with His love and the Good News of Jesus Christ? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-25-11.mp3?id=2011-07-25 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Thrive Don't Strive We all have friends and loved ones who we long would come to know Jesus Christ.  But, I think one mistake that is easy to make is trying too hard, in our own strength.  We need to thrive, in the Lord, and not strive.  Thrive, don't strive.  God isn't as concerned about what we're doing as what we're letting Him do through us.If there's someone in your life who you long to have know Jesus Christ, don't be anxious or desperate.  Rather, be honest about your love for them and confident that they, also, are in God's hand.  Yes, be clear about the seriousness of the Gospel.  But, have a sense of confidence and peace.  You don't have to strive or be anxious about your loved one coming to the Lord - just thrive in who God is and His love for them. I saw this concept illustrated in the lives of my parents.  When I was walking away from the Lord, my parents were determined and persistent in their love and desire for me to return.  But, there was a peace about them.  They delivered the message, but let God do the heart-work.  As the Bible says, "Our struggle is not against flesh and blood."  Remember that as you thrive in our Lord today. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-22-11.mp3?id=2011-07-22 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Comfort in Turmoil Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a great hero of the faith, loved God faithfully, even in the midst of one of the worst tragedies in human history- Hitler's Holocaust. He loved Jesus, and felt a responsibility to intervene in the conflict.  He worked alongside several others within military intelligence to plot Hitler's assassination.  He was arrested and eventually executed for his work.  He was known for his peaceful countenance and concern for others while in prison.  The camp doctor who witnessed Bonhoeffer's execution, famously said "I saw Pastor Bonhoeffer ... kneeling on the floor praying fervently to God. I was most deeply moved by the way this lovable man prayed, so devout and so certain that God heard his prayer. At the place of execution, he again said a short prayer and then climbed the few steps to the gallows, brave and composed. His death ensued after a few seconds. In the almost fifty years that I worked as a doctor, I have hardly ever seen a man die so entirely submissive to the will of God."May we all learn from this man who glorified God in his life and in his death.  He reached his world in unbelievable ways- and continues to reach lives even now. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-21-11.mp3?id=2011-07-21 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Loving Through Loss My son and co-evangelist, Andrew, has endured much hardship.  Andrew and his wife Wendy have lost several babies through the very painful experience of miscarriage.  Miscarrying a child is a long grieving process- one made especially difficult when experienced multiple times. And yet their faith in a sovereign, loving Heavenly Father carried them through that difficult season.  Their faith increased as they wrestled with issues of life and loss and faith.  Their love for each other increased as they walked through the mourning process. Andrew and Wendy now have two beautiful boys and a beautiful daughter Sadie that they adopted from Ethiopia.  Their family today is shaped in many ways by what they've gone through.  While hardships do not define a person, they shape a person.  And they have certainly given my son's family a weightiness, an empathy, and a wisdom that they may not have had otherwise.  Romans 8:28 is true when it says that "God works all things together for the good of those who love Him."  Trust God's plan and reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-20-11.mp3?id=2011-07-20 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Death to Life Corrie Ten Boom was a remarkable woman.  She loved Jesus and her life reflected it.  Her life was not one of love for Jesus only when life is going smoothly.  She endured much hardship- she endured the Holocaust.  Her life during the Holocaust was a testimony.  She did not abandon her faith, she shared it.  She did not give up; she gave away life, love, food, shelter and encouragement to those hiding from the Nazis. Corrie Ten Boom has written many books about her life and experiences.  She wrote in one book, "When a train goes through a tunnel and it gets dark, you don't throw away the ticket and jump off. You sit still and trust the engineer." God can use even the most difficult circumstances for your good and His glory.  In Genesis, Joseph wisely states, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives".  Joseph trusted the Engineer of Life that Corrie Ten Boom is referring to, and he was blessed as a result.  The blessing may not come in the way you expect, and it may not come immediately, but in this life or the next, it will come. Trust God and reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-19-11.mp3?id=2011-07-19 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Troubled Times Theologian D.A. Carson wrote in his book For the Love of God, "... sometimes God chooses to bless us and make us people of integrity in the midst of abominable circumstances, rather than change our circumstances." What is your response to troubled times?  There's nothing wrong with praying for relief, or healing or a miracle.  But if God chooses to respond differently- how will you pray then?  Will you respond in humble faith, or arrogant indignation? The Bible says in the book of James, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." Respond in a godly way to your troubled times and others will take notice.  If your life is going okay, look for someone else who is going through a difficult time and walk with them through it.  Your trust in God during a difficult time, or your faithful friendship to another who is in a difficult time, will be used powerfully to reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-18-11.mp3?id=2011-07-18 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: The Power of a Testimony A friend of mine came to know the Lord but wasn't growing.  One day he met a wonderful lady whom he wanted to marry.  He asked his pastor if he would marry them.  The pastor said that he would marry them if this man gave his testimony at a retreat.  The pastor knew he wasn't growing but needed to. Today, this man is a passionate follower of Jesus.  Sharing his testimony was exactly what he needed.  It reminded him of all the ways that God had worked in his life and made him excited to move forward with the Lord once again. Be like that pastor and encourage others to share their stories.  They'll grow in the Lord just by sharing.And if you're feeling stuck in a rut, get out there and tell your story.  The prophet Isaiah is a great example saying, "I will tell of the kindnesses of the LORD, the deeds for which he is to be praised, according to all the LORD has done for us." There is nothing that will help you to grow in the Lord or re-ignite your passion for evangelism like telling someone who needs hope, of the hope that is available to them.  Today, think about your story- it's unique- and tell it to another.  Even this simple act will help you to grow spiritually and regain that passion for sharing the Good News. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-15-11.mp3?id=2011-07-15 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Family Recent studies show that the divorce rates among Christ followers are just as high as those who don't claim to know Jesus.  If the home is the first and most important place to make disciples, and our homes are falling apart, this spells out big trouble for the next generation. We often get consumed doing good things.  We are busy in the Church.  We are working hard to climb the corporate ladder.  We are serving in our community.  We are helping the poor.  But what if we lose sight of our first responsibility - the family God has entrusted to us? Our families can be a means of reaching our world.  A loving marriage that lasts... children who follow the Lord...  these things are so rare that they certainly cause people to pause and wonder, "How do they do it?"  Remember the words of the Psalmist, "But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children."  Keep your children's children in mind as you set priorities in your life.  First things first in reaching your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-14-11.mp3?id=2011-07-14 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Love There was a book published several years ago that did thorough research on the perception of Christianity in America.  The results were troubling, but I also found them motivating.  Why are we perceived the way we are?  If we serve the God who is love, why are we overwhelmingly perceived as hateful and judgmental?  It's unfortunate - but I believe we can change that!  And changing these perceptions could be a way that God works through His people to reach His world!  Rather than letting the negative stereotypes about us get us down or make us angry - what if we owned up to the problems, and decided to be a part of the solution?  What if we intentionally worked to live like Christ and love others? The Bible says in 1 John, "This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another."  Make every effort this week to love others; to view them through God's eyes of forgiveness and mercy.  Just imagine the doors God would open and the hearts that would turn back to Him.  Just imagine if another book was written in ten years and the studies showed that the Church was known for living like Jesus and loving the world.  Just imagine! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-13-11.mp3?id=2011-07-13 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Time We are the most electronically connected society in history.  We have a plethora of information at our disposal and can talk to anyone whenever we want.  Facebook alone has over 500 million users who spend more than 700 billion minutes per month on the site. Facebook can be a good thing because it makes the world smaller.  It helps us keep in touch.  But it also makes me wonder - are we careful to be fully present with those God has placed in our immediate lives?  Are we neglecting our loved ones because we are constantly distracted by technology? We have a limited amount of time.  It's so rare for people to have someone give them their fully devoted attention.  If you want God to use you to reach your world - make a simple choice to be fully in every moment.  Don't pseudo-listen to people - turn off your cell phone and really listen. Engage them in a real conversation. Your devotion, concentration and respect for others will open their hearts and minds to the Gospel.  It will help you feel less pulled in separate directions.  Be fully present in every moment of today.  As you focus on what really matters - people - God will use you.  As you live in each moment, fully and completely, you will reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-12-11.mp3?id=2011-07-12 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Generosity A famous person once said, "A sacrifice, to be real, must cost, must hurt, must empty ourselves." This quote reminded me of the story in the Gospel of Luke about the poor widow who put two copper coins in her temple offering.  It meant more than a rich man donating thousands of dollars, because, as Jesus said, "All these people gave these gifts out of their wealth, but she out of her poverty, put in all she had to live on."  For this widow, there was a real cost.  This offering had serious economic ramifications. In these tough economic times, it's an easy temptation to justify ourselves, saying, "I will give more when I have more money."  But God doesn't ask us to give when we have money available.  He asks us to be good stewards of what we do have, and to be generous always.  Imagine the example we could set by living lives of generosity. Perhaps the recipient of your generosity will come to know Christ as a result of your gift. Watch God work through your generosity. Maybe another person will meet the Lord because you gave. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-11-11.mp3?id=2011-07-11 Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Make a Commitment My sense is that some people don't share their faith because they are afraid.  I can feel that way too.  We're not necessarily afraid of being rejected.  We're more afraid that the person might say yes and we won't know what to do - or what our commitment level to them should be.  Do we have to meet with them regularly?  Are we responsible for their growth?  What are the next steps?If you feel this way, let me give you a little advice. First, ask the Lord for wisdom.  James 1:5 says that if any of us lack wisdom we should ask God, who gives generously to all.  Second, find someone who is successful at leading people into the Kingdom and ask them for insight.  Finally, know that you don't have to have all the answers.  Tell your friend that you too are learning and growing.  Point them to the Bible. Remind them that a relationship with the Lord is like a relationship with anyone else - it takes time and purposeful communication. Do be willing to make a commitment to a new believer in Christ.  Just as you would care for an infant, care for a new believer. But, also know that you don't have to have all the answers.  Allow the Lord and other believers to come alongside too.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-08-11.mp3?id=2011-07-08 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Life Together David writes in the Psalms, "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!"  Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote a book on the church called, "Life Together."  In it, he writes, "I can no longer condemn or hate a brother [or sister] for whom I pray, no matter how much trouble he causes me. His face that hitherto may have been strange and intolerable to me is transformed through intercession into the countenance of a brother for whom Christ died." What is your perspective on other followers of Christ?  What is your attitude toward the church?  We are commanded in the Scriptures, and exhorted by Bonhoeffer to love others and pray for them. I firmly believe that we will be hindered in reaching others if we can't even get along amongst ourselves.  Why would anyone want to join a family that is miserable and speaks poorly of its members?  The Bible says in 1 John that if we don't love others the love of the Father is not in us. Cultivate a loving attitude toward other believers, and watch as God uses the love of those in the church to draw others to Himself. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-07-11.mp3?id=2011-07-07 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Healing What's Broken The Bible says in Psalms, "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." He has a Father's heart and He loves His children.  He sees every fallen tear, and hears every desperate prayer. Are you modeling the Father's compassion for those the Lord brings across your path?  When you see the person sitting all alone, do you wonder about their story?  Do you strike up a conversation and respond to the Holy Spirit's leading?  When you hear of a destroyed marriage, do you gossip or go straight to those affected and find out how you can help? I love Brandon Heath's song "Give Me Your Eyes".  Our team has used it in some of our videos. In the song he says, "Give me Your Eyes for just one second, give me Your eyes so I can see, everything that I keep missing, give me Your love for humanity.  Give me your arms for the brokenhearted, ones that are far beyond my reach.  Give me your heart for the ones forgotten, give me Your Eyes so I can see." Make that your prayer this week.  Ask God to give you His perspective.  Reach out to the brokenhearted with the healing love of Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-06-11.mp3?id=2011-07-06 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Living in the Present I've found it troubling that some Christ-followers retreat from their earthly responsibilities because they feel it doesn't count for anything.  They're so focused on the life after this, that they aren't even motivated to help others get there!  I think a true and accurate perspective on eternity can actually be the greatest motivator to serve where God has us right now - which is on earth.  Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, "There is always only one really significant hour - the present. If you want to find eternity, you must serve the times." St. Paul had a similar perspective, writing in Philippians, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me... I desire to depart and be with Christ... but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body...I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me." We all desire to be with the Lord, but while He has us here, work to reach your world and make the most of this day - this hour, this moment. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-05-11.mp3?id=2011-07-05 Tue, 05 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Half the Story God reveals Himself through the whole Bible - not just a few verses in the New Testament.  When we limit our Gospel to the chapters with which we are most familiar, we are not painting a full and accurate picture.  God chose to begin His story in Genesis.  In the very beginning, God created, and creation was good.  He made everything beautiful, and He was in relationship with humanity.  When Adam and Eve chose to break their relationship with God through sin, the whole world was forever changed.  So, Jesus sent His Son Jesus to die on the cross, and rise from the grave, restoring our relationship with Him.  But He doesn't end His story there...The Bible says this of Jesus in the book of Colossians, "For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile to himself all things." God promises to restore all things.  And we can begin the restoration process now by working to share the Good News with the world.  Share the whole of God's Good News - including the very beginning, and His promises for the future.  It's these transforming truths that save. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-04-11.mp3?id=2011-07-04 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Carried by the Shepherd A while ago I spent some time studying theology at Oxford.  One of my professors was a Lebanese man with great insight into the depth and meaning of Biblical stories in the context of culture.  One of the things he impressed on my heart was the importance of being willing to carry our friends, especially those that are new believers, to ensure that they know the Lord and Shepherd Jesus Christ. Can you picture the artwork we often see of a shepherd with a lost sheep on his shoulders?  In some cases, he could have just as easily had the sheep walk but, he chose to carry it.  For the sheep, being carried confirms where it belongs.  Being carried communicates to the sheep that the Shepherd is safety, a refuge, a place of comfort, and his true home.  Being carried by the shepherd shows love, compassion, and the desire for relationship.If God is willing to carry us, his sheep, then shouldn't we also be willing to carry others?  As you tell your family and friends about the Good Shepherd, come alongside them and "carry" them to Jesus Christ.  For them to know Him, you may need to be willing to carry them.  Are you willing?  Will you introduce your friends to the Good Shepherd? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/07-Jul/07-01-11.mp3?id=2011-07-01 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Genuine Security - Grounded on the Promises of God After my father's death when I was ten years old, our family quickly plunged from relative wealth to desperate poverty. We lost it all.  Yet the whole time we lived in poverty, our mom gave us a strong sense of security.  Through prayer and singing and by affirming the promises of God, she kept us from fear and despair. Mom continually quoted Bible verses to us-verses such as Deuteronomy 31:6-"The LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."  Or Matthew 6:33-"Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."  Even when we were frustrated by Mom's generosity or her lack of business sense, we always respected her faith in God's promises. I'm absolutely convinced that genuine security boils down to knowing and believing the promises of God. The Bible says that all the promises of God are answered "Yes" in Jesus Christ [II Corinthians 1:20].  Make sure you are grounded in your relationship with Jesus Christ in such a way that you enjoy complete security in God's promises.  Then, you can offer that security to others.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-30-11.mp3?id=2011-06-30 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau A Secure Destiny Frees You from Fear During the Gulf War in the early '90s, a good friend of mine had a grandson who was ordered to the front lines.  He hardly slept at night thinking of his grandson.  I understood his concern, but I also encouraged him with the words of George Whitfield: "I am immortal 'til my hour has come." That's true of every Christian.  In fact, throughout my career I've banked on it.  I know I shall live until the moment God says, "Luis, come on up."  Several times during evangelistic campaigns overseas, enemies of the Good News have threatened to kill me.  Each time I have responded with God's Word: "God has said, 'Never will I leave you...' So we can say with confidence, 'the Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?'" [Heb. 13:5-6]. Verses like that tell you that God is with you and that He is in complete charge of your destiny.  He's with your loved ones in a hot spot on the other side of the world, and He's with you in every scary situation in your life.  Having a secure destiny in Jesus Christ truly frees us from fear. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-29-11.mp3?id=2011-06-29 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau How Do I Stay Safe from the Greatest Danger? What is your greatest fear in life?  Loneliness?  Financial ruin? Cancer? Crime? A terrorist attack? These are all serious dangers, and we do what we can to protect ourselves from them. But have you thought about what the greatest danger in life really is? It is that a person might go through life oblivious to the mercy and goodness of God. When it's their time to die, they discover that they have not prepared for the greatest danger of all-an eternity spent apart from the presence of the God who made them and loves them.  The Bible tells us not to fear what man can do to us. And there are some terrible things that mankind has done to hurt their fellow human beings. Instead, the Bible says to fear what can happen to our spirits after death [Luke 12:5]. Praise God, this is a danger from which we can be absolutely sure that we are safe-if we belong to Jesus Christ.  There is more to trusting Christ than simply being saved from hell-but that is a wonderful benefit!  You can't promise people complete safety in this life. But you can confidently offer eternal safety through a relationship with God's Son.  http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-28-11.mp3?id=2011-06-28 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Everyone Needs Safety If you were to ask a random group of people, "What do you want most in life?" you'd probably hear things like, "I want to be loved." Or, "I want to be rich," or "I want to be healthy."  What's behind all these wants?  A powerful desire for security.  No matter what words we use, we're all basically saying, "I want to feel safe." And that's perfectly fine. We're designed in such a way that we need to feel safe and secure.  When we don't feel safe, we use all sorts of crazy techniques to gain security - some of them quite unhealthy. So how do we find safety without putting bars on all our windows or building walls in all our relationships? The truth is we can never create our own security.  The Bible says, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe" [Proverbs 18:10]. It's a hard world out there. There are no guarantees that you and I will never experience harm.  But God's Word tells us that we can find security by coming to Him-no matter what happens in our lives. Do you know someone who is running for safety in the wrong direction?  Show him the true source of security is in Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-27-11.mp3?id=2011-06-27 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Never Too Late I received a letter from a man the other day who had prostate cancer and was distraught with fear and uncertainty.  Eventually he was so overwrought that he cried out, "God, if you are real give me ten minutes of peace!"  A few moments later a supernatural peace came over this man and he knew that God was real.  This man was 54 years old.  If you know someone who doesn't know the Lord, don't give up.  This man was 54 when the Lord spoke to him.  It's never too late.  If you have a loved one going through a hard time, don't quit praying.  When people go through hard times, such as this man with prostate cancer, sometimes those times are the exact times when their heart is soft enough to hear. The Bible says that we serve the "God of all comfort."  The Bible also says that Jesus offers "peace that passes understanding."  If someone you know is going through a difficult time, pray that God would draw near to them. Pray that God would use you to share His comfort with your suffering friend.  And watch as He changes lives- even those you thought would never turn to Him. It's never too late. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-24-11.mp3?id=2011-06-24 Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Do and Tell Miracle Have you ever witnessed a miracle? Something as simple as a good deed is miraculous to many people. At a recent school clean-up project, hundreds of volunteers gave their time and effort to spruce up a run-down high school campus. The principal was overcome with gratitude. She said, "When good people of goodwill come together and honor one another, miracles happen." I don't know if that's REALLY a miracle, but to her, it was. The fact is - most of the volunteers were Christians serving out of the love of God in their hearts. But how would the principal know this if no one explained to her the reason for their benevolence? Good deeds are good, but without putting words to the Good News, how can anyone know the truth of Jesus Christ? The Bible encourages us to "make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted." As you serve your neighbor in gratitude for what Christ has done for you, remember to TELL them about His love. They may see your good deeds as a miracle, but the true miracle is the gift of God's son, Jesus Christ. Won't you explain this Good News to someone as you serve them? No one can know the truth unless they are told it. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-23-11.mp3?id=2011-06-23 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Love is a Verb What is love? If you ask 100 different people, you would probably get 100 different answers. As an evangelist, I enjoy proclaiming the Good News. Often, before an evangelistic outreach we have a "Season of Service." This is a time when thousands of volunteers serve the city in areas where it's most needed. At a recent school clean-up project, one volunteer said, "For the Church, love has to be a verb. And this is what it looks like," she said as she looked around at all the work being done. It's great to see the Body of Christ coming together and loving our neighbors through acts of kindness. This is Christ's love in action! But love must also be spoken, not just shown. In the Bible, in the book of Isaiah it says, "I will TELL of the Lord's unfailing love." Are you TELLING others about Jesus? As you go about doing good deeds and loving your neighbor, don't forget to tell others the reason you are doing it. Tell them how God has changed your life through Jesus Christ. Share the Gospel! This is how the Good News gets out, and how YOU can reach your world for God's glory. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-22-11.mp3?id=2011-06-22 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Volunteering the Gospel Volunteerism and acts of charity have become popular. Have you noticed how the worldwide economic depression has prompted a real spirit of generosity? It may be hard to spot in the midst of all the bad news, but it's there. And it's growing. People seem more willing to serve. At a recent outreach event in Portland, where I live, a volunteer at a medical clinic said, "I do this because I want people to know how much God loves them, and that there is hope." Isn't that great? Christians are coming together to serve the needy. But how will those being served know that Jesus Christ is the reason for it unless they are told? In the Bible, Jesus encourages both loving actions AND the plain Gospel truth. We read that Jesus not only healed people, He would also tell them about the Kingdom of heaven. Jesus says in the book of Luke, "The blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, AND the Good News is being preached to the poor." Good deeds AND the Good News. As you give your time and resources, make sure you also tell others how Jesus Christ has changed your life. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-21-11.mp3?id=2011-06-21 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Words Speak Louder than Actions You've heard the saying that actions speak louder than words.   But, only words can tell the plain and simple Good News of Jesus Christ. Think about someone who has never heard the Gospel. And I mean never! This is a difficult concept for some people to grasp. We assume everyone has heard about Jesus at some point. But that's simply not true! This false perception leads well-meaning Christians to do kind things for others without explaining WHY. They assume the good deed is all that's needed for others to witness Jesus Christ. But how will they know unless they are told? Most people will happily benefit from your benevolence, and may never think twice about your motivation for doing it. In second Timothy in the Bible, we are urged to "never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord." As you reach out with Christ's love through good deeds, don't forget to TELL others about Him. Explain that it's because of Christ's death on the cross that you are free to give. Tell others how He has changed your life. This is how you reach your world for Jesus Christ! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-20-11.mp3?id=2011-06-20 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Sharing Christ with Our Children Have you shared the plan of salvation with your children? As followers-of-Jesus who faithfully go to church, we often rely on the Sunday school to tell our children about Jesus and His sacrifice for us.  Maybe your children have been going to church since they were born.  Maybe they were even baptized there. But, have you ever sat down with each of your children individually and shared God's plan of salvation with them?  Have you given them an opportunity to pray with you and invite Jesus Christ into their hearts? Sometimes this can be a difficult thing to do as a parent, especially if you never had a parent who did that with you. But, your child could go to church their entire life and never have the opportunity to really accept Christ. Remember, God has no grandchildren, He only has children. Is your child one of His children? If you take the time to tell your children about the Lord, to train them in His ways, these times will become precious memories for both of you.  Let's ask God to give us wisdom and to reveal how to continually tell each of our children of the love of our Lord. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-17-11.mp3?id=2011-06-17 Fri, 17 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Self-Control Have you ever reached for that second helping when you already feel full? Do you ever decide you will exercise every day, and then go back on your commitment several days later?  Discipline and self-control are difficult characteristics to cultivate, but the more we walk with God, the more we are enabled to live a life of self-control! Paul writes in Galatians that one fruit of the Spirit is "self-control."  If you try and be self-controlled on your own - you probably will fail.  But as you walk in freedom and in relationship with Jesus Christ, He will enable you to live a disciplined life that honors Him.  Self-control is not honored or discussed very much in our culture. Hence, if we exhibit self-control we will stand out! Let's pray that God would work through us and enable us to honor Him by living a self-controlled lifestyle.  Our reliance on God will be a great witness as we go out to reach our world with the Good News.  So, today, let's chose to seek Jesus first, live in His strength, and stand out from the crowd.  Then, we'll be ready to tell others about Him. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-16-11.mp3?id=2011-06-16 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Kindness The late Ruth Bell Graham, Billy Graham's beloved wife, was known for many things - one of them was her genuine kindness.  Security often complained that she was difficult to keep an eye on... She wouldn't hesitate to dart out into a crowd at Billy's crusades if someone looked as though they needed a listening ear.  Ruth opened her home to countless people- including many strangers!  She comforted many in times of trouble, and gave away her own money, time and possessions if she felt it would help someone else.  In the special program made for her funeral, people from all walks of life came to share how she impacted them- and they all recounted Ruth's love for Jesus and other people. Her example is inspiring.  St. Paul writes in the book of Galatians that one of the fruits of the spirit is "kindness."  Ruth Bell Graham certainly showed kindness to many people.  We should all learn from her example and show kindness to someone today.  Watch the impact you have, and the opportunities that arise to tell people about Jesus when you take the time to simply be kind. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-15-11.mp3?id=2011-06-15 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Patience In modern culture, it seems to be our tendency to want things done right now, right away, without delay!  If we're hungry we can go to a drive-thru and have our craving satisfied in 30 seconds.  If we want to buy something we can order it on the Internet and have it shipped to our house overnight!  If we want to talk with someone we can send a quick text message or email and immediately begin a conversation!  Everything is so 'instant' these days... So when something seems to take a long time we begin to feel anxious, or even angry at the delay! Paul writes in the Book of Galatians in the Bible that one of the fruits of the Spirit, or outcomes from walking with Jesus Christ, is "patience."  Sometimes spiritual progress is slow.  Sometimes a prayer request is not answered to your satisfaction for years.  Sometimes a friend you faithfully pray for won't come to know Christ as quickly as you'd like... As someone who loves to get things done- I understand your frustration!  But as we learn to walk more closely with God, we come to see that His timing is not the same as ours, but we must trust that it's better!  Do what you can to reach your world this week, but be prayerful and patient, because the results may not come as quickly as you'd like. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-14-11.mp3?id=2011-06-14 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Peace I've known Christians who have gone through cancer, job loss, divorce and countless other tragedies and somehow, in the midst of those trials, they were able to have peace.  These people were not peaceful because life was good - they were peaceful even in the worst possible situations!  People would observe them and marvel. Paul writes in the New Testament that Jesus gives us peace that "surpasses understanding."  Isn't that true?  I know I've found that to be true in many difficult situations in my own life, especially when my wife was battling cancer.  I wouldn't feel at peace if I were on my own- so I know it must be supernatural! If you, or someone you know, is looking for a peace that surpasses understanding, come to Christ!  While a relationship with Jesus won't get rid of the tough times, Jesus will be there with you and get you through them!  The comfort that He provides is the only way to feel peaceful in the middle of tragedy.  If you have a suffering friend, share with them the peace that is found in Christ alone- you'll never regret it. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-13-11.mp3?id=2011-06-13 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Miscommunication Happens When Wendy and I were first dating... sometimes, especially with a new date, we'd try to be funny but the other person took it seriously.  Or vice versa, one of us would say something serious and the other would think it was funny.  Those times can be awkward and yet the relationship is still moving forward.  God is still drawing us together, even through misunderstanding and frustrations in communication. The same is true when you're sharing your faith.  Sometimes it might feel that the person you're trying to share with isn't interested in talking about spiritual matters. But you have to be patient.  When you see a friend struggling and you want to share Christ with them, they may not be ready yet.  Maybe they're just not there.  And that's okay.  Just wait on the spirit of God.  If you are a faithful friend, and a good listener, and a committed follower of Christ, God will work through the awkward moments and use you to draw that person to Himself.  Don't force it- you can't anyway- the Bible says, "Salvation belongs to the Lord."  Engage with your friends as the Holy Spirit leads, and in His time, people will respond. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-10-11.mp3?id=2011-06-10 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Religion or Relationship Would you rather be given a laundry list of chores to do around the house or an invitation from a close friend for dinner? I'm guessing that dinner sounds much more appealing. Now think about the way you present the Good News of Jesus Christ to friends who do not know Him. Do you bemoan God's "dos and don'ts"? Do you complain about His commands as though they are a list of chores to keep? Or does your face light up as you share about the exciting ways Christ has changed your life? Do you talk about what it's like to daily walk with the living God? The Bible says about Jesus Christ: "For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things." Where is reconciliation needed but in relationships? The Lord Jesus came so that we could enjoy a healthy relationship with God the Father. That's the joy of the Good News! If you are struggling to reach your world with the Gospel, remember that knowing Christ is not a "religion," or a list of "dos and don'ts." Instead, it is a beautiful relationship. That's what makes the Good News worth sharing! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-09-11.mp3?id=2011-06-09 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau You are a Member of the Body of Christ Take a hammer. Take a nail. Put them together, and you've got a handy set of tools. But a hammer by itself can only do so much. And a nail by itself is rather useless. This picture offers a visual reminder of our effectiveness for God's Kingdom as members of the Body of Christ. When we work together, great and mighty things are accomplished for God's glory! But when we siphon off by ourselves, or even worse - when we refuse to work together - our effectiveness for God's Kingdom is greatly hindered. The Bible tells us, "There is one body and one Spirit - just as you were called to one hope when you were called ... one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." Tools accomplish precious little on their own ... and so do we. While God has given you special gifts and talents, they are designed to be used in harmony with other believers. That's how our work for God's glory is multiplied. You can overcome inefficiency by working with other members of the Body of Christ. May you seek healing in relationships whenever division presents itself. This is how -- TOGETHER -- we effectively reach our world for Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-08-11.mp3?id=2011-06-08 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Thank God Ahead of Time Good students put studying at the top of their priority list. Studying prepares you for the upcoming test. It is how you achieve good grades. You don't just HOPE to do well, you STUDY to do well. Success in "real" life is found in a similar fashion. Not by studying, of course, but by prizing FAITH above all else. Faith refuses to dawdle in doubt and skepticism. Faith is behaving as though the very thing you are hoping will happen. Faith is good and pleases the Lord. The Bible implores us to, "Hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful." If you feel ineffective as a witness for Jesus Christ, might I suggest that perhaps you are walking in doubt and fear rather than in courage and faith? Let me encourage you to do something simple, yet radical. Try it once, then do it over and over. Here's what you do: As you pray for something to happen, also thank God as though it has already happened. Thank Him for His provision. Thank Him for bringing about the very outcome that you desire. Then, wait and watch for it to happen! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-07-11.mp3?id=2011-06-07 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The "Who, Me?" Syndrome High school athletic teams often wrap up the season by voting for their fellow teammates. The coveted award is, "Most Valuable Player." The least desirable is "Most Accident Prone." No athlete wants to be prone to accidents! How many times a day do you feel you should be voted "most accident prone"? Maybe you feel socially awkward or unintelligent. If that's you, then how do you respond when God wants to use you? When He calls you to witness to your neighbor, do you fumble around and say, "You must not mean me, God. I'm not good at that stuff." Don't blame your inadequacies as a reason to hold back. When we do that, we're only making excuses for disobeying the living God. The Bible says that God will "equip you with everything good that you may do his will ... through Jesus Christ." Nowhere in the Bible will you find God describing a type of person He can NOT use. That's because He uses ALL of us to accomplish His purposes. No matter how clumsy or inadequate we may feel, God wants to use each of us to reach the world today. No more excuses.  It's time to say YES to God! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-06-11.mp3?id=2011-06-06 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Praying for Our Children As an evangelist, I share the Gospel all over the world and have the joy of seeing many individuals commit their lives to Jesus Christ. But, if I were to be honest with you, my number one burden is to lead my three children to Christ. As parents, most of you indentify with this. My wife and I constantly pray that God will draw our children to Himself and that they will grow to walk with Him, faithfully. It's easy to just pray for our children's behavior and choices. But, how often do we earnestly pray for their salvation? We want our children to be good kids, but what about the position of their hearts? Being a good kid and obeying all the rules doesn't necessarily mean their hearts are in submission to the Lordship of Christ in their lives. My wife and I have been impressed by the conviction to not just pray for our children's behavior, but to pray that they will submit to God. We don't just want 'good kids.' We want our children to become men and women fully submitted to Christ. It's a different prayer and a different journey. Let's together ask God to give all of us parents the wisdom and strength to pray that our children will be fully submitted to Him. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-03-11.mp3?id=2011-06-03 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau People "On the Way" Several years ago I met Christopher, a well-educated, well-traveled British gentleman. He wanted little to do with Christianity. Teachers in two religious boarding schools had abused him when he was young. But Chris' wife had accepted Jesus Christ as Savior seven years earlier, and it was obvious that the Holy Spirit was wooing him. So one day I asked Chris one of my favorite questions: "Do you have eternal life, or are you still on the way?"In the end, Chris joyfully committed his life to Christ! Fifteen months later, he died of a brain hemorrhage. We were shocked--and incredibly thankful to know he was in heaven!Jesus Christ says, "I stand at the door and knock."  He is knocking on the hearts of the lost. Begin praying today for at least five people who don't know Him. Pray that they will open the door of their hearts to His truth. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-02-11.mp3?id=2011-06-02 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Art of Patient Evangelism How long does it take you to change your mind? Most of us wrestle with life-changing decisions such as marriage and career. The same is true with making life's most important decision: to trust Jesus Christ for salvation. Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade for Christ, used to urge us, quote, to "continue to pray, thanking God in faith that He will answer according to His expressed will. Continue to show love unconditionally. Model the positive Christian life through your attitudes, actions and words. As the Lord leads, talk about Jesus again in your conversations, without hesitancy or embarrassment," end quote. Most evangelism isn't fly-by-night. Begin praying for five people you know. Isaiah 30:18 tells us: "Therefore the Lord will wait, that He may be gracious to you." God is patiently waiting for them; we can, too. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/06-Jun/06-01-11.mp3?id=2011-06-01 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Friendship Factor Luke 12 records Jesus saying, "You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. The second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself."How does evangelism fit into "love your neighbor as yourself"? J.I. Packer likes to say that, quote, "The right to talk intimately to another person about the Lord Jesus Christ has to be earned.... If you wish to do personal evangelism, then...pray for the gift of friendship. A genuine friendliness is in any case a prime mark of the man who is learning to love his neighbor as himself."That's quite thought-provoking, isn't it? Begin praying by name for the salvation of at least five people. Ask God to develop in you a deep and abiding friendship with them. Then take the opportunities He gives you and get ready to see lives changed! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-31-11.mp3?id=2011-05-31 Tue, 31 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau You Need Opportunities, Not Answers Several years ago my daughter-in-law Gloria invited three Christian friends and three unsaved neighbors to join her for a seeker-friendly evangelistic Bible study. Afterward, she said they had a hard time understanding God's grace.  Some of them couldn't understand why a murderer who decides to trust Christ gets to go to heaven.Gloria did her best to answer their questions. But even though she couldn't answer them all, she faithfully invited her neighbors into her home, opened up God's inspired Word, and continued sharing the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ.  She was confident that, given time, God's Word would touch their hearts.Are you praying for ways to reach people who don't know Jesus Christ? Don't worry if you don't have all the answers.  I challenge you to pray specifically for five people today. Ask God how you can reach them, and then act on it in faith.  He will do the rest! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-30-11.mp3?id=2011-05-30 Mon, 30 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: More is More Have you ever heard the phrase, "those who hear it most love it best"?  That's so true when it comes to the Good News.  The more you're involved with evangelism, the more passionate you become. You don't get tired of it. It isn't boring.  You will grow to love evangelism and sharing your faith more and more. Sharing the gospel is good for you and for those who are listening.  The Bible says in Philemon, "I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ."  Isn't that amazing?  The more we share with others, the closer we get to God!  If you are hesitant to share the Good News, you probably aren't doing it enough.  Your fears are legitimate and every new experience is uncomfortable initially- but I would encourage you to go for it!  The more lives you see changed, and the more you see God work, and the more you are faithful and obedient to the Holy Spirit- the more you'll want to continue doing all those things!  It's what we were created for and it never gets old.  Get out there today and do what God is calling you to do.  There's no better use of your time and you will never regret it. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-27-11.mp3?id=2011-05-27 Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Forever Hope Remember how slowly time passed when you were a child? If you were looking forward to something on Friday, but it was only Monday, it felt like an eternity to wait.  As a teenager, five days was still a long of time, but you could handle it. As an adult, now we just blink and the time passes! Our perspective on time changes as we age. While biblical hope does look for good things to come sooner than later, this hope is based on the reality of eternity. For some people, that's just too long to wait. They give up hope before they even taste it! The Bible says, God has "set eternity in the hearts of men." We know that we are not made for only eighty or so years on earth. We rightfully believe God wants the best for us, both now on earth and one day in heaven. When you know Jesus Christ, you know with certainty that you will spend eternity with Him. And eternity can never arrive too soon. No matter what challenges you face, living in God's love is enough for the present. You can say with Habakkuk in the Bible, "The Sovereign Lord is my strength. He enables me to go on the heights." Hope in Christ is the only kind of hope that satisfies. Won't you share it today? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-26-11.mp3?id=2011-05-26 Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Hope of Heaven I remember visiting a friend at his house on a bay. As we talked, he kept looking outside his window. Granted, it was a beautiful view, but it seemed he wasn't just gazing. I finally asked him what he was looking at. He smiled and said, "My daughter recently married and moved across the bay. I just like to look and see where my little girl is living." Think about that image as you ponder the reality of heaven. The Bible tells us that heaven is a real place. Jesus says in John 14:2, "In my Father's house are many rooms. I am going there to prepare a place for you." Heaven is a permanent place. We do not understand all the details, but we know Jesus Christ has been preparing a place for you and me. This hope we have is secure. Every believer has this most blessed assurance. Do you know someone today who is facing the death of a loved one, or perhaps their own inevitable death? Share with them your assurance in Christ. Tell them that they can be at peace with death if they know they will be with Christ in heaven. Hope of heaven builds courage and grants peace that passes understanding. That is a gift worth sharing! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-25-11.mp3?id=2011-05-25 Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Hope, Not Positive Thinking Have you ever spent time with someone who is positive to a fault?  These people are great at selling things. They call a shack of a house an "incredible investment opportunity." Or, when you smell a skunk, this person calls it a great example of natural adaptation. Positive thinking will help you see the good in things. But it won't help you actually get through a real problem. Guess what will - hope! Hope does not say everything is perfect. It does not promise a life free from difficulty. But, it does provide a sure way through the difficulty. Hope in Jesus Christ is true and lasting hope that will survive any circumstance.  Solid, biblical hope not only prepares you for eternity, it helps you right here and now. The Bible says, "On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us." Have you claimed this hope today? Nothing in all the world can match godly hope that helps us through severe challenges. God is faithful. What He promises, He delivers. This is real, tangible, trustworthy hope. It's so good, it's worth sharing! Won't you tell someone today how the hope of Jesus Christ has changed your life? http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-24-11.mp3?id=2011-05-24 Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Positive Thinking vs. Hope Did you know that Thomas Edison tried and failed one thousand times before he found a suitable filament for his new electric light bulb? Yet he is quoted as saying, "Failure? We haven't failed. At least now we know 1,000 things that won't work!" Talk about positive thinking! And while having an optimistic view is a good thing, it will get you only so far. It can change your outlook, but it can't change your destiny. Do you know what CAN? Only the hope of God as revealed through His Son Jesus Christ. Positive thinking comes from YOU. Eternal hope comes from GOD. Positive thinking is finite and fallible; hope is eternal and reliable. Romans 5:5 says, "And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." Isn't it a relief to know that you do not have to generate your own positive thoughts? When you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, HE is the source of your hope! And He will never fail you. If someone asks you today how you can be so positive, tell them the truth. Tell them that you are optimistic because Jesus Christ has given you real and lasting hope. Tell them this is a gift that they, too, can receive! Do it - and reach your world for Jesus Christ! http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-23-11.mp3?id=2011-05-23 Mon, 23 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Andrew: Today is Your Day Are you ready to re-commit your life to Christ today? Walking away from God can often become a downward cycle. We sin, do something we promised ourselves we'd never do again, and then do it yet again. Then we feel a separation from God and feel as though He is disappointed. The gap in our relationship with God grows larger and larger until we feel God doesn't even want to hear our prayer. "He's disappointed with me, tired of me, sick of me making these same mistakes over and over again" we say to ourselves.  Though sin does separate us from God because He's holy, the Bible clearly tells us that He doesn't love us any less.  He has done the work on the cross to bridge that gap.  All He wants you to do is repent and come back to Him. Maybe today is your day. God is a patient God. In John 10 Jesus tells us that He came to give us life to the full! In abundance! What a wonderful promise. Do you have abundant life? Or do you feel the divide between you and God is dragging you down? Come back to Him today. His mercy is new every morning.  Today is your day to draw near to Him once more. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-20-11.mp3?id=2011-05-20 Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Lend a Listening Ear The Bible calls us to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ.  Without a doubt, we are commanded to reach our world through speaking the Good News.  A great precursor to sharing, though, is listening.  Get to know an unbeliever.  Listen to their story.  Show that you care.  Listen without judging. Good listeners are good friends.  And a good friendship is a great foundation for sharing the Good News.When I think I'm having a hard time, I read the book of Job, and it definitely puts things in perspective.  There are many lessons to be learned from this book, but today I want to focus on Job's friends.  His friends get a bad rap, and rightly so, for their behavior later in the story.  But look at their initial response.  When they first heard of all that happened to Job, they cried for him and sat with him.Is there someone in your life who is suffering a great deal?  Lovingly lend a listening ear.  Be with them.  Support them.  Care for them in any way that you can.  Your faithful friendship will likely open the door to share with them the ultimate friend - Jesus Christ. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-19-11.mp3?id=2011-05-19 Thu, 19 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Love in Times of Grief Have you ever felt completely weighed down?  I have. When terrible things happen or we lose a loved one, it's hard to be joyful. Grief and pain are things that all human beings have to go through at one time or another. Unfortunately, it's just a part of life here on earth. While someone is going through a difficult time, we can show Christ's love to them.  The Bible says in Galatians that we are to "carry each other's burdens."  When you see someone struggling, come alongside them.  Pray for them.  Ask them what you can do to help.  Listen to them.  Show that you really care.Times of grief are often times of intense questioning.  People begin to really think through the major questions of life and death and God and eternity.  Your demonstration of selfless love is a great opportunity to reach out with the Good News of Jesus Christ.  Because the love of Jesus Christ is the ultimate comfort - sharing the Good News with a grieving person is truly loving them.   Don't hesitate to tangibly love someone who is hurting, and then share with them the only perfect love - the love of the Father in Heaven. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-18-11.mp3?id=2011-05-18 Wed, 18 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau Love Your Neighbor I would guess that you're probably familiar with the idea of "loving your neighbor."  Sadly, I think many of us have allowed these timeless truths to become watered down.  They almost become meaningless because we're so familiar with them. Our hearts are less receptive.  Our ears are shut off.Often, it's unintentional.  It's just time taking its toll.  But we must not let it!  We must keep these truths just as exciting as they were in the first months of our salvation.Re-think what it means to love your neighbor.  Examine what that could look like in your daily life.  As our society becomes more and more individualistic, loving your neighbor may seem outdated.  But don't let this truth from Scripture ever leave the forefront of your mind.  When Jesus was asked what the greatest commandments were, He said to love God and "to love your neighbor as yourself."Jesus knows that we're selfish. We love ourselves more than we would care to admit.  So to ask us to love our neighbors as much as we love ourselves is a tall order.  But by the power of the Holy Spirit, and through prayer and faith, we can grow in our love of others.  This is a great way to reach your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-17-11.mp3?id=2011-05-17 Tue, 17 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700 Luis Palau The Plank in Your Eye There's a song our organization has been using in several of our videos.  It's a Brandon Heath song called, "Give Me Your Eyes."  Isn't that a great idea?  Asking God to share His perspective with us?When we view things through our limited, human perspective, our sin gets in the way.  Jesus said, "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."  It is easy to overlook our own faults and yet we're very quick to notice others'.  But Jesus' words are very sobering, don't you think?Ask God to give you His eyes.  Pray that you would view the world from His perspective.  You will suddenly notice things you didn't before.  You will realize how much you've been forgiven, making it difficult to judge others.  You'll see hurting people and want to tell them about Jesus. And you will grow in compassionate, selfless love for those in your world.  Ask God to take away any judgments of others from your heart.  And as you grow in love of others, you will increase your effectiveness in reaching your world. http://ryw.palau.org/programs/2011/05-May/05-16-11.mp3?id=2011-05-16 Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 -0700