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Pastor David Fuerstenau

Keeping The Wells Unblocked!

Most kids are curious, and I was no different. When I asked my father why a certain pasture which we passed almost every Sunday had a small fenced-off area serving no apparent purpose, he explained what could not be discerned at a distance. A spring of water was being protected from cattle which in the past had blocked up the water’s flow with their trampling hooves.

Isaac was confronted by a similar situation (recorded in Genesis chapter 26). There was a famine in the land, and Isaac was living in Philistine territory by permission. Despite the famine, Isaac’s herds increased, and his planted crops yielded bountifully. The Philistines, envious of his wealth, filled in all the wells his father Abraham had dug there in the hope of limiting Isaac’s power. Then they demanded that Isaac vacate the area.Read More »Keeping The Wells Unblocked!

Of Ravens, Lilies, and God’s Providence

GOD’S PROVIDENTIAL CARE

It is not unusual for our Tulip and me to enjoy the backyard together. I sip my morning cuppa while gazing at the flowers; our pet cat watches the birds. Even when it’s raining, an assortment of winged neighbors are prone to gather there–some for insects and worms, pigeons for seeds, and an occasional raven or seagull for an offered snack.Read More »Of Ravens, Lilies, and God’s Providence

The Age of Miracles

Who would not like to see or experience a no-sham, no-scam miracle? Or even perform one?

This longing seems to be part of our human nature. Pharaoh, the unbelieving Jews, and Herod all wanted to see some great sign, and Simon the sorcerer was willing to pay money to be able to exercise the power of God (Acts 8:18).

Christianity is the religion of miracles, and without them it cannot stand.

Christianity is the religion of miracles, and without them it cannot stand. We know Jesus’ earthly life involved them (His incarnation, virgin birth, transfiguration, resurrection); during His earthly ministry He did many miraculous signs–all providing proof Read More »The Age of Miracles

The Five C’s of Conversion

Conservative talk show host Mark Levin has remarked that “there is simply no scientific or mathematical formula that defines conservatism.” The same, of course, is true for Christianity. Thus this writer asks your forbearance in suggesting the above devotional and spiritual formula for the Bible teachings about conversion, where five C’s represent five different values.Read More »The Five C’s of Conversion

Seized By The Spirit

When I was around twelve years old, I was walking home on a dusty Dakota road because the family tractor had quit on me. A neighbor stopped to give me a ride. Not much later he started gesticulating and speaking gibberish. I crowded the door, ready to bail out if necessary. Then suddenly he stopped the unusual actions and noises. Looking at me, he smiled and told me not to be afraid. He explained that he had been grabbed by the Spirit and was just speaking in tongues!

Read More »Seized By The Spirit

Sorrow and Glory at Olivet

One can hardly envision entering the season of Lent without contemplating again the events that occurred on the Mount of Olives, for that is where the Lord began the suffering of His final hours.
That is where His passive obedience took root–in the Garden of Gethsemane.

The first biblical reference to Olivet1 is in connection with our Lord’s lesser father–King David. A thousand years earlier, Israel’s second king–a forepicture of Christ–was forced to flee Jerusalem for his life (2 Samuel 15:30). David’s son Absalom had conspired and rebelled against his father, and the king was forced to make the journey down into the Kidron Valley, up the mount on the other side and, with much weeping and sorrow, on toward the desert.Read More »Sorrow and Glory at Olivet

Do You Believe In Miracles?

An almost palatable taste of hope was in the air. Much had been promised and much was expected–at least by the faithful. The elements of success had been carefully brought together. People waited with bated breath. Finally, the winning shot went home and the team held on for ultimate victory. The USA hockey team had beaten the Russians and went on to capture the gold.

A nation, perhaps with many throughout the world, erupted with joy. The announcer could only gasp: “Do you believe in miracles?!”

Ice again covers the lakes, and excitement wafts through the air. Much has been promised; much is expected. It’s not Lake Placid in 1980, but it’s Christmas. And the question should again be asked with great awe and wonder, “Do you believe in miracles!?”Read More »Do You Believe In Miracles?

Lord, Save My Son!

Who among us would deny that Hezekiah was a man of prayer?

We recall two incidents in Hezekiah’s life that were made memorable by answered prayer. In both cases the answer was clear and immediate.

When Sennacherib of Assyria threatened Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem with destruction, reviled the Lord God of Judah, and boasted that He would not be able to save them, Hezekiah prayed. That very night an angel from heaven strode through the Assyrian campsite and left 185,000 corpses in his wake.

In shame Sennacherib hightailed it home, only to be murdered by his own offspring.Read More »Lord, Save My Son!

Two Mothers Beneath the Cross

In this world we can expect tribulation. So Jesus informed all His followers.

As the world seeks to celebrate Mother’s Day with flowers and sweet candy, we remember that troubles and bitter sorrow also come with the job. Blessed are all godly mothers who bear their cross with faithful patience.

If we were to ask, ‘Who is the most notable example of this in Scripture?’, who would not think of Mary, the mother of Jesus?Read More »Two Mothers Beneath the Cross