Charles E. Maldon Jr.: The Master’s “Right Tool”
Trees had overgrown the fence, and the shrubs needed a trim. Numerous weeds had overtaken what used to be a vegetable garden. I was overwhelmed at the scale of work that I needed to accomplish, but I knew I had brought the necessary tools. …
Continue reading →Charles E. Maldon, Jr.: This Is Your Moment
As he peered out, the reflection of light on the ocean created the appearance of a million shimmering diamonds. He focused on the sound of the engine coming from the rear of the speedboat as he heard the captain’s baritone voice say, “Two minutes out, get ready everyone.” Jake knew this was it. Was he ready? Or was the sweat on his brow just nerves. He knew it was now or never–if he was going to break free of his fear of the ocean, he had to jump. This was his moment…
Continue reading →Charles E. Maldon, Jr.: Staying Purpose-Driven
Staying purpose-driven must be a lifestyle we are willing to take on. …
Continue reading →Charles E. Maldon, Jr.: The Reflection
“What if I looked like this all the time?” Rich said, joking.
“I would still love you,” Carol said. …
Charles E. Maldon Jr: The Work of a Bridge Builder
Recently while coming back from travel, I crossed a bridge that caught my attention. This was not my first time crossing, but this particular time was different. I could see a glimpse below of endless deep blue water. I pondered not only the time spent on constructing this bridge, but also its strength. …
Continue reading →Charles E. Maldon Jr. : The Trust Factor
On that faith-stretching night my wife and I experienced, we had to stop trying to figure it all out and instead trust the Holy Spirit for direction. We learned that we are not the conductor. We are just the instruments selected to participate. …
Continue reading →Charles E. Maldon Jr: An “Uncut” Version of Me
We can add nothing to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ’s love. He accepts us enough to die to reclaim us, and redeem us from the effects of sin. …
Continue reading →Charles E. Maldon Jr: Victory in the Trial
Do we consider the joyful attitude we must muster, as a key to enduring a trial, as James mentions? Our outlook determines the outcome, and our attitude determines the action. We must become more dependent upon the Lord, allowing Him to craft us into a beautiful masterpiece as we work through each trial. He teaches humility, compassion, self-control, peace, and faith as we walk through them. The more we surrender our mindset to Him, the more we can rest assured that a mighty work is happening in our lives, despite what we see on the surface. The hard truth is, we cannot expect everything to be problem-free all the time. Jesus tells us in the gospel of John that trials are inevitable.
Continue reading →Charles E Maldon Jr : Boot Camp
Paul’s plan to Timothy for the church encourages him in a time when he is facing much suffering. It is inevitable. There is no way to get around it. Those who desire to be a registered, proven member of Christ’s army, will suffer. To endure suffering, it is necessary for us to embrace it. We must go through suffering if we want to experience growth and God’s anointing. We will not see oil until the olive is squeezed and pressed to produce that which is already inside. The Lord uses suffering with a purpose for His glory, but the key is not giving up. To endure is to suffer patiently; to experience without giving in; to undergo a tough situation.
Continue reading →Charles Maldon Jr: The Fear Factor
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. ~1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV Most of us are afraid of something but don’t want to face our fears. The issues we fear can immobilize us. Oftentimes, what frightens us is not that big of a deal, but it is in our minds. I am not afraid of many things, but I cringe when I … Continue reading →
Charles E. Maldon, Jr.: Elevation Like Mount Everest
When climbing Mount Everest, there are various “oxygen levels” that we have. We could perish if we do not adapt to this new environment. The higher the elevation, the thinner the air is, which can cause suffocation for the climber without the proper equipment and training. No one can climb the mountain without the appropriate gear. Likewise, we can know God provides help in times of spiritual elevation. …
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