JOHN SHIRK – Wisdom makes use of knowledge and experience to make good decisions.

The Magi, commonly known as the Wise Men, made a good decision when they responded to the star to move toward Jesus. When they arrived, they worshipped Him.

Wisdom has a starting place.  Proverbs 9:10 tells us that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

A relationship with God based on reverence for Christ is an indication that we are receptive to God’s Word and committed to doing God’s will.  The way of wisdom is demonstrated in other godly character qualities.  James 3:17 says, “The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” That is the recipe for wisdom that bears good fruit in God’s Kingdom.

Wisdom is a character quality that enables us to represent Jesus in the world today.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

The guys from The Museum tell WJTL’s Kristi Leigh the story behind their single “Allelujah” at the 2011 Creation Festival.

WJTL’s Kristi Leigh talks with Chris August at the 2011 Creation Festival about winning Dove Awards, how he got his start in music, and sitting next to Kirk Franklin.

JOHN SHIRK – To be persuaded is to hold a strong belief that something is true-to be convinced.

If we fail to stand for something that is true, then we run the risk of falling for anything. There are plenty of pitfalls in this world that can bring us down.

But the Lord is able to lift us up and take us beyond the vanity of material and temporary treasures.  He offers us something that we can believe in.  His grace.

This grace came through the saving work of Jesus Christ at the cross and empty tomb.  His death and resurrection makes it possible for us to be forgiven of our sins and to experience a new life that leads to eternal life with Jesus.  That is a message we can believe in. That is a message of real and lasting hope.

Romans, chapter 4 talks about Abraham as a man of faith. One of the characteristics of his faith is that he was “fully persuaded” that God had power to do what He had promised.

Persuasion is a character quality that enables us to represent Jesus in the world today.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

There’s only one thing Brenton Brown regrets about doing his Creation Festival 2011 WJTL interview…

JOHN SHIRK – Rest is a period of relaxation and refreshment.  A place of rest is often a peaceful place, where we can find relief from the stresses of our workday.

One of the Ten Commandments is “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God.”

God set the pattern for us by creating the world in six days and resting on the seventh day. There is something healthy about taking time out of our week to rest.  It helps to avoid burn out; thereby, making our work more productive when we are working.  It also can be a time of reflection and worship of God.  When we rest in the Lord, the refreshment is not just physical, but also spiritual.

Ultimately, Jesus is the fulfillment of the Sabbath-rest. He said, “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Rest is a quality that enables us to represent Jesus in the world today.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

Brenton Brown talks with WJTL’s Kristi Leigh about being a boy scout, writing worship music, and the direction of his next album. There’s also an appearance from random wild animals.

JOHN SHIRK – Valor is strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger with firmness.  A person with valor exercises personal bravery.

Fear, doubt, worry, and discouragement are among the enemies that threaten to shake our faith in the Lord Jesus. However, with the focus of our faith fixed on Jesus, our courage is refreshed to go forward into our struggles, and confront them with His grace and truth.

First Corinthians 16:13 and 14 is a call to valor:  “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.”

Valor is a character quality that enables us to represent Jesus in the world today.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – To be helpful is to put our skills and resources to practical use to provide assistance for someone in need.

If someone we know is sick and unable to drive, we can do some simple errands for them.

If someone is getting ready to move, we can offer our hands to help them move furniture and other household items.

If someone wants to learn a skill that we have, we can take some time to mentor them.

These are just some ways that we can be helpful to others nearby.

Hebrews 6:10 says, “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”  God sees when we help others because of the love of Jesus impacting our hearts. Not only does He see, He also remembers and gives rewards.

Helpfulness is a character quality that enables us to represent Jesus in the world today.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

WJTL’s Kristi Leigh chats with a beach-minded Brandon Heath about his upcoming tour with Britt Nicole, California vs Pennsylvania, collaboration, and pretzels.