Weekly Devotionals
2010 Season Devotions
October 16 - Tristate Speedway
Flags
By Mark Penticuff
In spending another race season with all of you, I can't let you go into the off-season without letting you know how to make the most important decision in your life: the choice to follow Jesus. Many chaplains in raceway ministries have used the flags of racing to explain what it means to be a true Christian. Hopefully it will make clear the love that God has for all of us.
In racing, the different flags give important information to drivers during the race. The colors of the flags can also reveal how to run the race of life through Jesus Christ.
A yellow flag tells the drivers that there is a problem on the track and to slow down. We need to take caution in our lives and realize that life is not eternal, but heaven and hell is. "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 6:23
A black flag means a problem with the car or a serious rules violation. Black is also the color and condition sin creates in our hearts that leaves us seriously separated from God. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23
A red flag signals an immediate problem on the track. The blood red sacrifice of Jesus immediately cleanses our sin once we accept His free gift. "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
A white flag indicates one more lap in the race. White can also signify surrendering our lives to Jesus so he can cleanse the stains that sin has left and give us a new life in Him. "Though your sins are like scarlet, that shall be as white as snow..." Isaiah 1:18a
A green flag means the race is on. Once we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we start over fresh and begin to grow . "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" 2 Corinthians 5:17
The checkered flag means victory for the driver in the lead. No matter how checkered your past may have been, you can now experience a new, eternal and victorious life in Jesus. "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14
If you are ready to personally experience this victory, please get a hold of me tonight, or by email or by phone. I am always available to talk about any decision that you feel you need to make &God is always ready to hear the prayers of a heart ready to follow Him.
It has been a pleasure to serve you again this season. I pray that God will make himself real to you.
Until we meet again, may God bless and keep you,
Mark Penticuff
Chaplain, Show-me Racing Series
417-889-5896
mpenticuff@hotmail.com
October 9 - Thunderbird Speedway
Dirt
By Mark Penticuff
Dirt: each track has its own type. Some tracks are predictable in how the dirt changes from tacky to dry-slick, while others leave you guessing. There are also different types of clay that are used, and even tracks with river-bottom mud as their surface. Making adjustments to these differences will determine how well your car performs at each race.
As we come to the end of another season, I want to give you something to keep - complete with good advice on how to adjust to what life throws your way... These last two handouts of the season will contain topics and bible verses to help you understand and adjust to life's circumstances using God's principles and wisdom.
Make a pit stop in the Bible the next time you are looking for help... May God reveal himself to you and bless you this off-season.
TOPICS:
ANGER: Proverbs 15:1, Proverbs 14:29, Daniel 2:5, James 1:19-20, Eph 4:26
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
ADVICE: Proverbs 15:22, Daniel 6:2, I Chronicles 9:15
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.
ANXIETY: Matthew 6:25, Philippians 4:4-9
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?
ATTITUDE: Colossians 3:2, Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.
DEBT: Proverbs 22:7, Matthew 18:24-28, Matthew 18:34
The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.
FORGIVENESS: Ephesians 4:32, Colossians 3:13, Luke 11:4
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
September 25 - Monett Speedway
Scuffed Tires
By Mark Penticuff
The tedious chore of scuffing tires is a weekly event that nobody likes to do, but everyone knows that it will ultimately help them out. It is time consuming and messy, but gives new life to old tires and extra grip to new ones. I was reading the safety tags on a scuffing disc: may cause amputation of limbs!! I'm guessing buffing the car is out of the question...
God scuffs us with "gritty" situations; situations that, if we allow God to guide us, we come out better than before. For example, if you work hard for a boss that asks you to do more than what you signed on for, you are being shaped into what God wants you to be. Of course, we don't like working for a boss like this, but we still do the right thing. It's just like the process of scuffing tires: dirty, time-consuming - but worth it.
God also knows that sometimes we need "new tires". He gives us relief from situations and forgives us when we fail. He also enables us to have the power to go on and be renewed. Some people call it "revival", while others call it "a changed life". Either way, God is always working on us - molding us into His image. The next time you're out there working on those tires - Thank God for not giving up on you and that He hasn't stopped "scuffing" on you.
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Springfield Raceway - August 21
Is It Luck?
By Mark Penticuff
You hear it all the time: the concept that luck plays a role in a driver's outcome in the race. Somehow some are luckier than others and seem to get all the breaks. Some may even claim that God has his hand on the outcome of the race. The reality is that we may not know the extent of God's hand in it all, but we can know our part. How a race plays out is related to many factors like driver decisions, track conditions, parts failures, and the maintenance of the car itself. Is there really any luck at all? Not really; only your place in the midst of it all.
God allows us free will to make decisions (good & bad) which affect both self and others. Combine all those decisions in a race and you can see the results firsthand. So, is it in God's will that you get involved in a wreck vs. avoiding a wreck? I'm not really sure that it's even the right question. You see, God's will is in your response to life's events, not the event itself. The question isn't necessarily "Why did I get wrecked?", but "How should I respond to being wrecked?" God's will for your life is found in your reactions and attitudes about life's daily ups and downs. God gives us clear direction in that regard.
Titus 3:1-2 says... to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing consideration for all men.
Colossians 3:12-13 says to...put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing one another and forgiving each other.
How much different would the pits be after a race if God's will was followed?
Maybe, rather than wishing someone "Good luck!" we should wish that they "Respond well!"
Tristate Speedway - July 17 (rainout)
Band-Aids
By Mark Penticuff
Band-Aids are intended to cover up an injury so that it can heal and not get infected. Other times they are used to avoid questions… as in the story below….
He snuck up the stairs as quietly as he could. He looked in the bathroom mirror and bandaged the bumps and bruises he’d received in a fight earlier that night. He was a little drunk, but nobody had to know. He proceeded to climb into bed, smiling at the thought that he’d pulled one over on his wife. When morning came, he opened his eyes and there stood his wife. “You were drunk last night weren’t you!” “What? What do you mean?” He replied. “How could you think such a thing?” “Well, if you weren’t drunk, my dear,” his wife pointed in the direction of the bathroom, “why are there bruises on your face and a bunch of band-aids on the bathroom mirror?”
Likewise, I think sometimes when we sin, we think we’re pulling one over on the Lord. Not so. The Lord sees all and knows all. And one day, we will have to stand before Him and be held accountable. I don’t know about you, but I prefer forgiveness now, and not judgment later.
We may be fooling a lot of people about who we are, but we’ll never fool the Lord. Let’s get right with Him today and strive to stay far away from sin!
Numbers 32:23 But if you will not do it (as the LORD commands), then take note, you have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out.
Humboldt Speedway - July 16
Forgetful?
By Mark Penticuff
A farmer was showing his visiting city-friend around his farm. "Watch this!" he said. He gave a whistle and his little dog came running from the house, herded the cattle into the corral, then latched the gate with her paw. "Wow, that's some dog - what's her name?" The forgetful farmer thought for a minute and then asked, "What do you call that red flower that smells good and has thorns on the stem?" "A rose?" "That's it!" The farmer turned to his wife. "Hey Rose, what do we call this dog?"
Funny how we forget things, isn't it? But I'm not so sure God finds it all that funny! All through the Bible we see how God provided miraculously for His people: feeding them daily with manna, guiding them by a pillar of fire by night and a cloud by day, parting the Red Sea!
How is it, then, that we become so forgetful? Over time, I think the events of the Bible just became commonplace and we begin to take God for granted!
But then again when I look back, I can see God's work in my life and I'm sure he's done many things in each of yours as well! We, like the farmer in the story, become forgetful by trying to solve all of our problems ourselves. It is no wonder we get anxious when things aren't going quite the way we hoped. I'm glad that God is waiting patiently for us to seek His guidance and help. This week, spend some time remembering the miracles He has done and strive to trust Him for the trials we face each day!
Psalms 111:4 He has made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.
Monett Speedway - July 11
Freedom
By Mark Penticuff
Freedom was the theme last weekend as we celebrated our nation's founding. The freedoms that were fought for in 1776 have been amended and changed over the past 200+ years. It seems there are more restrictions than freedoms, and more taxes than King George III had even dreamed of imposing on the colonies.
Still, our nation is the one the world looks to for freedom's standard. It is the benchmark for human rights and freedoms. Unfortunately that standard is far from perfect. The perfect standard for freedom is found only in Jesus. It is He who frees us from the penalty and guilty of sin. That freedom is far more important than a bill of rights. It is not government that gives us freedom, but God. Whether or not government allows for that freedom - We are free to believe and worship just the same.
As a fireworks display celebrates our nation's freedom, how much more should we honor the Lord's sacrifice by living a life that expresses that freedom? We need to be living displays of His sacrifice as we show forth His freedom in our lives.
"Among the most inestimable of our blessings, also, is that... of liberty to worship our Creator in the way we think most agreeable to His will; a liberty deemed in other countries incompatible with good government and yet proved by our experience to be its best support." --Thomas Jefferson
Outlaw Motor Speedway - June 18
Seeking Help
By Mark Penticuff
For many in racing, the idea of asking for help is difficult. It takes admitting that you don't know more about how to set up your car than the next guy. Pride keeps us from going to the most experienced and successful drivers for advice on how to be the best with what we've got. It's that same pride that brings out the anger when another driver "doesn't know how to drive" and "slows me down" or "drives right into me". But perhaps the biggest influence pride has on us is our standing with God. The bible says that "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble". Wow, not exactly where I want to be - opposed by God!
What's worse is that when we do seek God for help, it even effects how and what we ask God for. In the book of James, he gives it to us straight: "You want something but don't get it. You quarrel and fight. You don't have because you don't ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures."
The solution is difficult: it's called humility. God BLESSES and gives GRACE to those that admit they can't do it without help from God and others. Humility is seeking help. Here is God's response to humility: He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them the way. Psalm 25:9
What do you need help from God about?
Pride will tell you "Nothing, I'm good."
Humility will tell you "Everything!!!!!"
West Plains Motor Speedway - June 12
Retaliation
By MRO, edited by Mark Penticuff
Retaliation is a natural emotional response when one is ‘wronged' by another. Racing lends itself to many situations that can lead to such retaliations. Arguments about rough driving and intentional "punts" lead to on and off-track confrontations that have lasting effects. It is natural for those who love the "wronged" one to take their offense personal and take up the defense of that person. This leads to crew members and bystanders getting dragged into the mess and possibly a fight.
Thankfully, God did not follow that which is natural for an earthly father, nor did he follow that which is natural for a friend or for a fellow man, when He witnessed the cruelty inflicted on Jesus. We look to the cross and the judgment of sin to find how much love God had for us and the magnitude of Jesus' sacrifice. The pain, humiliation, and the unfair trial of Jesus, pale in comparison to the lack of retaliation from the Father in this most horrible time for his son.
The GOOD NEWS - God remained silent when Jesus pleaded, "Why have you forsaken me?" By that silence, God refused to retaliate, but instead allowed His son to bear His complete wrath for sin. There is no judgment upon anyone who embraces Jesus' act on the cross as redemption - grace. Man is ‘set right,' justified in the sight of God, by simply believing that Jesus not only endured the wrath of God in death, but because of his sinless life, his sacrifice was sufficient to redeem any and every person who believes.
Thankfully our heavenly Father did not encourage his Son to defend himself or retaliate, but allowed him to love us who are totally guilty.
As this season gears up, remember that by not retaliating, you are imitating God. There's no one better to imitate. Be upset, be frustrated, but allow for grace to apply to others. God applied it you. Pass it on...
Humboldt Speedway - June 11
Nuts and Bolts
By Mark Penticuff
It seems that no matter how much time is spent checking nuts and bolts, something tends to come loose. How bad can it be if just one bolt works itself out over the course of a race? Consider if that one bolt is holding on the radiator fan and ends up going into your radiator. Maybe it's the bolt that keeps your tie rod on the steering rack. It's often the little things that end up ruining a race night and forcing one out of the race early. Ignoring the small things can make a big difference. That's why it is so important to try and check every bolt and every nut before every race.
What seemingly small things are we ignoring in our daily lives? It could be that we forget to say thanks or give those encouraging words to someone who needs it. Maybe we don't clean up after ourselves very well or leave the gas tank empty in the car (right before your wife needs to use it). It may not seem like a big deal, but it's the little things that add up over time. It doesn't take long for these small things to lead to problems with co-workers, spouses, and family members. The little things count to God, too. Luke 16:10 says that "Anyone who can be trusted in little matters can also be trusted in important matters. But anyone who is dishonest in little matters will be dishonest in important matters." Our actions in these seemingly little things in life actually reflect our true heart - and likely will show how we will react in the big decisions of life. Making a habit of being honest and true in the little things will reap great rewards and help you get the big things right. Taking care of the nuts and bolts of life will help you finish the race strong for God.
Tristate Speedway - May 15
Sponsors Needed
By Mark Penticuff
It's difficult enough to find sponsors in good economic times, let alone the mess that we see today. We try to put on our best face and let the businesses know that we will represent them well on the track and promote their business off the track as well. Some of these businessmen know us personally and look forward to supporting us. Others don't know us and are leery about putting hard earned profits into a racing endeavor.
But who knows you best? Family? Friends? Yeah, they know you, but the one who knows you best is God. If you asked God, would he be your sponsor? Would you feel comfortable representing God to all who see you (on and off the track)? Would God resign with you for next season or even a long-term sponsorship? The thought of representing God makes me feel nervous and inadequate. The crazy thing is, He wants to be our life-long and eternal sponsor anyway! We are definitely not worth it based on our own merit, but through Jesus' death and resurrection we can accept God's "sponsorship" with joy and confidence.
God's contract is full of forgiveness clauses, repentance, and love. It does though involve a genuine belief in Jesus and a commitment to God's plan. The details are found in the Bible. The requirements are tough because it involves God being in charge (not us). If you are up to it, the rewards are great.
Jeremiah 29:11
11 For 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.
Outlaw Motor Speedway - May 14
Good and Selfish
By Mark Penticuff
Why do you do "good"?
- 1. People will compliment you?
- 2. You will be helped in return?
- 3. You will receive rewards - thanks, $$, a promotion at work?
- 4. Make life's circumstances easier?
- 5. Less conflict with others?
Jesus tells us that the reason for doing good works is not for our benefit or satisfaction, but to show the world what He (Jesus) is like. This brings glory and honor to God; not ourselves. The problem is that we really want the compliments, thanks, and glory- it makes us feel important and loved in the eyes of the world. We usually forget about God's well deserved praise in the midst of it all.
The reality is that even in our best actions, we are still being selfish - reaping the glory and feelings of satisfaction that comes from doing the right thing. This is why good works can never save us or "balance out" any of our "sins". The Bible says in Isaiah 64:6 - All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags. And just like rags we use to clean up after working on our cars, they are worthless for future use and thrown out.
Jesus saved us through his perfect life and sacrifice for our sins. Only after accepting Jesus can our good works be considered to bring glory to God and not ourselves. It is only through Jesus that filthy rags can become pure and clean for the use God intended.
Monett Speedway - April 11
In What Place Did I Finish?
By Mark Penticuff
Finishing well in racing depends on your performance: not just on the track, but in the garage as well. Your final position in a race has many variables - some under your own control, but often times, not. How other drivers react to the events on the track can result in your car being damaged - unable to finish - no fault of your own.
What about your place with God? Is He rating your life on your performance? Yes, but probably not like you may think. The one event that is examined is not your cumulative goodness, but your decision with regard to His Son, Jesus. Is your place with Jesus? If it is, then your place is with God. If not, your place is eternally separated from God.
Have you placed your trust in Jesus' death and resurrection? Do you believe that his death paid the price for your sin; making you right with God? If so, you have accepted that gift and join those who finish with victory over sin. That victory party starts now, and continues for eternity.
What place will you finish in? What prize awaits you?
Romans 6:23 - For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Blog Site Link: http://penticuffmotorsports.blogspot.com
2009 Season Devotions
10/17/09 - Tristate Speedway - "The Spooker"
Living Sheet Metal
By Mark Penticuff
Have you heard about the newly invented sheet metal product specifically designed for racing? The metal re-forms to its original condition (no matter the damage) with the application of heat from something as simple as a heat gun. No more removing body panels and trying to straighten out bent metal! Mistakes on the track no longer require hours of work getting the car to look "presentable". With this product your car looks as good as new. It's ingenious ................ and completely made up.
There is no product out there (that I know of) that will do all that. But there is something better. It's the "real-life" straightener - Jesus. Each race I have given a pack of bottled water to some lucky driver. The reason is because of what water represents in the Bible. Jesus referred to belief and trust in Him as having "living water": water that once drunk, never will you be thirsty again. Jesus was referring to complete forgiveness and removal of punishment for our sins (past, present, & future). It's a life that is refreshing - like water that would never leave a person thirsty.
Many earthly things do satisfy us; for instance, success on the job, fishing on the lake, or perhaps winning a race. But these things, like plain old water, will leave you thirsty. In order to be satisfied with temporary things you must go back for more. This is not the case with Jesus. His forgiveness is complete. Although life is unpredictable and full of ups and downs, Jesus is always there to sustain and satisfy through it all. Like "living water" He is always what we need whether in times of joy or pain.
Living Water: Is it in you? John 4:7-38
9/05/09 - West Plains Motor Speedway
Losing Control, Gaining Grace
By Mark Penticuff
It was bound to happen one of these days - I caused a wreck after spinning out in front of some other cars. It is the last thing you want for yourself and the others in the race. It means more time and money spent fixing the car, but also it means that other guys are doing the same and it wasn't their fault.
This is not uncommon in racing or in life; except in life we simply call it making mistakes. If these mistakes violate God's commands we also call it sin. Most people don't wake up one morning thinking, "Wow, today I'm going to really make some bad decisions and maybe even mess up some other people's lives!". On the track we don't intentionally spin out, but the faster you are on the track - the closer you are to losing control. And we want to be right on that edge which sometimes results in wrecks.
In life, we slowly "lose control" by remaining around tempting things and justifying what we think is best. The more we are tempted - the easier it is to make those bad decisions. We make mistakes every day and often times must seek forgiveness from those we've hurt as well as forgiveness from God.
People may not always forgive us (and will rarely forget), but God will always forgive (and always forget) the sins of the one who truly repents. There is the one thing you can count on from God that you usually don't get from people: GRACE. Grace is unmerited favor. With God there is no amount of sin that His grace cannot cover. But grace is a gift that must be received. Have you gained your grace today?
8/14/09 - Outlaw Motor Speedway
Too Tough To Tame
By Mark Penticuff
Nope, not Darlington - it's the tongue. The saying: "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." - is not one that's applied by too many people. Controlling what we say, especially when emotions run high, must be a pre-planned event - something we prepare for, otherwise we can end up hurting others and regretting it even more.
In the Bible, James poses a question: "How can both blessing and cursing come from the same mouth?". His answer is that you really can't truly be a blessing if evil comes from your mouth. He even questions those who claim to be with Christ, yet speak as one who lives with the Devil. Out of the mouth comes the true content of the heart.
Think of it this way: If you had to make a list of "good" things and "bad" things you said this week, which would be longer? Realize that it takes just one "bad" comment to wipe out a week's worth of good ones. So can the tongue be tamed?
James 1:19 - So then, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath...
Slow down; only with prayer and self-control can truly hope to tame the tongue.
(plus a lot of patience with those that tend to bring out the worst in us)
8/8/09 - Nevada Speedway
Going 'round in Circles
by Mark Penticuff
For the casual observer of dirt track racing it certainly looks futile. With 30 laps of racing using up gallons of expensive fuel, wearing out expensive tires, damaging a once immaculate car, and taking a race engine one step closer to a rebuild - one might think we're crazy. Many make jokes about how we go miles and miles, and yet never go anywhere.
The same could be said of our jobs, hobbies, and other sports. In the end, the reward for our time is typically short-lived and leaves us needing to go back for more in order to be satisfied.
Solomon wrote about this very issue in the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon had it all: fame, riches, property, livestock, power, lots of friends, and incomparable wisdom (which came as a special blessing from God). Historians tell us that he was the richest king in Israel's history and few, if any other in history, came close to his power and influence. Yet he found himself in the same boat as you and I: "What in this world is truly worth doing?" After a long life spent seeking wisdom on this very subject; here is his answer:
Ec 12:13-14 When all is said and done, the conclusion to the matter is: fear God and keep His commands, because this is for all humanity. For God will bring every act to judgment including every hidden thing, whether good or evil.
Soloman alos said that there is a time for everything under the sun - including racing - just do it as if for the Lord.
Ask yourself this question:
Would God want to sign on as your sponsor?
7/26/09 - Monett Speedway
Today
This morning you may have chosen to get up and go to church. Maybe you intended to go, but figured that next week would be a better weekend. We often think that we will have time later, to accomplish the things we should probably be doing today.
The Lord's prayer contains a simple request: "give us this day our daily bread." In many other places in the Old and New Testament it tells us we should live in the "now." Too many people spend all their lives planning for ‘tomorrow,' dreaming about ‘what I will do when ...' and thinking that they have all the time in the world to deal with their relationship with God.
However, we are told to look at every plan and consider the words given in James 4:13-15 - Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."
This gives us the proper ‘focus,' i.e. TODAY. The Lord has simplified life by promising to provide for our needs daily, while we focus on Him, and allow His Spirit to work through us. That way we don't miss out on a great "today".
7/18/09 - Tristate Speedway
May I Take Your Order
It is a question we've all heard; whether in line at a fast food drive-thru or an expensive restaurant. Many times we'd prefer to have a few more minutes to make our decision, but if the line of cars stretches around the corner, we feel the pressure. We may even order items we don't even want - just to get it over with... But imagine looking over a menu and never actually ordering anything! How frustrated would that waitress be? How often would she be back asking if you "need more time"? Would she ever just give up? Sure, there's a few items you like, but it is so hard to choose. Truth is, you can't expect to get served any food until you place the order - reading a menu isn't enough.
That's the way it is though, when it comes to our trust and faith in God. God is "on the menu", and He's got some great "items", but until you order up and act out in faith, you can't expect to receive the blessings and salvation that comes through faith in Jesus. Most of us know God's menu, but that doesn't mean we've ordered the special. It is like going to church and agreeing in principal with the preacher, yet not applying any of it to your own life. Many have never received God's grace because they have never chosen it.
If you haven't truly placed your faith and trust in God, what's holding you back? Perhaps a few "items" that are hard to swallow? God can change your taste, if you let Him. Remember that God requires more than church attendance and good intentions, He asks for your commitment, trust, and faith in Him. Drop by and see me if you'd like to "place your order".
James 1:22-24 - Be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. For if anyone hears the word but does not do it, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in the mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone way has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was.
6/27/09 - Lucas Oil Speedway
Lost Your Focus?
By Mark Penticuff
If you thought this was going to be about some of our drivers' inability to read my printed devotions without the help of glasses or some pretty big print on my part, you would be wrong. Although I think there's a future message in there somewhere... This is about our life's focus. What dominates your thoughts? Obviously tonight it would be racing and all of the details that go into it. But what about tomorrow or a plain-ole Tuesday? Is it work and your responsibilities there? Hopefully you are doing your job and honoring God in the process. What about when you get home? For me it is often the all important question of "What's for dinner?".
It seems that by the end of the day, whether its a Tuesday or Friday, our focus is usually on one thing: ourselves. It's all about our plans, our needs, our fun, our racing, our kids... and the list could go on. Now these things are not necessarily bad - but God knew us well when he made us and knew that we NEEDED a day a week to rest from ourselves and remember that it is really all about HIM. The bible calls it the Sabboth; in our culture we designate that day as Sunday. God designed it as a day of worship and reflection. The church provides us that opportunity (and so much more). In fact, studies have shown that people that don't take that needed day of rest have more psychological and physical problems than those who do take that day off.
God desires for us to enjoy Him, not just this world He's created. He also knows that if He doesn't tell us what's best, we won't figure it out on our own. Isn't it time to focus on the One who blesses us each day of the week by giving him one? Don't lose focus of what is truly important in this life. The closer you get to God, the closer your plans and focus will be to His.
Proverbs 16:3-4 Commit your activities to the Lord and your plans will be achieved. The Lord has prepared everything for His purpose.
6/20/09 - West Siloam Speedway
Getting What We Deserve
By Mark Penticuff
We often use the phrase: "He got what he deserved". It is usually associated with criminal behavior, cheating, lying, or paybacks. We want justice for those who have wronged us, and we weigh in on whether the penalty or judgment fit the crime. Sometimes we feel we deserve preferential treatment or special favors because of our good behavior (and then whine when we don't get those favors). So, what do we deserve? What does God deserve?
These two questions are very much related to each other. In judgment for our sins and our rejection of God's way of doing things, we deserve separation from God and death.
On the other hand, God's given us everything and more (life, freedom of choice, and salvation from what we deserve). Sadly, we tend to stray from giving God his "due" by not giving Him our time, talents, or worship. We see ourselves as deserving a "day off" on Sunday and skip out on the opportunity to give God His due: we call it church. Some call it "boring" and "not for them", but it is the least we can do. After all, He did come down from heaven to die for our sins and allow for an eternity of joy and relationship with Him.
Is church then all important? No, that would be legalistic and make going to church more important than God himself. But God made us in such a way as to desire to worship Him together with others - that's the "long-term plan" (we call it heaven). So get in on the plan while still here on earth and give God what he deserves: your true worship (by the way, that's going to take place at church)
Hebrews 12:28
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.
6/13/09 - West Plains Motor Speedway
The Pooling of Talent
6/06/09 - Tristate Speedway
Unintentional or Intentional
By Mark Penticuff
Some accidents in racing are unintentional - we call these just a part of racing. Perhaps it was a misjudgment in how the car would stick in the corner, maybe a tire went down, or possibly it was 2 cars that decided to go for the same spot at the same time. As drivers, we don't know what the other driver's intentions are: Will he go high or low? Did he really mean to bump me? -- We must simply race and take the dents and dings in stride.
BUT, there's also the intentional wreck - the punt, bump, slide-job, or take-out. These are the times when fines are levied, black flags are shown, and arguments and conflict ensues.
As people with the knowledge of God and his expectations, how are we living? Are we intentionally sinning as if God is looking the other way and won't notice our actions? God is even more particular than a tech man. He (God) won't look the other way, but gives you the opportunity to make changes.
Are we seeking to change and follow the perfect example - Jesus? God sent Jesus to give us freedom from sin - to live and have the confidence to do what God wants us to do. Jesus has already taken care of the "fines" and "penalties" for our mistakes; we just need to accept Him and live for Him. Have you intentionally chosen Jesus? You can't unintentionally receive salvation and heaven; you must choose.
What changes do you need to intentionally make today?
Romans 6:17-18: But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, ...You have been set free from sin (through Jesus Christ) and have become slaves to righteousness.
5/15/09 - Monett Speedway
Trouble Bound?
By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
4/25/09 - Springfield Raceway
Iron Sharpens Iron
by Mark Penticuff
Rivalries have been a part of competative sports since their inception. Sometimes it can bring out the worst in competators and fans alike. Fights, arguments, and paint-swapping can be indicators of a rivalry in motorsports. Unfortunately that also indicates a rivarly that has probably brought out the worst in us.
But there is a type of relationship that, instead, brings out the best in people. It is one that is just as challenging, but raises the performance of everyone involved. We see this in racing where competators race each other hard and clean; when crew chiefs work hard to keep up with the setup of their rival. In the end both race teams improve and the bond between them grows as each has respect for the other.
That is the type of relationship that the Bible talks about in which believers challenge each other to live for God. It speaks of accountability for ones actions and support in times of need.
For real life changes, this relationship is best found where God is the focus: Church. It seems that sometimes the most obvious place to find God is where His people worship Him. That's also where you can find the support and accountability you need to become what God wants you to be. In the long run it will lead to God's blessings and a life that is truly lived for Him.
Proverbs 27:17 - As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another.
4/11/09 - Tristate Speedway
Why Easter? Why Celebrate?