John 6:26-27 - "Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. 27 Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.”
Why are you a believer in Jesus Christ? Why are you following Him?
Many a person is a Christian, not because they are seeking Christ but seeking what Christ can give them. Not to long before Christ made this statement, He did the feeding of the five thousand. He had already done many miracles, this is why more than five thousand people were following him. Yes, they loved His teaching, but more than that was what He had done or could do for them.
Are you following Christ because of what He has done for you? Are you following Christ because you are seeking something from Him? Many a church, this is what they preach. They preach the blessings of God. They tell us we need to do certain things so that we are not judged, but blessed by God. We often preach a Santa Claus God. This is all fine and good, but first of all Christ wants us to recognize that we are sinners who are lost and separated from Him. Secondly, Christ doesn't want us to serve Him because of what He has done or will do. He wants us to seek Him because we love Him and want to know Him. We must be careful that we are not so focused on the blessings that we don't seek the one who gives the blessings. We all know that if we love someone because of what we can get from them. This is not true love. It is a noble endeavor to seek to go to heaven. Yet, it is better to seek Him who is in heaven.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Work Ethics
In I Timothy 6:1-4, Paul tells Timothy to exhort those who are salves to serve their masters well, and especially those masters who are believers. It does seem strange that believers in Paul's day had slaves. Yet, it was not prohibited by the Jewish law and an accepted practice of that day. Therefore, Christians in general did not see anything wrong with it.
Yet, this scripture has applications beyond master and slave relationships. It teaches us to be good workers. We are to serve those over us well no matter what our station or position in life. It doesn't matter whether the person over us is a believer or non believer, we are to be faithful in our duties and obligations. It doesn't matter whether we have a good boss or bad one, we are to work the same for both of them.
Paul says, we are took work even harder and better for those over us who are believers in Christ. Yet, sadly to say this is often not the case. Often a believer who is working for a believer serves them worse because they know the believer is to love them and forgive their faults and short comings. Many believers take advantage of believers in this way because they believe they can get away with it because the one they are serving is a brother or sister in the Lord. They know with an unbeliever they would not be able to get away with their poor work ethics.
As believers, no matter who we are working for, we are to do it as unto the Lord with all our strength and ability. We are to seek excellence. We are to do everything in our power to serve others well. Christian workers should be the best workers in our society.
Ephesians 6:5-9 put is this way, "5 Slaves, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart, as to Christ; 6 not by way of eye service, as men-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. 7 With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men, 8 knowing that whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free.
9 And masters, do the same things to them, and give up threatening, knowing that both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no partiality with Him.
Finally bosses, we are to treat those who work for us well. We are not to be harsh or over demanding. We are not to take advantage of our workers in anyway. We are to treat them with honesty and without favoritism. We are to be the best boss we can be. We are to show love, walk in truthfulness, and seek the wisdom of God in all that we say and do.
Friday, December 28, 2012
Trail Left Behind
1 Timothy 5:24-25 - "The sins of some are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. 25 In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not obvious cannot remain hidden forever."
We are all to live godly lives, but the fact of the matter most of us are missing the mark. Most believers are not committing the obvious sins that all clearly recognize and see. We are committing what we like to call the little sins. The sin of holding someone in your heart, a little white lie, unclean or evil thoughts, unrighteous thoughts, an ill spoken word, gossip, back biting, cheating, pride, selfishness, and taking advantage of others to name a few. Others of us may be sinning behind closed door where prying eyes can not see. Yet, even these cannot remain hidden forever.
No matter what kind of sin we are committing, we are leaving a trail behind us. What kind of trail are you leaving behind you? Are you leaving a trail of destruction and a trail of negativity? Are you leaving a constructive trail and a trail of hope? How are our actions affecting those around us? Are the affecting people in a good way or bad way? How are they affecting our own lives? As Newton law says, every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
As believers, we are to be light and salt. We are to walk in love, joy, peace and righteousness. We are to impact those around us for their good. We are to impart the life of Christ.
We are all to live godly lives, but the fact of the matter most of us are missing the mark. Most believers are not committing the obvious sins that all clearly recognize and see. We are committing what we like to call the little sins. The sin of holding someone in your heart, a little white lie, unclean or evil thoughts, unrighteous thoughts, an ill spoken word, gossip, back biting, cheating, pride, selfishness, and taking advantage of others to name a few. Others of us may be sinning behind closed door where prying eyes can not see. Yet, even these cannot remain hidden forever.
No matter what kind of sin we are committing, we are leaving a trail behind us. What kind of trail are you leaving behind you? Are you leaving a trail of destruction and a trail of negativity? Are you leaving a constructive trail and a trail of hope? How are our actions affecting those around us? Are the affecting people in a good way or bad way? How are they affecting our own lives? As Newton law says, every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
As believers, we are to be light and salt. We are to walk in love, joy, peace and righteousness. We are to impact those around us for their good. We are to impart the life of Christ.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Church & Family Obligations
I Timothy 5;3-15 talks about many good things. One of the central themes is church and family obligations. More specifically the churches obligation towards widows and the families obligation towards one another.
Let us look at the churches obligation first. The church is responsible to care for widows who are over sixty, have no family to care for them and are truly in need. Yet, the widow must have been faithful to her husband. She must be known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, hers or other. She must have a servants heart and be devoted to helping others as she is able. She must have a life of purity.
Let us look at the families responsibility. The children or great grandchildren are responsible for caring for their mother or grandmother who is really in need. We not only have a responsibility to care for our widowed mother or grandmother, but we are responsible in caring for all those in our family who depend on us to live or really in need. Fist our immediate family, then extended family.
Let us look at the churches obligation first. The church is responsible to care for widows who are over sixty, have no family to care for them and are truly in need. Yet, the widow must have been faithful to her husband. She must be known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, hers or other. She must have a servants heart and be devoted to helping others as she is able. She must have a life of purity.
Let us look at the families responsibility. The children or great grandchildren are responsible for caring for their mother or grandmother who is really in need. We not only have a responsibility to care for our widowed mother or grandmother, but we are responsible in caring for all those in our family who depend on us to live or really in need. Fist our immediate family, then extended family.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Hypocritical Liars
Paul in 2 Timothy chapter 4 talks about hypocritical liars who have followed deceiving spirits, and things taught by demons. They not only follow them but teach and persuade others to do the same.
What are some of these things that are taught that do not come from God?
Paul is referring specifically to those who were teaching about abstaining from certain foods because they were sinful. Also, those who were promoting celibacy as godliness. He was referring as well to legalism which was stifling the Spirit of God. Lastly he speaks against those who are teaching godless myths and old wives tales as if they were the very Word of God.
What would be some demonic teaching taught today? Demonic in the sense that they are not from God and are destructive. The following are not put in any specific order. Some may seem greater evil than others, but all are lies from hell.
1) Macro-evoloution
2) It is fine to be homosexual.
3) Divorce and remarriage, no matter what the reason is not sin.
4) Tithes and offerings are optional.
5) You don't have to be baptized or a member of a local church.
6) Abortion is not evil or a sin.
7) Living together is not a problem or a sin.
8) Rules and regulations on how you dress and comb your hair.
9) The work of the church, Christ's body is for a few (leaders).
10) The Word of God and prayer of not great importance.
11) I don't need other believers or be accountable. It is just me and God.
12) Anyone who is not a member of my church or denomination is lost and going to hell.
13) Jesus is not the Son of God or put more simply not one of the God head.
14) The greatest sin is adultery or fornication.
15) As long as you believe God exists, and are a good person, you are on your way to heaven.
I am sure there are many others I have not mentioned here.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
FLH Protection
I Thessalonians 5:8 - "But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet."
How does faith, hope and love protect a believer?
Faith protects by extinguishing the fiery darts of the enemy. (Ephesians 6:16) In other words through faith we extinguish the doubts and lies of Satan and this world. When we have faith in God and His Word, we will not accept false teachings and the philosophies of the world. When doubt comes in, we don't act on God's Word and often confusion and discouragement comes in. Doubt brings fear and often immobilizes us. Faith releases God's promises and power.
Love protects by keeping us from doing what hurts us and others. Remember all the law and commandments are wrapped up in love. (Matthew 22:37-40) Also, love keeps us from becoming bitter. (Hebrews 12:15) Bitterness poisons us and all those around us. Finally, love promotes unity. Division is destructive and causes the body of Christ to suffer loss.
Hope of salvation protects because we are washed in His blood and sealed by the Holy Spirit. Also, it keeps us focused on our real purpose which is fellowship with God forever. It keeps our mind heavenward. Finally, it keeps us from being discouraged and falling into depression. Many have taken their lives and the lives of others because they don't have the hope of salvation or lost the hope. Hope breathes life into us.
How does faith, hope and love protect a believer?
Faith protects by extinguishing the fiery darts of the enemy. (Ephesians 6:16) In other words through faith we extinguish the doubts and lies of Satan and this world. When we have faith in God and His Word, we will not accept false teachings and the philosophies of the world. When doubt comes in, we don't act on God's Word and often confusion and discouragement comes in. Doubt brings fear and often immobilizes us. Faith releases God's promises and power.
Love protects by keeping us from doing what hurts us and others. Remember all the law and commandments are wrapped up in love. (Matthew 22:37-40) Also, love keeps us from becoming bitter. (Hebrews 12:15) Bitterness poisons us and all those around us. Finally, love promotes unity. Division is destructive and causes the body of Christ to suffer loss.
Hope of salvation protects because we are washed in His blood and sealed by the Holy Spirit. Also, it keeps us focused on our real purpose which is fellowship with God forever. It keeps our mind heavenward. Finally, it keeps us from being discouraged and falling into depression. Many have taken their lives and the lives of others because they don't have the hope of salvation or lost the hope. Hope breathes life into us.
Monday, December 17, 2012
More and More
I Thessalonians 4:1 - "As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.
I Thessalonians 4:9-10 - " Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other.10 And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more,"
The Thessalonian church seems to be doing everything right. They have a good reputation among all the churches and a great testimony of the Christian life. It seems that they are doing all the right things. Paul does not condemn them in anyway; rather, he says do so more and more.
As believers we are to never be satisfied with where we are at in our Christian walk. We are never to kick back and say, we have arrived. We are to never set cruise control or autopilot. Paul believes that if you are doing it right, you are to continue to do what you are doing and seek to excel even more in Christ. Don't be content in doing well, but seek to do even better.
For those of us who are not perfectionist, this is a bitter pill to swallow. Even though Christ wants us to be perfect even as He is perfect, he doesn't want it to become a burden. It becomes a burden when we fall into legalism instead of being empowered by the Holy Spirit. It is He who will complete the good work in us as we yield to Him. (I Thessalonians 5:23-24)
I Thessalonians 4:9-10 - " Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other.10 And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more,"
The Thessalonian church seems to be doing everything right. They have a good reputation among all the churches and a great testimony of the Christian life. It seems that they are doing all the right things. Paul does not condemn them in anyway; rather, he says do so more and more.
As believers we are to never be satisfied with where we are at in our Christian walk. We are never to kick back and say, we have arrived. We are to never set cruise control or autopilot. Paul believes that if you are doing it right, you are to continue to do what you are doing and seek to excel even more in Christ. Don't be content in doing well, but seek to do even better.
For those of us who are not perfectionist, this is a bitter pill to swallow. Even though Christ wants us to be perfect even as He is perfect, he doesn't want it to become a burden. It becomes a burden when we fall into legalism instead of being empowered by the Holy Spirit. It is He who will complete the good work in us as we yield to Him. (I Thessalonians 5:23-24)
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Faith, Hope, Love Action
I Thessalonians 1:2-3 - "We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ."
In 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 we see Paul testifies of the
churches faith, hope and love. Remember in 1 Corinthians 13:13, Paul says, when
we see God there are three things that will remain: faith, hope and love. In other
words, these three things are the most important things to have and will be
with us forever, even in the afterlife.
Faith, hope, and love are not just some loft thought or
spiritual ideal. They are very tangible and real. As result, they will bring us
to action. In Thessalonians we see this very clearly. Paul said, their work was
produced by faith. The apostle James put it this way, faith without works is
dead. We cannot forget the great chapter of Hebrews 11, where it speaks of what
all the men and women of old accomplished through faith.
If you have faith that Jesus is the son of God, you will
obey and worship Him.
If you have faith God is your provider, you will look to
Him for your need and not worry.
If you have faith that you are victorious in God then you
will show it by your attitude, speech and in what you do.
If you have faith that you are healed, then you will not
go to a doctor, but will live as if you are healed.
Faith will always result in some kind of visible action.
In Thessalonians, he said, their labor was prompted by
love. Love is no simply an emotion. It is a life giving force that produces
action. If you love someone, you will not simply say it, but you will show it. Love
will always spur us on to action. Some have said that compassion is love in
action. I would say that love without passion is not love at all. Passion is a
driving force, but in itself can be destructive if not accompanied by love.
Thirdly, their endurance was inspired by hope in Jesus
Christ. Hope without an accompanying action is not hope at all. Hope is not
something stagnant, but a living thing. Hope that is dead will bring inaction
or negative action and death. Yet, true hope causes you not to be discouraged
or give up. Hope will influence your decisions and actions. Hope will influence
the way you see and think about things. Hope will bring life to seemingly
hopeless situations.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Peace in the Storm
Mark 4:35-41 - "That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”
The disciples were amazed at Jesus power to calm the storm. Many will bring out in this passage that God has authority over nature. Yet, the truth that speaks to me most in this passage is that Jesus was at peace in the storm. The disciples were in a panic. Jesus was sleeping in the storm. Was Jesus not afraid because he was sleeping or was he sleeping because he was not afraid. When they woke Jesus, he didn't begin to panic when he saw the storm, he rebuked the wind and waves and told them to be still. Afterwards Jesus rebuked his disciples because of their fear and faithlessness.
We all have storms in our life. We may be blown around a bit, and even tossed around, but we can be at peace when we have faith in God. Faith in that God is with us. Faith that God loves us. Faith that He can keep and protect us. Faith that He is in control. Faith that He can deliver us. Fear is an enemy of faith. Fear is lack of faith.
Nothing wrong with having a healthy fear of something, but when it grips us, panics us, and cause us to be anxious, it is not of God. Fear comes when our eyes are fixed on the storm instead of the Master of the storm.
The disciples were amazed at Jesus power to calm the storm. Many will bring out in this passage that God has authority over nature. Yet, the truth that speaks to me most in this passage is that Jesus was at peace in the storm. The disciples were in a panic. Jesus was sleeping in the storm. Was Jesus not afraid because he was sleeping or was he sleeping because he was not afraid. When they woke Jesus, he didn't begin to panic when he saw the storm, he rebuked the wind and waves and told them to be still. Afterwards Jesus rebuked his disciples because of their fear and faithlessness.
We all have storms in our life. We may be blown around a bit, and even tossed around, but we can be at peace when we have faith in God. Faith in that God is with us. Faith that God loves us. Faith that He can keep and protect us. Faith that He is in control. Faith that He can deliver us. Fear is an enemy of faith. Fear is lack of faith.
Nothing wrong with having a healthy fear of something, but when it grips us, panics us, and cause us to be anxious, it is not of God. Fear comes when our eyes are fixed on the storm instead of the Master of the storm.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Greater Responsability = Greater Accountability
James 3:1 - "Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly."
Luke 12:48 - " But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."
Most of us want greater positions, greater work, greater knowledge, greater power, greater wealth. The world looks at these things as good things and the believers look at these things as blessing from God, which can be true. Yet, with all theses things comes greater responsibility and greater accountability.
God will judge or discipline more harshly those who stumble or not faithful in their high position because their failure will have a bigger ripple effect. Also, the didn't keep the trust that God and the people gave them.
Those who have greater knowledge are entrusted to keep it pure, impart that knowledge to other, use it for the benefit of others, and live accordingly. I am not only speaking of spiritual knowledge but of any kind of knowledge you may have. If we fail in doing these things, God will hold us accountable and deal more strictly with us than those who lack the knowledge.
Those who have been given greater wealth are to handle it wisely and be a good steward with it. They are required by God to help others with it and be generous in their giving. Those who have much must give much and not stock pile it or waste it on frivolous things.
These Scriptures should put the fear of God in us. Lord help us to be faithful in what you have given us.
Luke 12:48 - " But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."
Most of us want greater positions, greater work, greater knowledge, greater power, greater wealth. The world looks at these things as good things and the believers look at these things as blessing from God, which can be true. Yet, with all theses things comes greater responsibility and greater accountability.
God will judge or discipline more harshly those who stumble or not faithful in their high position because their failure will have a bigger ripple effect. Also, the didn't keep the trust that God and the people gave them.
Those who have greater knowledge are entrusted to keep it pure, impart that knowledge to other, use it for the benefit of others, and live accordingly. I am not only speaking of spiritual knowledge but of any kind of knowledge you may have. If we fail in doing these things, God will hold us accountable and deal more strictly with us than those who lack the knowledge.
Those who have been given greater wealth are to handle it wisely and be a good steward with it. They are required by God to help others with it and be generous in their giving. Those who have much must give much and not stock pile it or waste it on frivolous things.
These Scriptures should put the fear of God in us. Lord help us to be faithful in what you have given us.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Rich Toward God
Luke 12:21 - "“This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God."
Right before this verse Jesus tells the parable of the rich man who stored up riches for himself with the idea of sitting back and enjoying his riches, but that night God took his life. He never was able to enjoy his riches. Riches are fleeting.
We need to be rich toward God. How can one be rich toward God?
1) When he walks in righteousness.
2) When he gives his time in ministering to the body of Christ.
3) When he seeks to win the lost.
4) When he gives his tithes and offerings to the church.
5) When he gives his money and time to help those in need.
6) When you give God thanks and glory for who He is and all He has done.
Are you doing these things? If your doing all 6 of these things faithfully and as God would have you do them, you are very rich toward God. All 6 of these things are of eternal and everlasting value. All 6 of these things should come from a love of God and others. If you are faithful with 2 or 3 ask God to help you to be faithful in all of theses areas.
Right before this verse Jesus tells the parable of the rich man who stored up riches for himself with the idea of sitting back and enjoying his riches, but that night God took his life. He never was able to enjoy his riches. Riches are fleeting.
We need to be rich toward God. How can one be rich toward God?
1) When he walks in righteousness.
2) When he gives his time in ministering to the body of Christ.
3) When he seeks to win the lost.
4) When he gives his tithes and offerings to the church.
5) When he gives his money and time to help those in need.
6) When you give God thanks and glory for who He is and all He has done.
Are you doing these things? If your doing all 6 of these things faithfully and as God would have you do them, you are very rich toward God. All 6 of these things are of eternal and everlasting value. All 6 of these things should come from a love of God and others. If you are faithful with 2 or 3 ask God to help you to be faithful in all of theses areas.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Warning to Leaders
In Luke 11:37-54 Jesus is at a Pharisee's house. He condemns their hypocrisy.
Luke 11:39 - "Then the Lord said to him, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness."
As leaders we need not only give a godly example but must be godly. As spiritual leaders it can be easy to say all the right things and even possible to do the right thing in public. Yet, is are mind and heart pure? Is your family life as it should be? How is your secret life? Do we live the same way in secret as we do in plain sight? This is the hard part as Christian leaders.
Luke 11:42 - " “Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone."
As leaders we can fall into legalism to the extent we neglect justice and love. As pastors and teachers we often teach the letter of the law but not the spirit of the law. We often so strictly abide by the letter of the law that we don't see the person who is standing in front of us or around us. We are blinded to the persons feelings, thoughts, and hurts. We often lack the love that the law stems from. When the letter of the law supersedes love which is the basis of the law, we don't truly understand the spirit of the law.
Luke 11:46 - " Jesus replied, “And you experts in the law, woe to you, because you load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them."
As leaders we often burden people with the law. We burden them with the does and don'ts, but do not make the effort to help them obey the law. We stand as enforcer and regulator of the Word of God, but don't show them how to obey God principles. We don't give them the tools needed to live a victorious life. We don't come alongside of them to strengthen them and encourage them but we instead stand as judge and condemner.
Luke 11:39 - "Then the Lord said to him, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness."
As leaders we need not only give a godly example but must be godly. As spiritual leaders it can be easy to say all the right things and even possible to do the right thing in public. Yet, is are mind and heart pure? Is your family life as it should be? How is your secret life? Do we live the same way in secret as we do in plain sight? This is the hard part as Christian leaders.
Luke 11:42 - " “Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone."
As leaders we can fall into legalism to the extent we neglect justice and love. As pastors and teachers we often teach the letter of the law but not the spirit of the law. We often so strictly abide by the letter of the law that we don't see the person who is standing in front of us or around us. We are blinded to the persons feelings, thoughts, and hurts. We often lack the love that the law stems from. When the letter of the law supersedes love which is the basis of the law, we don't truly understand the spirit of the law.
Luke 11:46 - " Jesus replied, “And you experts in the law, woe to you, because you load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them."
As leaders we often burden people with the law. We burden them with the does and don'ts, but do not make the effort to help them obey the law. We stand as enforcer and regulator of the Word of God, but don't show them how to obey God principles. We don't give them the tools needed to live a victorious life. We don't come alongside of them to strengthen them and encourage them but we instead stand as judge and condemner.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Critics
Luke 7:31-35 - "Jesus went on to say, “To what, then, can I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? 32 They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling out to each other:
“‘We played the pipe for you,
and you did not dance;
we sang a dirge,
and you did not cry.’
and you did not dance;
we sang a dirge,
and you did not cry.’
33 For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ 34 The
Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Here is a glutton
and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ 35 But wisdom is proved right by all her children.”
How often do we find people in the church like this. Whatever you do, they are never satisfied. We all have come across people like this. They seem to find fault in everything. They always have a complaint about something. In most cases it is something very minor. Much like the Pharisees who majored on the minors. Who majored on the outward instead of the inward. Who were more concerned about others weaknesses and failing then their own. It seems we are never ever able to truly please them. We may call them the critics. You know, like those guys who critic the movies that come out but can act worth anything nor could they ever direct a movie, but they know it all.
What kind of Christian are these. They are Christians who are wrapped up in themselves, their own wisdom and greatness. It could even be a Christian with low self esteem who is trying to bring other down to his level. In essence believers who are weak and even dead spiritually.
I pray that you are not one of these or that I never become one. Lord open our blinded eyes and see what you are doing. Let us not sit on the sidelines and criticize, but get in there and bring change through your love. God give us your wisdom.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Great in the Kingdom
Matthew 5:19 - "Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of
heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called
great in the kingdom of heaven."
As a minister of the Lord, I do a lot of preaching and teaching. Does this make me great in the kingdom of God? Yes, if I practice what I teach and preach. If I don't practice what I teach and preach, I am not great. Actually, I will give God and His church a bad reputation. People often have bad opinion of the church because of believers hypocrisy, all the more so if it is a leader.
You may be doing much for God. You may have a great ministry. Yon may have made many sacrifices for the Gospel. Yet, this does no make you great in God's eyes. What makes you great in God's eyes is doing what he asked you to do. It is living a righteous life and a life of love.
As a minister of the Lord, I do a lot of preaching and teaching. Does this make me great in the kingdom of God? Yes, if I practice what I teach and preach. If I don't practice what I teach and preach, I am not great. Actually, I will give God and His church a bad reputation. People often have bad opinion of the church because of believers hypocrisy, all the more so if it is a leader.
You may be doing much for God. You may have a great ministry. Yon may have made many sacrifices for the Gospel. Yet, this does no make you great in God's eyes. What makes you great in God's eyes is doing what he asked you to do. It is living a righteous life and a life of love.
Monday, November 12, 2012
The Bruised and Smoldering
Matthew 12:20 - "A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out,
till he has brought justice through to victory."
I like this verse that speaks of Jesus' character. Jesus does not seek to condemn us. He wants to help us come to victory in Him. Those who have been bruised by sin and life situations, He is their to strengthen and encourage. Those who have stumbled in their walk with Christ, He is their to pick them up and brush them off. Those who have come out of the fires of life and who are all messed up, He heals their burns and restores them to full health.
I think so often in the church, we minister to the strong but not the weak. We are often drawn to the strong, but not the weak. Those who have all kinds of emotional baggage and often bad character and habits, we marginalize. We throw to the side or ignore as much as possible. It was once said by someone that it is only the church who kills its wounded. Often those in the church stomp on those who are down. We often snuff out those who are barely hanging on. Our call as believers is to shore up the bruised reed and to bring life back to the fire that is smoldering.
We are not called to judge others. God will judge all when he comes.
till he has brought justice through to victory."
I like this verse that speaks of Jesus' character. Jesus does not seek to condemn us. He wants to help us come to victory in Him. Those who have been bruised by sin and life situations, He is their to strengthen and encourage. Those who have stumbled in their walk with Christ, He is their to pick them up and brush them off. Those who have come out of the fires of life and who are all messed up, He heals their burns and restores them to full health.
I think so often in the church, we minister to the strong but not the weak. We are often drawn to the strong, but not the weak. Those who have all kinds of emotional baggage and often bad character and habits, we marginalize. We throw to the side or ignore as much as possible. It was once said by someone that it is only the church who kills its wounded. Often those in the church stomp on those who are down. We often snuff out those who are barely hanging on. Our call as believers is to shore up the bruised reed and to bring life back to the fire that is smoldering.
We are not called to judge others. God will judge all when he comes.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
My Food is to do the will of the Father
John 4:34 - "“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work."
I love this verse. Jesus is saying, I live to do the will of the Father. He saying, this is what I crave. This is what satisfies me. This is what sustains me.
Think of a time when there was a certain food you craved. You hadn't had it for sometime, and you feel like you have to have it. You feel like you would do anything to get it. Think of a food that you feel you couldn't live without. What is most basic food.
As believers, we need to live for him alone. Even as our bodies crave food. We are to crave the Father. We live to do the work of God, His will. We should be compelled to obey Him and do His work. It should be what we live for.
I love this verse. Jesus is saying, I live to do the will of the Father. He saying, this is what I crave. This is what satisfies me. This is what sustains me.
Think of a time when there was a certain food you craved. You hadn't had it for sometime, and you feel like you have to have it. You feel like you would do anything to get it. Think of a food that you feel you couldn't live without. What is most basic food.
As believers, we need to live for him alone. Even as our bodies crave food. We are to crave the Father. We live to do the work of God, His will. We should be compelled to obey Him and do His work. It should be what we live for.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Given From Heaven
In John 3:25-30, John the Baptist disciples come to him with a complaint. They said that everyone is going over to be baptized by Jesus and his disciples. John's following was decreasing and his disciples were concerned about this.
John gives this reply in verse 27 - "A person can receive only what is given them from heaven."
This is a profound statement and truth that we need to get hold of. John recognized that God called him to a specific area of ministry which was preparing the way for the Christ. John understood his calling and the limits of his calling. He wasn't upset or jealous because Jesus was getting a greater following. He understood that God was in control and this was His plan.
Sometimes as ministers of the Lord we look at other peoples ministries and get upset even jealous because there ministry is bigger and greater than our ministry. Yet, we shouldn't be comparing ourselves with others.
2 Corinthians 10:12 says, "We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise."
God has a specific plan and purpose for you to fulfill as a minister of the Lord. God has set up certain boundaries that our ministry is to fall between. The boundaries and calling God has given others may be larger, greater, and even more glorious, while this may not be what God intended for you. We always think bigger and more is better, only if this what God desires for you. We know God is limitless. He may limit us, not in power, not in strength, not in wisdom, not in the Holy Spirit, but
limit our sphere of ministry.
Also John the Baptist declared in verse 30 - " He must become greater; I must become less.”
John understood that he was only there as a precursor of the Messiah. He was only setting the stage for Jesus ministry. He was only building the scaffolding for Christ greater ministry. Often God has called us to do the same thing. Many great ministries were built on the foundations that were laid by others. A foundation is small compared to the over all size of the building. It usually unseen and doesn't receive much attention, but it is essential for the longevity and success of the building.
I think of my father who worked tirelessly in Guinea and Sierra Leon, Africa for 9 year with very little harvest or visible fruit of their tireless work among the Muslims. They left Sierra Leon with only one convert who was a boy at the time who later went to Bible School. This pastor now has established many churches. My dad's ministry was not head line news, but he was faithful with what God had called him to do. He laid the foundation for future ministry.
John gives this reply in verse 27 - "A person can receive only what is given them from heaven."
This is a profound statement and truth that we need to get hold of. John recognized that God called him to a specific area of ministry which was preparing the way for the Christ. John understood his calling and the limits of his calling. He wasn't upset or jealous because Jesus was getting a greater following. He understood that God was in control and this was His plan.
Sometimes as ministers of the Lord we look at other peoples ministries and get upset even jealous because there ministry is bigger and greater than our ministry. Yet, we shouldn't be comparing ourselves with others.
2 Corinthians 10:12 says, "We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise."
God has a specific plan and purpose for you to fulfill as a minister of the Lord. God has set up certain boundaries that our ministry is to fall between. The boundaries and calling God has given others may be larger, greater, and even more glorious, while this may not be what God intended for you. We always think bigger and more is better, only if this what God desires for you. We know God is limitless. He may limit us, not in power, not in strength, not in wisdom, not in the Holy Spirit, but
limit our sphere of ministry.
Also John the Baptist declared in verse 30 - " He must become greater; I must become less.”
John understood that he was only there as a precursor of the Messiah. He was only setting the stage for Jesus ministry. He was only building the scaffolding for Christ greater ministry. Often God has called us to do the same thing. Many great ministries were built on the foundations that were laid by others. A foundation is small compared to the over all size of the building. It usually unseen and doesn't receive much attention, but it is essential for the longevity and success of the building.
I think of my father who worked tirelessly in Guinea and Sierra Leon, Africa for 9 year with very little harvest or visible fruit of their tireless work among the Muslims. They left Sierra Leon with only one convert who was a boy at the time who later went to Bible School. This pastor now has established many churches. My dad's ministry was not head line news, but he was faithful with what God had called him to do. He laid the foundation for future ministry.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Established on a Promise
John 2:19-20 - "Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.”
20 They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?”
When I read this verse, God spoke something to me. He said the temple took so long to complete because it was a man made temple. It was built in the flesh. It was built under Herod's command, not God's.
Solomon's temple was completed in 7 years because God had ordained Solomon to build it. The temple that was built after the Israelites returned from captivity took 19 years due to resistance of the surrounding nations that resulted in the stopping of work on the temple for 16 years. Yet, in the end God and his people were victorious and finished. the work. They were successful because God had commanded them to build it.
This is the difference in doing something commanded by the Lord and established on a promise. When we do something in according to God's will and in his power we will be able to do greater things. We will be blessed in what we do because God is working through us to accomplish His plan. Solomon's temple was greater than both of the following temples and built in a shorter period of time. The post exile temple was built in a shorter time than Herod's despite great hurdles they had to overcome. When we work according to our desire and in the flesh, the work becomes greater and more strenuous.
20 They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?”
When I read this verse, God spoke something to me. He said the temple took so long to complete because it was a man made temple. It was built in the flesh. It was built under Herod's command, not God's.
Solomon's temple was completed in 7 years because God had ordained Solomon to build it. The temple that was built after the Israelites returned from captivity took 19 years due to resistance of the surrounding nations that resulted in the stopping of work on the temple for 16 years. Yet, in the end God and his people were victorious and finished. the work. They were successful because God had commanded them to build it.
This is the difference in doing something commanded by the Lord and established on a promise. When we do something in according to God's will and in his power we will be able to do greater things. We will be blessed in what we do because God is working through us to accomplish His plan. Solomon's temple was greater than both of the following temples and built in a shorter period of time. The post exile temple was built in a shorter time than Herod's despite great hurdles they had to overcome. When we work according to our desire and in the flesh, the work becomes greater and more strenuous.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Complaceny
Amos 6:1 - "Woe to you who are complacent in Zion, and to you who feel secure on Mount Samaria,
you notable men of the foremost nation, to whom the people of Israel come!"
There are many sins that we are not to commit. Many of these sins require action, while there is one sin that doesn't require action but non action. This is the sin of complacency. At this time the Northern kingdom of Israel, Samaria were very content and living in luxury and ease. Much like the United States has been for years. Samaria was in the lap of luxury and a time of peace. They felt very secure. They were not serving the Lord, but felt very secure in themselves. As result, they became complacent. They no longer pursued the Lord.
As believers, we can become complacent. We may not be living in blatant sin as Samaria was at this time, but at the same time we are not doing much for the Lord. We have become content in life, both economically and spiritually. We are enjoying the pleasures of the this world. Not necessarily sinful pleasures, but pleasures that lull us into a spiritual stupor. We have lost our fist love for Christ. We are no longer zealous for him. We are just going through the motions. We are no longer seeking Him with all our hearts. We are no longer living in the light of eternity.
God is calling us to wake up from our sleep because the days are short.
you notable men of the foremost nation, to whom the people of Israel come!"
There are many sins that we are not to commit. Many of these sins require action, while there is one sin that doesn't require action but non action. This is the sin of complacency. At this time the Northern kingdom of Israel, Samaria were very content and living in luxury and ease. Much like the United States has been for years. Samaria was in the lap of luxury and a time of peace. They felt very secure. They were not serving the Lord, but felt very secure in themselves. As result, they became complacent. They no longer pursued the Lord.
As believers, we can become complacent. We may not be living in blatant sin as Samaria was at this time, but at the same time we are not doing much for the Lord. We have become content in life, both economically and spiritually. We are enjoying the pleasures of the this world. Not necessarily sinful pleasures, but pleasures that lull us into a spiritual stupor. We have lost our fist love for Christ. We are no longer zealous for him. We are just going through the motions. We are no longer seeking Him with all our hearts. We are no longer living in the light of eternity.
God is calling us to wake up from our sleep because the days are short.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Prayer for your Nation
Joel 2:15-17 - "Blow the trumpet in Zion, declare a holy fast, call a sacred assembly.16 Gather the people,consecrate the assembly; bring together the elders, gather the children, those nursing at the breast. Let the bridegroom leave his room and the bride her chamber. 17 Let the priests, who minister before the Lord, weep between the portico and the altar. Let them say, “Spare your people, Lord Do not make your inheritance an object of scorn, a byword among the nations.Why should they say among the peoples,‘Where is their God?
This a powerful verse that call God's people to intercede for their nation. We are fist to intercede for repentance in God's church. A prayer for the people of God who have strayed from the truth and the path of righteousness. A prayer for fresh zeal and power in the Holy Spirit. Then we need to pray for our country that they turn from their sinful ways and come back to the Lord.
There are several things in this passage that really stand out to me. First, everyone is to be involved in intercessory prayer on behalf of the land, even children and nursing mothers. In other words, no exceptions. Secondly, the intensity of the prayer which brings weeping. Lastly, if we don't pray, the nation will become godless. Europe is a great example of a godly nation that became godless. The great continent that used to send missionaries through out the world, now needs missionaries. We in the United States need to be careful that we don't go down the same path.
I call all of God's people old and young to pray on behalf of their country. There are two promises that accompany a nation who calls on the name of the Lord. One, the Lord will take pity and send blessing. ( Joel 2:18-19) Secondly, God will pour out His Spirit. ( Joel 2:28)
This a powerful verse that call God's people to intercede for their nation. We are fist to intercede for repentance in God's church. A prayer for the people of God who have strayed from the truth and the path of righteousness. A prayer for fresh zeal and power in the Holy Spirit. Then we need to pray for our country that they turn from their sinful ways and come back to the Lord.
There are several things in this passage that really stand out to me. First, everyone is to be involved in intercessory prayer on behalf of the land, even children and nursing mothers. In other words, no exceptions. Secondly, the intensity of the prayer which brings weeping. Lastly, if we don't pray, the nation will become godless. Europe is a great example of a godly nation that became godless. The great continent that used to send missionaries through out the world, now needs missionaries. We in the United States need to be careful that we don't go down the same path.
I call all of God's people old and young to pray on behalf of their country. There are two promises that accompany a nation who calls on the name of the Lord. One, the Lord will take pity and send blessing. ( Joel 2:18-19) Secondly, God will pour out His Spirit. ( Joel 2:28)
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Amos One of the Shepherds
In the very first verse of Amos, it starts out, Amos one of the shepherds. God chooses a shepherd to take speak his word. He wasn't anyone special or great. The prophet Amos understood this fully.
Amos 7:14-15 - "Amos answered Amaziah, “I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. 15 But the Lord took me from tending the flock and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel.
He father wasn't a priest or prophet. He was a nobody. Yet, in God's wisdom and sovereignty he chose him to be his mouth piece. This is a clear example that God can use anyone who is willing, and Amos was willing. We see no resistance to the call of God on his life.
You could have come from an unbelieving household. You could be car salesman, gas station attendant, farmer, house wife, and even a carpenter and God calls you to be his hands, feet and mouth. God could call you into the full time ministry. You may not have gone to Bible school or raised from a very young age in the church, but God could put his hand upon you and say, I am going to show you great and mighty things. I am going to make you my servant. Amos had no theological degree or mentored as Timothy was by Paul, but he loved God and heeded the call.
I am not belittling being raised in a Christian family and in the church all your life. I am not belittling going to Bible school and being mentored. All this is very important. Yet, it is not an absolute necessity for God to use you. Just take a look at church history and you will find many people God used who had no great education or training but were willing vessels.
Are you willing to hear from God even as Amos heard from God and willing to declare His Word.
Amos 7:14-15 - "Amos answered Amaziah, “I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. 15 But the Lord took me from tending the flock and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel.
He father wasn't a priest or prophet. He was a nobody. Yet, in God's wisdom and sovereignty he chose him to be his mouth piece. This is a clear example that God can use anyone who is willing, and Amos was willing. We see no resistance to the call of God on his life.
You could have come from an unbelieving household. You could be car salesman, gas station attendant, farmer, house wife, and even a carpenter and God calls you to be his hands, feet and mouth. God could call you into the full time ministry. You may not have gone to Bible school or raised from a very young age in the church, but God could put his hand upon you and say, I am going to show you great and mighty things. I am going to make you my servant. Amos had no theological degree or mentored as Timothy was by Paul, but he loved God and heeded the call.
I am not belittling being raised in a Christian family and in the church all your life. I am not belittling going to Bible school and being mentored. All this is very important. Yet, it is not an absolute necessity for God to use you. Just take a look at church history and you will find many people God used who had no great education or training but were willing vessels.
Are you willing to hear from God even as Amos heard from God and willing to declare His Word.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Keys to Church Growth
Why don’t we experience it ?
1. The Aquarium Syndrome - Churches have become aquariums, or holding pens for Christians.
4 Now
when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the
deep, and let down your nets for a draught. 5 And Simon answering said
unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing:
nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. 6 And when they had
this done, they enclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net
brake. (Luke 5)
2. Not Realizing Our Potential
29 And
now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that
with all boldness they may speak thy word, 30 By stretching forth
thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name
of thy holy child Jesus. 31 And when they had prayed, the place was
shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with
the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. (Acts 4)
3. The Violent Take it by FORCE! Time to get in the devil's face.
48
And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh
to meet David, that David hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the
Philistine. (I Sam. 17)
4. Evangelism doesn’t work from pulpits very well. Works better in the street.
19 Go
ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the
Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to
observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with
you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. (Matt. 28)
5. Pentecostal Prayer and Praise
7
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you:
and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea,
and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts 1)
32
And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were
assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and
they spake the word of God with boldness. (Acts 4)
6. Must have a STRATEGIC PLAN
10:1 After
these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two
and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself
would come. 2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great,
but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest,
that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.
7. Discipleship vs. Membership - Disciples beget disciples, members come once a week.
23 And
he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny
himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24 For whosoever
will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for
my sake, the same shall save it. 25 For what is a man advantaged, if he
gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? 26 For
whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son
of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his
Father's, and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you of a truth, there be
some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the
kingdom of God.
http://jesuswords4today.wordpress.com/2012/10/15/ministering-like
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Knowing Christ
Philippians 3:8-9
“I
consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of
knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I
consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ “
Paul
opens this chapter in Philippians by giving his resume. Paul was great
and successful in both the secular Roman world and the religious Jewish
world before he ever met Christ. He was born into an important family,
had the best education, had risen to the top of his field, and was
successful in everything he did. Paul was zealous for God and his
church. He was at the top of his game. But Paul considered all that
rubbish in comparison to knowing Christ.
Knowing
Christ is not the key to greatness and success, nor is greatness and
success evidence of knowing Christ. Knowing Christ is greatness and
success. In Africa they have a proverb that says, “It is not
important who you are but who you know.” In the world and the church we
idolize fame, greatness, and success. Our bookstores are filled with
books on how to be successful. We parade it on TV and reward it with our
time and money. We often gain our sense of identity by what we do and
what we possess. However, the things we put such importance and on which
we spend so much time and money may bring us some fulfillment and
pleasures in this world. But they are rubbish in God’s world compared to
knowing Christ.
In Luke 10 and John 12 we see two
stories of Jesus visit to the home of Lazarus, Mary and Martha. In both
stories Martha is busy serving, and Mary is at Jesus feet in worship.
In the story in John, Lazarus was seated at the table fellowshipping
with Jesus. In Luke, Martha complains to Jesus that Mary is not doing
her part in helping serve. Jesus response is very revealing of the heart
of God. “And Jesus answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are
worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and
Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her."
(Luke 10:41-42)
All three elements of fellowship,
service, and worship are important in our walk with the Lord. But Jesus
identifies that what Mary was doing as most important and would not be
taken away from her. Everything we do that is of eternal value stems out of our relationship with Christ.
The proof of our relationship with Christ is not in our accomplishments
but our character as evidenced by the fruit of the Spirit, which is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This fruit will come forth in our lives in the good times and the bad times. (Galatians 5:22-23)
Friday, October 5, 2012
Prepare the Way for the Lord
Matthew 3:1-3 - "In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” 3 This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah:
“A voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.’”
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.’”
The ministry of John the baptist was to prepare the way for the Lord. This is now the ministry of the church today. Even as John prepared the way for the Lord's first coming, we are to prepare the way for His second coming. We are to preach the same message as John, repent for the kingdom of heaven is near. We are to seek to put people on the straight and narrow path of the Lord.
Matthew 24:14 - "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come."
The end is dependent on our obedience. It is dependent on us preaching the gospel. It is dependent on us being witnesses for Him.
2 Peter 3:9 - " The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."
God doesn't want anyone to perish. This why he has not yet come back for His church. His coming is dependent on us, the church. We can accelerate His coming or slow His coming. He will only come when every nation has heard the good news of the kingdom. Nation in Greek is "ethnos" or an ethnic group. It is only when every ethnic group has a viable witness that Christ will come.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Pondering
In Luke 2:19 we see that after the shepherds came to see Jesus and told the story of how the angels appeared to them, "Mary treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart".
There are things that God speaks to us, we see and experience that are beyond our understanding. All we can do is ponder them in our hearts. In His time he will bring them to light and give us understanding.
The shepherds told many others the same story and they were amazed. Yet, they didn't treasure them in their hearts. It was a flash in the pan for them. It was something that impacted them for a moment, and then forgotten.
So often when God reveals something new. We get all excited but soon it fades away because we do not store it up in our hearts. We don't let it percolate. We don't let it complete its work. Sometimes as believers we are looking for the new word the new revelation and hop from one to another without allowing it to take root.
There are things that God speaks to us, we see and experience that are beyond our understanding. All we can do is ponder them in our hearts. In His time he will bring them to light and give us understanding.
The shepherds told many others the same story and they were amazed. Yet, they didn't treasure them in their hearts. It was a flash in the pan for them. It was something that impacted them for a moment, and then forgotten.
So often when God reveals something new. We get all excited but soon it fades away because we do not store it up in our hearts. We don't let it percolate. We don't let it complete its work. Sometimes as believers we are looking for the new word the new revelation and hop from one to another without allowing it to take root.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Wilderness School
Luke 1:80 - " And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel."
John the baptist became strong in spirit. Where did he get this strength. Ultimately he got it from the Lord. He was filled with the Holy Spirit from birth. Yet, what really struck me is that he was in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel.
What was he doing in the wilderness? He was spending time with the Lord and learning from the Lord. He was being schooled by the Lord. In this same way, God will often require of his servants to spend time in the wilderness in preparation for ministry. What kind of wilderness am I talking about? It could be a time of great difficulty and loneliness. It is when the gold is passed through the fire and refined and made pure. It is in times like these God works in us and molds us for service if we are willing to learn.
Yet, the wilderness does not have to be a place of suffering. It is not the desert where their is no water and food, but it is a place with little water and food. It is always an isolated place because of the harsh environment. I would compare this to a time where you are faithfully serving the Lord behind the scenes. A place where people don't really notice you or give you much credit. A place out of the lime light, often in the the shadows of others. It is often in such a place we learn much from the Lord as we remain faithful to that which God has asked us to.
John the baptist became strong in spirit. Where did he get this strength. Ultimately he got it from the Lord. He was filled with the Holy Spirit from birth. Yet, what really struck me is that he was in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel.
What was he doing in the wilderness? He was spending time with the Lord and learning from the Lord. He was being schooled by the Lord. In this same way, God will often require of his servants to spend time in the wilderness in preparation for ministry. What kind of wilderness am I talking about? It could be a time of great difficulty and loneliness. It is when the gold is passed through the fire and refined and made pure. It is in times like these God works in us and molds us for service if we are willing to learn.
Yet, the wilderness does not have to be a place of suffering. It is not the desert where their is no water and food, but it is a place with little water and food. It is always an isolated place because of the harsh environment. I would compare this to a time where you are faithfully serving the Lord behind the scenes. A place where people don't really notice you or give you much credit. A place out of the lime light, often in the the shadows of others. It is often in such a place we learn much from the Lord as we remain faithful to that which God has asked us to.
Those who believe are blessed
Luke 1:45 - "Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!"
This was spoken over Mary by Elizabeth. It is as true for us today as it was for Mary. When the angel told Mary that she was pregnant, she received the Word and believed it. Mary truly had great faith in the Word of the Lord. She had not even slept with a man, but received the word as true.
We need to believe even as Mary in the promises of God Word. Some promises are easier to believe than others. We need to believe the specific and individual words spoken over us through the Holy Spirit. We shouldn't have to have an angel speak to us before we believe. When we do so, we will be blessed. They will be fulfilled.
This was spoken over Mary by Elizabeth. It is as true for us today as it was for Mary. When the angel told Mary that she was pregnant, she received the Word and believed it. Mary truly had great faith in the Word of the Lord. She had not even slept with a man, but received the word as true.
We need to believe even as Mary in the promises of God Word. Some promises are easier to believe than others. We need to believe the specific and individual words spoken over us through the Holy Spirit. We shouldn't have to have an angel speak to us before we believe. When we do so, we will be blessed. They will be fulfilled.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Enlarge Your Tent
Isaiah 54:2-3
"Enlarge the place of your tent, and let
them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; do not spare; lengthen
your cords, and strengthen your stakes. For you shall expand to the
right and to the left, and your descendants will inherit the nations,
and make the desolate cities inhabited.”
This
wonderful promise begins with a command from God to “enlarge the place
of your tent.” In order for God to fulfill His plans and purposes for
our lives, we need to make room or create the environment for God to
work. Many times we pray for things, but we do not see the fulfillment
of our prayers because our lives are so cluttered or bound by our
limitations that God cannot work.
The
Apostle Paul exhorts us to “build yourselves up in your most holy
faith.” (Jude 20) He also says that “faith comes by hearing and hearing
by the Word of God,” (Romans 10:17) and that “without faith it is
impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He
is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
(Hebrews 11:6) There are steps we have to take by faith to create the
environment for God to work. We have to diligently seek Him, and in
doing so, we come to know Him, recognize His voice, and know His ways.
Once
you have enlarged your place, you can now lengthen your cords. You
begin to stretch yourself and reach out beyond the borders of your
limitations. Begin to do things that you have not done before. Isaiah
says, “do not spare.” The NIV says, “do not hold back.” Don’t hesitate!
Go for it!
But as you reach out in faith into the
unknown of God’s promises, you must “strengthen your stakes.” Jesus told
us in order to survive the flood, we need to “digdeep and lay the foundation on the rock,” by coming to Him and “hearing His sayings and doing them.”
(Luke 6:48) As you expand into Satan’s territory it is essential that
you take time to dig deep into Christ and drive the unshakable stakes
deep into Him.
Once you have enlarged your place, lengthened your cord, and strengthened your stakes, a wonderful thing happens. You can now stretch out the curtains of your dwellings.
Curtains are the cloth or skins that make up the tent covering,
providing, privacy, security and safety from the elements, not only for
yourself, but also for your household.
1
Corinthians 2:9-10 says, “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have
entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for
those who love Him. But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit.”
Today, believe that God has great things for you and prepare yourself
for them because “your Father who is in heaven gives good things to
those who ask.”(Luke 11:11)
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Consience
Today I want to talk about ones conscience. What is our conscience? It is something that God has placed in man that judges, bears witness, accuses, and excuses. It judges our words, actions, thoughts, motives, attitudes.
There are different kinds of consciences. One of these would be a weak conscience which talked about in I Corinthians 8:9-12. Verse 10 says, " For if someone with a weak conscience sees you, with all your knowledge, eating in an idol’s temple, won’t that person be emboldened to eat what is sacrificed to idols?"
A weak conscience is on that is spiritually weak. It is one that is not established in his convictions. It is one with lack of spiritual knowledge or understanding. It is one that is immature.
Another type of conscience is a good one.
Acts 23:1 - " Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and said, “My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day."
A good conscience is one that is strong spiritually, and knows right from wrong. Not only knows right from wrong but does what is right. A good conscience is a clear conscience.
Of course the opposite of a clear conscience is a guilty conscience. (Hebrews 10:22) This is a conscience that knows right from wrong, but does wrong.
Another kind of conscience is a defiled or corrupt conscience.
Titus 1:15 - "To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted."
This is ungodly conscience or an unregenerate conscience. It is the unbelievers conscience.
The las kind of conscience we will look at is the seared conscience.
I Timothy 4:1-2 - The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. "
This is the good conscience which has been seared through deception and rebellion. It is the conscience that over time has resisted the word of the Lord until it no longer hears the voice of the Lord. One can have a partially seared conscience which is a conscience that has been hardened to a specific area of sin.
The question we must ask ourselves today is what kind of conscience do we have?
There are different kinds of consciences. One of these would be a weak conscience which talked about in I Corinthians 8:9-12. Verse 10 says, " For if someone with a weak conscience sees you, with all your knowledge, eating in an idol’s temple, won’t that person be emboldened to eat what is sacrificed to idols?"
A weak conscience is on that is spiritually weak. It is one that is not established in his convictions. It is one with lack of spiritual knowledge or understanding. It is one that is immature.
Another type of conscience is a good one.
Acts 23:1 - " Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and said, “My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day."
A good conscience is one that is strong spiritually, and knows right from wrong. Not only knows right from wrong but does what is right. A good conscience is a clear conscience.
Of course the opposite of a clear conscience is a guilty conscience. (Hebrews 10:22) This is a conscience that knows right from wrong, but does wrong.
Another kind of conscience is a defiled or corrupt conscience.
Titus 1:15 - "To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted."
This is ungodly conscience or an unregenerate conscience. It is the unbelievers conscience.
The las kind of conscience we will look at is the seared conscience.
I Timothy 4:1-2 - The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. "
This is the good conscience which has been seared through deception and rebellion. It is the conscience that over time has resisted the word of the Lord until it no longer hears the voice of the Lord. One can have a partially seared conscience which is a conscience that has been hardened to a specific area of sin.
The question we must ask ourselves today is what kind of conscience do we have?
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Response to God's Love
II Corinthians 5:14-15 - "For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 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."
In the last blog we talked about God's love. Today I want to reflect on our response to God's love. Our first response to God's love should be that we want to tell others about His great love towards us. Our second response is we do not want to live any longer for ourselves but for Him who died. We will want to please Him. Therefore, we will want to obey Him.
There should be another response to God's love which is found in I John 4:11-12 - "Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us."
Our response should be that we love one another. We will follow Christ's example of self sacrifice. We will not only lay down our lives for God, but others as well. This is proof that God lives in us and that His love is made complete in us.
These three responses to God's come about only as we fully understand and appreciate God's love for us.
In the last blog we talked about God's love. Today I want to reflect on our response to God's love. Our first response to God's love should be that we want to tell others about His great love towards us. Our second response is we do not want to live any longer for ourselves but for Him who died. We will want to please Him. Therefore, we will want to obey Him.
There should be another response to God's love which is found in I John 4:11-12 - "Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us."
Our response should be that we love one another. We will follow Christ's example of self sacrifice. We will not only lay down our lives for God, but others as well. This is proof that God lives in us and that His love is made complete in us.
These three responses to God's come about only as we fully understand and appreciate God's love for us.
Monday, September 17, 2012
God's Love
I want to talk about the love of God today. The Bible says God's love is unfailing. Exodus 15:13 says, "In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed.In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling." Psalms 130:7 speaks of God's unfailing love as well. What a comfort to know that nothing can cause him not to love us anymore. How different is this from worldly love.
The Bible says God's love abounds. Psalms 86:15 says, "But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness." Because of His abounding love he is compassionate, faithful and slow to anger. Because of His abounding love, he shows His love to all of His creation. His love is not limited to a few select people.
Also, God's love is eternal. Psalms 100:5 says, "For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." This is why His love never fails. This is why His faithfulness continues."
In Proverbs 3:12 it says, "because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in." We see that God's love involves discipline. He is not some sugar daddy who is there to spoil you. He will not tolerate disobedience. He will correct us when we disobey or stray from the straight and narrow.
Yet, God has given us His all and continues to give His all to us in love. I John 4:9-10 says it in this way, " This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." We can see her is His love was not based on our love for Him and it is a sacrificial love. (See John 3:16-17 & Romans 5:8-10) Also, we see that God's love involves action. True loves is always shown in action even as faith is shown by our actions.
There is not other god who loves as the true God. We are truly blessed.
The Bible says God's love abounds. Psalms 86:15 says, "But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness." Because of His abounding love he is compassionate, faithful and slow to anger. Because of His abounding love, he shows His love to all of His creation. His love is not limited to a few select people.
Also, God's love is eternal. Psalms 100:5 says, "For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." This is why His love never fails. This is why His faithfulness continues."
In Proverbs 3:12 it says, "because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in." We see that God's love involves discipline. He is not some sugar daddy who is there to spoil you. He will not tolerate disobedience. He will correct us when we disobey or stray from the straight and narrow.
Yet, God has given us His all and continues to give His all to us in love. I John 4:9-10 says it in this way, " This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." We can see her is His love was not based on our love for Him and it is a sacrificial love. (See John 3:16-17 & Romans 5:8-10) Also, we see that God's love involves action. True loves is always shown in action even as faith is shown by our actions.
There is not other god who loves as the true God. We are truly blessed.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Healing
Healing has been a topic of much discussion for centuries. It is often very confusing. I for on don't have all the answers to the many questions surrounding healing but I will give my observations.
There is a connection between obedience and health. God promises the people of Israel that he will not bring the diseases of that he brought on the Egyptians when he brought them out of they walk in obedience. (Exodus 15:16) In Deuteronomy 7:9-15, he talks about the blessings that follow those who obey him, and the curse that is upon those who walk in disobedience. On of the blessing stated is health. Health here is dependent on their obedience, and sickness as a result of their disobedience. It is important to see in both of these passages that God actually sends illness on those who disobey him. There are many other passages in the O.T. that speak of sickness as a form of judging the disobedient. (Leviticus 26:15-16; Deuteronomy 28; 2 Chronicles 21:12-15; Psalms 107:17) Is all sickness a result of disobedience or God's judgement? We will see later, this is not the case. Yet, there is strong evidence in God's word that obedience and health are connected.
There are those in God's word who are righteous people but fall sick. King Hezekiah is an example of this. (II Kings 20:1-11) He fell sick and was apparently going to die for no specific reason. He calls on God and He saves his life. Another example is Job who the Bible declares as a righteous man. Yet God allows Satan to inflict him with sickness with no apparent reason but show how His servant Job will remain faithful to Him. Yet in the end, Job is healed and is all the wiser for it. (Job 2:3-7; Job 42:10-16) Another example is Tabitha who was a faithful saint of the Lord who do much good. (Acts 9:36-42) She got sick and died. Later in the story we see Peter go to her house and raises her from the dead. As result, many came to Christ. Another example is Epaphroditus in Philippians 2:25-28 who was ill and almost died, but in God's mercy he was healed. What can we say about the examples. First of all, righteous people do get sick. Secondly, he may allow this to make us stronger. Thirdly, he may allow this for him to receive glory and draw people unto him. Lastly, in every case they were healed and the one case raised from the dead.
Looking at other passages gives us the sense that God may be selective in his healing. In Matthew 8:14-17, Christ heals a woman without her asking to be healed. Also, we see here that Christ healed everyone who came to him. In Luke 13:10-13, God calls a woman forward and heals her, a sovereign choice of God. In John 5:5, God chooses to heal a man at the pool of Bethsaida, but no mention of healing of others around him. Also in Timothy 4:20, Paul leaves someone sick. I am sure Paul had prayed for him. Why couldn't Paul who healed so many couldn't heal this person?
This is by no means and exhaustive teaching on healing, but we can gain some truths from it. One, obedience and health are connected. Two, part of God's mission and character is to heal. Three, righteous people do get sick, but in most cases they are healed. Fourthly, healing depends on God's sovereign choice and will. Finally, it seem from Matthew 8:1-4, he is willing to heal the sick and even desires to do so.
In Exodus 15:16, he declares that He is the God who heals. It seems here to indicate that this is one of His characteristics or part of His work.
There is a connection between obedience and health. God promises the people of Israel that he will not bring the diseases of that he brought on the Egyptians when he brought them out of they walk in obedience. (Exodus 15:16) In Deuteronomy 7:9-15, he talks about the blessings that follow those who obey him, and the curse that is upon those who walk in disobedience. On of the blessing stated is health. Health here is dependent on their obedience, and sickness as a result of their disobedience. It is important to see in both of these passages that God actually sends illness on those who disobey him. There are many other passages in the O.T. that speak of sickness as a form of judging the disobedient. (Leviticus 26:15-16; Deuteronomy 28; 2 Chronicles 21:12-15; Psalms 107:17) Is all sickness a result of disobedience or God's judgement? We will see later, this is not the case. Yet, there is strong evidence in God's word that obedience and health are connected.
There are those in God's word who are righteous people but fall sick. King Hezekiah is an example of this. (II Kings 20:1-11) He fell sick and was apparently going to die for no specific reason. He calls on God and He saves his life. Another example is Job who the Bible declares as a righteous man. Yet God allows Satan to inflict him with sickness with no apparent reason but show how His servant Job will remain faithful to Him. Yet in the end, Job is healed and is all the wiser for it. (Job 2:3-7; Job 42:10-16) Another example is Tabitha who was a faithful saint of the Lord who do much good. (Acts 9:36-42) She got sick and died. Later in the story we see Peter go to her house and raises her from the dead. As result, many came to Christ. Another example is Epaphroditus in Philippians 2:25-28 who was ill and almost died, but in God's mercy he was healed. What can we say about the examples. First of all, righteous people do get sick. Secondly, he may allow this to make us stronger. Thirdly, he may allow this for him to receive glory and draw people unto him. Lastly, in every case they were healed and the one case raised from the dead.
Looking at other passages gives us the sense that God may be selective in his healing. In Matthew 8:14-17, Christ heals a woman without her asking to be healed. Also, we see here that Christ healed everyone who came to him. In Luke 13:10-13, God calls a woman forward and heals her, a sovereign choice of God. In John 5:5, God chooses to heal a man at the pool of Bethsaida, but no mention of healing of others around him. Also in Timothy 4:20, Paul leaves someone sick. I am sure Paul had prayed for him. Why couldn't Paul who healed so many couldn't heal this person?
This is by no means and exhaustive teaching on healing, but we can gain some truths from it. One, obedience and health are connected. Two, part of God's mission and character is to heal. Three, righteous people do get sick, but in most cases they are healed. Fourthly, healing depends on God's sovereign choice and will. Finally, it seem from Matthew 8:1-4, he is willing to heal the sick and even desires to do so.
In Exodus 15:16, he declares that He is the God who heals. It seems here to indicate that this is one of His characteristics or part of His work.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Spiritual Fervor
Romans 12:11 - "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord."
I love this verse. As a believer many a time our zeal and fervor for the Lord may diminish. Paul told Timothy to stir up the gift in him. Is you spiritual fervor waning? Are you as zealous for the Lord as on the day you were saved? Are you as zealous for the Lord as in your youth?
When I think of zeal, I think of a strong belief that hurdles people forward. I think of someone who is radical. I think of the radicals in the Islam faith who will do anything to protect Islam and further the Islam faith, no matter what the cost, no matter what affliction or persecution they may face. I am not saying need to strap a bomb on us or kill a bunch of people. Our faith is a faith of love. Yet, sometimes we don't tell others bout Jesus under the guise of love. While it is really apathy.
I like the idea of spiritual fervor. To me it portrays the idea of fire burning in your soul or spirit. It gives the idea of passion.
What must we do to keep the fires of zeal and fervor burning?
We must spend time with God and his family in prayer and worship. By this we keep our eyes on Jesus and others. It is when we dwell upon ourselves and problems that the fires get snuffed out. Another thing that stifles our spiritual fervor is when we get caught up in gathering material possessions and these things become a distraction, a burden, and a time consumer. Another things that puts a damper on our spiritual zeal is when get so caught up in doing things that we neglect our time with God and the fellowship of believers.
We must care for our physical bodies and give them the rest they need. When we are weary in body we will lack spiritual fervor. Eat healthy, exercise and rest will help your spiritual fervor. The soul and body are connected. We must care for them both. If one is poorly cared for it will cause problems for the other.
Prayer, study of God's Word, fellowship, worship, active service and physical care will all help to keep our spiritual fervor. If we are not faithful in one of these areas it will eventually take its toll on our zeal and spiritual fervor.
I love this verse. As a believer many a time our zeal and fervor for the Lord may diminish. Paul told Timothy to stir up the gift in him. Is you spiritual fervor waning? Are you as zealous for the Lord as on the day you were saved? Are you as zealous for the Lord as in your youth?
When I think of zeal, I think of a strong belief that hurdles people forward. I think of someone who is radical. I think of the radicals in the Islam faith who will do anything to protect Islam and further the Islam faith, no matter what the cost, no matter what affliction or persecution they may face. I am not saying need to strap a bomb on us or kill a bunch of people. Our faith is a faith of love. Yet, sometimes we don't tell others bout Jesus under the guise of love. While it is really apathy.
I like the idea of spiritual fervor. To me it portrays the idea of fire burning in your soul or spirit. It gives the idea of passion.
What must we do to keep the fires of zeal and fervor burning?
We must spend time with God and his family in prayer and worship. By this we keep our eyes on Jesus and others. It is when we dwell upon ourselves and problems that the fires get snuffed out. Another thing that stifles our spiritual fervor is when we get caught up in gathering material possessions and these things become a distraction, a burden, and a time consumer. Another things that puts a damper on our spiritual zeal is when get so caught up in doing things that we neglect our time with God and the fellowship of believers.
We must care for our physical bodies and give them the rest they need. When we are weary in body we will lack spiritual fervor. Eat healthy, exercise and rest will help your spiritual fervor. The soul and body are connected. We must care for them both. If one is poorly cared for it will cause problems for the other.
Prayer, study of God's Word, fellowship, worship, active service and physical care will all help to keep our spiritual fervor. If we are not faithful in one of these areas it will eventually take its toll on our zeal and spiritual fervor.
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