Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Worshiping in Suffering
The other day I was in a worship service and what should have been an awesome time with God turned into a miserable time of me complaining to God. We were packed in this room, our chairs were super close and my legs and hips were just killing me. Instead of enjoying my time with the Lord, I couldn't wait for it to be over. When it was over, I was feeling empty, feeling like I really missed out on something great.
The next day was another time of worship and I had situated myself to be more comfortable. I was really enjoying the moment and I heard God say "so you can worship me now that your comfortable, but you couldn't worship me when you were suffering?" ... OUCH. He was so right. In my minor suffering I was so consumed with me and what I was feeling, what I was going through that I didn't worship God.
Shortly after that 2 Corinthians 23-27 was read:
23 Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. 24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26 I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. 27 I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked
Now I don't mean to take Paul's words out of context or away from the point he was trying to make in the text. But what I saw in my head as I listened to this list of things that Paul suffered...was a picture of Paul praising and thanking God constantly through it all. Giving God glory no matter his circumstance.
I am so thankful for this lesson that the Lord so gracious shared with me. I'm thankful that He pointed out to me how no matter the circumstance I need to focus on Him. Brothers, we will face many trials, we will have to deal with suffering...some of us are going through a season of it now. I encourage you to be steadfast in the Lord, focus on Him and worship continually through it all. Don't waste your suffering, use it to come closer to the Lord.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Lists
I'm a person who likes lists. Give me a list of things to do, or a list of groceries needed and I'll work that list and get things done. When that list is done, give me a new list. I find control in a list well defined, self worth in a list well followed, accomplishment in a list completed. I like to compare my list to others list...how far are they compared to me, are they ahead of me, behind me...have they even started yet?
My favorite verses and books of the Bible are those that seemingly give me a list. Those defining what I should do and what I shouldn't do. I've made lists from verses in Titus: blameless, not overbearing, not quick tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, hospitable, loves what is good, self controlled, upright, holy, etc...
Having a list puts me in control. The problem with that is that Jesus has something else in mind. Jesus isn't interested in my list of things I am doing or not doing. Jesus is interested in my HEART. When I give him my heart, I mean truly give my heart to Jesus, HE does the work. He changes my heart...which alters and sets my behavior.
Romans 12:2 - Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind...
Colossians 3:10 - ...and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
2 Corinthians 4:16 - Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
Titus 3:5 - ...he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
Today I encourage you to give your heart fully committed to Jesus, give up your religious lists, and let HIM do the work in you. When we do...we truly find freedom and that is truly the good news.
My favorite verses and books of the Bible are those that seemingly give me a list. Those defining what I should do and what I shouldn't do. I've made lists from verses in Titus: blameless, not overbearing, not quick tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, hospitable, loves what is good, self controlled, upright, holy, etc...
Having a list puts me in control. The problem with that is that Jesus has something else in mind. Jesus isn't interested in my list of things I am doing or not doing. Jesus is interested in my HEART. When I give him my heart, I mean truly give my heart to Jesus, HE does the work. He changes my heart...which alters and sets my behavior.
Romans 12:2 - Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind...
Colossians 3:10 - ...and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
2 Corinthians 4:16 - Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
Titus 3:5 - ...he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
Today I encourage you to give your heart fully committed to Jesus, give up your religious lists, and let HIM do the work in you. When we do...we truly find freedom and that is truly the good news.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Being Prepared
One of my favorite verses, a verse I've clung to the last couple years is 2 Timothy 4:2 "Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction."
Where I'm being challenged by the Lord today is what does "prepared" really mean? For me, being prepared meant that I was spending time reading the Bible, spending time praying and writing in my journal, attending church, reading books by other Godly men, listening to sermons on podcast, learning from every stream I could find to learn from. All good things to do.
The last couple months, I've slacked in the things I was doing that would match my idea of "prepared". I still did everything, but just not as much, sometimes going a few days without having my normal routine.
What's interesting, as I look back at the last couple months, I'm finding that through this time...God still used me. I also realized that even though I wasn't doing some things as much, I was still praying, and in some cases praying more than I had before. I realized that by reducing the "noise" of everything I was doing to be "prepared", that I was able to hear from Him more clearly and often.
For me, today, what it means to be "prepared" has changed. Being "prepared" is about my heart not about what I can learn and cram into my head. Being prepared is being in submission to the Lord, hearing and doing what He is asking me to do.
Are you prepared? What does "being prepared" mean to you?
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Hold onto hope...
Hebrews 10:23-24 - Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
No matter your situation, no matter the struggles you are going through...HOLD onto HOPE! Our Lord is faithful and trustworthy, He loves you and wants the best for you. Focus on Him and his promises.
Proverbs 11:25 - A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
There is power is helping others. When I focus on spurring on others, when I focus on refreshing others my problems diminish and my hope is strengthened.
No matter your situation, no matter the struggles you are going through...HOLD onto HOPE! Our Lord is faithful and trustworthy, He loves you and wants the best for you. Focus on Him and his promises.
Proverbs 11:25 - A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
There is power is helping others. When I focus on spurring on others, when I focus on refreshing others my problems diminish and my hope is strengthened.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
What are you focused on?
To often I catch myself being so focused on my current circumstances that I stop looking to Him. When I'm focusing on what's happening in my life I get more selfish, I become more self reliant... My circumstances begin to dictate my attitude, my focus intensifies and then I just go deeper into depression over what's happening in my life. I focus on the negative, and can't see the positive.
But when I focus on Him, when I change my focus from me to Him, what he has done, what he is calling me to...when I change my 'me' centered focus to a God centered focus, everything changes...everything in me that is. My circumstances don't change, the bad things still happen...but how I feel about those 'things' change tremendously. Suddenly the problems become much smaller, they become bearable and eventually get resolved or just go away.
John 16:33 - "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world"
Today I encourage you to take heart, focus on what Jesus has done for you, what Jesus has promised you. Find peace in today's hustle and bustle world by making Him the center yours.
But when I focus on Him, when I change my focus from me to Him, what he has done, what he is calling me to...when I change my 'me' centered focus to a God centered focus, everything changes...everything in me that is. My circumstances don't change, the bad things still happen...but how I feel about those 'things' change tremendously. Suddenly the problems become much smaller, they become bearable and eventually get resolved or just go away.
John 16:33 - "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world"
Today I encourage you to take heart, focus on what Jesus has done for you, what Jesus has promised you. Find peace in today's hustle and bustle world by making Him the center yours.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Annoying Circumstances...
This last weekend was NightVision 2011 and the family and I really enjoyed it. Hanging out with family and friends hearing some great music, it was definitely a good time.
At one point though I found myself distracted, irritated. I was annoyed with a circumstance of our surroundings, I wasn't focusing on the blessing of being at a huge FREE christian concert. I was focusing on some little insignificant thing, and for a while was missing the whole point of even being there.
Has that ever happened to you?
Luckily God got a hold of me and pointed out what I was doing, I gave the annoying circumstance to Him and started focusing on Him again.
The following day while ushering at church, God showed me another example of this same thing, I noticed a man sitting out in the lobby during worship looking frustrated. I approached him and found that his frustration was about worship, like me the day before, he was letting things that annoyed him about how things were handled in church keep him from worshipping the God he loves.
So today I wonder...What is going on in your life that is keeping you from focusing on God? Where in your life have you let minor, insignificant circumstances keep you from worshiping, praying, or accepting what Jesus has planned for you?
Lord, today I ask that you would reveal to us where we have been distracted and deceived, where we have let OUR attitudes, beliefs and traditions get in the way of what You have for us. Lord reveal to us YOUR attitudes and beliefs, instill in our hearts YOUR love, grace and mercy. Help us to remove that which hinders so that we can freely come before You and worship you the way You deserve to be worshipped. In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus, Amen.
At one point though I found myself distracted, irritated. I was annoyed with a circumstance of our surroundings, I wasn't focusing on the blessing of being at a huge FREE christian concert. I was focusing on some little insignificant thing, and for a while was missing the whole point of even being there.
Has that ever happened to you?
Luckily God got a hold of me and pointed out what I was doing, I gave the annoying circumstance to Him and started focusing on Him again.
The following day while ushering at church, God showed me another example of this same thing, I noticed a man sitting out in the lobby during worship looking frustrated. I approached him and found that his frustration was about worship, like me the day before, he was letting things that annoyed him about how things were handled in church keep him from worshipping the God he loves.
So today I wonder...What is going on in your life that is keeping you from focusing on God? Where in your life have you let minor, insignificant circumstances keep you from worshiping, praying, or accepting what Jesus has planned for you?
Lord, today I ask that you would reveal to us where we have been distracted and deceived, where we have let OUR attitudes, beliefs and traditions get in the way of what You have for us. Lord reveal to us YOUR attitudes and beliefs, instill in our hearts YOUR love, grace and mercy. Help us to remove that which hinders so that we can freely come before You and worship you the way You deserve to be worshipped. In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus, Amen.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Confident of your own righteousness?
Luke 18:9-14
To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men - robbers, evildoers, adulterers - or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.'
But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.'
I tell you that this man, rather than the other went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."
I think the way that Luke introduces this parable is key. "To some who were confident of their own righteousness". We as humans tend to want to control our own destiny, we read the Bible, we inquire of our pastors and we ask "What do I need to do?" We build a to do list and focus on checking the things we need to do to be righteous off the list. We focus on our behavior and our actions. Then we compare how we are doing to others. It seems that as Christians that at different points in our lives we have been both the tax collector and the pharisee.
Where are you today? Are you the tax collector or the pharisee?
Are you depending on your own righteousness or are you depending on Jesus's righteousness?
Jesus has done ALL the work to justify us, He has done ALL the work to make us righteous, He has done ALL the work necessary for us to come before the Father clean as snow.
We need to stop focusing on us and what we need to do. We need to focus on HIM and what He has already done. When we focus on Him and what He has done instead of on us and what we need to do, we change…not by our power…but His.
To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men - robbers, evildoers, adulterers - or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.'
But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.'
I tell you that this man, rather than the other went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."
I think the way that Luke introduces this parable is key. "To some who were confident of their own righteousness". We as humans tend to want to control our own destiny, we read the Bible, we inquire of our pastors and we ask "What do I need to do?" We build a to do list and focus on checking the things we need to do to be righteous off the list. We focus on our behavior and our actions. Then we compare how we are doing to others. It seems that as Christians that at different points in our lives we have been both the tax collector and the pharisee.
Where are you today? Are you the tax collector or the pharisee?
Are you depending on your own righteousness or are you depending on Jesus's righteousness?
Jesus has done ALL the work to justify us, He has done ALL the work to make us righteous, He has done ALL the work necessary for us to come before the Father clean as snow.
We need to stop focusing on us and what we need to do. We need to focus on HIM and what He has already done. When we focus on Him and what He has done instead of on us and what we need to do, we change…not by our power…but His.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Grace at work...
I heard a story from a pastor, he had been walking with a man who struggled with porn. When the man thought that God loved him less when he was looking at porn, and loved him more when he wasn't...he was stuck in it and continued in his sin. He felt defenseless and powerless against it. But when he finally understood that by God's grace, God loved him just the same no matter what he did or didn't do...he suddenly was able to stop looking at porn. The sin no longer had power over his life.
Knowing He loves us regardless, no less and no more based on our actions is so important. Will God discipline us? Yes…but does that mean that he loves us less? No! (see Hebrews 12:1-12) As parents, when we discipline our children, do we do it because we love them less? No, we do it because we love them and want better for them.
He loves YOU! He sent His Son for YOU! He wants better for YOU!
He is the same yesterday, today and forever, just as His love for us is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Lord, please help us grasp the depth of Your love for us today. Lord you know our hearts so much more than we do…and yet you love us. Help us to get that, embrace that. Show us Your grace at work in our lives today, help us to recognize it in the little things around us all day long. Amen!
Knowing He loves us regardless, no less and no more based on our actions is so important. Will God discipline us? Yes…but does that mean that he loves us less? No! (see Hebrews 12:1-12) As parents, when we discipline our children, do we do it because we love them less? No, we do it because we love them and want better for them.
He loves YOU! He sent His Son for YOU! He wants better for YOU!
He is the same yesterday, today and forever, just as His love for us is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Lord, please help us grasp the depth of Your love for us today. Lord you know our hearts so much more than we do…and yet you love us. Help us to get that, embrace that. Show us Your grace at work in our lives today, help us to recognize it in the little things around us all day long. Amen!
Monday, June 27, 2011
One way unconditional love...
How do you define grace?
I've heard it defined as "unmerited favor" by some. It sounds good, something we all need.
Recently though I've heard it defined as "one way unconditional love".
After hearing this new definition, "unmerited favor" sounds so insignificant; like when I hold the door open for a stranger...more of a courtesy.
But "one way unconditional love" sounds like so much more, doesn't it?
I can show unmerited favor, by holding a door open for a stranger, by giving a few dollars to a homeless person on the street. But can I show them "one way unconditional love"?
The same "one way unconditional love" that Jesus has given to me...to all of us.
Grace is one of the most important tools in the Christian's tool box, one of the most powerful, dangerous and scandalous tools. Grace can change a life immediately and completely...for the better when applied correctly, for the worse when not applied at all.
One way unconditional love has no "but's", no conditions...but we constantly set conditions...don't we? In a world where justice reigns supreme, grace defined as one way unconditional love is so much harder than unmerited favor.
Where are you setting conditions on your love, or on your grace towards others? Who are you merely showing unmerited favor and withholding true one way unconditional love?
Romans 3:23-24 - for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Lord today we pray that you would search our hearts and reveal to us where we are putting conditions on grace. Help us Lord to understand grace as You define it, help us to apply it as You apply it. In Jesus name, Amen.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Given Freely...
Romans 3:21-24 - But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. (emphasis added)
Simply put, our righteousness was given to us when we placed our faith in Jesus and we are all justified freely by His grace.
So why are you trying to earn what Jesus has given to you freely?
Are you living a life trying to earn the gift that Jesus gave you? Are you trying your best to "stay" in His grace?
We are saved, but not by anything we did. Jesus did all the heavy lifting.
Turn your focus to Jesus, to the Gospel...concentrate on these things. The good news is that Jesus paid it all. And when we understand that, we are truly set free.
Simply put, our righteousness was given to us when we placed our faith in Jesus and we are all justified freely by His grace.
So why are you trying to earn what Jesus has given to you freely?
Are you living a life trying to earn the gift that Jesus gave you? Are you trying your best to "stay" in His grace?
We are saved, but not by anything we did. Jesus did all the heavy lifting.
Turn your focus to Jesus, to the Gospel...concentrate on these things. The good news is that Jesus paid it all. And when we understand that, we are truly set free.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Keep it simple.
Sometimes it just feels like we make it too complicated. We tend to make a mess of the good news that our Lord is calling us to believe, live and share. It's like we have convinced ourselves that the 'good news' can't really be that good.
Luke 18:17 - Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it. (also Mark 10:15)
Today let us un-complicate it, make it simple...
Jesus loves you more than you can fathom.
He doesn't care where you are at, what you have done...HE LOVES YOU!
Today let's love him back by praising him with every breath and glorifying him in our every action and word.
When we make it simple, it's not only "good" news...it's "life changing" news!
Luke 18:17 - Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it. (also Mark 10:15)
Today let us un-complicate it, make it simple...
Jesus loves you more than you can fathom.
He doesn't care where you are at, what you have done...HE LOVES YOU!
Today let's love him back by praising him with every breath and glorifying him in our every action and word.
When we make it simple, it's not only "good" news...it's "life changing" news!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Focus on the gospel!
Do you focus too much on you and your performance than you do on Jesus, on the gospel?
I know that I do. I put too much stock in ME and not enough in HIM. I tend to focus on what I am doing, where I am at, what I am failing at, what I am successful at...all in the mindset of earning and not losing what Jesus did for me on the cross.
But when I look back at the successes in my life, those times when I overcame great obstacles, gave up sin in my life, made improvements...it was at a time when I was focusing on what Jesus did, instead of what I've done or am doing. When I focus on what Jesus did for me, when I get a glimpse the pain he endured for me and my sin...that is when I am transformed, that is when I am changed. When I'm focused on Him, He changes me, He transforms me, He makes me a better man.
Colossians 1:13-14 - For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
He has rescued us, brought us into His kingdom...we are redeemed, forgiven, justified and when we focus on the life and work of Jesus...we are transformed from the inside out. When we focus on the life and work of Jesus we are changed not by our actions, our work or our obedience...but by His.
I know that I do. I put too much stock in ME and not enough in HIM. I tend to focus on what I am doing, where I am at, what I am failing at, what I am successful at...all in the mindset of earning and not losing what Jesus did for me on the cross.
But when I look back at the successes in my life, those times when I overcame great obstacles, gave up sin in my life, made improvements...it was at a time when I was focusing on what Jesus did, instead of what I've done or am doing. When I focus on what Jesus did for me, when I get a glimpse the pain he endured for me and my sin...that is when I am transformed, that is when I am changed. When I'm focused on Him, He changes me, He transforms me, He makes me a better man.
Colossians 1:13-14 - For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
He has rescued us, brought us into His kingdom...we are redeemed, forgiven, justified and when we focus on the life and work of Jesus...we are transformed from the inside out. When we focus on the life and work of Jesus we are changed not by our actions, our work or our obedience...but by His.
The other day I heard this quote from Timothy Keller "The gospel is not just the A-B-C’s but the A to Z of Christianity."
The gospel of Jesus Christ our savior is the beginning, middle and ending, it is everything. Focus on what Jesus did for you, and you will be changed.
Focus on what Jesus did for you...and don't stop until you meet him face to face.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Go do it!
Then I heard the Lord asking, "Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?" I said, "Here I am. Send me." - Isaiah 6:8
How many times have you been in church and heard a call to help or serve from the pastor...and decided that it wasn't you who they were looking for, it wasn't your calling, it wasn't what the Lord wanted you to do, or that you just didn't have the time?
If you have spent much time in church you have probably done this many, many times. Something I have heard before and have found to be true is the 80/20 rule as it applies to church. That 20% of the people do 80% of the work (or more). If this is truly the case, that means that a lot more people than not take the stance that it's not them that are being called to help or serve.
Several years ago, I attended my first Warrior at Heart Camp, at the end of that camp the question went out..."if any one would be interested in helping". My hand shot up and I got involved. Getting involved has been one of the best things I have ever done. It has helped me in my walk with the Lord, it has helped me grow spiritually, it has given me confidence and brought out leadership abilities in me...that I never knew I had.
Where is God calling you to serve? Why aren't you doing it yet?
In Matthew 28:19 Jesus says "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
That's not a question...that is not a request.
In Matthew 28:19 our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ is telling you what he wants you to do.
Now go do it!
How many times have you been in church and heard a call to help or serve from the pastor...and decided that it wasn't you who they were looking for, it wasn't your calling, it wasn't what the Lord wanted you to do, or that you just didn't have the time?
If you have spent much time in church you have probably done this many, many times. Something I have heard before and have found to be true is the 80/20 rule as it applies to church. That 20% of the people do 80% of the work (or more). If this is truly the case, that means that a lot more people than not take the stance that it's not them that are being called to help or serve.
Several years ago, I attended my first Warrior at Heart Camp, at the end of that camp the question went out..."if any one would be interested in helping". My hand shot up and I got involved. Getting involved has been one of the best things I have ever done. It has helped me in my walk with the Lord, it has helped me grow spiritually, it has given me confidence and brought out leadership abilities in me...that I never knew I had.
Where is God calling you to serve? Why aren't you doing it yet?
In Matthew 28:19 Jesus says "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
That's not a question...that is not a request.
In Matthew 28:19 our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ is telling you what he wants you to do.
Now go do it!
Friday, May 6, 2011
The importance of decisions...
Each day we are faced with many decisions. Some minor, some major. Some are important to make, some might not need to be made. But we are making them constantly.
Should I do this or that? How should I do this or that?
One of my favorite quotes (and I can't remember where I first saw it) is "Life is a series of decisions and then living with the consequences of each."
We will make wrong decisions and we will make right decisions. The question is...will we learn from the decisions we make, both right and wrong?
Many decisions we make are far more important than we give them credit. Some of our decisions set a mental precedent or pattern in our decision making which affects our future decisions. Some little decisions start a snow ball down a hill and result in us making the wrong decision on a very important matter. The decision to give into something just once, starts a pattern. It makes the next decision to give in easier. The next decision is even easier, and comes quicker. Before we know it we are down a road we didn't want to go.
The decisions we make are important. In Exodus 28 the Lord has them fashion a breastpeice for making decisions. This breast-piece was made with precious stones, gold and had the names of the sons of Israel engraved on it.
Exodus 28:29 - "Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he will bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breast-piece of decision as a continuing memorial before the Lord."
While our decisions don't carry the same weight of Aaron's, what names would be engraved on your breast-piece of decision? Your spouse, your children, your mother, father, extended family? What is the weight of your decisions on you and those around you. What precedents, what habits have you fallen into that are affecting your legacy, the future generations of your family?
Should I do this or that? How should I do this or that?
One of my favorite quotes (and I can't remember where I first saw it) is "Life is a series of decisions and then living with the consequences of each."
We will make wrong decisions and we will make right decisions. The question is...will we learn from the decisions we make, both right and wrong?
Many decisions we make are far more important than we give them credit. Some of our decisions set a mental precedent or pattern in our decision making which affects our future decisions. Some little decisions start a snow ball down a hill and result in us making the wrong decision on a very important matter. The decision to give into something just once, starts a pattern. It makes the next decision to give in easier. The next decision is even easier, and comes quicker. Before we know it we are down a road we didn't want to go.
The decisions we make are important. In Exodus 28 the Lord has them fashion a breastpeice for making decisions. This breast-piece was made with precious stones, gold and had the names of the sons of Israel engraved on it.
Exodus 28:29 - "Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he will bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breast-piece of decision as a continuing memorial before the Lord."
While our decisions don't carry the same weight of Aaron's, what names would be engraved on your breast-piece of decision? Your spouse, your children, your mother, father, extended family? What is the weight of your decisions on you and those around you. What precedents, what habits have you fallen into that are affecting your legacy, the future generations of your family?
Monday, May 2, 2011
Do what it says...
What habits have you established that helps you in your walk with the Lord?
Prayer, silence and solitude?
Reading, listening and memorizing scriptures from the Word?
Journaling?
Participating in community? (Church attendance, small groups, meetings)
Listening to sermons online or through podcasts?
Reading books about or related to your Christian walk?
There are so many things we can be doing to help us walk a better walk.
And while all these things are helpful, they are not the most important part...
James 1:22 - Do not merely listen to the word, and deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
We can do all that I listed above, we can come to to have a great knowledge about the Word...but if we do not do what it says...does it even matter?
All of the knowledge in the world is useless in the hands of a person who will not use it.
2 Corinthians 6:3 - We put no obstacle in anyone's way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry.
When we who claim to be Christians do not apply the Word of God to our lives, when we don't live our lives different...we become a stumbling block, an obstacle to others. We are not perfect, we are all broken and sinful and we will mess up; but when we apply the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in the context of a life changed by it...others are changed by it.
Lord I pray that you would reveal to us areas where we know the truth, but are not applying that truth to our lives. I pray that we would be a people who not only knows about You, but intimately knows You and shows that by living a life that is changed by You. Amen.
All of the knowledge in the world is useless in the hands of a person who will not use it.
2 Corinthians 6:3 - We put no obstacle in anyone's way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry.
When we who claim to be Christians do not apply the Word of God to our lives, when we don't live our lives different...we become a stumbling block, an obstacle to others. We are not perfect, we are all broken and sinful and we will mess up; but when we apply the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in the context of a life changed by it...others are changed by it.
Lord I pray that you would reveal to us areas where we know the truth, but are not applying that truth to our lives. I pray that we would be a people who not only knows about You, but intimately knows You and shows that by living a life that is changed by You. Amen.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Giving up the Ultimate for the Immediate
Genesis 25:29-34
Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished.
He said to Jacob, "Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I'm famished." Jacob replied, "First sell me your birthright."
"Look, I am about to die." Esau said. "What good is the birthright to me?" But Jacob said, "Swear to me first." So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob. Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and some lentil stew. He ate and drank, and then got up and left. So Esau despised his birthright.
Esau gives up the Ultimate for the Immediate
In this story, Esau gives up his birthright for a bowl of stew. If you don't understand the concept of the birthright you might not get how absurd this was. To be the first born and have the birthright meant that you would receive the larger share of the inheritance when your father died. In addition the son with the birthright would become the family patriarch, in charge of taking care of the family. The birthright was a big deal.
Esau gave that up for a bowl of stew? Really? Do you really believe that Esau was about to die? Do you think that Esau was in bad enough shape that he couldn't wait for a while...that he didn't have the energy to make a sandwich? If Esau wouldn't have sold his birthright would the it be said 'the God of Abraham, Isaac and Esau' instead of 'the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob'?
Esau gave up the Ultimate for the Immediate. He gave up what would have been a huge blessing for an immediate desire...to eat.
Where in your life are you giving up the Ultimate blessing for a short term Immediate desire?
If we are honest, don't we do this a lot? We live in a culture that tells us we don't need to wait. That we need to live for the moment and we should give in to our desires when we have them.
So we give in to our immediate desires and go into debt, give into our immediate desires not worrying about the consequences, go to our immediate desires for comfort and acceptance. We give up the ultimate blessing when we give into our immediate sexual desires and have premarital sex, turn to pornography or an affair.
When we feed our need for the immediate, what Ultimate blessing are we given up in the future? It's something we need to consider.
Lord, I pray that you would reveal to us those areas of our lives where we let the immediate get in the way of the ultimate. Reveal those areas that we give into, which cause distance in our relationship with You. Lord walk with us today and help us to keep the ultimate prize in focus and give us strength to ignore the temptation of the immediate desires that trip us up. In the name of Jesus, Amen!
Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished.
He said to Jacob, "Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I'm famished." Jacob replied, "First sell me your birthright."
"Look, I am about to die." Esau said. "What good is the birthright to me?" But Jacob said, "Swear to me first." So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob. Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and some lentil stew. He ate and drank, and then got up and left. So Esau despised his birthright.
Esau gives up the Ultimate for the Immediate
In this story, Esau gives up his birthright for a bowl of stew. If you don't understand the concept of the birthright you might not get how absurd this was. To be the first born and have the birthright meant that you would receive the larger share of the inheritance when your father died. In addition the son with the birthright would become the family patriarch, in charge of taking care of the family. The birthright was a big deal.
Esau gave that up for a bowl of stew? Really? Do you really believe that Esau was about to die? Do you think that Esau was in bad enough shape that he couldn't wait for a while...that he didn't have the energy to make a sandwich? If Esau wouldn't have sold his birthright would the it be said 'the God of Abraham, Isaac and Esau' instead of 'the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob'?
Esau gave up the Ultimate for the Immediate. He gave up what would have been a huge blessing for an immediate desire...to eat.
Where in your life are you giving up the Ultimate blessing for a short term Immediate desire?
If we are honest, don't we do this a lot? We live in a culture that tells us we don't need to wait. That we need to live for the moment and we should give in to our desires when we have them.
So we give in to our immediate desires and go into debt, give into our immediate desires not worrying about the consequences, go to our immediate desires for comfort and acceptance. We give up the ultimate blessing when we give into our immediate sexual desires and have premarital sex, turn to pornography or an affair.
When we feed our need for the immediate, what Ultimate blessing are we given up in the future? It's something we need to consider.
Lord, I pray that you would reveal to us those areas of our lives where we let the immediate get in the way of the ultimate. Reveal those areas that we give into, which cause distance in our relationship with You. Lord walk with us today and help us to keep the ultimate prize in focus and give us strength to ignore the temptation of the immediate desires that trip us up. In the name of Jesus, Amen!
Monday, April 18, 2011
We get Jesus...
Why are you into Jesus? Why do you love Jesus? Is it because of who He is? Is it because of what He has done for you on the cross?
John 6:26 - Jesus answered "I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill"
To often we come to Jesus not for what He did for us or for who he is, but we come to Jesus for what He can do for us. We become consumers of Jesus. We go to Jesus to make our lives in this world better, instead of focusing on eternity.
John 6:27 - "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval."
Are you coming to Jesus for food that spoils? Or are you coming to Jesus for food that will endure forever?
If Jesus came to you today and told you He would give you your hearts desire, but in exchange you had to give up part of Him, would you take it? Would you take what ever 'that' is and give up a part of your relationship with Jesus?
Now take a hard look at your life right now, look at where you are at in life, the things you have, the things you cherish...what are you putting ahead of your relationship with Jesus? If your being honest, for most of us, we are already putting something ahead of our relationship with Jesus, we are already giving up a part of Him.
Lord, today I pray that we would be content in the mere fact that we get YOU! That we would walk away from the things of this world solely based on what You have already done for us. That we would walk away from the sin in our lives as we focus on You, and find that your love is sufficient for us. Amen.
John 6:26 - Jesus answered "I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill"
To often we come to Jesus not for what He did for us or for who he is, but we come to Jesus for what He can do for us. We become consumers of Jesus. We go to Jesus to make our lives in this world better, instead of focusing on eternity.
John 6:27 - "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval."
Are you coming to Jesus for food that spoils? Or are you coming to Jesus for food that will endure forever?
If Jesus came to you today and told you He would give you your hearts desire, but in exchange you had to give up part of Him, would you take it? Would you take what ever 'that' is and give up a part of your relationship with Jesus?
Now take a hard look at your life right now, look at where you are at in life, the things you have, the things you cherish...what are you putting ahead of your relationship with Jesus? If your being honest, for most of us, we are already putting something ahead of our relationship with Jesus, we are already giving up a part of Him.
Lord, today I pray that we would be content in the mere fact that we get YOU! That we would walk away from the things of this world solely based on what You have already done for us. That we would walk away from the sin in our lives as we focus on You, and find that your love is sufficient for us. Amen.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Grace Without Christ
I found this devotion written by Dietrich Bonhoeffer in my Men's Devotional Bible and thought I would share it:
Cheap grace is the grace we bestow on ourselves. Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.
Costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all that he has. It is the pearl of great price to buy which the merchant will sell all his goods. It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye that causes him to stumble, it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows Him.
Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again, the gift of which must be asked for, the door at which a man must knock.
Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it gives man the only true life. Is is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above it all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: "you were bought with a price" (1 Corinthians 7:23), and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us. Costly grace is the incarnation of God.
Additional Scripture Reading: Mark 10:41-45; Romans 5:6-11
Cheap grace is the grace we bestow on ourselves. Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.
Costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all that he has. It is the pearl of great price to buy which the merchant will sell all his goods. It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye that causes him to stumble, it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows Him.
Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again, the gift of which must be asked for, the door at which a man must knock.
Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it gives man the only true life. Is is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above it all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: "you were bought with a price" (1 Corinthians 7:23), and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us. Costly grace is the incarnation of God.
Additional Scripture Reading: Mark 10:41-45; Romans 5:6-11
Monday, April 4, 2011
What's coming out of your heart?
Luke 6:45 - The good man brings good things out of the good stored in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
What are you filling your heart with?
Are you filling it with Jesus?
In John 6:53 Jesus tells us "I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you."
When Jesus talks of eating his flesh and drinking his blood, he is calling us, inviting us into a full embrace of Him. He is calling us to fully consume him into our hearts; his love, mercy, grace compassion, teachings and commands. He is calling us to not just a surface relationship with Him, but is calling on us to take Him in fully.
If we fill our hearts with Jesus, what flows from our mouths?
Encouragement, love, concern, grace and mercy.
If we fill our hearts with the things of this world...what flows from our mouths?
Lord, today I pray that we would guard our hearts from the things of this world by filling our hearts to overflowing with You. And that from that overflow that our mouth would speak of Your love, grace, mercy, truth and commands. That you would use us to make a difference in someones life today. Amen!
What are you filling your heart with?
Are you filling it with Jesus?
In John 6:53 Jesus tells us "I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you."
When Jesus talks of eating his flesh and drinking his blood, he is calling us, inviting us into a full embrace of Him. He is calling us to fully consume him into our hearts; his love, mercy, grace compassion, teachings and commands. He is calling us to not just a surface relationship with Him, but is calling on us to take Him in fully.
If we fill our hearts with Jesus, what flows from our mouths?
Encouragement, love, concern, grace and mercy.
If we fill our hearts with the things of this world...what flows from our mouths?
Lord, today I pray that we would guard our hearts from the things of this world by filling our hearts to overflowing with You. And that from that overflow that our mouth would speak of Your love, grace, mercy, truth and commands. That you would use us to make a difference in someones life today. Amen!
Friday, April 1, 2011
Unity in Christ
I strongly feel that one of the most important aspects of our walk with Christ is the Gospel Community that He has placed us in. The church body is made up of many parts (1 Corinthians 12:12-26) and those parts work together in support of each individual towards the goal of sanctification. We have been placed together in our communities by God for a reason. As we walk together we learn from each other, we learn the importance of and application of love, grace, mercy, justice, patience, gentleness, humbleness and bearing with one another. Through our relationships God will use each of us to mold those around us.
Last weekend at our Warrior at Heart Ministry Leadership Camp, I experienced in a huge way how this all works. I witnessed 20 men come together and mold each other. We saw fears diminish and hearts change. We had difficult discussions and didn't always agree, but one thing we always agreed on was the importance of unity in Christ.
Psalm 133:1 - How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!
For gospel community to work, we must always make Christ our center, both individually and corporately. When we all make Christ our center, we become unified in him.
Ephesians 4:1-6 - As a prisoner for the Lord, then I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit - just as you were called to one hope when you were called - one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Why?
Ephesians 4:12-13 - to prepare God's people for works of services, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
For what?
Ephesians 4:14-16 - Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
The purpose of unity in Christ, is our growth, our sanctification. It's through our gospel community that we move from mere infants in Christ to maturity in Christ...from milk, to meat.
Last weekend at our Warrior at Heart Ministry Leadership Camp, I experienced in a huge way how this all works. I witnessed 20 men come together and mold each other. We saw fears diminish and hearts change. We had difficult discussions and didn't always agree, but one thing we always agreed on was the importance of unity in Christ.
Psalm 133:1 - How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!
For gospel community to work, we must always make Christ our center, both individually and corporately. When we all make Christ our center, we become unified in him.
Ephesians 4:1-6 - As a prisoner for the Lord, then I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit - just as you were called to one hope when you were called - one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Why?
Ephesians 4:12-13 - to prepare God's people for works of services, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
For what?
Ephesians 4:14-16 - Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
The purpose of unity in Christ, is our growth, our sanctification. It's through our gospel community that we move from mere infants in Christ to maturity in Christ...from milk, to meat.
Friday, March 18, 2011
1 Thessalonians 5:12-24
I found these words encouraging and I hope you do as well today:
1 Thessalonians 5:12-24
Final Instructions
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.
May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.
Lord, thank you for your Word. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do in our lives. Amen.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-24
Final Instructions
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.
May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.
Lord, thank you for your Word. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do in our lives. Amen.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Opposed
My wife and I had a really lovely time yesterday afternoon. The sun was out, the kids were off doing things teenagers do at the mall, so we decided to head down and find a bench by the river and just enjoy the spring weather. We had talked about doing a 40 days of prayer as a couple and as we sat on the bench we made a list of people and circumstances that we wanted to pray for in the next 40 days. It was really a great time.
Just a short couple hours later as we were planning on doing something as a family, one little thing, some miss-communication and our daughter, my wife and I are all mad and upset with each other.
As I look back on it this morning, I see it for what it was. I'm pretty sure that our enemy doesn't want my wife and I to be of one mind, focused in prayer on the same people and circumstances for 40 days. The fruit that could come from that prayer in the form of God working in our lives and in those we are praying for...is not something our enemy wants to happen. So we are opposed.
Satan doesn't like it when we make progress in our walk with Jesus. When you feel like your making headway spiritually, it always feels like another part of your life is falling apart.
John 16:33 - "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Psalm 31:24 - Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.
When you feel opposed, take heart and place your hope securely in the Lord. He is with you and just as He has pursued you...pursue Him, seek Him...and He will strengthen you.
Would you consider doing 40 days of prayer with your spouse? If not, why?
Lord, today I pray for the marriages represented by those reading this. I pray that you would bring peace to each of them, I pray you would strengthen each of them in your Word and in prayer. Help us to grow closer together as we grow closer to You, together. In Jesus's Name, Amen!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Grace
One of the things that we talk about often is 'grace'. Grace is very important to us because of the grace that our God has given us, and the grace we are called to give to each other. I read a blog yesterday around the idea of giving grace to employees and fellow workers in the workplace and it got me wondering about what grace really is, and how that blog would translate to gospel community. So I looked it up and found several different definitions. For my purposes I picked these three:
As I quickly found out the word 'grace' has many different meanings and uses. I also realized that I don't have the capacity to properly define it, articulate it, or provide a proper example of it. It just feels so beyond what my mind can grasp.
Here are a couple statements from that blog that caught my eye, slightly modified:
"Grace. It seems we’ve taken the marrow out of the word. We’ve Americanized it to mean that we can do anything we darn well please, invoke the grace card, and smile our way through our transgressions.
Why is it that we applaud Jesus offering grace to folks, but we miss how He threw a holy-hissy-fit in the temple, turning over tables? That’s not gracious—certainly not conciliatory. What kind of tyrannical boss would do that?But what if grace is invoked to such an extent that innocents are harmed? What if we extend so much grace to others that they’re enabled to keep offending? Is that grace?"
I don't know that I would have used the same words as the author of this blog, but I think the author made a great point. At what point does grace (a capacity to tolerate, accommodate) become problematic? At what point does this grace start to enable people to remain in the sin that they are most definitely called away from? A couple verses to consider today:
Romans 6:1-2 - What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?
Jude 1:4 - ...They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord"
Lord, I pray that You would help us to fully understand the grace You have offered and to accept it fully. I pray that You will lead us and show us how to always properly apply grace to ourselves and others. I also pray that You would reveal to us, areas where we have allowed grace to become a license to continue our sinful behavior or as an excuse to not challenge or call others out of theirs. Be with us to day, guide and direct us as You see fit. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
- generosity of spirit: a capacity to tolerate, accommodate, or forgive people
- gift of God to humankind: in Christianity, the infinite love, mercy, favor, and goodwill shown to humankind by God
- freedom from sin: in Christianity, the condition of being free of sin, e.g. through repentance to God
As I quickly found out the word 'grace' has many different meanings and uses. I also realized that I don't have the capacity to properly define it, articulate it, or provide a proper example of it. It just feels so beyond what my mind can grasp.
Here are a couple statements from that blog that caught my eye, slightly modified:
"Grace. It seems we’ve taken the marrow out of the word. We’ve Americanized it to mean that we can do anything we darn well please, invoke the grace card, and smile our way through our transgressions.
Why is it that we applaud Jesus offering grace to folks, but we miss how He threw a holy-hissy-fit in the temple, turning over tables? That’s not gracious—certainly not conciliatory. What kind of tyrannical boss would do that?But what if grace is invoked to such an extent that innocents are harmed? What if we extend so much grace to others that they’re enabled to keep offending? Is that grace?"
I don't know that I would have used the same words as the author of this blog, but I think the author made a great point. At what point does grace (a capacity to tolerate, accommodate) become problematic? At what point does this grace start to enable people to remain in the sin that they are most definitely called away from? A couple verses to consider today:
Romans 6:1-2 - What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?
Jude 1:4 - ...They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord"
Lord, I pray that You would help us to fully understand the grace You have offered and to accept it fully. I pray that You will lead us and show us how to always properly apply grace to ourselves and others. I also pray that You would reveal to us, areas where we have allowed grace to become a license to continue our sinful behavior or as an excuse to not challenge or call others out of theirs. Be with us to day, guide and direct us as You see fit. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Like clay in the hand of the potter...
Romans 5:1-5 - Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
James 1:2-4 - Consider it put joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
This week we (as a ministry) have seen suffering and trials of many kinds. We have seen the glory of God through the suffering and God glorified by those suffering.
But through it all one thing has been constant and unchanging...God's love.
And in His love, He uses the sufferings and trials to mold us and transform us. Through the sufferings and trials He is producing perseverance, building character, increasing our hope and faith. As He transforms us we become more and more mature and complete.
Jeremiah 18:6 - He said "Can I not do with you Israel, as this potter does?" declares the Lord. "Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, Israel"
Lord, it's been amazing to see how You are working in the men and families of Warrior at Heart Ministry this week. The overwhelming love and support of brothers as they face some of the most difficult times in their lives. It's during these times that we see just how much You have changed and transformed hearts. Thank you Lord for leading us, guiding us and most of all...for loving us, for transforming us. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen!
James 1:2-4 - Consider it put joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
This week we (as a ministry) have seen suffering and trials of many kinds. We have seen the glory of God through the suffering and God glorified by those suffering.
But through it all one thing has been constant and unchanging...God's love.
And in His love, He uses the sufferings and trials to mold us and transform us. Through the sufferings and trials He is producing perseverance, building character, increasing our hope and faith. As He transforms us we become more and more mature and complete.
Jeremiah 18:6 - He said "Can I not do with you Israel, as this potter does?" declares the Lord. "Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, Israel"
Lord, it's been amazing to see how You are working in the men and families of Warrior at Heart Ministry this week. The overwhelming love and support of brothers as they face some of the most difficult times in their lives. It's during these times that we see just how much You have changed and transformed hearts. Thank you Lord for leading us, guiding us and most of all...for loving us, for transforming us. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen!
Friday, February 25, 2011
It starts with the heart...
Proverbs 4:23 - Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
These words are so true. Everything we think, say and do comes from something rooted in our heart. Both the good and bad we do, flows out from our hearts.
Matthew 15:18-19 - But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean'. For out of the heart comes evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.
Luke 6:45 - The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
What is in your heart? What is coming out of your mouth?
Romans 10:10 - For is is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
How are you guarding your heart? What are you feeding into your heart that you should, and what are you feeding into your heart that you shouldn't?
Our lives and those around us are affected by what is in and what comes out of our heart. When I feed my heart with good things, out of an abundance of good things in my heart I am helpful and encouraging to others. When I feed my heart with bad things, I become cold, callous and hard hearted and that results in hurting others.
What affect are you having on others today? What is flowing out of the abundance in your heart?
Lord I pray today that you would help us see where we need to guard our hearts better. Help us to see in a very vivid and real way; how what we are letting in is affecting our relationship with You and those around us. Lord break our hearts for what breaks Yours. Lord help us to fill our hearts with Your love, grace and mercy and then to live out that love in action and in truth. In the name of Jesus, Amen!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Turn to Him
Romans 2:4 – Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance.
Is the way you are living your life showing contempt for the gift that God has given you?
2 Corinthians 7:10 – Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
When you sin do you show Godly sorrow...or do you show worldly sorrow? Do you ache because Jesus didn’t deserve to die for you? Or do you show worldly sorrow over being caught or found out?
When we sin – we need to run to Him, not from Him.
We cannot fix ourselves – We can do nothing but try to manage our sinful behavior, we can put all of our effort into fixing ourselves, but that more often than not, will lead to a different sin (such as pride) or our old sin will rear it’s ugly head at some point down the road.
Only Jesus can help us.
This is why it’s so important to realize that we are loved by HIM...so we turn to Him. We have to continually recognize our sin and turn to Jesus, repent and ask for forgiveness.
It’s important that we spend time in His community. It’s important that we spend time in His Word. It's important that we spend time in prayer...that we spend time with Him.
2 Corinthians 3:18 - And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
When we turn to him and confess (with unveiled faces) His character starts to become our character and we are transformed from the inside out.
Lord, I pray today that we would all learn to run to You when we sin and not away from You. I pray that we would approach You with unveiled faces, open and honest knowing that nothing is hidden from your sight. I pray that as we press into You through the Word, prayer and community that we will be transformed more and more into Your likeness. Amen!
Friday, February 18, 2011
I can do everything...
Philippians 4:13 - I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
Do you believe these words?
Do you believe that if we are in Him, that through Him we have the strength to overcome anything?
This last week I've been thinking a lot about how the progression of the character Neo in the movie The Matrix is similar to the progression I have gone through...maybe it's similar to yours.
He starts out just like everybody else, consumed and part of the world. He feels like there has got to be more, like there has to be something else. He starts seeking that something more, he starts to get glimpses, starts to make contact with those that seem to have figured things out. He takes a plunge and enters into another world. He is told who he is, given his identity...he doesn't believe...but he keeps pressing in and learning more. He begins to believe...realizing he is more than he has been...he begins to confront his problems head on. It's not easy, he takes a beating...but he builds confidence, strength and trust in who he is. And then he believes..."No!" and the bullets of the enemy stop...
Philippians 3:12-14 - Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do; forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
The point for me is that it's a journey, a journey that each and everyone one of us are walking...but when we truly believe in who we are in Him, in Christ and we live out lives accordingly by forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead...we can overcome anything and everything.
I can do every everything through Him who gives me strength!
Where are you in your journey? Do you believe these words?
Lord, today I pray that You would help our unbelief. Guide us to healing and forgiveness so we can truly forget whats behind and strain toward what is ahead. Help us to see where we are in our journey and to know our part in Your great story. In the name of Jesus, Amen!
Do you believe these words?
Do you believe that if we are in Him, that through Him we have the strength to overcome anything?
This last week I've been thinking a lot about how the progression of the character Neo in the movie The Matrix is similar to the progression I have gone through...maybe it's similar to yours.
He starts out just like everybody else, consumed and part of the world. He feels like there has got to be more, like there has to be something else. He starts seeking that something more, he starts to get glimpses, starts to make contact with those that seem to have figured things out. He takes a plunge and enters into another world. He is told who he is, given his identity...he doesn't believe...but he keeps pressing in and learning more. He begins to believe...realizing he is more than he has been...he begins to confront his problems head on. It's not easy, he takes a beating...but he builds confidence, strength and trust in who he is. And then he believes..."No!" and the bullets of the enemy stop...
Philippians 3:12-14 - Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do; forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
The point for me is that it's a journey, a journey that each and everyone one of us are walking...but when we truly believe in who we are in Him, in Christ and we live out lives accordingly by forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead...we can overcome anything and everything.
I can do every everything through Him who gives me strength!
Where are you in your journey? Do you believe these words?
Lord, today I pray that You would help our unbelief. Guide us to healing and forgiveness so we can truly forget whats behind and strain toward what is ahead. Help us to see where we are in our journey and to know our part in Your great story. In the name of Jesus, Amen!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Romans 12
1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. 2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4 Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7 If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8 if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4 Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7 If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8 if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Nothing is hidden...
This weekend I've been struggling with why we feel we can justify our sin. For years I blamed others for my addiction to porn. I would convince myself that because of this or that, that I deserved it, that I earned those hidden moments. I would convince myself that I wasn't hurting anyone but me. It was all lies.
When I realized that when I stand before God to give an account, that He would not accept my justification...things started to change. When I realized that God was watching me, could see my every move, knew my every thought...as I was doing whatever I was doing...things changed.
Hebrews 4:12-13 - For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.
Jeremiah 16:17- My eyes are on all their ways; they are not hidden from me, nor is their sin concealed from my eyes.
Luke 12:2-3 - "There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear of the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs."
He sees us, knows us...He knows what you are thinking right now. And yet he still loves us, wants the best for us, that's why he sent Jesus! Because we got Jesus, Peter tells us...
1 Peter 1:13-17 - Therefore, prepare you minds for action; be self controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written "Be holy, because I am holy." Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear.
"set your hope fully on the grace to be given"
Because we were given that grace, because we were shown that great and amazing love from the One who knows us, has seen us, knows our deepest and most terrible thoughts... Because he LOVES us that much, let's be "as obedient children," no longer "conforming to the evil desires we had when we lived in ignorance."
Lord we confess we are a broken and depraved people, and I pray that we will be transformed by Your amazing grace, unfailing love and mercy. That we would truly be made new in the knowledge of your love and presence in our lives. In the name of Jesus, Amen!
When I realized that when I stand before God to give an account, that He would not accept my justification...things started to change. When I realized that God was watching me, could see my every move, knew my every thought...as I was doing whatever I was doing...things changed.
Hebrews 4:12-13 - For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.
Jeremiah 16:17- My eyes are on all their ways; they are not hidden from me, nor is their sin concealed from my eyes.
Luke 12:2-3 - "There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear of the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs."
He sees us, knows us...He knows what you are thinking right now. And yet he still loves us, wants the best for us, that's why he sent Jesus! Because we got Jesus, Peter tells us...
1 Peter 1:13-17 - Therefore, prepare you minds for action; be self controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written "Be holy, because I am holy." Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear.
"set your hope fully on the grace to be given"
Because we were given that grace, because we were shown that great and amazing love from the One who knows us, has seen us, knows our deepest and most terrible thoughts... Because he LOVES us that much, let's be "as obedient children," no longer "conforming to the evil desires we had when we lived in ignorance."
Lord we confess we are a broken and depraved people, and I pray that we will be transformed by Your amazing grace, unfailing love and mercy. That we would truly be made new in the knowledge of your love and presence in our lives. In the name of Jesus, Amen!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Perseverance
The last few months have been some of the most difficult for me in quite some time, especially with regards to ministry and gospel community. A pattern has emerged the last few months; at the beginning of each weekend something significant has happened. Something different each weekend, that has resulted in consuming time and energy and taking away from what the focus should be.
Last week was no exception as the phone began to ring Friday night around 10:30pm and once again that significant something. As I was sharing what happened on Friday night with a close friend he pointed out that each of these events was working to refine me, to develop my leadership. Then last night as I continued my reading through the new testament, I started reading James.
James 1:2-4 - Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
While the last few months have been difficult in some aspects, they have been incredibly good in others. The last few months I have found myself having more faith, putting my problems in Gods hands and listening for his answer. I have found myself spending more time in the Bible, more time journaling and praying. As I read these words in James I realized just how much I have been praying for perseverance these last few months. I have been praying for strength, perseverance, endurance... And now that I can look back and see what he has been doing in my life...I can see where he is delivering answers to those prayers.
Lord I pray that as we face trials of many kinds in our life, that we would recognize them as opportunities to grow in faith and in perseverance. That in the trials we would turn to You and not lean on our understanding or limited view. Lord my hope is that we would pray for Your guidance and direction to get us through the trials and not merely that we pray that You would remove them from our life. It's in going through them that our faith grows stronger. In Jesus's name, Amen!
Last week was no exception as the phone began to ring Friday night around 10:30pm and once again that significant something. As I was sharing what happened on Friday night with a close friend he pointed out that each of these events was working to refine me, to develop my leadership. Then last night as I continued my reading through the new testament, I started reading James.
James 1:2-4 - Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
While the last few months have been difficult in some aspects, they have been incredibly good in others. The last few months I have found myself having more faith, putting my problems in Gods hands and listening for his answer. I have found myself spending more time in the Bible, more time journaling and praying. As I read these words in James I realized just how much I have been praying for perseverance these last few months. I have been praying for strength, perseverance, endurance... And now that I can look back and see what he has been doing in my life...I can see where he is delivering answers to those prayers.
Lord I pray that as we face trials of many kinds in our life, that we would recognize them as opportunities to grow in faith and in perseverance. That in the trials we would turn to You and not lean on our understanding or limited view. Lord my hope is that we would pray for Your guidance and direction to get us through the trials and not merely that we pray that You would remove them from our life. It's in going through them that our faith grows stronger. In Jesus's name, Amen!
Friday, January 21, 2011
Are you dong YOUR part?
John 16:33 - "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
When I look around today I see a lot of men who have trouble. When I look in the mirror, I see a man who has trouble. It should be no surprise, Jesus himself said that "in this world you will have trouble".
But he also said that "in me you may have peace". Are you finding or living that peace today? Notice the word "may". Now why do you think he used that word instead of "will"?
I decided to look up the definition of "may" and here is what I found:
When I look around today I see a lot of men who have trouble. When I look in the mirror, I see a man who has trouble. It should be no surprise, Jesus himself said that "in this world you will have trouble".
But he also said that "in me you may have peace". Are you finding or living that peace today? Notice the word "may". Now why do you think he used that word instead of "will"?
I decided to look up the definition of "may" and here is what I found:
- to indicate that permission is granted
- to indicate possibility
- to indicate ability or capacity
- to express a strong wish
I think all of these apply. Jesus has given us permission to find peace in Him. Jesus has made it possible to find peace in Him. Jesus has given us the ability to find peace in Him. Jesus wants us, wishes we would find peace in Him.
So why are we not finding or living in that peace today? I'd like to suggest that Jesus has done all He needs to do. The question then; are we doing all we need to do?
Are you guarding your heart? - Proverbs 4:23
Are you confessing your sins? - 1 John 1:9, James 5:16
Have you repented? - Luke 5:32, Matthew 3:8
Are you walking the walk? - 2 John 1:6, Colossians 3:7
Are you dong YOUR part? It's not too late to start.
God Bless!
Monday, January 10, 2011
I stand at the door and knock.
Revelation 3:20 - Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.
I'm sure most of us have read or heard these words some where along the way. I'm also guessing that many of us haven't felt like these words applied to us. Always saying something like, "I've already accepted Christ, I've already opened the door."
But what I find interesting is that these words come in a warning to the church in Laodicea. These words are directed toward a church, a body of people who believe. A body of people who have accepted Christ, but according to Christ's own words "I know your deeds, that you were neither cold or hot. I wish you were either one or the other!" (Revelation 3:15)
So even if you have been a believer for a long time, even if you have attended church for your entire life...could Jesus be standing outside your life...knocking and you are not hearing His voice? Or maybe you are hearing His voice and yet...you still are not answering?
Why? What's keeping your door shut? What's keeping you from hearing His voice?
Is it fear, guilt or shame from what you've done or what has been done to you? Is it pride or arrogance? What is it that is keeping you from turning to Jesus?
Jesus loves you just as you are and is calling you back into his arms. He is standing waiting for you to open the door to Him, so that he can make you whole, and turn you lose in this life as He meant for you to be.
Lord I pray that we who already profess to be Your people, will listen and obey Your calling. That we will step out in faith, knowing you have plans to prosper us, plans for our good. Lord I pray today that we would learn to lay down our lives, our worries, our plans, our fears and doubts...and focus on what You have for us. Lord thank You for the many blessings we have already received, may we not take those for granted and turn to You today. Amen!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Elijah was a man just like us...
James 5:13-16 - Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
James 5:17-18 - Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.
For so many the new year brings an ending and then hope of a new beginning. But changing a digit in the date doesn't change a thing. However, changing your heart does. If you are looking for true change for this new year, start by changing your heart first.
If you are in trouble...pray.
If you are happy...rejoice and praise our Lord.
If you are sick...call on the elders to pray and anoint you.
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.
Prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. Guess what...if you have accepted Christ as your Lord, no matter where you are right now, no matter what is going on in your life...you are a righteous man. You are made righteous because of the work that Jesus did on the cross.
Elijah was a man..just like us? Have you ever considered that? So many times we forget that many of the men in the Bible who did great and amazing things...were men just like us. Elijah prayed and it did not rain for three and half years? I can't remember any time that my prayers affected the weather at any level.
But I do know that prayer has changed my heart, that prayer has helped me in times of struggle, that prayers have helped me when I was sick and that when I have confessed my sins to others, the prays of those others have brought healing to my heart.
I hope that this new year that you look inwardly, pray and let Jesus change your heart.
Lord we come before you today asking for changed hearts. Lord search us and reveal those areas that need confession and healing. Lead us Lord in our transformation and set in us a desire to become more and more like you each day of our lives. We pray this in the name of Jesus, Amen.
James 5:17-18 - Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.
For so many the new year brings an ending and then hope of a new beginning. But changing a digit in the date doesn't change a thing. However, changing your heart does. If you are looking for true change for this new year, start by changing your heart first.
If you are in trouble...pray.
If you are happy...rejoice and praise our Lord.
If you are sick...call on the elders to pray and anoint you.
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.
Prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. Guess what...if you have accepted Christ as your Lord, no matter where you are right now, no matter what is going on in your life...you are a righteous man. You are made righteous because of the work that Jesus did on the cross.
Elijah was a man..just like us? Have you ever considered that? So many times we forget that many of the men in the Bible who did great and amazing things...were men just like us. Elijah prayed and it did not rain for three and half years? I can't remember any time that my prayers affected the weather at any level.
But I do know that prayer has changed my heart, that prayer has helped me in times of struggle, that prayers have helped me when I was sick and that when I have confessed my sins to others, the prays of those others have brought healing to my heart.
I hope that this new year that you look inwardly, pray and let Jesus change your heart.
Lord we come before you today asking for changed hearts. Lord search us and reveal those areas that need confession and healing. Lead us Lord in our transformation and set in us a desire to become more and more like you each day of our lives. We pray this in the name of Jesus, Amen.
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