Good morning everyone! It's Monday morning, and what an awesome weekend!
Dennis brought us a great message about grace, yesterday! We all need grace and forgiveness, daily. I have posted my notes, click here. Thank you Dennis for a message given from the heart.
Other good things this weekend - Teen Challenge raised over $4,700 at their parking lot sale on Saturday! God is blessing this venture to help those with addiction in our commun ity! Then, yesterday evening we joind with multiple Susanville churches in praise and worship, at the Southern Baptist Church. What an atmosphere of love and grace! Our differences fell away and we were the body of Christ, unified and sharing in our love for Jesus! Great things are happening in our little city!
This is a new week. What new things are going to happen in your life in the coming days?
At the start of the week is a good time to reflect, and set ourselves goals. How did I do last week in my spiritual life? What things can I change, so that I will be closer to God in the coming days? Are there things I can do to remove distractions from my devotional time? Just some relevant questions...
During this season, we are seeking a closer walk with God. Easter was the start, but the way into God's presence is a progressive journey. He is standing waiting for us, with open arms. As we are told in James 4, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you". Let's all continue that journey and be mindful of Jesus' presence in our lives.
Have an awesome week! Love,
Pastor Gerry
Monday, April 30, 2012
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
What the journey is like ...
"... Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith ..." - Hebrews 12:1-2
I am finding (not surprisingly) that this journey is not easy! It seems that distractions and temptations proliferate more than normal when I seek to spend deeper time with God. Sometimes I overcome them, sometimes I let them crowd out the time I intended for God.
I am becoming more aware that it is not about the fast or time, it is about my relationship with God. On Sunday I spoke about grace and how God is the One doing his work in us. And that is what it is all about. Grace. I can't earn a deeper walk with God by my fasting (a Daniel fast), I can't manipulate God by the time I spend with Him. But by His grace, I am welcomed closer in.
So, when I have not been able to stick to my intentions, I pick myself up and continue on. If I have not been able to speak in my spiritual language for an hour in the morning I try to make it up later in the day. I try to focus on Jesus. And I notice God is speaking during these times. I receive impressions in my mind while praying, and then write them down in my journal.
Above all, I recognize that this journey will take perseverance. I have a busy life and there are plenty of distractions. But I am hungry for a deeper relationship, and it is my Father's good pleasure to give me the Kingdom (Luke 12:32)
So be encouraged, and continue the good fight!
Love you all, pastor Gerry
I am finding (not surprisingly) that this journey is not easy! It seems that distractions and temptations proliferate more than normal when I seek to spend deeper time with God. Sometimes I overcome them, sometimes I let them crowd out the time I intended for God.
I am becoming more aware that it is not about the fast or time, it is about my relationship with God. On Sunday I spoke about grace and how God is the One doing his work in us. And that is what it is all about. Grace. I can't earn a deeper walk with God by my fasting (a Daniel fast), I can't manipulate God by the time I spend with Him. But by His grace, I am welcomed closer in.
So, when I have not been able to stick to my intentions, I pick myself up and continue on. If I have not been able to speak in my spiritual language for an hour in the morning I try to make it up later in the day. I try to focus on Jesus. And I notice God is speaking during these times. I receive impressions in my mind while praying, and then write them down in my journal.
Above all, I recognize that this journey will take perseverance. I have a busy life and there are plenty of distractions. But I am hungry for a deeper relationship, and it is my Father's good pleasure to give me the Kingdom (Luke 12:32)
So be encouraged, and continue the good fight!
Love you all, pastor Gerry
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
My journey with God ...!
As I mentioned in church the last couple of weeks, I am making a concerted effort to draw closer to God during the next 40 days.
I am using the tools of fasting, praying in my spiritual language, reading the Word, and listening to His voice. When I fall short on my intentions, I pick myself up and continue the journey.
My expectation is for breakthrough in my own life, the life of our church, and for Susanville as a whole!
Will you join me on the journey?
We have been called to make a difference!
Love you,
Pastor Gerry
I am using the tools of fasting, praying in my spiritual language, reading the Word, and listening to His voice. When I fall short on my intentions, I pick myself up and continue the journey.
My expectation is for breakthrough in my own life, the life of our church, and for Susanville as a whole!
Will you join me on the journey?
We have been called to make a difference!
Love you,
Pastor Gerry
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Resurrection Day plus One!
We have just celebrated Resurrection Day! Jesus who had been cruelly executed like a common criminal, was raised from the dead by the miraculous power of the Holy Spirit!
This was incredible! What a momentous day! And it culminated in the resurrected Jesus appearing to the disciples! Can you imagine, Jesus, the Son of God, resurrected from the dead, appearing in the room with you!
And now it is the day after. Monday morning. The events of yesterday seem so incredible, they fade away like a morning mist. Yesterday Jesus had said, "As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." But now this command seems so remote, so beyond our capabilities that we put that thought on the shelf for the time being. No thought of moving into this brilliant new future. Just a returning to the hum drum life of last week.
Today is Monday. Yesterday we celebrated the risen Jesus! In church we listened to testimonies of how Jesus impacted our lives, showing that Jesus is as alive today as he was when he told the disciples to continue in his footsteps.
What has changed in our life, this Monday, that makes it different from a week ago? Have we a fresh vision for the future? Encouragement to take the first steps in a journey toward God's purpose? Have we been filled with a holy fire to reach this town with the truth about our risen King?
Today is Resurrection Day plus one. Will we remember Jesus' words - "As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." What has Jesus sent us to do? Will we be obedient?
Will we answer Jesus' call?
This was incredible! What a momentous day! And it culminated in the resurrected Jesus appearing to the disciples! Can you imagine, Jesus, the Son of God, resurrected from the dead, appearing in the room with you!
And now it is the day after. Monday morning. The events of yesterday seem so incredible, they fade away like a morning mist. Yesterday Jesus had said, "As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." But now this command seems so remote, so beyond our capabilities that we put that thought on the shelf for the time being. No thought of moving into this brilliant new future. Just a returning to the hum drum life of last week.
Today is Monday. Yesterday we celebrated the risen Jesus! In church we listened to testimonies of how Jesus impacted our lives, showing that Jesus is as alive today as he was when he told the disciples to continue in his footsteps.
What has changed in our life, this Monday, that makes it different from a week ago? Have we a fresh vision for the future? Encouragement to take the first steps in a journey toward God's purpose? Have we been filled with a holy fire to reach this town with the truth about our risen King?
Today is Resurrection Day plus one. Will we remember Jesus' words - "As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." What has Jesus sent us to do? Will we be obedient?
Will we answer Jesus' call?
He was accepted, so I can be too!
He was accepted, so I can be too!
“When Christ came as high priest of the good things that are already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not man-made, that is to say, not a part of this creation. He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption. The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!"- Hebrews 9:11-14
On Sunday I briefly mentioned about the momentous events of Resurrection Day. Jesus rose from the dead, appeared to Mary and a few disciples but would not allow them to worship Him (John 20:17), then later on He did allow others to worship Him (Matt 28:9). Something happened between these appearances. That event is what is described in today's passage!
In Old Testament times, people were ceremonially cleansed by bringing a sacrifice. Once a year the High Priest would bring blood from a sacrifice, into the Holy of Holies, which represented God's throne room in heaven. The priest would pray for forgiveness for the sins of the whole nation. In the same way, on Resurrection Day, Jesus presented His own blood at the throne of God in heaven, as an atonement for the sins of the whole world!
How beatiful a picture, and how humbling! In my mind's eye I see Jesus bloodied and beaten, walk across the sea of glass before God's throne, and kneel before the Father as he presents this atonement for all sins that have ever been committed! The Father gets up from his throne and takes Jesus by the hand, and asks Him to sit by Him at His right hand! Jesus has been accepeted, and His payment for our sins has been accepted! No matter what we have ever done, Jesus' blood is sufficient, so that we can leave that guilt behind! Hallelujah!
"Thank you Lord for your mercy in paying the price so that I may be healed, in spirit soul and body! I love You with all of my heart!"
“When Christ came as high priest of the good things that are already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not man-made, that is to say, not a part of this creation. He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption. The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!"- Hebrews 9:11-14
On Sunday I briefly mentioned about the momentous events of Resurrection Day. Jesus rose from the dead, appeared to Mary and a few disciples but would not allow them to worship Him (John 20:17), then later on He did allow others to worship Him (Matt 28:9). Something happened between these appearances. That event is what is described in today's passage!
In Old Testament times, people were ceremonially cleansed by bringing a sacrifice. Once a year the High Priest would bring blood from a sacrifice, into the Holy of Holies, which represented God's throne room in heaven. The priest would pray for forgiveness for the sins of the whole nation. In the same way, on Resurrection Day, Jesus presented His own blood at the throne of God in heaven, as an atonement for the sins of the whole world!
How beatiful a picture, and how humbling! In my mind's eye I see Jesus bloodied and beaten, walk across the sea of glass before God's throne, and kneel before the Father as he presents this atonement for all sins that have ever been committed! The Father gets up from his throne and takes Jesus by the hand, and asks Him to sit by Him at His right hand! Jesus has been accepeted, and His payment for our sins has been accepted! No matter what we have ever done, Jesus' blood is sufficient, so that we can leave that guilt behind! Hallelujah!
"Thank you Lord for your mercy in paying the price so that I may be healed, in spirit soul and body! I love You with all of my heart!"
God's protection and watchfullness!
God's protection and watchfullness!
Psalm 121:7 "The Lord will keep you from all harm - He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forever more"
This psalm is about God's protection for His people. He watches over us, in other words He is aware of what is going on and He is never at a distance from us. He is always there with us, experiencing what we are experiencing. He never sleeps on the job, He is always watching over us. He protects us from the heat of the sun, He shades us so it does not harm us. He also protects us from the moon, the ruler of the darkness, and the dark times in our life. God will keep us from all harm.
God tells me, "according to your faith be it unto you". As I trust God's involvement and intimacy in my life, He steps up to the plate and makes it so. God knows everything about me. He knows my getting up in the morning, and my going to bed at night. He knows every sparrow that falls, how much more is he involved in our own lives!
"Thank you Lord for being with me, all the day, every day. I trust you to lead me in decisions I make and to guide my life, step by step. Thank you Lord, amen".
Psalm 121:7 "The Lord will keep you from all harm - He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forever more"
This psalm is about God's protection for His people. He watches over us, in other words He is aware of what is going on and He is never at a distance from us. He is always there with us, experiencing what we are experiencing. He never sleeps on the job, He is always watching over us. He protects us from the heat of the sun, He shades us so it does not harm us. He also protects us from the moon, the ruler of the darkness, and the dark times in our life. God will keep us from all harm.
God tells me, "according to your faith be it unto you". As I trust God's involvement and intimacy in my life, He steps up to the plate and makes it so. God knows everything about me. He knows my getting up in the morning, and my going to bed at night. He knows every sparrow that falls, how much more is he involved in our own lives!
"Thank you Lord for being with me, all the day, every day. I trust you to lead me in decisions I make and to guide my life, step by step. Thank you Lord, amen".
Facing Opposition
Facing Opposition
Acts 18:9 "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city"
After successfully preaching the gospel there, Paul had been the focal point of a riot in Thessalonica, causing both the crowd and the city officials to be "thrown into turmoil". The Christians there spirited Paul and Silas away by night, to Berea. The story is repeated here - Paul preaches, the Jews from Thessalonica come to Berea to stir up more trouble, and Paul again leaves town, to Athens, and then to Corinth.
In Corinth trouble once again seems to start, and Paul now takes a stand against his accusers, and tells them enough is enough - he has fulfilled his responsibility to preach to the Jews, and will now preach to the Greeks instead.
At this juncture God tells Paul, don't be afraid, and keep on speaking, don't be silent
Opposition is not a reason to silence our voice, rather, it is probably a sign that we are touching some tender points, and that the enemy feels we are getting too close for comfort.
The Christian message is always going to face opposition. It is radical, it shows up error when the truth is presented, and to accept the gospel requires repentance and change. This all goes squarely against society's way of going along with what feels or seems good.
God tells Joshua, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go" - Josh 1:9
So we will go ahead and preach the truth. Some may disagree, some may oppose us. But God says, do not be afraid!
Acts 18:9 "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city"
After successfully preaching the gospel there, Paul had been the focal point of a riot in Thessalonica, causing both the crowd and the city officials to be "thrown into turmoil". The Christians there spirited Paul and Silas away by night, to Berea. The story is repeated here - Paul preaches, the Jews from Thessalonica come to Berea to stir up more trouble, and Paul again leaves town, to Athens, and then to Corinth.
In Corinth trouble once again seems to start, and Paul now takes a stand against his accusers, and tells them enough is enough - he has fulfilled his responsibility to preach to the Jews, and will now preach to the Greeks instead.
At this juncture God tells Paul, don't be afraid, and keep on speaking, don't be silent
Opposition is not a reason to silence our voice, rather, it is probably a sign that we are touching some tender points, and that the enemy feels we are getting too close for comfort.
The Christian message is always going to face opposition. It is radical, it shows up error when the truth is presented, and to accept the gospel requires repentance and change. This all goes squarely against society's way of going along with what feels or seems good.
God tells Joshua, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go" - Josh 1:9
So we will go ahead and preach the truth. Some may disagree, some may oppose us. But God says, do not be afraid!
Our Sin and Guilt has Gone!
Our Sin and Guilt has Gone!
2 Corinthians 5:21 "God made Him who had no sin, to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God"
We all hate to be told we are wrong. We particularly hate it when the accusation is correct. We are our own worst accusers, but then we also become our own staunchest defenders. We hate being reminded of our sins, because we know we have sinned so many times.
We may have grown up being told and punished for every wrong thing we did. It affects the way we view life, it even affects the way we see God, and ourselves. We see ourselves continually as worthy of punishment, and we see God as One who stands ready to punish us.
We have an inborn desire to sin. Romans 8:7 tells us that our sinful mind is hostile to God. We are born with this desire to run away from and rebel against God. Consequently we sin on a daily basis, no matter how hard we try not to do so.
But isn't it unfair that we should be born with this inbuilt hatred of God? After all, it is the result of Adam's sin. Ever since that day, this sinful nature has been handed down to us, generation after generation. This sinful nature is what this verse is referring to, when Paul says Jesus became sin for us. God goes right to the root of the matter. The litany of things we have done wrong is eradicated when the root problem has been removed.
The root problem was removed by Jesus taking the responsibility for our sinful nature upon himself, while on the cross. In doing this, he now made us righteous. More than just our sins, our sin(ful nature) has been removed from us, and laid on Jesus' shoulders. He then paid the price for this, by dying for us. Now God sees us as being righteous, not just because we have been forgiven for our individual sins (1 John 1:9), but more importantly because Jesus took the responsibility for our sinful nature on himself.
Our fleshly body still has this sinful nature in it, we struggle against it, just like Paul did (Romans 7:15-25). But the responsibility for it was laid on Jesus. The guilt and shame is no longer ours.
This is why we now are considered righteous by God! How incredible! God loves us so much that he removed the responsibility for this inherited sinful nature, and at Jesus ' return we will receive a new body, without the contamination of sin!
2 Corinthians 5:21 "God made Him who had no sin, to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God"
We all hate to be told we are wrong. We particularly hate it when the accusation is correct. We are our own worst accusers, but then we also become our own staunchest defenders. We hate being reminded of our sins, because we know we have sinned so many times.
We may have grown up being told and punished for every wrong thing we did. It affects the way we view life, it even affects the way we see God, and ourselves. We see ourselves continually as worthy of punishment, and we see God as One who stands ready to punish us.
We have an inborn desire to sin. Romans 8:7 tells us that our sinful mind is hostile to God. We are born with this desire to run away from and rebel against God. Consequently we sin on a daily basis, no matter how hard we try not to do so.
But isn't it unfair that we should be born with this inbuilt hatred of God? After all, it is the result of Adam's sin. Ever since that day, this sinful nature has been handed down to us, generation after generation. This sinful nature is what this verse is referring to, when Paul says Jesus became sin for us. God goes right to the root of the matter. The litany of things we have done wrong is eradicated when the root problem has been removed.
The root problem was removed by Jesus taking the responsibility for our sinful nature upon himself, while on the cross. In doing this, he now made us righteous. More than just our sins, our sin(ful nature) has been removed from us, and laid on Jesus' shoulders. He then paid the price for this, by dying for us. Now God sees us as being righteous, not just because we have been forgiven for our individual sins (1 John 1:9), but more importantly because Jesus took the responsibility for our sinful nature on himself.
Our fleshly body still has this sinful nature in it, we struggle against it, just like Paul did (Romans 7:15-25). But the responsibility for it was laid on Jesus. The guilt and shame is no longer ours.
This is why we now are considered righteous by God! How incredible! God loves us so much that he removed the responsibility for this inherited sinful nature, and at Jesus ' return we will receive a new body, without the contamination of sin!
Teamwork!
Teamwork!
Recently Grace Fellowship had a stall at the Uptown Craft Fair. We had a fair representation of church members who had volunteered to man the tables.
What struck me was the sense of teamwork, as we all pitched in to serve our community and each other. Life is often such that we don't really support each other in the way we should - it was refreshing to see how well our people worked together. Thank you all for your efforts to make this event a success!
If we can work together in harmony at this level, surely we can learn to walk together in unity. Jesus said that we would be known by our attitudes toward each other. In his prayer in John 17, Jesus asks that the disciples and those who believed in Jesus through their message, would be totally unified, just as Jesus and the Father are one.
Do we live up to this expectation? I pray that we would be growing towards this ideal. The Holy Spirit dwells in all of us, and He is the same in each of us. So it should be possible to live in unity (Psa 133).
Actually, living in unity is a choice we make. We can choose to work together as a unified team, and not allow the little things of life to affect our attitudes toward each other. Alternatively, we can choose to allow these things to offend us, and cause divisions and splits in relationships. It is up to us!
I do wonder how God feels about the sensitivities between denominations and churches. I am sure it grieves him when we set ourselves up as being the "guardians of the truth", because we feel we have a better understanding than other parts of the body. He would rather that we esteem others better than ourselves (Phil 2:3).
It is as we live this life of love for each other, that people around us will notice and see the difference. They will want some of what we have (John 13:34-35)!
I pray that we all will learn to live this life of love and unity, so that we, our families, our acquaintances and our community will receive the blessings God gives to people of peace.
Recently Grace Fellowship had a stall at the Uptown Craft Fair. We had a fair representation of church members who had volunteered to man the tables.
What struck me was the sense of teamwork, as we all pitched in to serve our community and each other. Life is often such that we don't really support each other in the way we should - it was refreshing to see how well our people worked together. Thank you all for your efforts to make this event a success!
If we can work together in harmony at this level, surely we can learn to walk together in unity. Jesus said that we would be known by our attitudes toward each other. In his prayer in John 17, Jesus asks that the disciples and those who believed in Jesus through their message, would be totally unified, just as Jesus and the Father are one.
Do we live up to this expectation? I pray that we would be growing towards this ideal. The Holy Spirit dwells in all of us, and He is the same in each of us. So it should be possible to live in unity (Psa 133).
Actually, living in unity is a choice we make. We can choose to work together as a unified team, and not allow the little things of life to affect our attitudes toward each other. Alternatively, we can choose to allow these things to offend us, and cause divisions and splits in relationships. It is up to us!
I do wonder how God feels about the sensitivities between denominations and churches. I am sure it grieves him when we set ourselves up as being the "guardians of the truth", because we feel we have a better understanding than other parts of the body. He would rather that we esteem others better than ourselves (Phil 2:3).
It is as we live this life of love for each other, that people around us will notice and see the difference. They will want some of what we have (John 13:34-35)!
I pray that we all will learn to live this life of love and unity, so that we, our families, our acquaintances and our community will receive the blessings God gives to people of peace.
Perspectives ...
Perspectives ...
Sometimes life becomes so busy that it crowds out time for our relationship with God. Sometimes we have to give up certain things, in order to be followers of Jesus. Paul too had to face these questions.
In Philippians 3 Paul discusses his perspective on life. Paul had an exemplary background in terms of the Judaic society in which he lived. His pedigree was impeccable, his zeal was way beyond average, and he was faultless in his obedience to the law. His attitude towards his religion would put many of us to shame.
All of this assured Paul of a successful career in the religious community and probably in the Sanhedrin, he would be looked up to and respected.
But that fine sunny day when Jesus broke through his spiritual blindness, everything changed. His future was no longer about maintaining his pharisaical standards.
Instead, a new set of values became important for him. These values centered on one Jesus, who died the death of a criminal on a cross to pay for his (and our) sins, and then was raised to glory!
This change completely turned Paul's life upside down! No longer was life about what others thought of him, it was now only about what Jesus had done for him! And he wanted to spread this fresh revelation to all he met!
He scorned the good life he could have had, for the sake of this new perspective on life, death and the resurrection!
When Jesus enters our heart, old things become new! Past pleasures and ambitions are left by the wayside as we embrace this precious treasure hidden in the field! (Matthew 13:44). We give up everything for it!
"Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ ... I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection of the dead!" (Philippians 3:7-8, 10-11)
Jesus was so real to Paul, his whole perspective on life changed! How radical has the change been in us?
Sometimes life becomes so busy that it crowds out time for our relationship with God. Sometimes we have to give up certain things, in order to be followers of Jesus. Paul too had to face these questions.
In Philippians 3 Paul discusses his perspective on life. Paul had an exemplary background in terms of the Judaic society in which he lived. His pedigree was impeccable, his zeal was way beyond average, and he was faultless in his obedience to the law. His attitude towards his religion would put many of us to shame.
All of this assured Paul of a successful career in the religious community and probably in the Sanhedrin, he would be looked up to and respected.
But that fine sunny day when Jesus broke through his spiritual blindness, everything changed. His future was no longer about maintaining his pharisaical standards.
Instead, a new set of values became important for him. These values centered on one Jesus, who died the death of a criminal on a cross to pay for his (and our) sins, and then was raised to glory!
This change completely turned Paul's life upside down! No longer was life about what others thought of him, it was now only about what Jesus had done for him! And he wanted to spread this fresh revelation to all he met!
He scorned the good life he could have had, for the sake of this new perspective on life, death and the resurrection!
When Jesus enters our heart, old things become new! Past pleasures and ambitions are left by the wayside as we embrace this precious treasure hidden in the field! (Matthew 13:44). We give up everything for it!
"Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ ... I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection of the dead!" (Philippians 3:7-8, 10-11)
Jesus was so real to Paul, his whole perspective on life changed! How radical has the change been in us?
"God bless you!"
"God bless you!"
So often we speak glibly about God's blessing! When someone sneezes, we say "Bless you!". But what is blessing, particularly God's blessing, and what implications does that have for us?
First of all, God is the greatest Being in the universe! He created all things, he sustains the creation, in other words he keeps it all spinning correctly and working according to plan. God is omnipotent, He is omnipresent, and all-knowing! Nothing escapes His notice! He is simultaneously able to listen to each of our prayers, individually! What is more, He cares about us on a personal level!
Wow!
This great God, wants to do good to us!
We are used to people not living up to our expectations. We are disappointed and our hopes are dashed. But with God all things are possible! God wants us to succeed. As a matter of fact He promises us that what he started in us He will complete, finish, bring to a successful conclusion!
He promises to always be there with us, in good times and bad!
That's the God I worship! Isn't that awesome? That such a great Being would actually care about what happens in my life!
It brings the ups and downs of life into perspective. If God be for us who can stand against us?
So be encouraged! What you may be going through today will be gone tomorrow. And there is laid up for us a future which is beyond our wildest dreams!
Our God is a God of blessing!
So often we speak glibly about God's blessing! When someone sneezes, we say "Bless you!". But what is blessing, particularly God's blessing, and what implications does that have for us?
First of all, God is the greatest Being in the universe! He created all things, he sustains the creation, in other words he keeps it all spinning correctly and working according to plan. God is omnipotent, He is omnipresent, and all-knowing! Nothing escapes His notice! He is simultaneously able to listen to each of our prayers, individually! What is more, He cares about us on a personal level!
Wow!
This great God, wants to do good to us!
We are used to people not living up to our expectations. We are disappointed and our hopes are dashed. But with God all things are possible! God wants us to succeed. As a matter of fact He promises us that what he started in us He will complete, finish, bring to a successful conclusion!
He promises to always be there with us, in good times and bad!
That's the God I worship! Isn't that awesome? That such a great Being would actually care about what happens in my life!
It brings the ups and downs of life into perspective. If God be for us who can stand against us?
So be encouraged! What you may be going through today will be gone tomorrow. And there is laid up for us a future which is beyond our wildest dreams!
Our God is a God of blessing!
"I'm hungry, do you have anything to eat?"
"I'm hungry, do you have anything to eat?"
Jesus sees the hungry crowd and he asks Philip, "Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?"
These people had come to Jersus to listen to his message. They had followed him all day, and were famished. Jesus was testing Philip, as John 6 tells us, Jesus already knew what he was going to do about the situation!
There are people all around us who are famished! They are hungry, not for physical food, (though some may be) but for the spiritual side of life! They seek it in all kinds of ways, they look for it in fortune cookies, astrology columns, euphoria from drugs and alcohol. They are just plain hungry!
Do we have food to give them? As Christians, we have Jesus living in us. Later in John 6, Jesus tells the crowd, that he is the Bread of Life! He is the one who provides spiritual sustenance, he is the one who gives us our daily bread!
If Jesus lives in us, we can share him with others! When someone is hungry for the meaning of life, share the good news with them, that there is One who can satisfy that hunger! Once they eat of that Bread, they need never go hungry again! "He who comes to me will never go hungry and he who believes in me will never be thirsty!" (verse 35).
Use today to cast your bread upon the waters (Ecc 11:1), allow others to share in the banquet Jesus has prepared for us!
Jesus sees the hungry crowd and he asks Philip, "Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?"
These people had come to Jersus to listen to his message. They had followed him all day, and were famished. Jesus was testing Philip, as John 6 tells us, Jesus already knew what he was going to do about the situation!
There are people all around us who are famished! They are hungry, not for physical food, (though some may be) but for the spiritual side of life! They seek it in all kinds of ways, they look for it in fortune cookies, astrology columns, euphoria from drugs and alcohol. They are just plain hungry!
Do we have food to give them? As Christians, we have Jesus living in us. Later in John 6, Jesus tells the crowd, that he is the Bread of Life! He is the one who provides spiritual sustenance, he is the one who gives us our daily bread!
If Jesus lives in us, we can share him with others! When someone is hungry for the meaning of life, share the good news with them, that there is One who can satisfy that hunger! Once they eat of that Bread, they need never go hungry again! "He who comes to me will never go hungry and he who believes in me will never be thirsty!" (verse 35).
Use today to cast your bread upon the waters (Ecc 11:1), allow others to share in the banquet Jesus has prepared for us!
The Supernatural Life
The Supernatural Life
We believe that Jesus was and is the Son of God. We believe that God and Jesus are supernatural Beings. We believe that the Holy Spirit is a Person and is also God. Much as we fail to comprehend it, because it is the teaching of the Bible we believe that God is three separate Beings and yet is also One.
The truth is that God is way bigger than we are! We cannot put God in a box and say we understand Him. He defies human explanation. Job asks God, "What is man that You are mindful of him?"
God is the creator of the universe, the sustainer of all living things, the ruler of all that exists, the one who is love personified, the source of all wisdom, who defines truth by the words he speaks. God is spiritual with a body that never ages or dies. Yet he transcended nature by becoming a physical man, subject to hunger thirst and death! He did this so that we too may ultimately share in that supernatural existence.
As a supernatural Being, he is not limited by concepts such as space and time. In John 14 Jesus tells us that he and the Father and the Holy Spirit will make their home in us. He dwells in me, in you, and in every other Christian.
Why would it then be strange to expect that God would do supernatural things while dwelling in his children?
God desires that we live a supernatural life, allowing him to work through us, impacting the physical world around us.
He will not force himself upon us, that would be contrary to his nature. But if we open up and allow him to do his work, the possibilities are endless! All things are possible to him who believes!
So, let us open up to our Savior, and allow him to have the freedom to act in and through our lives!
We believe that Jesus was and is the Son of God. We believe that God and Jesus are supernatural Beings. We believe that the Holy Spirit is a Person and is also God. Much as we fail to comprehend it, because it is the teaching of the Bible we believe that God is three separate Beings and yet is also One.
The truth is that God is way bigger than we are! We cannot put God in a box and say we understand Him. He defies human explanation. Job asks God, "What is man that You are mindful of him?"
God is the creator of the universe, the sustainer of all living things, the ruler of all that exists, the one who is love personified, the source of all wisdom, who defines truth by the words he speaks. God is spiritual with a body that never ages or dies. Yet he transcended nature by becoming a physical man, subject to hunger thirst and death! He did this so that we too may ultimately share in that supernatural existence.
As a supernatural Being, he is not limited by concepts such as space and time. In John 14 Jesus tells us that he and the Father and the Holy Spirit will make their home in us. He dwells in me, in you, and in every other Christian.
Why would it then be strange to expect that God would do supernatural things while dwelling in his children?
God desires that we live a supernatural life, allowing him to work through us, impacting the physical world around us.
He will not force himself upon us, that would be contrary to his nature. But if we open up and allow him to do his work, the possibilities are endless! All things are possible to him who believes!
So, let us open up to our Savior, and allow him to have the freedom to act in and through our lives!
Where are you going?
Where are you going?
Back in the 70's there was a song which asked the question, "Do you know, where you're going to?"
It is a good question. Much of society has no idea of where they are headed, and as a result their life is full of confusion. (Do you sometimes wonder why roads often wind around so much, instead of going straight? The roads are built where they are, because they follow the old dirt roads. The dirt roads followed tracks made through the meadows, by carts. The cart tracks followed the trails made by cattle as they meandered across the scenery. And the cattle followed a cow which had no idea of where she was going!)
You have to know where you are going, before you can get there. Otherwise you will wander aimlessly.
Jesus tells us to seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness (Matt 6:33).
This is the goal that both is the purpose why we live, the goal to which we are headed, and which defines the route we will follow. When we do this, God promises to supply our needs.
What do you want? A life of purpose and direction? Or a life lived aimlessly, for the moment, wandering into trouble at every corner? Choose for a life that is going places!
Back in the 70's there was a song which asked the question, "Do you know, where you're going to?"
It is a good question. Much of society has no idea of where they are headed, and as a result their life is full of confusion. (Do you sometimes wonder why roads often wind around so much, instead of going straight? The roads are built where they are, because they follow the old dirt roads. The dirt roads followed tracks made through the meadows, by carts. The cart tracks followed the trails made by cattle as they meandered across the scenery. And the cattle followed a cow which had no idea of where she was going!)
You have to know where you are going, before you can get there. Otherwise you will wander aimlessly.
Jesus tells us to seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness (Matt 6:33).
This is the goal that both is the purpose why we live, the goal to which we are headed, and which defines the route we will follow. When we do this, God promises to supply our needs.
What do you want? A life of purpose and direction? Or a life lived aimlessly, for the moment, wandering into trouble at every corner? Choose for a life that is going places!
Engaging the Enemy!
Engaging the Enemy!
We are looking at Ephesians 6, which describes our spiritual armor. Why do we need spiritual armor? Because we are fighting a spiritual battle, and the battle is being fought in our minds. The enemy (we like to call him that rather than Satan which means "adversary") engages us whenever he has an opportunity.
A lot of the severe mental and emotional hangups we have are a result of the enemy's attacks. So how do we counter these?
Ephesians tells us that we have been given the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. This weapon is offensive, it is intended to attack the enemy. But we need to learn how to use this weapon, just as if it were a literal sword.
First of all identify the problem issue. Maybe it is anger, maybe it is anxiety or fear.
Now find out what the Bible says about this issue. Take a concordance and search the verses that mention this problem. An online concordance I find very helpful is www.studylight.org. Look up words that are related to your issue, for example if we suffer from anxiety, look up anxiety, fear, anxious, timid, timidity, etc.
Now read the wealth of verses that pop up, and select those that relate most specifically to you. What does God say about the matter? When you have done this, you are armed for battle.
Jesus had to confront the adversary, in Matthew 4. He did not reason with Satan, instead, he countered every challenge with a passage from scripture! And the enemy left him!
So now, when you feel fearful, anxious or timid, take the verses you have discovered, read them, memorize them, make them a part of you. And tell the condition that God tells truth, and he says ... Satan is a liar and he can't stand truth! Do this with conviction, not halfheartedly. And now command the enemy to leave you alone, in the name of Jesus. Believe that God has your back, and that he will help you. And the enemy will go!
He may come back and try to get at you again. But as you resist, he will tire of the battle and seek easier targets. James 4 tells us: resist the devil, and he will flee from you!
The life of a Christian includes battling against the enemy. But God intends for us to be victorious. So use the weapon he has given us, the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God!
We are looking at Ephesians 6, which describes our spiritual armor. Why do we need spiritual armor? Because we are fighting a spiritual battle, and the battle is being fought in our minds. The enemy (we like to call him that rather than Satan which means "adversary") engages us whenever he has an opportunity.
A lot of the severe mental and emotional hangups we have are a result of the enemy's attacks. So how do we counter these?
Ephesians tells us that we have been given the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. This weapon is offensive, it is intended to attack the enemy. But we need to learn how to use this weapon, just as if it were a literal sword.
First of all identify the problem issue. Maybe it is anger, maybe it is anxiety or fear.
Now find out what the Bible says about this issue. Take a concordance and search the verses that mention this problem. An online concordance I find very helpful is www.studylight.org. Look up words that are related to your issue, for example if we suffer from anxiety, look up anxiety, fear, anxious, timid, timidity, etc.
Now read the wealth of verses that pop up, and select those that relate most specifically to you. What does God say about the matter? When you have done this, you are armed for battle.
Jesus had to confront the adversary, in Matthew 4. He did not reason with Satan, instead, he countered every challenge with a passage from scripture! And the enemy left him!
So now, when you feel fearful, anxious or timid, take the verses you have discovered, read them, memorize them, make them a part of you. And tell the condition that God tells truth, and he says ... Satan is a liar and he can't stand truth! Do this with conviction, not halfheartedly. And now command the enemy to leave you alone, in the name of Jesus. Believe that God has your back, and that he will help you. And the enemy will go!
He may come back and try to get at you again. But as you resist, he will tire of the battle and seek easier targets. James 4 tells us: resist the devil, and he will flee from you!
The life of a Christian includes battling against the enemy. But God intends for us to be victorious. So use the weapon he has given us, the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God!
Cutting deeply?
Cutting deeply?
In my last post we looked at the issue of either to run away from issues, ignoring them, shutting our eyes and whistling in the dark, or to stand and fight like a man! Ephesians 6 tells us we have been given the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. This is an offensive weapon.
God has given us his Word, holy, alive, sharp, turning this way and that, cutting deeply to the vital parts of our lives. Heb 4:12 tells us it penetrates even to the dividing of soul and spirit, like a scalpel, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
This means that the Word of God lays bare what is happening inside us. It shows us clearly what may have previously been hidden from our eyes.
The battlefield is not out in the air around us, as though we were tilting at windmills like Don Quixote. The battle is being fought in our mind. It is in our mind that we need clarity, was that attitude that just came upon me in accord with the teachings of the Word - or was it of some other spiritual source? What about my views of that other person - is this the way God thinks or does the Bible show I need to change?
The enemy is the arch deceiver. He has deceived the whole world (Rev 12:9). He would like to work underground in our minds, planting thoughts of jealousy and hate and division. The Word brings these thoughts to light and enables us to put off the works of the flesh.
The Christian is on a journey with God, the journey called Sanctification. We need a guide which will make plain what is right, what is wrong, what is of God, and what is of the evil one. That guide is the living Word of God.
So, is the Word cutting deeply? I hope so! This sword that is given to us, is a scalpel given for our purification. But it has another function too. More about that next time!
In my last post we looked at the issue of either to run away from issues, ignoring them, shutting our eyes and whistling in the dark, or to stand and fight like a man! Ephesians 6 tells us we have been given the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. This is an offensive weapon.
God has given us his Word, holy, alive, sharp, turning this way and that, cutting deeply to the vital parts of our lives. Heb 4:12 tells us it penetrates even to the dividing of soul and spirit, like a scalpel, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
This means that the Word of God lays bare what is happening inside us. It shows us clearly what may have previously been hidden from our eyes.
The battlefield is not out in the air around us, as though we were tilting at windmills like Don Quixote. The battle is being fought in our mind. It is in our mind that we need clarity, was that attitude that just came upon me in accord with the teachings of the Word - or was it of some other spiritual source? What about my views of that other person - is this the way God thinks or does the Bible show I need to change?
The enemy is the arch deceiver. He has deceived the whole world (Rev 12:9). He would like to work underground in our minds, planting thoughts of jealousy and hate and division. The Word brings these thoughts to light and enables us to put off the works of the flesh.
The Christian is on a journey with God, the journey called Sanctification. We need a guide which will make plain what is right, what is wrong, what is of God, and what is of the evil one. That guide is the living Word of God.
So, is the Word cutting deeply? I hope so! This sword that is given to us, is a scalpel given for our purification. But it has another function too. More about that next time!
To run, or to stand and fight?
Often when we are confronted by a difficult situation we run away from it. Perhaps because we are afraid of doing the wrong thing, perhaps we feel we will react inappropriately, or perhaps merely because we feel more comfortable when not faced with the issue!
The trouble is, the situation keeps coming back! Like the bully at school, each day we would be confronted afresh. Running away or avoiding him never worked, because he would be there again tomorrow. We knew we had to stand up to him, but of course that would take courage we did not feel.
God gives us the means to deal with these troublesome issues. Christians are involved in a running battle with the arch-bully of them all - Satan.
God's plan is not that we avoid the issues, but that we meet them head-on! Ephesians 6 outlines for us the spiritual armor God has provided, which we must put on. This armor is primarily defensive, to protect us and our identity. We are told to stand firm. But then the sword of the Spirit (the word of God) is given to us as an offensive weapon!
So our battle is not just a defensive one! We need to go on the offensive, and deal with these issues. And the primary tool God has given us, is the scriptures.
Often when we are confronted by a difficult situation we run away from it. Perhaps because we are afraid of doing the wrong thing, perhaps we feel we will react inappropriately, or perhaps merely because we feel more comfortable when not faced with the issue!
The trouble is, the situation keeps coming back! Like the bully at school, each day we would be confronted afresh. Running away or avoiding him never worked, because he would be there again tomorrow. We knew we had to stand up to him, but of course that would take courage we did not feel.
God gives us the means to deal with these troublesome issues. Christians are involved in a running battle with the arch-bully of them all - Satan.
God's plan is not that we avoid the issues, but that we meet them head-on! Ephesians 6 outlines for us the spiritual armor God has provided, which we must put on. This armor is primarily defensive, to protect us and our identity. We are told to stand firm. But then the sword of the Spirit (the word of God) is given to us as an offensive weapon!
So our battle is not just a defensive one! We need to go on the offensive, and deal with these issues. And the primary tool God has given us, is the scriptures.
Seek God's guidance in making choices
Seek God's guidance in making choices
"Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, "The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel." For the LORD had ordained to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel, so that the LORD might bring calamity on Absalom" - 2 Sam 17:14
David was fleeing from his son Absalom, who was staging a coup in Israel. Ahithophel had previously been highly regarded by David, for his wisdom, and now Ahithophel had turned away from David and sided with his son Absalom. Hushai was loyal to David and also was known for his wisdom. He stays in Jerusalem with Absolom with the intention of informing David of Absalom's plans. Ahithophel advises that they should go after David immediately before he has time to rest, and secure the kingdom. Hushai gives bad advice for a good cause, and tries to stall Absalom by reminding him of David's warrior reputation and that Absalom needs to get the whole army together before attacking David.
God causes Absalom to listen to the wrong advice, and as a result David's life is spared, and ultimately Absalom loses his life. The lesson here is that what may appear to be wise on a human level, may not be God's intention. We always need to involve God in our decision making. When we are deciding which job to apply for, whether or not to move to a different city, which house we should buy or rent, whether the person we are seeing is the one we should marry - we need to ask the Lord to guide our decision-making. His plans may be different than our's.
"Lord, I pray that you would guide my steps today, and that you would protect me from deciding to do things that would be contrary to your intentions for me. Teach me to think like you, and open my eyes and ears to what you are saying. In Jesus' name, amen."
"Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, "The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel." For the LORD had ordained to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel, so that the LORD might bring calamity on Absalom" - 2 Sam 17:14
David was fleeing from his son Absalom, who was staging a coup in Israel. Ahithophel had previously been highly regarded by David, for his wisdom, and now Ahithophel had turned away from David and sided with his son Absalom. Hushai was loyal to David and also was known for his wisdom. He stays in Jerusalem with Absolom with the intention of informing David of Absalom's plans. Ahithophel advises that they should go after David immediately before he has time to rest, and secure the kingdom. Hushai gives bad advice for a good cause, and tries to stall Absalom by reminding him of David's warrior reputation and that Absalom needs to get the whole army together before attacking David.
God causes Absalom to listen to the wrong advice, and as a result David's life is spared, and ultimately Absalom loses his life. The lesson here is that what may appear to be wise on a human level, may not be God's intention. We always need to involve God in our decision making. When we are deciding which job to apply for, whether or not to move to a different city, which house we should buy or rent, whether the person we are seeing is the one we should marry - we need to ask the Lord to guide our decision-making. His plans may be different than our's.
"Lord, I pray that you would guide my steps today, and that you would protect me from deciding to do things that would be contrary to your intentions for me. Teach me to think like you, and open my eyes and ears to what you are saying. In Jesus' name, amen."
We live by faith and not by sight
We live by faith and not by sight
"We live by faith and not by sight" - 2 Cor 5:7
In this passage Paul explores our humanity compared to our spiritual reality. We live in an earthly tent. As if our life is separate from our fleshly body. We live in a tent. A tent is temporary, can easily be blown down, doesn't provide much protection. On the other hand, we have an eternal house in heaven, built and prepared by our Maker. When our physical body dies, we will be clothed with our heavenly dwelling. We long for the day when out mortality will be swallowed up, engulfed by life. It is in this context that Paul says, "We live by faith and not by sight!"
As we go through life's struggles and trials, we are confronted with our own limitations as human beings. We are continually faced with our seeming inability to change our life or circumstances. But God is able to make a way, and helps us along this journey. And when Jesus returns we will receive this new, eternal dwelling. "The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable, it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power, it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body" 1 Cor 15:42-44
"Lord thank you for this insight into my eternal reality - help me to live today in the light of this eternal truth. Amen"
"We live by faith and not by sight" - 2 Cor 5:7
In this passage Paul explores our humanity compared to our spiritual reality. We live in an earthly tent. As if our life is separate from our fleshly body. We live in a tent. A tent is temporary, can easily be blown down, doesn't provide much protection. On the other hand, we have an eternal house in heaven, built and prepared by our Maker. When our physical body dies, we will be clothed with our heavenly dwelling. We long for the day when out mortality will be swallowed up, engulfed by life. It is in this context that Paul says, "We live by faith and not by sight!"
As we go through life's struggles and trials, we are confronted with our own limitations as human beings. We are continually faced with our seeming inability to change our life or circumstances. But God is able to make a way, and helps us along this journey. And when Jesus returns we will receive this new, eternal dwelling. "The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable, it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power, it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body" 1 Cor 15:42-44
"Lord thank you for this insight into my eternal reality - help me to live today in the light of this eternal truth. Amen"
He is faithful ...
He is faithful ...
"Not one of their enemies withstood them; the Lord handed all of their enemies over to them. Not one of all the Lord's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled" - Joshua 21:44-45
The Israelites had crossed Jordan and conquered the land. They were able to divide the land according to Joshua's instructions, and the Israelites took the cities of the land as their own possessions. The Levites were given territory among each of the tribes. God had promised the land of Canaan for a possession for the Israelites, hence the term the Promised Land. And now God brought about the fulfillment. God was faithful, even though it did take time (430 years after the original promise to Abraham in Gen 12).
God promises us great and precious promises (2 Pet 1:4). He says he has given us all we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of our Savior (v.3). The promises are to enable us to stay close to God and separate from the evil in the world (v.4). Remember that though we may be going through hard times, and we may become discouraged or anxious, yet God has given us all we need to stay close to him and separate from darkness. Keep turning back towards God, keep him at the forefront of your life, and make your calling and election sure (v.10). Then one day, we will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (v.11). What a glorious day that will be!
"Lord, help me today to keep my eyes focused on you, because you are faithful and your promises are sure! Amen"
"Not one of their enemies withstood them; the Lord handed all of their enemies over to them. Not one of all the Lord's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled" - Joshua 21:44-45
The Israelites had crossed Jordan and conquered the land. They were able to divide the land according to Joshua's instructions, and the Israelites took the cities of the land as their own possessions. The Levites were given territory among each of the tribes. God had promised the land of Canaan for a possession for the Israelites, hence the term the Promised Land. And now God brought about the fulfillment. God was faithful, even though it did take time (430 years after the original promise to Abraham in Gen 12).
God promises us great and precious promises (2 Pet 1:4). He says he has given us all we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of our Savior (v.3). The promises are to enable us to stay close to God and separate from the evil in the world (v.4). Remember that though we may be going through hard times, and we may become discouraged or anxious, yet God has given us all we need to stay close to him and separate from darkness. Keep turning back towards God, keep him at the forefront of your life, and make your calling and election sure (v.10). Then one day, we will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (v.11). What a glorious day that will be!
"Lord, help me today to keep my eyes focused on you, because you are faithful and your promises are sure! Amen"
Called for God's purpose, not my own
Called for God's purpose, not my own
"Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." - Josh 1:8-9
After being called by God for a special purpose, Moses led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, into an experience of God's tender care of his chosen people. Moses died, and Joshua was chosen by God to take his place. God tells Joshua the task he is to accomplish, and God empowers him to be able to fulfill it. Part of the instructions God gives Joshua, is that he is to be thinking about and heeding God's written word, on a daily basis
Two lessons for me out of these verses are the following. First of all, God has a purpose and a plan for me and for every other child of God (Jer 29:11). He speaks to me unmistakably and calls me into that purpose. This is so for each of us, God is no respector of persons. Each of us has a calling on our life. Secondly, having received that calling, God expects me to execute it His way, not my own. This is why He wants me to seek His face daily, and to read His word for direction in my life. Not my will, but Yours be done. This involves daily Bible reading and study, combined with thoughtful meditation and application. A good Bible reading program is at this address (http://integritydesigncenter.com/gffc/Bible%20Reading%20Plan.pdf).
"Lord help me to seek Your face daily, and to walk in step with where You are going. In Jesus name, Amen"
"Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." - Josh 1:8-9
After being called by God for a special purpose, Moses led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, into an experience of God's tender care of his chosen people. Moses died, and Joshua was chosen by God to take his place. God tells Joshua the task he is to accomplish, and God empowers him to be able to fulfill it. Part of the instructions God gives Joshua, is that he is to be thinking about and heeding God's written word, on a daily basis
Two lessons for me out of these verses are the following. First of all, God has a purpose and a plan for me and for every other child of God (Jer 29:11). He speaks to me unmistakably and calls me into that purpose. This is so for each of us, God is no respector of persons. Each of us has a calling on our life. Secondly, having received that calling, God expects me to execute it His way, not my own. This is why He wants me to seek His face daily, and to read His word for direction in my life. Not my will, but Yours be done. This involves daily Bible reading and study, combined with thoughtful meditation and application. A good Bible reading program is at this address (http://integritydesigncenter.com/gffc/Bible%20Reading%20Plan.pdf).
"Lord help me to seek Your face daily, and to walk in step with where You are going. In Jesus name, Amen"
In the face of a tsunami!
In the face of a tsunami!
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof" - Psa 46:1-3
Last night's huge earthquake in Japan, and the resultant tsunami, reminded me of this passage. God is bigger than any earthquake, and can stop any tsunami in its tracks. The forces of nature are at God's beck and call, we serve a Great God!
What are the tsunamis in your life today? Jesus has an answer for them. On facebook I saw a few people who were concerned that this could be the end of their life on its way across the ocean, but they were safe and knew that their next moment would be in a glorious future with Jesus. "Therefore will I not fear"
What about you? How is your relationship with God? Are you ready to meet your Maker? If you turn to Him, confessing your sins, and surrender your life to Him, your future is assured and you can face every situation with the confidence that He is with you
"Lord I pray that everyone who reads this will have a meaningful relationship with you. Help us all to walk wothy of the calling you have given us. In Jesus Name"
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof" - Psa 46:1-3
Last night's huge earthquake in Japan, and the resultant tsunami, reminded me of this passage. God is bigger than any earthquake, and can stop any tsunami in its tracks. The forces of nature are at God's beck and call, we serve a Great God!
What are the tsunamis in your life today? Jesus has an answer for them. On facebook I saw a few people who were concerned that this could be the end of their life on its way across the ocean, but they were safe and knew that their next moment would be in a glorious future with Jesus. "Therefore will I not fear"
What about you? How is your relationship with God? Are you ready to meet your Maker? If you turn to Him, confessing your sins, and surrender your life to Him, your future is assured and you can face every situation with the confidence that He is with you
"Lord I pray that everyone who reads this will have a meaningful relationship with you. Help us all to walk wothy of the calling you have given us. In Jesus Name"
Is good being done, or evil?
Is good being done, or evil?
"He looked around at them in anger and deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored." - Mark 3:5
Jesus went into the synagogue on the Sabbath. A person was there with a crippled hand, maybe with arthritis. The rulers of the Jews knew that Jesus would want to heal him, they knew the heart that Jesus had for the hurting. And they also knew that this would break their rules they had made for keeping the Sabbath. Jesus cut right through their hypocrisy, to the core of the matter - either we do good or we do evil, we save life or we kill. Jesus did good, and healed the man. The hypocrites did evil and went out plotting how to kill Jesus.
From the Pharisees perspective, seeing Jesus doing good should have opened their eyes to the fact that their little rules were not the whole story. Jesus pointed them to the root issue - was good being done, or evil.
So often we condemn what we do not understand. Jesus tells us to go to the core issue - is good being done here, or evil? So, in the body of Christ, we should not judge each other but recognize where God is doing good, and at the same time recognize where the enemy is doing evil. This is the criteria - not whether or not something fits our own little box of rules and perceptions. God is sovereign and He works outside of the box.
"Lord, help me to not be judgmental, but to look at the core issue - is good being done, or evil. Where good is done, You are at work, and that is where I want to be. In Jesus' name, amen.
"He looked around at them in anger and deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored." - Mark 3:5
Jesus went into the synagogue on the Sabbath. A person was there with a crippled hand, maybe with arthritis. The rulers of the Jews knew that Jesus would want to heal him, they knew the heart that Jesus had for the hurting. And they also knew that this would break their rules they had made for keeping the Sabbath. Jesus cut right through their hypocrisy, to the core of the matter - either we do good or we do evil, we save life or we kill. Jesus did good, and healed the man. The hypocrites did evil and went out plotting how to kill Jesus.
From the Pharisees perspective, seeing Jesus doing good should have opened their eyes to the fact that their little rules were not the whole story. Jesus pointed them to the root issue - was good being done, or evil.
So often we condemn what we do not understand. Jesus tells us to go to the core issue - is good being done here, or evil? So, in the body of Christ, we should not judge each other but recognize where God is doing good, and at the same time recognize where the enemy is doing evil. This is the criteria - not whether or not something fits our own little box of rules and perceptions. God is sovereign and He works outside of the box.
"Lord, help me to not be judgmental, but to look at the core issue - is good being done, or evil. Where good is done, You are at work, and that is where I want to be. In Jesus' name, amen.
Watch for God's Work Being Done
Watch for God's Work Being Done
"At the Lord's command they encamped, and at the Lord's command they set out. They obeyed the Lord's order, in accordance with his command through Moses." - Numbers 9:23
The Israelites had been on their journey through the desert, for a number of months now. During this time they had seen miracles performed by God, providing water, providing manna (bread from heaven), supplying quail for food. They had seen evidence of God's manifold blessings, even in a harsh desert environment, as well as of his displeasure when they overstepped their mark. God was dealing with his people, showing them boundaries as to how to maintain their relationship with him. When they arrived at Sinai, God tells them exactly how to build the Tabernacle. Then the cloud in which God dwelt, rested on the Tabernacle.
The presence of the cloud, told the people what to do. As long as God's presence was settled on the Tabernacle, they stayed in that place. They did not move, looking for a better place, they stayed where God wanted them to stay. When the cloud lifted, they would follow the cloud to the new place God had for them. The wanderings through the desert were not aimless, but in accordance with God's plan for them. From their own perspective, the movement from one campsite to the next would have appeared random, but from God's perspective there was intentionality in it.
I need to be aware of what God is doing, and where his blessing is present. This is where I should stay and live my life. Jesus did what he saw the Father doing. The Father in turn blessed Jesus' ministry as the Father and Jesus were in harmony in what they were doing. I do not want to do my own ministry, but I want to be working where the Lord is working. Then I can expect blessing and fruitfulness in that place.
"Lord, please guide me as I desire to serve you. I commit to seek where your hand is at work, and I pray that you would open doors so that I can be a part of what you are doing. In Jesus' name, amen."
"At the Lord's command they encamped, and at the Lord's command they set out. They obeyed the Lord's order, in accordance with his command through Moses." - Numbers 9:23
The Israelites had been on their journey through the desert, for a number of months now. During this time they had seen miracles performed by God, providing water, providing manna (bread from heaven), supplying quail for food. They had seen evidence of God's manifold blessings, even in a harsh desert environment, as well as of his displeasure when they overstepped their mark. God was dealing with his people, showing them boundaries as to how to maintain their relationship with him. When they arrived at Sinai, God tells them exactly how to build the Tabernacle. Then the cloud in which God dwelt, rested on the Tabernacle.
The presence of the cloud, told the people what to do. As long as God's presence was settled on the Tabernacle, they stayed in that place. They did not move, looking for a better place, they stayed where God wanted them to stay. When the cloud lifted, they would follow the cloud to the new place God had for them. The wanderings through the desert were not aimless, but in accordance with God's plan for them. From their own perspective, the movement from one campsite to the next would have appeared random, but from God's perspective there was intentionality in it.
I need to be aware of what God is doing, and where his blessing is present. This is where I should stay and live my life. Jesus did what he saw the Father doing. The Father in turn blessed Jesus' ministry as the Father and Jesus were in harmony in what they were doing. I do not want to do my own ministry, but I want to be working where the Lord is working. Then I can expect blessing and fruitfulness in that place.
"Lord, please guide me as I desire to serve you. I commit to seek where your hand is at work, and I pray that you would open doors so that I can be a part of what you are doing. In Jesus' name, amen."
A grandfather's blessing
A grandfather's blessing
Genesis 48 - Joseph brings his children to his father Jacob, and Jacob blesses them, as though they were his own.
Grandparents have a special role to play in family life. As parents, they have been role models for their children, and have set the direction in which their children's lives would largely go. A child brought up in a truly Christian environment will tend to go that direction as an adult (Prov 22:6). As parents, we have a responsibility to give our children the best possible start in life. Sometimes our examples have not been so good for our children. Our children will also tend to copy that example. This is not to say that the children have no personal responsibility, there are enough examples in the Bible of adults who had a bad start, but later changed their ways and turned to God. Ezekiel 18 outlines God's view of personal responsibility.
When the parent becomes a grandparent, however, there can be a redemptive quality in the relationship. A grandparent has a special relationship with the grandchildren. With the years there comes a deeper perspective on life, and a grandchild can be given a sense of continuity in the family, that the family existed before they were there, and that it will continue after they are gone. This gives a larger perspective on life and actions. Actions taken today can be looked at not only in the impact they have today, but also in their future effects.
As such, a grandparent is in a special position to bless the family. There is a spiritual responsibility to leave a legacy of blessing for the grandchildren. Jacob, in the above passage, prays a prayer of blessing over his grandchildren, and later in Genesis 49 he blesses his children. God hears our prayers and when we ask for Him to bless those in our care, it has an impact in the spiritual realm. By our prayers we can impact the direction our children and grandchildren's lives will take.
Lord, I pray that you would bless my children and grandchildren. I pray for physical and spiritual blessing for them, that you would keep them safe in economic turmoil, that you would bless their relationships, and that you would keep their eyes focussed on you. I pray that as our grandchildren grow up, you would lead them to a suitable spouse, and that this blessing would continue down the generations. In Jesus' name, amen.
Genesis 48 - Joseph brings his children to his father Jacob, and Jacob blesses them, as though they were his own.
Grandparents have a special role to play in family life. As parents, they have been role models for their children, and have set the direction in which their children's lives would largely go. A child brought up in a truly Christian environment will tend to go that direction as an adult (Prov 22:6). As parents, we have a responsibility to give our children the best possible start in life. Sometimes our examples have not been so good for our children. Our children will also tend to copy that example. This is not to say that the children have no personal responsibility, there are enough examples in the Bible of adults who had a bad start, but later changed their ways and turned to God. Ezekiel 18 outlines God's view of personal responsibility.
When the parent becomes a grandparent, however, there can be a redemptive quality in the relationship. A grandparent has a special relationship with the grandchildren. With the years there comes a deeper perspective on life, and a grandchild can be given a sense of continuity in the family, that the family existed before they were there, and that it will continue after they are gone. This gives a larger perspective on life and actions. Actions taken today can be looked at not only in the impact they have today, but also in their future effects.
As such, a grandparent is in a special position to bless the family. There is a spiritual responsibility to leave a legacy of blessing for the grandchildren. Jacob, in the above passage, prays a prayer of blessing over his grandchildren, and later in Genesis 49 he blesses his children. God hears our prayers and when we ask for Him to bless those in our care, it has an impact in the spiritual realm. By our prayers we can impact the direction our children and grandchildren's lives will take.
Lord, I pray that you would bless my children and grandchildren. I pray for physical and spiritual blessing for them, that you would keep them safe in economic turmoil, that you would bless their relationships, and that you would keep their eyes focussed on you. I pray that as our grandchildren grow up, you would lead them to a suitable spouse, and that this blessing would continue down the generations. In Jesus' name, amen.
Moses Learns to Delegate
Moses Learns to Delegate
"Select capable men from all the people - men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain - and appoint them as offcials ..." Exodus 18:21
Moses was visted by his father-in-law, Jethro. He saw that Moses was overworked in dealing with the people, and told Moses that if he continued the way he was going, he would burn out. The signs of burn-out were already evident in Moses' response to the Israelites when they complained about not having water, in chapter 17. It seems God must have sent Jethro to Moses to help him get his life in order and learn to delegate.
Jethro told Moses to find capable people, with whom to share the load. These people were to be walking right with God - God looks on the heart, not the outward appearance of respectability. Moses was to train these people up to function as advisors to the people, and they would take a lot of the burden off Moses' shoulders. Part of the pastoral function is to train and build up the church (Eph 4:12). When pastors develop leadership in the church, everyone benefits.
These were to be capable men. When people operate in their natural and spiritual giftings, they are better able to perform their function in the body. In this way the whole body develops. This principle applies not only to counseling, but all areas of church life. My role is to grow the people around me. As people grow, they may be called by God into further areas of ministry.
In this way, the church grows, develops and moves forward!
"Select capable men from all the people - men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain - and appoint them as offcials ..." Exodus 18:21
Moses was visted by his father-in-law, Jethro. He saw that Moses was overworked in dealing with the people, and told Moses that if he continued the way he was going, he would burn out. The signs of burn-out were already evident in Moses' response to the Israelites when they complained about not having water, in chapter 17. It seems God must have sent Jethro to Moses to help him get his life in order and learn to delegate.
Jethro told Moses to find capable people, with whom to share the load. These people were to be walking right with God - God looks on the heart, not the outward appearance of respectability. Moses was to train these people up to function as advisors to the people, and they would take a lot of the burden off Moses' shoulders. Part of the pastoral function is to train and build up the church (Eph 4:12). When pastors develop leadership in the church, everyone benefits.
These were to be capable men. When people operate in their natural and spiritual giftings, they are better able to perform their function in the body. In this way the whole body develops. This principle applies not only to counseling, but all areas of church life. My role is to grow the people around me. As people grow, they may be called by God into further areas of ministry.
In this way, the church grows, develops and moves forward!
Monday, April 9, 2012
Joseph, a man for all seasons
Joseph, a man for all seasons
Genesis 41 - After being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph is taken to Egypt, becomes a slave in an Egyptian official's home. Potiphar's wife accuses Joseph of attempted rape, and Joseph is sent to prison. While there, Joseph gives a prophetic interpretation to two dreams people had. Later he is called to interpret Pharaoh's dream, and he becomes second in command of all Egypt, and is instrumental in preserving the lives of thousands of people.
Joseph's story is one of having experienced the depths of life, and later being promoted to greatness. There are many lessons to be learnd from Joseph. He was submitted to God's will and purpose for him.
He did not know where it would all lead. He just lived a godly life, day after day, making the most of the opportunities given to him. He learned to be content in whatever situation he found himself.
There is a comfort in knowing that while we may not see where our situations are leading, God has a plan and a purpose and will work things out for us, as we allow Him to direct our steps.
As we move into the new year, let's keep our eyes on Jesus, and surrender ourselves to Him. He will direct our paths and His purpose for us will be fulfilled.
Genesis 41 - After being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph is taken to Egypt, becomes a slave in an Egyptian official's home. Potiphar's wife accuses Joseph of attempted rape, and Joseph is sent to prison. While there, Joseph gives a prophetic interpretation to two dreams people had. Later he is called to interpret Pharaoh's dream, and he becomes second in command of all Egypt, and is instrumental in preserving the lives of thousands of people.
Joseph's story is one of having experienced the depths of life, and later being promoted to greatness. There are many lessons to be learnd from Joseph. He was submitted to God's will and purpose for him.
He did not know where it would all lead. He just lived a godly life, day after day, making the most of the opportunities given to him. He learned to be content in whatever situation he found himself.
There is a comfort in knowing that while we may not see where our situations are leading, God has a plan and a purpose and will work things out for us, as we allow Him to direct our steps.
As we move into the new year, let's keep our eyes on Jesus, and surrender ourselves to Him. He will direct our paths and His purpose for us will be fulfilled.
In Memoriam
In Memoriam
On Sunday January 2, 2011 police officer Robert McElrath was cold-bloodedly slain at Devil's Corral. His wife and her boyfriend were arrested last Thursday, after an intensive police investigation and are in custody without bail. Officer McElrath leaves behind his grieving children, parents and other family members, as well as his colleagues at the Susanville Police Department.
This crime has caused a lot of reaction in Susanville during the past two weeks. The victim and the two people arrested were known by many of us, and depending on our relationships with them, we reacted with disbelief, shock, pain, and hurt that this kind of thing could happen in our community.
Many of us are going through a grieving process right now. Many of us knew Officer Robbie personally and are in turmoil and pain as we experience the loss of a faithful guardian of the peace, as well as a friend. The loss of someone important or close to us will leave a gap in our lives. Nothing we can do will fill that hole. Robert McElrath has passed from this life into the arms of Jesus, and we will see him no more, till we too go to meet our Maker.
Some of us knew either Officer McElrath's wife Joanna, or her boyfriend Robin. They are facing serious charges which could entail the death penalty. If we knew them as friends, we may find it hard to believe what has happened. The emotional turmoil we experience is a result of another death, the death of our previous relationship with the accused, which will never be the same again.
Whatever we are going through right now, Jesus says to us "Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" - Matthew 11:28. The only way we can find peace in a situation like this is to bring it to the foot of the Cross. It is the hope of the resurrection that gives the Christian comfort - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
We pray for Susanville, that people will turn to the Lord for comfort, clarity and compassion. We pray that the Lord would provide solace for Officer McElrath's family. And we pray that the perpetrators of this horrific crime would find repentance and turn to the Lord.
May the peace of Christ be with you as you wrestle through this time of mourning.
On Sunday January 2, 2011 police officer Robert McElrath was cold-bloodedly slain at Devil's Corral. His wife and her boyfriend were arrested last Thursday, after an intensive police investigation and are in custody without bail. Officer McElrath leaves behind his grieving children, parents and other family members, as well as his colleagues at the Susanville Police Department.
This crime has caused a lot of reaction in Susanville during the past two weeks. The victim and the two people arrested were known by many of us, and depending on our relationships with them, we reacted with disbelief, shock, pain, and hurt that this kind of thing could happen in our community.
Many of us are going through a grieving process right now. Many of us knew Officer Robbie personally and are in turmoil and pain as we experience the loss of a faithful guardian of the peace, as well as a friend. The loss of someone important or close to us will leave a gap in our lives. Nothing we can do will fill that hole. Robert McElrath has passed from this life into the arms of Jesus, and we will see him no more, till we too go to meet our Maker.
Some of us knew either Officer McElrath's wife Joanna, or her boyfriend Robin. They are facing serious charges which could entail the death penalty. If we knew them as friends, we may find it hard to believe what has happened. The emotional turmoil we experience is a result of another death, the death of our previous relationship with the accused, which will never be the same again.
Whatever we are going through right now, Jesus says to us "Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" - Matthew 11:28. The only way we can find peace in a situation like this is to bring it to the foot of the Cross. It is the hope of the resurrection that gives the Christian comfort - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
We pray for Susanville, that people will turn to the Lord for comfort, clarity and compassion. We pray that the Lord would provide solace for Officer McElrath's family. And we pray that the perpetrators of this horrific crime would find repentance and turn to the Lord.
May the peace of Christ be with you as you wrestle through this time of mourning.
The Night Before . . .
The Night Before . . .
It was the night before it happened. Mary and Joseph had spent a fun day, walking and talking, as they wandered through the fields. They had gotten to know each other many months before, and they had finally become betrothed, which we know today as becoming engaged to be married.
As they walked and talked they had made plans for their future together. Joseph had been apprenticed to be a carpenter, and he had plans for a self-employed business. Mary was excited about the upcoming wedding, and was making preparations. Nazareth was not a prosperous town, but they would make it the most fun-filled wedding the town had seen! They had lots of great plans for the future!
That night it happened. Mary was at home, on her own, and during the night an angel appeared to her.
This angel told her that she was special to God and that she was going to become pregnant with the
Son of God, Jesus. That this son whom she would raise, would ultimately become the Savior of the world! Mary could have rejected this special assignment, but she believed the angel, and said "Be it unto me according to your word". This was the start of the Christmas story, which we will be celebrating this coming Saturday.
What is Jesus saying to you today? Are we, each of us, ready to say to Him, "Be it unto me according to Your word"?
It was the night before it happened. Mary and Joseph had spent a fun day, walking and talking, as they wandered through the fields. They had gotten to know each other many months before, and they had finally become betrothed, which we know today as becoming engaged to be married.
As they walked and talked they had made plans for their future together. Joseph had been apprenticed to be a carpenter, and he had plans for a self-employed business. Mary was excited about the upcoming wedding, and was making preparations. Nazareth was not a prosperous town, but they would make it the most fun-filled wedding the town had seen! They had lots of great plans for the future!
That night it happened. Mary was at home, on her own, and during the night an angel appeared to her.
This angel told her that she was special to God and that she was going to become pregnant with the
Son of God, Jesus. That this son whom she would raise, would ultimately become the Savior of the world! Mary could have rejected this special assignment, but she believed the angel, and said "Be it unto me according to your word". This was the start of the Christmas story, which we will be celebrating this coming Saturday.
What is Jesus saying to you today? Are we, each of us, ready to say to Him, "Be it unto me according to Your word"?
A Father to the Fatherless
A Father to the Fatherless
Have you ever considered how often the Bible talks about taking care of the fatherless and the disadvantaged of society? It seems God has a special compassion and protective instinct regarding those not able to fend for themselves, who are often taken advantage of in today's society!
Here are some descriptions of God's heart: "You shall not afflict any widow, or fatherless child" (Exo 22:22), Deuteronomy 24:17 "You shall not pervert the judgment ... of the fatherless; nor take a widow's raiment to pledge" (Deut 24:17), and "A father of the fatherless, and a judge (on behalf) of the widows, is God in his holy habitation" (Psa 68:5)
In the words of the New Testament as well, this describes the way God expects us to watch out for each other. "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction ..." (James 1:27).
So the church should be involved in caring for those less able to care for themselves.
And the church is us as individuals.
What are we individually doing to help these less-advantaged ones in our midst?
Have you ever considered how often the Bible talks about taking care of the fatherless and the disadvantaged of society? It seems God has a special compassion and protective instinct regarding those not able to fend for themselves, who are often taken advantage of in today's society!
Here are some descriptions of God's heart: "You shall not afflict any widow, or fatherless child" (Exo 22:22), Deuteronomy 24:17 "You shall not pervert the judgment ... of the fatherless; nor take a widow's raiment to pledge" (Deut 24:17), and "A father of the fatherless, and a judge (on behalf) of the widows, is God in his holy habitation" (Psa 68:5)
In the words of the New Testament as well, this describes the way God expects us to watch out for each other. "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction ..." (James 1:27).
So the church should be involved in caring for those less able to care for themselves.
And the church is us as individuals.
What are we individually doing to help these less-advantaged ones in our midst?
Miracles - Evidence of God's Working!
Miracles - Evidence of God's Working!
Matthew 11:4 "Go back and report to John what you hear and see. The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor."
John is in prison and is wondering if Jesus is the Messiah who was to come. He had previously recognized Jesus for who he was, when Jesus was baptized - maybe doubt had now set in due to his circumstances. Jesus responds by pointing to the miracles.
Jesus tells Capernaum that they will be judged because of not responding to the miracles done among them. The miracles showed he was the Son of God (verse 23-24). Even the Sanhedrin recognized that Jesus had come from God, and that God was with him, because of the miracles (John 3:2).
Later, Jesus tells the disciples that they would do the same works he was doing, and even greater works (John 14:12). The church today should be an outlet for the supernatural.
More to the point, I personally should be an outlet for the supernatural. Miracles should be happening in our daily life, that show God is with us and to give credibility to the good news message Christians preach. People should be living a supernatural life, with physical evidence as well as changed behavior.
"Lord, help us to be an instrument of your grace, for this community. Amen."
Matthew 11:4 "Go back and report to John what you hear and see. The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor."
John is in prison and is wondering if Jesus is the Messiah who was to come. He had previously recognized Jesus for who he was, when Jesus was baptized - maybe doubt had now set in due to his circumstances. Jesus responds by pointing to the miracles.
Jesus tells Capernaum that they will be judged because of not responding to the miracles done among them. The miracles showed he was the Son of God (verse 23-24). Even the Sanhedrin recognized that Jesus had come from God, and that God was with him, because of the miracles (John 3:2).
Later, Jesus tells the disciples that they would do the same works he was doing, and even greater works (John 14:12). The church today should be an outlet for the supernatural.
More to the point, I personally should be an outlet for the supernatural. Miracles should be happening in our daily life, that show God is with us and to give credibility to the good news message Christians preach. People should be living a supernatural life, with physical evidence as well as changed behavior.
"Lord, help us to be an instrument of your grace, for this community. Amen."
Christian, do your job!
Christian, do your job!
Ezekiel 33:11 “As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, O house of Israel?”
Ezekiel was priest who had been taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar. He was now an exile in Babylon, when God called him to be a prophet. In this chapter, God addresses the watchmen of Israel, who have the task of warning the people about trouble ahead. He tells Ezekiel, that God has set him to be a watchman. With that appointment comes responsibility. The watchman must faithfully pass on the message God gives him, otherwise the consequences will be on his own head.
While this sounds as though God has bad plans for his people, the opposite is true. God actually has good plans (Jeremiah 29:11). The problem is that mankind is inherently evil and wanting to do his own thing and not be obedient to the way God would like him to live. God's way brings good results, man's way brings trouble.
God sets people (pastors, leaders, you, me) in positions as watchmen to warn his people to turn from their wicked ways and come into alignment with the way the Lord would have them live. Then the Lord will bless them and take care of them (Matthew 6:33). When the watchman does not do his job, though, the Lord will deal with him. Check out this video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFZ1pt0WX5c&feature=related%20
“Lord, help me to be a witness and fulfil my responsibility toward my fellowman. May I not be responsible for my brother not being saved, because I kept silent”
Ezekiel 33:11 “As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, O house of Israel?”
Ezekiel was priest who had been taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar. He was now an exile in Babylon, when God called him to be a prophet. In this chapter, God addresses the watchmen of Israel, who have the task of warning the people about trouble ahead. He tells Ezekiel, that God has set him to be a watchman. With that appointment comes responsibility. The watchman must faithfully pass on the message God gives him, otherwise the consequences will be on his own head.
While this sounds as though God has bad plans for his people, the opposite is true. God actually has good plans (Jeremiah 29:11). The problem is that mankind is inherently evil and wanting to do his own thing and not be obedient to the way God would like him to live. God's way brings good results, man's way brings trouble.
God sets people (pastors, leaders, you, me) in positions as watchmen to warn his people to turn from their wicked ways and come into alignment with the way the Lord would have them live. Then the Lord will bless them and take care of them (Matthew 6:33). When the watchman does not do his job, though, the Lord will deal with him. Check out this video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFZ1pt0WX5c&feature=related%20
“Lord, help me to be a witness and fulfil my responsibility toward my fellowman. May I not be responsible for my brother not being saved, because I kept silent”
Hope for the Future!
Hope for the Future!
2 Corinthians 5:1,5 "Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands ... Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come"
In the previous chapter Paul says we are "hard-pressed on every side but not crushed" (4:8-9) and in the next chapter he tells of some of the hardships and joys of the ministry (6:4-10). In the above verses, Paul explains how he deals with these painful things of life. He has his eyes fixed on heaven, where God is building him an eternal home, which will never pass away. This is the purpose for which we have been made, and our walk with the Holy Spirit in this life is but a tiny foretaste of what is yet to come!
As I walk through today's issues and problems, I know that they are only temporary. The pain we experience today, is not forever. Like Paul, my physical body and this physical life is only temporary, and I long for the day when I will be rid of the frustrations and limitations of this life.
"Lord Jesus, thank you that you have a purpose for me that transcends this life! Even so, come, Lord Jesus. Amen."
2 Corinthians 5:1,5 "Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands ... Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come"
In the previous chapter Paul says we are "hard-pressed on every side but not crushed" (4:8-9) and in the next chapter he tells of some of the hardships and joys of the ministry (6:4-10). In the above verses, Paul explains how he deals with these painful things of life. He has his eyes fixed on heaven, where God is building him an eternal home, which will never pass away. This is the purpose for which we have been made, and our walk with the Holy Spirit in this life is but a tiny foretaste of what is yet to come!
As I walk through today's issues and problems, I know that they are only temporary. The pain we experience today, is not forever. Like Paul, my physical body and this physical life is only temporary, and I long for the day when I will be rid of the frustrations and limitations of this life.
"Lord Jesus, thank you that you have a purpose for me that transcends this life! Even so, come, Lord Jesus. Amen."
Hearts and Change
Hearts and Change
1 Peter2:9 "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness, into his wonderful light."
In Old Testament times, God selected a nation of slaves in order to show the world what living God's way would be like. He developed a special relationship with the Israelites, and offered them blessings beyond measure if they would be obedient and follow him.
Unfortunately they were not responsive to God and sinned terribly, most of their history. They wanted to do it right. But they did not have the heart to act on this intention (Deut 5:29). God knew this right from the start, and had a plan to rectify this.
He says in Jeremiah, "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God and they will be my people" (Jer 31:33). The old covenant was not sufficient. God had to change their hearts.
Have we a changed heart? When Jesus comes into our life, he changes things! "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come" (2 Cor 5:17). When we accept Jesus by surrendering our lives to him, he changes us inside. He writes his way of living on our heart, so that we now desire to live his way, doing things the way he would do them.
As we surrender more and more of our self to him, we make ourselves more and more available for him to make us agents of his grace. Verse 20 says he has made us Christ's ambassadors, showing a world of darkness that there is a better way! Praise God, that he has saved us from sin and guilt and set us free to live a brand new life, so that we can now share this good news!
“Lord, thank you for rescuing me and for changing my heart! Help me to surrender all, so that I may be a vessel fit to serve you. Thank you Lord Jesus. Amen”
1 Peter2:9 "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness, into his wonderful light."
In Old Testament times, God selected a nation of slaves in order to show the world what living God's way would be like. He developed a special relationship with the Israelites, and offered them blessings beyond measure if they would be obedient and follow him.
Unfortunately they were not responsive to God and sinned terribly, most of their history. They wanted to do it right. But they did not have the heart to act on this intention (Deut 5:29). God knew this right from the start, and had a plan to rectify this.
He says in Jeremiah, "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God and they will be my people" (Jer 31:33). The old covenant was not sufficient. God had to change their hearts.
Have we a changed heart? When Jesus comes into our life, he changes things! "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come" (2 Cor 5:17). When we accept Jesus by surrendering our lives to him, he changes us inside. He writes his way of living on our heart, so that we now desire to live his way, doing things the way he would do them.
As we surrender more and more of our self to him, we make ourselves more and more available for him to make us agents of his grace. Verse 20 says he has made us Christ's ambassadors, showing a world of darkness that there is a better way! Praise God, that he has saved us from sin and guilt and set us free to live a brand new life, so that we can now share this good news!
“Lord, thank you for rescuing me and for changing my heart! Help me to surrender all, so that I may be a vessel fit to serve you. Thank you Lord Jesus. Amen”
Trusting in our Faithful God!
Trusting in our Faithful God!
Psa 115:10-13 “O house of Aaron, trust in the LORD: he is their help and their shield . . . he will bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron. He will bless them that fear the LORD, both small and great.”
In this Psalm David is contrasting the things that unbelievers trust in but which are not able to help in times of trouble, with the reality of God's greatness and his readiness to fight on behalf of his people.
He starts by speaking of God's sovereignty as Creator of the universe. A God who reveals himself as creator. A God who creates the universe, who creates the things that mankind trusts in, who provides the stability of the very earth upon which we stand.
We so often take for granted the physical things of life. Material things seem so real to us. Yet because our eyes are focussed on the tangible aspects of life, our eyes are often blinded to the spiritual world which we cannot see. We forget about the great God who created all these things in which we trust.
God says to us, get your mind off the physical and see the complete picture! Paul tells us to get our mind onto things above, be looking to God in every aspect of our lives (Colossians 3:2). Elisha asks God to open the eyes of his servant, to see the reality of God's presence, and he sees chariots of fire all around them (2 Kings 6:7). God the Creator is more real than his creation. He is able to change any circumstance in which we may find ourselves!
“Lord, help us to take our mind's eye off the physical and to see your greatness. You are the Awesome God who promises to help us in our time of need. Thank you for your faithfulness. Amen”
Psa 115:10-13 “O house of Aaron, trust in the LORD: he is their help and their shield . . . he will bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron. He will bless them that fear the LORD, both small and great.”
In this Psalm David is contrasting the things that unbelievers trust in but which are not able to help in times of trouble, with the reality of God's greatness and his readiness to fight on behalf of his people.
He starts by speaking of God's sovereignty as Creator of the universe. A God who reveals himself as creator. A God who creates the universe, who creates the things that mankind trusts in, who provides the stability of the very earth upon which we stand.
We so often take for granted the physical things of life. Material things seem so real to us. Yet because our eyes are focussed on the tangible aspects of life, our eyes are often blinded to the spiritual world which we cannot see. We forget about the great God who created all these things in which we trust.
God says to us, get your mind off the physical and see the complete picture! Paul tells us to get our mind onto things above, be looking to God in every aspect of our lives (Colossians 3:2). Elisha asks God to open the eyes of his servant, to see the reality of God's presence, and he sees chariots of fire all around them (2 Kings 6:7). God the Creator is more real than his creation. He is able to change any circumstance in which we may find ourselves!
“Lord, help us to take our mind's eye off the physical and to see your greatness. You are the Awesome God who promises to help us in our time of need. Thank you for your faithfulness. Amen”
Cleansing, then relationship
Cleansing, then relationship
Isaiah 4:4b "... he will cleanse the bloodstains from Jerusalem by a spirit of judgment and a spirit of fire".
The context of this verse is speaking of the end times, when Jesus returns to Jersalem, to reign as king. Chapter 2 speaks of the millenial time of peace that will exist under the Lord's reign, chapter 3 speaks of judgment on Jerusalem and details its sins, especially of the leaders of the people (3:14).
Punishment comes. But then in chapter 4 we return to Jesus' intervention. The Lord comes with a spirit of judgment - in other words, with justice - God's purpose is not to execute vengeance, but to cleanse his people. The spirit of fire then removes the sin.
The result is in verse 5 - the presence of the Lord that accompanied the Israelites in the desert, now will be with them again, the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. The cloud will be a canopy over God's glory, a shelter for those who take refuge with God.
So what does this mean for us? What about the spirit of judgment? God is a God of justice. He cannot ignore our sins and failings, he has to deal with them. Sometimes we do not want to see where we have gone astray, and need to be brought back on track. If we have a sensitive heart and a listening ear, we can be brought back relatively easily "This is the way, walk in it" (Isa 30:21).
If we are more reluctant to change, God may have to resort to correction. He does not delight in discipline, just as a loving father does not look forward to disciplining his child. But Hebrews 12 tells us "God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness" (Heb 12:10). The result is that we share in his holiness, we have a closer relationship with Jesus, and our life is on track once more.
So if we are going through a hard patch in our life, consider if it may be that God is encouraging us to change in some area of our life. This is not some surprise, because he will have already spoken to us about the matter. Now he is telling us that it is time to turn back to him in this area of our life.
When we listen to him and respond to his discipline, our relationship with him will now be uncluttered by sin and he answers our prayers and communes with us in our time with him.
"Lord, please cleanse me from all my sin. Restore in me a heart that is pure before you, so that I may share in your glory and experience your closeness in my life. I know that any correction I may receive is for my good, help me to learn the lessons you are teaching me. Thank you Lord, amen".
Isaiah 4:4b "... he will cleanse the bloodstains from Jerusalem by a spirit of judgment and a spirit of fire".
The context of this verse is speaking of the end times, when Jesus returns to Jersalem, to reign as king. Chapter 2 speaks of the millenial time of peace that will exist under the Lord's reign, chapter 3 speaks of judgment on Jerusalem and details its sins, especially of the leaders of the people (3:14).
Punishment comes. But then in chapter 4 we return to Jesus' intervention. The Lord comes with a spirit of judgment - in other words, with justice - God's purpose is not to execute vengeance, but to cleanse his people. The spirit of fire then removes the sin.
The result is in verse 5 - the presence of the Lord that accompanied the Israelites in the desert, now will be with them again, the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. The cloud will be a canopy over God's glory, a shelter for those who take refuge with God.
So what does this mean for us? What about the spirit of judgment? God is a God of justice. He cannot ignore our sins and failings, he has to deal with them. Sometimes we do not want to see where we have gone astray, and need to be brought back on track. If we have a sensitive heart and a listening ear, we can be brought back relatively easily "This is the way, walk in it" (Isa 30:21).
If we are more reluctant to change, God may have to resort to correction. He does not delight in discipline, just as a loving father does not look forward to disciplining his child. But Hebrews 12 tells us "God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness" (Heb 12:10). The result is that we share in his holiness, we have a closer relationship with Jesus, and our life is on track once more.
So if we are going through a hard patch in our life, consider if it may be that God is encouraging us to change in some area of our life. This is not some surprise, because he will have already spoken to us about the matter. Now he is telling us that it is time to turn back to him in this area of our life.
When we listen to him and respond to his discipline, our relationship with him will now be uncluttered by sin and he answers our prayers and communes with us in our time with him.
"Lord, please cleanse me from all my sin. Restore in me a heart that is pure before you, so that I may share in your glory and experience your closeness in my life. I know that any correction I may receive is for my good, help me to learn the lessons you are teaching me. Thank you Lord, amen".
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