This is not some scientific treatise on the origins of man but rather the missing link in my life in my relationship with God. That missing link is prayer.
It's not that I don't pray because I do. Prayer is just hard. I don't know why that is. Well, maybe I do. There is great power in prayer. So the enemy tries to distract me, to take away my focus. But I voice thank yous to God for all sorts of things and I pray for those whose names and faces cross my mind. Some form of prayer crosses my mind or my lips every day but concentrated, intentional prayer is not something I engage in on a regular basis.
Prayer doesn't have to be on my knees or with tears or with anguish of soul but sometimes it should be. Maybe I'm just too casual in my relationship with God. Kneeling in submission before a king or ruler is not something an American child learns. We're taught to grab hold of what we want, go for the gold, fight for our rights, pull ourselves up. But that doesn't work with the sovereign Lord, the King of kings, the Creator of the universe.
He doesn't ask me to grovel at His feet; He is my Father and His love for me is boundless. But He does expect me to honor Him above any human level of honor. He expects me to talk (pray) with Him - not TO Him all the time but WITH Him - giving Him opportunity to speak to me. He wants to encourage, strengthen, comfort, guide, support and care for me as only a father - a perfect Father - can. He wants me to live my life in complete trust of His grace and mercy and goodness toward me no matter what my circumstance may be.
The greatest part of the missing link of prayer for me is a lack of urgency, a sense of there's not much time. There is a complacency in me toward those I know who don't know Jesus. What else could it be if I am not willing to stand in the gap for them? If I am not willing to cry out with anguish of heart for God to save them?
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Let No One Deceive You
Some of the things Paul wrote in his second letter to the Thessalonians in the mid AD 50's are very similar to the Revelation from Jesus to John when he was exiled on Patmos around AD 95 and even in Daniel written around 600 BC. Some who are skeptics of the Bible and not followers of Jesus Christ like to point out the few instances, taken out of context, that might be called discrepancies. But for those who really read and study the Bible, the similarities, the repeated truths, the prophecies and their fulfillment, all point to the Spirit of God leading the writers. Makes it completely trustworthy to me!
In 2 Thessalonians 2 Paul is telling the believers not to be deceived by those who claim Jesus Christ has come again. He goes on to talk about the "man of lawlessness" and the "mystery of lawlessness...already at work". He tells us "And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of His mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of His coming. The coming of the lawless one is by the power of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved." (vs 8-9)
The deception will be by great miracles and events that will make the world think this is the Messiah. That is why it is so necessary to study God's word, to know what God teaches, to be on guard for those who want to lead people away from the truth of Jesus to the false hope of men or money or prayer cloths.
Jesus still performs great miracles today. He still heals the sick. He still intervenes financially in the lives of believers. He still takes people from death to life. But this lawless one will do these things to bring glory to himself, not glory to Jesus.
One of the things I love so much about Pastor Perry is his insistence to turn every sermon, every thought, to Jesus, and only Jesus. We are being prepared to stand firm. "So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by the spoken word or by our letter." (vs 15) But Sunday morning is not enough. I must take initiative to study, take time to read, take time to pray seeking God's wisdom to know God's truth so that no one deceives me.
In 2 Thessalonians 2 Paul is telling the believers not to be deceived by those who claim Jesus Christ has come again. He goes on to talk about the "man of lawlessness" and the "mystery of lawlessness...already at work". He tells us "And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of His mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of His coming. The coming of the lawless one is by the power of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved." (vs 8-9)
The deception will be by great miracles and events that will make the world think this is the Messiah. That is why it is so necessary to study God's word, to know what God teaches, to be on guard for those who want to lead people away from the truth of Jesus to the false hope of men or money or prayer cloths.
Jesus still performs great miracles today. He still heals the sick. He still intervenes financially in the lives of believers. He still takes people from death to life. But this lawless one will do these things to bring glory to himself, not glory to Jesus.
One of the things I love so much about Pastor Perry is his insistence to turn every sermon, every thought, to Jesus, and only Jesus. We are being prepared to stand firm. "So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by the spoken word or by our letter." (vs 15) But Sunday morning is not enough. I must take initiative to study, take time to read, take time to pray seeking God's wisdom to know God's truth so that no one deceives me.
Monday, June 27, 2011
My Prayer for America
"Restore us, O God; let Your face shine, that we might be saved!" Psalm 80:3
In no way do I believe that God broke His covenant with Israel as His chosen people and made America that chosen people and chosen land. When Jesus returns it will not be to New York or Los Angeles or even middle America, it will be to Jerusalem.
But I do believe that the blessings of God were upon this land for many, many years because we were faithful in proclaiming His name AND living by His precepts. I recently watched a PBS special on the Palomar Observatory and George Hale who was the brain child behind it. When the 200" telescope - the largest in the world at that time - was used for the first time in 1949, the reporter said the stars in God's universe were more numerous that the grains of sand on all the beaches of earth. There was an understanding at that time that there is a Creator behind it all. But not anymore.
One of the interesting things about Psalm 80 is the progression of desperation for God to hear and to act. The psalmist starts out praying "O God;" then he goes to "O God of hosts;"(verse 7) and finally "O Lord God of hosts!" with an exclamation mark. America is in a desperate situation; we are in need of the exclamation mark, so I pray "Restore us, O Lord God of hosts! Let Your face shine, that we might be saved!" Psalm 80:19
In no way do I believe that God broke His covenant with Israel as His chosen people and made America that chosen people and chosen land. When Jesus returns it will not be to New York or Los Angeles or even middle America, it will be to Jerusalem.
But I do believe that the blessings of God were upon this land for many, many years because we were faithful in proclaiming His name AND living by His precepts. I recently watched a PBS special on the Palomar Observatory and George Hale who was the brain child behind it. When the 200" telescope - the largest in the world at that time - was used for the first time in 1949, the reporter said the stars in God's universe were more numerous that the grains of sand on all the beaches of earth. There was an understanding at that time that there is a Creator behind it all. But not anymore.
One of the interesting things about Psalm 80 is the progression of desperation for God to hear and to act. The psalmist starts out praying "O God;" then he goes to "O God of hosts;"(verse 7) and finally "O Lord God of hosts!" with an exclamation mark. America is in a desperate situation; we are in need of the exclamation mark, so I pray "Restore us, O Lord God of hosts! Let Your face shine, that we might be saved!" Psalm 80:19
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Did God Make Him That Way?
I read a post by worship leader in Nashville who was talking about his friend who is homosexual. The friend said I've always felt this way. The worship leader asked did God make him that way.
The issue of homosexuality is going to be THE next big thing the Church will have to deal with. Some denominations have already said it's okay to ordain ministers and elders who are practicing homosexuals (meaning they are actively involved in a sexual relationship) and will perform marriages between same sex partners in states where it is now legal. When the Bible speaks of marriage or marrying, it is always between a man and a woman, so marriage between same sex partners is never OK.
So, did God make him - and others - that way? I don't know and don't presume to have the answers. Some would say absolutely not. But God does not create just "perfect" people. Some are born mentally or physically challenged. Some are emotionally challenged. Why not sexually challenged?
I do know that God says unequivocally that "to lie with a man as a woman" is an abomination. Leviticus 18:22 I know that Paul calls homosexuality a sin - as is drunkenness, gluttony, adultery, murder, gossip, lying - but it is no worse that any other sin because ALL sin is an affront to a holy God. I also know that God says He makes a way out for every temptation that confronts us.
So what about the sexually challenged. I think that could include those like Tiger Woods and Arnold Schwarzenegger who claim to have a sexual addiction for women, not just those with same sex attractions. The thing is Jesus Christ can change all that. In fact I would go so far as to say that ONLY Jesus Christ can change those desires. My friend McKrae Game started a ministry to homosexuals after Jesus changed his life and rescued him from homosexuality.
A lot of people just don't want to change. They don't want to hear that there is healing. They don't want to admit they are a sinner in need of a Savior. They don't want to live a celibate life. Although I am heterosexual, I am single and because I follow Jesus Christ I maintain sexual purity. Jesus took me away from a VERY promiscuous lifestyle (addiction?) and I thank Him every day for that.
Anyone - heterosexual or homosexual - can maintain sexual purity by saying no, by denying themselves, grabbing hold of the way out of temptation, but without Jesus it is almost impossible . However, we are not animals that can not control our sexual urges or impulses. Many just don't want to. Even a long term relationship, without following God's principles for marriage and sexual purity, is a train wreck waiting to happen. If not in this life, then the next.
So our responsibility, as Christ followers, is not to separate ourselves from those who desperately need Jesus; not to point fingers and tell them how sinful they are, but to show the love and the grace that can be found in Jesus Christ alone. Jesus wants to rescue the hurting, the sick, the dying. The whole reason He came to earth was to die for ALL sinners, to be the sacrifice to cancel EVERY sin.
The issue of homosexuality is going to be THE next big thing the Church will have to deal with. Some denominations have already said it's okay to ordain ministers and elders who are practicing homosexuals (meaning they are actively involved in a sexual relationship) and will perform marriages between same sex partners in states where it is now legal. When the Bible speaks of marriage or marrying, it is always between a man and a woman, so marriage between same sex partners is never OK.
So, did God make him - and others - that way? I don't know and don't presume to have the answers. Some would say absolutely not. But God does not create just "perfect" people. Some are born mentally or physically challenged. Some are emotionally challenged. Why not sexually challenged?
I do know that God says unequivocally that "to lie with a man as a woman" is an abomination. Leviticus 18:22 I know that Paul calls homosexuality a sin - as is drunkenness, gluttony, adultery, murder, gossip, lying - but it is no worse that any other sin because ALL sin is an affront to a holy God. I also know that God says He makes a way out for every temptation that confronts us.
So what about the sexually challenged. I think that could include those like Tiger Woods and Arnold Schwarzenegger who claim to have a sexual addiction for women, not just those with same sex attractions. The thing is Jesus Christ can change all that. In fact I would go so far as to say that ONLY Jesus Christ can change those desires. My friend McKrae Game started a ministry to homosexuals after Jesus changed his life and rescued him from homosexuality.
A lot of people just don't want to change. They don't want to hear that there is healing. They don't want to admit they are a sinner in need of a Savior. They don't want to live a celibate life. Although I am heterosexual, I am single and because I follow Jesus Christ I maintain sexual purity. Jesus took me away from a VERY promiscuous lifestyle (addiction?) and I thank Him every day for that.
Anyone - heterosexual or homosexual - can maintain sexual purity by saying no, by denying themselves, grabbing hold of the way out of temptation, but without Jesus it is almost impossible . However, we are not animals that can not control our sexual urges or impulses. Many just don't want to. Even a long term relationship, without following God's principles for marriage and sexual purity, is a train wreck waiting to happen. If not in this life, then the next.
So our responsibility, as Christ followers, is not to separate ourselves from those who desperately need Jesus; not to point fingers and tell them how sinful they are, but to show the love and the grace that can be found in Jesus Christ alone. Jesus wants to rescue the hurting, the sick, the dying. The whole reason He came to earth was to die for ALL sinners, to be the sacrifice to cancel EVERY sin.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Be Doers of the Word
One of the first Bible verses I remember learning as a child was James 1:22 "Be doers of the word and not hearers only." James has a lot to say about living out our faith. He even goes so far as to say "faith without works is dead." Paul also addresses this when he says we are "created in Christ Jesus for good works".
My pastor also preaches this. He often tells us "just read the Bible and do what it says." He encourages us to be the hands and feet of Jesus. If God lays a burden on my heart - say a neighbor who needs groceries - it is my responsibility to get those groceries, not call the church office and tell the church they need to do something. We see this same story in James 2:15-16.
But this is not just a New Testament church thing. This is the very heart of God. Back in the days of Isaiah, God was telling the Israelites that they didn't understand fasting. They were setting aside a day to humble themselves, bowing down like a reed, covering themselves in sackcloth and ashes. But God said this is not what I desire. "Is not this the fast that I chose: to loose the bonds of wickedness...to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your houses; when you see the naked, to cover him..." Isaiah 58:6-7
Too many people in church today are like those Israelites, they are consumers putting on a good show for God. They show up on Sunday to sing the songs and listen to the sermon and then leave with never a thought of doing anything about what they heard, no thought of serving Jesus by serving others. I find that really sad because they are missing so much joy and so much connection with God.
My pastor also preaches this. He often tells us "just read the Bible and do what it says." He encourages us to be the hands and feet of Jesus. If God lays a burden on my heart - say a neighbor who needs groceries - it is my responsibility to get those groceries, not call the church office and tell the church they need to do something. We see this same story in James 2:15-16.
But this is not just a New Testament church thing. This is the very heart of God. Back in the days of Isaiah, God was telling the Israelites that they didn't understand fasting. They were setting aside a day to humble themselves, bowing down like a reed, covering themselves in sackcloth and ashes. But God said this is not what I desire. "Is not this the fast that I chose: to loose the bonds of wickedness...to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your houses; when you see the naked, to cover him..." Isaiah 58:6-7
Too many people in church today are like those Israelites, they are consumers putting on a good show for God. They show up on Sunday to sing the songs and listen to the sermon and then leave with never a thought of doing anything about what they heard, no thought of serving Jesus by serving others. I find that really sad because they are missing so much joy and so much connection with God.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Impossible Faith
I found two references in the Bible where the words faith and impossible are used together. Sometimes I run into people who claim to have faith but life seems impossible for them. Their circumstance seems to them to be beyond God's ability to handle. Or maybe they want something to happen and God says NO! and they won't take no for an answer.
I've been guilty myself in years past of trying to favorably arrange my circumstances or influence people to do what I want them to. There's nothing wrong with being proactive about a situation or letting people know what I want but when it becomes manipulation, I have a real problem. When I decide this needs to happen NOW so I just forget all about the counsel of God and forge full steam ahead, forgetting to wait for God's direction and God's timing, I end up in trouble and heartache.
Too often we confuse feelings with faith. I will not always feel that God is near but my faith tells me He is. I may not feel like He hears my prayers but my faith tells me He does. I may not feel joyful but my faith tells me I can rejoice always. I may not feel like a princess but my faith tells me I am a child of the King.
Some of that seems like impossible faith but Jesus tells us in Matthew 17:20, "if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed...nothing will be impossible for you." Jesus speaks of moving a mountain. Maybe it's an emotional mountain or a relational mountain or a mountain of debt. Whatever that mountain may be with just a little faith, it can be moved, conquered, overcome.
But there is another "impossible faith". God tells us in Hebrews 11:6, "And without faith it is impossible to please [God], for whoever would draw near to [Him] MUST believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him." (emphasis mine). Not only must I believe in God, I must believe that He is looking out for me. That He has plans for me - good plans. That He wants to set me up for success. And if I believe that then surrender of me and my plans is the only option.
I've been guilty myself in years past of trying to favorably arrange my circumstances or influence people to do what I want them to. There's nothing wrong with being proactive about a situation or letting people know what I want but when it becomes manipulation, I have a real problem. When I decide this needs to happen NOW so I just forget all about the counsel of God and forge full steam ahead, forgetting to wait for God's direction and God's timing, I end up in trouble and heartache.
Too often we confuse feelings with faith. I will not always feel that God is near but my faith tells me He is. I may not feel like He hears my prayers but my faith tells me He does. I may not feel joyful but my faith tells me I can rejoice always. I may not feel like a princess but my faith tells me I am a child of the King.
Some of that seems like impossible faith but Jesus tells us in Matthew 17:20, "if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed...nothing will be impossible for you." Jesus speaks of moving a mountain. Maybe it's an emotional mountain or a relational mountain or a mountain of debt. Whatever that mountain may be with just a little faith, it can be moved, conquered, overcome.
But there is another "impossible faith". God tells us in Hebrews 11:6, "And without faith it is impossible to please [God], for whoever would draw near to [Him] MUST believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him." (emphasis mine). Not only must I believe in God, I must believe that He is looking out for me. That He has plans for me - good plans. That He wants to set me up for success. And if I believe that then surrender of me and my plans is the only option.
Nate's Best FUSE Ever
When Nate got in the car on Wednesday night after FUSE, he said this was the best night ever! I said so tell me what made it so great. And he said...I got to lead my small group!
Now Nate is 11 years old. I know lots of adults who would not think being asked on the spur of the moment to lead the group of 10 or so with the regular leaders sitting around listening something to be excited about. LOTS of people would be so intimidated they might never come back. Not Nate. He was ecstatic!
And this Grandma? I was thanking Jesus as Nate told me all about it. Thanking Jesus for the work He is doing in Nate's life. Thanking Jesus for his small group leaders who see potential in him. Thanking Jesus that Nate found it exciting and wants to do it again.
Next Wednesday, he will be representing the 6th grade in reciting from memory Psalm 23. This will be in the main ballroom at CFC and they are encouraging the kids to invite lots of friends. The leadership is praying for 400-500 students to come.
I can hardly contain my excitement as I think about where this might lead Nate in the future. Now that I think about it, it was MY best FUSE ever too!
Now Nate is 11 years old. I know lots of adults who would not think being asked on the spur of the moment to lead the group of 10 or so with the regular leaders sitting around listening something to be excited about. LOTS of people would be so intimidated they might never come back. Not Nate. He was ecstatic!
And this Grandma? I was thanking Jesus as Nate told me all about it. Thanking Jesus for the work He is doing in Nate's life. Thanking Jesus for his small group leaders who see potential in him. Thanking Jesus that Nate found it exciting and wants to do it again.
Next Wednesday, he will be representing the 6th grade in reciting from memory Psalm 23. This will be in the main ballroom at CFC and they are encouraging the kids to invite lots of friends. The leadership is praying for 400-500 students to come.
I can hardly contain my excitement as I think about where this might lead Nate in the future. Now that I think about it, it was MY best FUSE ever too!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Eternity
I wish I had a sharper mind, or maybe a deeper mind. I read things in Scripture and sometimes I just can't get my mind around it. One of those things is eternity.
Although I believe it, I just can't quite grasp that God is. Just is - always in the present. Before there was time God is there."In the beginning God..." (Genesis 1:1) After time ends, God is there. "And He said to me, 'It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.'" (Revelation 21:6)
And He is omniscient so He is the only real "know it all". He IS the beginning and the end so He sees it all. We often can't see beyond today. Especially when we are in a pit of despair for some reason. That is even more reason to surrender daily to Jesus as Lord. We don't know what tomorrow holds but Jesus does. He has promised to work all the circumstances of our lives - good and bad - into something that is for our ultimate good and for His glory. "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son..." (Romans 8:28-29)
My brother, David, was one who really believed this. I was the black sheep of the family, my brother the "good" guy. But David was the one who got sick and suffered physically for 20+ years, As he was dying we were talking one day and I expressed my doubts about why David had to suffer and not me. I DESERVED to be sick and dying. I was the one who had told God to go away and leave me alone. (Thank you, Jesus, for not doing that!) David said maybe it was just that God knew he could handle it. And he did with much grace. He glorified God in all he did. He never complained. He never doubted God's love. He never gave up. He kept serving and giving and worshiping God every day. Hundreds came to his funeral and several met Jesus there. So even in death he was glorifying God.
One great thing to me about eternity is I will be united with my brother and Mama and Daddy who have all gone before me to be with Jesus. And we will worship Jesus forever. "But nothing unclean will ever enter it...but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever." (Revelation 21:27, 22:5)
Although I believe it, I just can't quite grasp that God is. Just is - always in the present. Before there was time God is there."In the beginning God..." (Genesis 1:1) After time ends, God is there. "And He said to me, 'It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.'" (Revelation 21:6)
And He is omniscient so He is the only real "know it all". He IS the beginning and the end so He sees it all. We often can't see beyond today. Especially when we are in a pit of despair for some reason. That is even more reason to surrender daily to Jesus as Lord. We don't know what tomorrow holds but Jesus does. He has promised to work all the circumstances of our lives - good and bad - into something that is for our ultimate good and for His glory. "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son..." (Romans 8:28-29)
My brother, David, was one who really believed this. I was the black sheep of the family, my brother the "good" guy. But David was the one who got sick and suffered physically for 20+ years, As he was dying we were talking one day and I expressed my doubts about why David had to suffer and not me. I DESERVED to be sick and dying. I was the one who had told God to go away and leave me alone. (Thank you, Jesus, for not doing that!) David said maybe it was just that God knew he could handle it. And he did with much grace. He glorified God in all he did. He never complained. He never doubted God's love. He never gave up. He kept serving and giving and worshiping God every day. Hundreds came to his funeral and several met Jesus there. So even in death he was glorifying God.
One great thing to me about eternity is I will be united with my brother and Mama and Daddy who have all gone before me to be with Jesus. And we will worship Jesus forever. "But nothing unclean will ever enter it...but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever." (Revelation 21:27, 22:5)
Monday, June 20, 2011
Have Mercy, O God
This morning as I was praying I asked God to have mercy on our country. I'd just turned off the news after seeing stories about fires in Arizona and Texas, floods where the Missouri River has broken through the levee, drought in South Georgia. And of course the destructive tornadoes of last month are still fresh on my mind.
But then I thought why should God have mercy on us as a nation? All those disasters cause talk of mother nature by every reporter. Every time I hear that when I'm around my grandchildren I remind them there is no mother nature only Father God. NBC, during the US Open golf championship yesterday, aired a patriotic tribute with kids saying the Pledge of Allegiance and conveniently cut out "under God, indivisible" from the pledge, not once but twice! You can see the You Tube video here. I also heard that New York is poised to become the 6th state to allow same sex marriages.
No wonder our country seems not to be blessed. However, I am so grateful that God IS blessing His Church and specifically NewSpring. Many are coming to faith in Jesus Christ. People are giving generously, volunteering joyfully, inviting friends faithfully, living out the core values we are taught. And it's not just NewSpring but other churches around the country who are faithfully preaching the Gospel are seeing Jesus Christ work in amazing ways.
Perhaps we need things to get really bad before most will understand that they can not put their faith in money or government or rights. It breaks my heart to see our country continually pushing God out but what I know is that He is STILL in control. No matter how hard we push. No matter what laws may be passed. No matter how far down we go. God is ALWAYS in control and there is always hope, there is always Jesus.
But then I thought why should God have mercy on us as a nation? All those disasters cause talk of mother nature by every reporter. Every time I hear that when I'm around my grandchildren I remind them there is no mother nature only Father God. NBC, during the US Open golf championship yesterday, aired a patriotic tribute with kids saying the Pledge of Allegiance and conveniently cut out "under God, indivisible" from the pledge, not once but twice! You can see the You Tube video here. I also heard that New York is poised to become the 6th state to allow same sex marriages.
No wonder our country seems not to be blessed. However, I am so grateful that God IS blessing His Church and specifically NewSpring. Many are coming to faith in Jesus Christ. People are giving generously, volunteering joyfully, inviting friends faithfully, living out the core values we are taught. And it's not just NewSpring but other churches around the country who are faithfully preaching the Gospel are seeing Jesus Christ work in amazing ways.
Perhaps we need things to get really bad before most will understand that they can not put their faith in money or government or rights. It breaks my heart to see our country continually pushing God out but what I know is that He is STILL in control. No matter how hard we push. No matter what laws may be passed. No matter how far down we go. God is ALWAYS in control and there is always hope, there is always Jesus.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Tough Times
Christians are known to occasionally question why the rich seem to get richer and the poor, poorer. Why those who don't acknowledge Jesus Christ - or even God in general - seem to prosper while those who strive to live for Jesus seem to struggle.
This is not a new problem, not new a thought. "But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled, my steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They are not in trouble as others are; they are not stricken like the rest of mankind." Psalm 73:3,5
Too often we have the mistaken view that surrendering to Christ should turn earth into heaven, but it doesn't. James tells us to "count it pure joy" when the tough times come because it brings opportunity for our faith to be tested and thus to persevere. Jesus tell us "in this world you will have trouble". Why do we believe Him when He says He is our only Savior but don't believe Him when He says life will be tough?
Christ followers will lose their jobs and get cancer and have wayward children. We are not immune to the trials the rest of the world faces. But how we face them - count it pure joy - can be a strong testimony to those around us of the presence of Jesus in our lives. Jesus said we would have trouble in this world but also that we can have peace in Him. Paul reminds us of that in Philippians 4:6-7. "Do not be anxious...the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
We have a choice when the tough times come - we can get angry with Jesus or trust Him completely. The Psalmist said, "When my soul was embittered, when I was pricked in heart, I was brutish and ignorant; I was like a beast toward You." but then "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:21-22,26
This is not a new problem, not new a thought. "But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled, my steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They are not in trouble as others are; they are not stricken like the rest of mankind." Psalm 73:3,5
Too often we have the mistaken view that surrendering to Christ should turn earth into heaven, but it doesn't. James tells us to "count it pure joy" when the tough times come because it brings opportunity for our faith to be tested and thus to persevere. Jesus tell us "in this world you will have trouble". Why do we believe Him when He says He is our only Savior but don't believe Him when He says life will be tough?
Christ followers will lose their jobs and get cancer and have wayward children. We are not immune to the trials the rest of the world faces. But how we face them - count it pure joy - can be a strong testimony to those around us of the presence of Jesus in our lives. Jesus said we would have trouble in this world but also that we can have peace in Him. Paul reminds us of that in Philippians 4:6-7. "Do not be anxious...the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
We have a choice when the tough times come - we can get angry with Jesus or trust Him completely. The Psalmist said, "When my soul was embittered, when I was pricked in heart, I was brutish and ignorant; I was like a beast toward You." but then "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:21-22,26
Friday, June 17, 2011
Preventive Maintenance
Today I had work done on my car. I have 90k miles on it and hope to drive it another 90k miles so I took it in for some preventive maintenance. Timing belt, water pump, fuel filter, check all the hoses and belts and fluids, repair a door lock. It was rather expensive but necessary if I want to keep my car in good shape.
As I thought about the car I also thought about my life - keeping it in good shape. I have to admit I don't do much preventive maintenance for my body with diet and exercise. But my doctor says I have good genes.
I also need preventive maintenance for my soul. Surrendering to Christ is just the beginning of the journey. I don't want to stumble. I don't want to fall. I don't want to miss the "well done!" If I want to finish well, I need to maintain my relationship with Jesus over the long haul. So I read my Bible regularly. I go to church weekly. I work to take my thoughts captive to Christ. I confess my sins. I worship God wherever I am - and not just on Sunday. I seek to walk in obedience so that my faith is strengthened.
It's so easy to slip away from the high calling of God. So easy to become entangled in the thought patterns of the world. So easy to become complacent in my relationship with God. So easy to let something go that really needs to be done to maintain a right relationship with Christ.
"Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen." Jude 24-25
As I thought about the car I also thought about my life - keeping it in good shape. I have to admit I don't do much preventive maintenance for my body with diet and exercise. But my doctor says I have good genes.
I also need preventive maintenance for my soul. Surrendering to Christ is just the beginning of the journey. I don't want to stumble. I don't want to fall. I don't want to miss the "well done!" If I want to finish well, I need to maintain my relationship with Jesus over the long haul. So I read my Bible regularly. I go to church weekly. I work to take my thoughts captive to Christ. I confess my sins. I worship God wherever I am - and not just on Sunday. I seek to walk in obedience so that my faith is strengthened.
It's so easy to slip away from the high calling of God. So easy to become entangled in the thought patterns of the world. So easy to become complacent in my relationship with God. So easy to let something go that really needs to be done to maintain a right relationship with Christ.
"Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen." Jude 24-25
Enough Already
I am so tired of hearing about now former congressman Anthony Weiner. He resigned yesterday after a series of inappropriate text messages to 6 or 7 women. He said "I apologize", which is not the same as "I was wrong, please forgive me" (or even better, "I have sinned"), as he resigned. So now I say, let it go.
I guess old Arnold Schwarzenegger is glad Weiner came along. Seems to have made everyone forget about his infidelity and marriage problems. Today the news is more like a soap opera. I can remember a time when I would occasionally watch soaps. You could watch one day and then come back a month later and it was the same stuff - you hadn't missed much. What did Solomon say? "There's nothing new under the sun."
I wonder why the "news" is so filled with the lurid details of people's downfalls. What makes these stories the top item for so many days? Is it really news? Is it the public's right to know? I think we enjoy pointing fingers and talking about how bad someone else is so we don't have to think about how bad we are.
Oh, but I would never do what they did! Maybe not. But we are all sinners. We might not be well known enough for our sins to be plastered all over the TV but they were plastered all over Jesus Christ. Our sins might not be "big" enough to garner any attention but they drove nails into Jesus' hands and feet.
These guys are public figures so they should expect public scrutiny. There are, and should be, consequences for their behavior. But the time comes when enough is enough.
I guess old Arnold Schwarzenegger is glad Weiner came along. Seems to have made everyone forget about his infidelity and marriage problems. Today the news is more like a soap opera. I can remember a time when I would occasionally watch soaps. You could watch one day and then come back a month later and it was the same stuff - you hadn't missed much. What did Solomon say? "There's nothing new under the sun."
I wonder why the "news" is so filled with the lurid details of people's downfalls. What makes these stories the top item for so many days? Is it really news? Is it the public's right to know? I think we enjoy pointing fingers and talking about how bad someone else is so we don't have to think about how bad we are.
Oh, but I would never do what they did! Maybe not. But we are all sinners. We might not be well known enough for our sins to be plastered all over the TV but they were plastered all over Jesus Christ. Our sins might not be "big" enough to garner any attention but they drove nails into Jesus' hands and feet.
These guys are public figures so they should expect public scrutiny. There are, and should be, consequences for their behavior. But the time comes when enough is enough.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
No Retirement
I am semi-retired these days. I was fully retired until gas prices began to soar so I went back to work part time. But even in my full retirement, I immediately began to volunteer my time and abilities to my church and to Mobile Meals.
I was already volunteering at church on Sunday as part of the production team and the prayer team. Now I am part of the care team as well doing week day follow up for people who contact the church for prayer or resources. I knew before I retired that I needed to do something useful so I didn't wait long to get started.
The thing is I could be perfectly content to sit in my chair and read books all day and play on the computer and talk to my cat and probably have very little interaction with people on a regular basis. I am perfectly content to be alone. I am content to eat alone and travel alone and go to the movies alone or just stay home alone. But I know that is not good for me - or for anyone. God made us for community.
Granted I do want to be with my grandchildren. I enjoy interacting with them and helping them grow in their relationship with Jesus. Nate and I will be going for a late lunch/early supper in about an hour before we head to Greenville for him to participate in FUSE.
God teaches that we are to be about His work even into our old age. Psalm 71:18 says, "So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim Your might to another generation, Your power to all those to come."
So even though I may be retired from gainful employment, I will never retire from serving God and serving others as long as God allows me the mental capacity to do so. Physical capacity doesn't matter because even from a wheelchair or a hospital bed, prayers of intercession can be offered on behalf of others. So no retirement for me!
I was already volunteering at church on Sunday as part of the production team and the prayer team. Now I am part of the care team as well doing week day follow up for people who contact the church for prayer or resources. I knew before I retired that I needed to do something useful so I didn't wait long to get started.
The thing is I could be perfectly content to sit in my chair and read books all day and play on the computer and talk to my cat and probably have very little interaction with people on a regular basis. I am perfectly content to be alone. I am content to eat alone and travel alone and go to the movies alone or just stay home alone. But I know that is not good for me - or for anyone. God made us for community.
Granted I do want to be with my grandchildren. I enjoy interacting with them and helping them grow in their relationship with Jesus. Nate and I will be going for a late lunch/early supper in about an hour before we head to Greenville for him to participate in FUSE.
God teaches that we are to be about His work even into our old age. Psalm 71:18 says, "So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim Your might to another generation, Your power to all those to come."
So even though I may be retired from gainful employment, I will never retire from serving God and serving others as long as God allows me the mental capacity to do so. Physical capacity doesn't matter because even from a wheelchair or a hospital bed, prayers of intercession can be offered on behalf of others. So no retirement for me!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Made Alive with Christ
"You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for He forgave all our sins. He canceled the record of charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross." Colossians 2:13-14 (NLT)
Those verses just absolutely overwhelm me. I can hardly read them without tears of joy at all God did for me through Christ Jesus.
No one, NO ONE, deserves salvation. Not the best of us or the worst of us. We all deserve the wrath of God, eternal punishment and eternal separation from God because of our sins.
Yet He loves us...no, He loves ME! Personally. He knows me as Nancy. He knows where I live and work and volunteer. He knows when I praise Him and when I ignore Him. He knows when I have a heart full of love and when my heart is hard.
He saw me when I was dead in my sins and loved me...2000 years before I was born, He loved me. Before the beginning of time He loved me. And He sent His son to die for me, for ME. I am overwhelmed by His love. And His forgiveness.
And not only the sins, but the sinful nature in me that drives me to sin, He took that out of my life and replaced it with His Spirit so I can be alive in Christ Jesus. No one knows what it means to truly live until they have surrendered to the death of their own life and taken up the life of Christ. All because of what He did on the cross. God nailed my sins to the cross. Jesus Christ bore the penalty on HIS body - so I wouldn't have to, so that God would cancel the record of charges against me.
But not just me, "God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son..." Every person has the opportunity to know the love of God, to live a life made alive by Jesus Christ.
Those verses just absolutely overwhelm me. I can hardly read them without tears of joy at all God did for me through Christ Jesus.
No one, NO ONE, deserves salvation. Not the best of us or the worst of us. We all deserve the wrath of God, eternal punishment and eternal separation from God because of our sins.
Yet He loves us...no, He loves ME! Personally. He knows me as Nancy. He knows where I live and work and volunteer. He knows when I praise Him and when I ignore Him. He knows when I have a heart full of love and when my heart is hard.
He saw me when I was dead in my sins and loved me...2000 years before I was born, He loved me. Before the beginning of time He loved me. And He sent His son to die for me, for ME. I am overwhelmed by His love. And His forgiveness.
And not only the sins, but the sinful nature in me that drives me to sin, He took that out of my life and replaced it with His Spirit so I can be alive in Christ Jesus. No one knows what it means to truly live until they have surrendered to the death of their own life and taken up the life of Christ. All because of what He did on the cross. God nailed my sins to the cross. Jesus Christ bore the penalty on HIS body - so I wouldn't have to, so that God would cancel the record of charges against me.
But not just me, "God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son..." Every person has the opportunity to know the love of God, to live a life made alive by Jesus Christ.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Seek the Things That Are Above
More than once in the Bible we are told, as Christ followers, to put aside our earthly desires, to set our minds on things above, to seek first the kingdom of God, to put on the new self in Christ, old things have passed away.
How hard is that!?! How can you put aside earthly desires when there is a boss to work for and bills to pay and children to raise and the car breaks down and the vacation is coming up and the economy sinks again and gas and food prices rise and ads everywhere entice me to buy, buy, buy?
Living the Christian life is not easy and nobody ever said it would be - except maybe a televangelist. But the Bible does not give any indication that it will be easy. Quite the opposite, in fact. Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble..." But Jesus also gave the answer to the trouble we will face. He said, "I have overcome the world!" and "In me you will have peace."
I have walked with Jesus many years now but I am still learning so much about this Christian life. One of the things that I have been learning - way too slowly - is that if I do focus on pleasing God, seeking Him through the Bible and prayer, He really will meet all my needs. He might not meet them the way I think He should, but He meets them nonetheless. And He does this as He changes my mind about what is important to me and what is not important so that I don't miss the "wants" because I don't want them anymore.
God is able "to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think..." When He doesn't seem to be doing that in my life, it is because my vision of God is too small. My faith in His word is too weak. My mind is filled with doubts about His willingness to provide. My wants overshadow my needs. My hearts desire is not His hearts desire for me. The only way to change all this is to "seek the things that are above."
How hard is that!?! How can you put aside earthly desires when there is a boss to work for and bills to pay and children to raise and the car breaks down and the vacation is coming up and the economy sinks again and gas and food prices rise and ads everywhere entice me to buy, buy, buy?
Living the Christian life is not easy and nobody ever said it would be - except maybe a televangelist. But the Bible does not give any indication that it will be easy. Quite the opposite, in fact. Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble..." But Jesus also gave the answer to the trouble we will face. He said, "I have overcome the world!" and "In me you will have peace."
I have walked with Jesus many years now but I am still learning so much about this Christian life. One of the things that I have been learning - way too slowly - is that if I do focus on pleasing God, seeking Him through the Bible and prayer, He really will meet all my needs. He might not meet them the way I think He should, but He meets them nonetheless. And He does this as He changes my mind about what is important to me and what is not important so that I don't miss the "wants" because I don't want them anymore.
God is able "to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think..." When He doesn't seem to be doing that in my life, it is because my vision of God is too small. My faith in His word is too weak. My mind is filled with doubts about His willingness to provide. My wants overshadow my needs. My hearts desire is not His hearts desire for me. The only way to change all this is to "seek the things that are above."
Sunday, June 12, 2011
On The Farm
At NewSpring we are currently in a series called On the Farm. Last week and this week Perry's message was "I want 10 things for every owner at NewSpring Church." At NewSpring we don't have members, we have owners because members have rights but owners have responsibilities.
No one will get them all right all the time because walking with Christ is a life-long journey with ups and downs but this is a good list for any Christ follower to seriously contemplate before God.
Perry said I want every owner of NewSpring Church:
1. to understand salvation in a Biblical context, knowing that they have been made right with God through Jesus Christ. (1 John 5:12-13, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4)
2. to truly learn how to find their identity in Christ. (Colossians 1:15-17, Philippians 3:7-14, Galatians 2:20)
3. to have a right relationship with others (Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 6:14-15, 1 John 2:9-11)
4. to love God's Church and be fully bought in to her potential (Matthew 16:13-18, Colossians 1:18, Ephesians 1:22; 3:10; 3:20-21)
5. to know about and discover their spiritual gift and use it to impact God's Kingdom (1 Corinthians 12:1; 12:7, 1 Peter 4:10)
6. to know how to lead someone to Christ and feel the calling/responsibility to do so (2 Corinthians 5:18-21, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15, Luke 24:48, John 20:21, Acts 1:8, Romans 1:16)
7. to learn how to recognize and follow the voice of God by reading the Bible on a daily basis (Hebrews 4:12, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Isaiah 45:18-19)
8. to have godly dating relationships, godly marriages and strive to raise children who have a heart for Jesus (2 Corinthians 6:14, Ephesians 5: 22-33; 6:1-4. Colossians 3:18-21, 1 Peter 3:1-7, Deuteronomy 6:4-9)
9. to steward their money in a Biblical way, putting God first, living within their means and embracing generosity as a core value in their life (Malachi 3:10, Proverbs 3:9-10, 1 Corinthians 6:1-2, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Psalm 37:25-26, 1 Timothy 6:17-19)
10. to feel the freedom to admit their weaknesses and confess AND repent of sin without feeling judged and condemned (Isaiah 1:18, 1 John 1:9, James 5:16, Romans 8:1)
No one will get them all right all the time because walking with Christ is a life-long journey with ups and downs but this is a good list for any Christ follower to seriously contemplate before God.
Perry said I want every owner of NewSpring Church:
1. to understand salvation in a Biblical context, knowing that they have been made right with God through Jesus Christ. (1 John 5:12-13, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4)
2. to truly learn how to find their identity in Christ. (Colossians 1:15-17, Philippians 3:7-14, Galatians 2:20)
3. to have a right relationship with others (Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 6:14-15, 1 John 2:9-11)
4. to love God's Church and be fully bought in to her potential (Matthew 16:13-18, Colossians 1:18, Ephesians 1:22; 3:10; 3:20-21)
5. to know about and discover their spiritual gift and use it to impact God's Kingdom (1 Corinthians 12:1; 12:7, 1 Peter 4:10)
6. to know how to lead someone to Christ and feel the calling/responsibility to do so (2 Corinthians 5:18-21, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15, Luke 24:48, John 20:21, Acts 1:8, Romans 1:16)
7. to learn how to recognize and follow the voice of God by reading the Bible on a daily basis (Hebrews 4:12, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Isaiah 45:18-19)
8. to have godly dating relationships, godly marriages and strive to raise children who have a heart for Jesus (2 Corinthians 6:14, Ephesians 5: 22-33; 6:1-4. Colossians 3:18-21, 1 Peter 3:1-7, Deuteronomy 6:4-9)
9. to steward their money in a Biblical way, putting God first, living within their means and embracing generosity as a core value in their life (Malachi 3:10, Proverbs 3:9-10, 1 Corinthians 6:1-2, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Psalm 37:25-26, 1 Timothy 6:17-19)
10. to feel the freedom to admit their weaknesses and confess AND repent of sin without feeling judged and condemned (Isaiah 1:18, 1 John 1:9, James 5:16, Romans 8:1)
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Thankfulness in Every Situation
This morning I got up and noticed it had rained overnight. So I said a great big Thank You! to God because I have been praying for rain.
I recently went back to work 8 hours a week and said a big Thank You! to God because I'd taken my need for extra income - gas prices, you know - to Him in prayer. I didn't want to go back to work. I actually asked God if He would allow me to spend $1 on a lottery ticket and make it pay off. (I know God doesn't do that but I share all my thoughts with Him - out loud.) The next day I had an email from a former client asking me to come work for him. So I thanked God for the job and the extra money.
Those are easy thank you's. But in Philippians 4:6 Paul writes, "...do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Thanksgiving in EVERY situation, God?! Now that is definitely NOT easy!
Does He expect me to be thankful for the illness or the job loss or the divorce? That seems rather cruel and God is love so that can't be it. Although we may at some point be thankful for the painful situation, when we are in the midst of it we just can't be. But we can always express thankfulness to God that He is in control. Thankfulness that His love endures forever. Thankfulness that He walks with us through the hard times. Thankfulness that He knows how and when this pain will go away. Thankfulness that He sees a bigger picture than we do. Thankfulness that He never leaves us.
Being thankful definitely brings me closer to God and allows my faith to grow. And it must really please the heart of God because when I do this "The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7 This situation becomes manageable because God pours out His peace on my heart and mind so that I can get through EVERY situation no matter how painful or scary or hard. HE will see me through! And THAT deserves a big Thank You! to God.
I recently went back to work 8 hours a week and said a big Thank You! to God because I'd taken my need for extra income - gas prices, you know - to Him in prayer. I didn't want to go back to work. I actually asked God if He would allow me to spend $1 on a lottery ticket and make it pay off. (I know God doesn't do that but I share all my thoughts with Him - out loud.) The next day I had an email from a former client asking me to come work for him. So I thanked God for the job and the extra money.
Those are easy thank you's. But in Philippians 4:6 Paul writes, "...do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Thanksgiving in EVERY situation, God?! Now that is definitely NOT easy!
Does He expect me to be thankful for the illness or the job loss or the divorce? That seems rather cruel and God is love so that can't be it. Although we may at some point be thankful for the painful situation, when we are in the midst of it we just can't be. But we can always express thankfulness to God that He is in control. Thankfulness that His love endures forever. Thankfulness that He walks with us through the hard times. Thankfulness that He knows how and when this pain will go away. Thankfulness that He sees a bigger picture than we do. Thankfulness that He never leaves us.
Being thankful definitely brings me closer to God and allows my faith to grow. And it must really please the heart of God because when I do this "The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7 This situation becomes manageable because God pours out His peace on my heart and mind so that I can get through EVERY situation no matter how painful or scary or hard. HE will see me through! And THAT deserves a big Thank You! to God.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
To Die Is Gain
At FUSE, the current sermon series is Psalm 23. Last night on the way home Nate was memorizing this Psalm. I just love it that he is encouraged to memorize scripture and to apply it to his life.
I don't remember what brought it up but on the way to FUSE the subject of dying came up. We talked about how no one wants to die. As people we always have dreams for the future, things we want to do, places we want to go. But we don't have to be afraid of dying because it will actually be better and we won't miss the stuff we didn't get to do.
Then when Nate was repeating Psalm 23 out loud in the car going home, we were able to talk more about not fearing death because "You are with me."
This morning I read Paul's letter to the Philippians. In 1:21 he states, "...to die is gain." But he prefaces that with "to live is Christ." I love the consistency of the Bible. David states he has no fear of the shadow of death because God is with him. Paul says to die is gain because Jesus Christ is not just an integral part of his life but IS his life. Both these men could make these bold statements because they had surrendered their lives to Jesus.
I want to be around for a long time so I can see Nate and Bella grow up. I look forward to taking Bella to FUSE one day and talking to her about the things of God as I do with Nate now. I look forward to what God is going to do in both their lives; to see Nate grown and serving God and perhaps raising a son of his own. To see Bella grow into the beautiful princess of the King of kings. To see her serve Jesus and perhaps a loving husband and family.
But despite all I want to do, to die is truly gain because I know Christ. To finally be in the presence of God for all eternity; to be done with the struggles of life and to just worship Jesus forever...how could that not be considered gain.
I don't remember what brought it up but on the way to FUSE the subject of dying came up. We talked about how no one wants to die. As people we always have dreams for the future, things we want to do, places we want to go. But we don't have to be afraid of dying because it will actually be better and we won't miss the stuff we didn't get to do.
Then when Nate was repeating Psalm 23 out loud in the car going home, we were able to talk more about not fearing death because "You are with me."
This morning I read Paul's letter to the Philippians. In 1:21 he states, "...to die is gain." But he prefaces that with "to live is Christ." I love the consistency of the Bible. David states he has no fear of the shadow of death because God is with him. Paul says to die is gain because Jesus Christ is not just an integral part of his life but IS his life. Both these men could make these bold statements because they had surrendered their lives to Jesus.
I want to be around for a long time so I can see Nate and Bella grow up. I look forward to taking Bella to FUSE one day and talking to her about the things of God as I do with Nate now. I look forward to what God is going to do in both their lives; to see Nate grown and serving God and perhaps raising a son of his own. To see Bella grow into the beautiful princess of the King of kings. To see her serve Jesus and perhaps a loving husband and family.
But despite all I want to do, to die is truly gain because I know Christ. To finally be in the presence of God for all eternity; to be done with the struggles of life and to just worship Jesus forever...how could that not be considered gain.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Qualified for Service
"Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus." Acts 4:13
I heard a pastor say Jesus does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called. How many times do members of the Church shy away from serving Jesus by saying oh, I couldn't do that. Or I don't have any training for that. In some ways I think the higher education of pastors and other ministers does a disservice to the Church.
I am NOT against higher education or studying church history or learning Greek or Hebrew or any of the things taught at seminaries around the world. I have taken a few seminary courses myself and find those courses can be helpful in understanding the Bible and the Church. But sometimes I think we have created a culture of Church people who use lack of education as an excuse not to do things Jesus asks us to do.
If you look at the disciples, you find men who were "uneducated, common men". Jesus didn't go to the synagogue and call the best students or the most favored rabbis. He went to the seashore and called fishermen. And to the marketplace to get a tax collector. He brought together that tax collector, Matthew, who worked for the Roman rulers and Simon the Zealot who worked for the overthrow of Roman rule; enemies in their former lives. There were the brothers James and John whom Jesus nicknamed Sons of Thunder and Thomas who became known for doubting the resurrection and Judas who would eventually betray Jesus.
This was a rag-tag bunch of men. But they "had been with Jesus" and were willing to be taught by Him and therefore turned Jerusalem and the surrounding territories upside down. Even Paul who was very educated declared I count it all nothing except for knowing Christ.
So why do we, today, have churches that won't hire a pastor who doesn't have a doctorate? Or staff members who have not been to seminary? Why do we put such value on the education of our ministers? EVERYONE who has surrendered to Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord is a minister of the gospel. None of the education matters when I get down to telling my story; relating how Jesus changed my life. EVERYONE of us has the same teachings available that the original twelve disciples had. If they can change the world so can we! We are qualified for service because Jesus called us and He equips us.
I heard a pastor say Jesus does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called. How many times do members of the Church shy away from serving Jesus by saying oh, I couldn't do that. Or I don't have any training for that. In some ways I think the higher education of pastors and other ministers does a disservice to the Church.
I am NOT against higher education or studying church history or learning Greek or Hebrew or any of the things taught at seminaries around the world. I have taken a few seminary courses myself and find those courses can be helpful in understanding the Bible and the Church. But sometimes I think we have created a culture of Church people who use lack of education as an excuse not to do things Jesus asks us to do.
If you look at the disciples, you find men who were "uneducated, common men". Jesus didn't go to the synagogue and call the best students or the most favored rabbis. He went to the seashore and called fishermen. And to the marketplace to get a tax collector. He brought together that tax collector, Matthew, who worked for the Roman rulers and Simon the Zealot who worked for the overthrow of Roman rule; enemies in their former lives. There were the brothers James and John whom Jesus nicknamed Sons of Thunder and Thomas who became known for doubting the resurrection and Judas who would eventually betray Jesus.
This was a rag-tag bunch of men. But they "had been with Jesus" and were willing to be taught by Him and therefore turned Jerusalem and the surrounding territories upside down. Even Paul who was very educated declared I count it all nothing except for knowing Christ.
So why do we, today, have churches that won't hire a pastor who doesn't have a doctorate? Or staff members who have not been to seminary? Why do we put such value on the education of our ministers? EVERYONE who has surrendered to Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord is a minister of the gospel. None of the education matters when I get down to telling my story; relating how Jesus changed my life. EVERYONE of us has the same teachings available that the original twelve disciples had. If they can change the world so can we! We are qualified for service because Jesus called us and He equips us.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
The Rebellious Dwell in a Parched Land
When I ran into this phrase at the end of verse 6 in Psalm 68, it struck a chord with me. America has become a rebellious land. God has been so gracious to us over the years; He has blessed this nation in so many ways. But 40 years or so ago, we began, as a nation, to turn away from God.
We began to clamor for our rights to do whatever we desire. We began to relegate God to Sunday mornings in church only and to determine He had no place in business or government or our Monday - Saturday lives. As a result we have legal abortions, legal gambling in most states, overcrowded prisons, high violent crime rates, pornography everywhere, marriage redefined as a union between two people in a committed relationship - no matter their gender. We also have unprecedented greed that leads to financial collapse on a personal and national level because we spend money we don't have to buy things we don't need or we steal money from people who trust us. (Think Madoff, etc.)
And then think about all the natural disasters happening around America this year. Tornadoes in Massachusetts where they thought a tornado was impossible; they were only to happen is the south and Midwest - and boy have they happened, hundreds of them with hundreds of fatalities! Floods all along the Mississippi and Missouri River basins. Winter snowstorms that have some parts of the Rockies under 800 inches of snow. It's gotta melt and the water's gotta go somewhere. A huge wildfire going in Arizona. Earthquakes in California. Dead birds by the hundreds and dead fish by the thousands all across the country. Here in South Carolina we are two weeks into heat that is running 10-15 degrees above normal and the beginnings of drought conditions. And when you add in all the disasters around the world, it is astonishing to think about.
We are dwelling in a parched land. Maybe not literally parched because some have way too much water. But we are in a land that is parched in spirit. Parched from the lack of Living Water. We push God away and push God away and then scream at Him for abandoning us, for allowing death and disaster to come upon us.
We need to pray for revival - revival for ourselves and for our land. We need to be about the business of God, sharing the Living Water, the life giving water that is Jesus Christ, to friends, neighbors, business associates parched by sin. People who are hopeless and dying without Jesus.
We began to clamor for our rights to do whatever we desire. We began to relegate God to Sunday mornings in church only and to determine He had no place in business or government or our Monday - Saturday lives. As a result we have legal abortions, legal gambling in most states, overcrowded prisons, high violent crime rates, pornography everywhere, marriage redefined as a union between two people in a committed relationship - no matter their gender. We also have unprecedented greed that leads to financial collapse on a personal and national level because we spend money we don't have to buy things we don't need or we steal money from people who trust us. (Think Madoff, etc.)
And then think about all the natural disasters happening around America this year. Tornadoes in Massachusetts where they thought a tornado was impossible; they were only to happen is the south and Midwest - and boy have they happened, hundreds of them with hundreds of fatalities! Floods all along the Mississippi and Missouri River basins. Winter snowstorms that have some parts of the Rockies under 800 inches of snow. It's gotta melt and the water's gotta go somewhere. A huge wildfire going in Arizona. Earthquakes in California. Dead birds by the hundreds and dead fish by the thousands all across the country. Here in South Carolina we are two weeks into heat that is running 10-15 degrees above normal and the beginnings of drought conditions. And when you add in all the disasters around the world, it is astonishing to think about.
We are dwelling in a parched land. Maybe not literally parched because some have way too much water. But we are in a land that is parched in spirit. Parched from the lack of Living Water. We push God away and push God away and then scream at Him for abandoning us, for allowing death and disaster to come upon us.
We need to pray for revival - revival for ourselves and for our land. We need to be about the business of God, sharing the Living Water, the life giving water that is Jesus Christ, to friends, neighbors, business associates parched by sin. People who are hopeless and dying without Jesus.
Monday, June 6, 2011
The Whole Armor of God
When a policeman goes to work, he puts on a whole lot of stuff. Some of it we can see and some of it we can't. He has his uniform that includes a hat, shirt, pants and shoes - all the regulations require. He also carries a badge that identifies him as a policeman. Underneath his shirt he has his bulletproof vest. Around his waist he has a belt that holds his pistol, mace, a stun gun, a baton, and probably other things.
A policeman would not ever think of going to work without putting on all of his uniform. I've been told the belt is pretty heavy and the vest can be hot. But the policeman wouldn't "mix and match" his uniform and gear and decided I will wear this and not that; I will carry this equipment but not that equipment. Wearing it all is important for battles he may face and for keeping him safe.
The same is true for the followers of Jesus Christ. In Ephesians 6:10-12, Paul instructs us about the battles we will face. He reminds us that our battles are not against people - not against our neighbors or our boss or even the politicians - but are spiritual in nature. Just like the policeman, we have a uniform to wear. Wearing it all is important for the battles we face and for keeping us safe.
Paul lists 6 pieces of armor: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the Gospel, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Too many people only put on the helmet. They are saved and they believe that is all they have to do. Then they wonder why the Christian life isn't working for them, why they don't seem to be overcoming their sins or their struggles. They never step out in faith, they don't read the word of God, they don't know Truth, they don't walk with integrity, they don't share the Good News of Jesus - the whole armor is missing.
No where in the Bible do I find a life of ease or a life free of struggle for God's people, at least not until the end of time when God makes all things new. God promised the children of Israel a land flowing with milk and honey but when they finally got there, they had to fight for each city, each territory. They same is true for us. God has given us the free gift of His Son but until He takes us home, we must fight battles. But He has supplied all the armor we need to stand firm in the battle, to stand firm to the very end, if we will just put it on.
A policeman would not ever think of going to work without putting on all of his uniform. I've been told the belt is pretty heavy and the vest can be hot. But the policeman wouldn't "mix and match" his uniform and gear and decided I will wear this and not that; I will carry this equipment but not that equipment. Wearing it all is important for battles he may face and for keeping him safe.
The same is true for the followers of Jesus Christ. In Ephesians 6:10-12, Paul instructs us about the battles we will face. He reminds us that our battles are not against people - not against our neighbors or our boss or even the politicians - but are spiritual in nature. Just like the policeman, we have a uniform to wear. Wearing it all is important for the battles we face and for keeping us safe.
Paul lists 6 pieces of armor: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the Gospel, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Too many people only put on the helmet. They are saved and they believe that is all they have to do. Then they wonder why the Christian life isn't working for them, why they don't seem to be overcoming their sins or their struggles. They never step out in faith, they don't read the word of God, they don't know Truth, they don't walk with integrity, they don't share the Good News of Jesus - the whole armor is missing.
No where in the Bible do I find a life of ease or a life free of struggle for God's people, at least not until the end of time when God makes all things new. God promised the children of Israel a land flowing with milk and honey but when they finally got there, they had to fight for each city, each territory. They same is true for us. God has given us the free gift of His Son but until He takes us home, we must fight battles. But He has supplied all the armor we need to stand firm in the battle, to stand firm to the very end, if we will just put it on.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Love vs Exposing Sin
Often people who are caught up in a sinful lifestyle will throw out the "you're judging me" card if their sin is exposed. Too often in the church, sins are not corrected at all. We are told, however, in Ephesians 5:11 that the shameful deeds of darkness are to be exposed.
But at the very beginning of the chapter, Paul tells us to "walk in love, as Christ loved us". Part of loving someone far from God is helping them come to know Christ. Part of loving a fellow believer is correcting sin when we know of it. There is, though, a fine line between judgement and correction - and that line is love.
Part of lovingly speaking to someone about a sinful lifestyle is to remember that I was once the same way. And not only was I once, I am still a sinner who is in need of correction from time to time. The longer I walk with God I hope I will recognize His correction through Scripture and will be wise and not need human intervention. But no one is immune to sin - human intervention may be necessary in the life of any believer at some time.
Those who need to know and understand the love and grace of Jesus Christ need to be in church. They need to know they are loved by God and by His Church. When they do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ, they can not be expected to live as a Christ follower should live. They are dead in their sins but while they are still sinners, Christ died for them.
It's when a person claims to be a follower of Jesus Christ, claims to be saved, but is living with a boyfriend or having sex with a fiancée or is getting drunk every weekend or some other destructive behavior - and doesn't try to hide the fact so that the lifestyle is clearly seen and known - then the Church must intervene. I love this story from a couple at NewSpring and a small group that loved them. When Christ is honored and truth is spoken in love, HE changes people and corrects the sinful lifestyle.
But at the very beginning of the chapter, Paul tells us to "walk in love, as Christ loved us". Part of loving someone far from God is helping them come to know Christ. Part of loving a fellow believer is correcting sin when we know of it. There is, though, a fine line between judgement and correction - and that line is love.
Part of lovingly speaking to someone about a sinful lifestyle is to remember that I was once the same way. And not only was I once, I am still a sinner who is in need of correction from time to time. The longer I walk with God I hope I will recognize His correction through Scripture and will be wise and not need human intervention. But no one is immune to sin - human intervention may be necessary in the life of any believer at some time.
Those who need to know and understand the love and grace of Jesus Christ need to be in church. They need to know they are loved by God and by His Church. When they do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ, they can not be expected to live as a Christ follower should live. They are dead in their sins but while they are still sinners, Christ died for them.
It's when a person claims to be a follower of Jesus Christ, claims to be saved, but is living with a boyfriend or having sex with a fiancée or is getting drunk every weekend or some other destructive behavior - and doesn't try to hide the fact so that the lifestyle is clearly seen and known - then the Church must intervene. I love this story from a couple at NewSpring and a small group that loved them. When Christ is honored and truth is spoken in love, HE changes people and corrects the sinful lifestyle.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
God's Power Toward Us
I wonder sometimes why the journey toward faith is so long and hard. It would be nice if we were "grown ups" in faith as soon as we acknowledged our sin and asked Jesus to forgive us.
In Ephesians Paul talks about "the immeasurable greatness of [God's] power toward us who believe" - the same power that raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at the right hand of God. This same power was used to raise us from the dead..."you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked. But God being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when were were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ...and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus"
Sometimes when I remember the struggles I had with overcoming the sins in my life, I wish it hadn't been so hard to believe God's promises and to walk in His ways. I wanted desperately to live a life pleasing to God but would find myself slipping back into thoughts and actions that were part of my old life. Part of it is the battle "against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." The enemy doesn't easily let go. It is imperative that I remember that God's power is greater. I don't have to give in to the desires of my flesh.
We all have choices to make all day long. We can choose right or we can choose wrong. We can choose to live for this moment or we can choose to live for eternity. We can choose to please ourselves or we can choose to please God.
Long years ago there was a comedian named Flip Wilson who played a character named Geraldine who often said, "The devil made me do it!" We like that cop out. We don't want to take responsibility. When Adam and Eve sinned back in the Garden of Eden, Adam blamed Eve (and God), and Eve blamed the serpent. From the beginning of time we have claimed to be a victim; claimed "It's not my fault!" But it is.
What great hope there is in knowing that God loves us, Jesus saves us and the Holy Spirit empowers us to live a life that glorifies God by helping us make right choices. God's great power brings life and victory but we must choose to walk in it.
In Ephesians Paul talks about "the immeasurable greatness of [God's] power toward us who believe" - the same power that raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at the right hand of God. This same power was used to raise us from the dead..."you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked. But God being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when were were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ...and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus"
Sometimes when I remember the struggles I had with overcoming the sins in my life, I wish it hadn't been so hard to believe God's promises and to walk in His ways. I wanted desperately to live a life pleasing to God but would find myself slipping back into thoughts and actions that were part of my old life. Part of it is the battle "against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." The enemy doesn't easily let go. It is imperative that I remember that God's power is greater. I don't have to give in to the desires of my flesh.
We all have choices to make all day long. We can choose right or we can choose wrong. We can choose to live for this moment or we can choose to live for eternity. We can choose to please ourselves or we can choose to please God.
Long years ago there was a comedian named Flip Wilson who played a character named Geraldine who often said, "The devil made me do it!" We like that cop out. We don't want to take responsibility. When Adam and Eve sinned back in the Garden of Eden, Adam blamed Eve (and God), and Eve blamed the serpent. From the beginning of time we have claimed to be a victim; claimed "It's not my fault!" But it is.
What great hope there is in knowing that God loves us, Jesus saves us and the Holy Spirit empowers us to live a life that glorifies God by helping us make right choices. God's great power brings life and victory but we must choose to walk in it.
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