Our church is beginning an 8 week adventure based off the book "Barefoot Church Serving The Least In a Consumer Culture" by author Brandon Hatmaker. I just finished reading chapter 1 and can see that I definitely need to look long and hard at how I perceive the people around me. Not only the people I'm in everyday contact with but neighbors and those less fortunate than myself. How often do I just walk past those that are hungry or suffering? How many times do I not take time to find out what causes people to behave the way they do? This first chapter has really opened my eyes.
In order for me to be effective in this adventure, I must look within my heart at what I already know. Not what I feel comfortable doing, but reaching out of my comfort zone and helping those in need.
"Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, "The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is in your midst." Luke 17:20-21 (NIV)
This verse is telling us that the kingdom of God is not a place that we can find on a map, but we need to look at what God is doing within peoples hearts. That is where the kingdom of God is. When we take the time to find out what is going on in people's lives we will be able to minister more to their actual needs.
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
"You can't light another's path without casting light on your own." John Maxwell
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Sunday, September 23, 2012
"Being Reminded"
I find myself being consumed with everything going on in my personal life that I often overlook the need to be fed by the word of God. This is not something that I am proud of, in fact, I often have to remind myself to slow down and make the time. A friend of mine recently reminded me that I have been neglecting this Blog.
Today in church we talked about "the deceiver" and it hit me that Satan has been preoccupying my time. I am in no way trying to make excuses for failing to have my daily time in the word of God, just realized that we all need to be reminded from time to time that we must make the time to reflect in the wisdom and awesome love that God gives us.
On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them."John 7:37-38 (NIV)
John 7:37-38 gives us hope that even though the deceiver will try to make our paths cloudy, all who believes in Jesus will be shown the path.
Today in church we talked about "the deceiver" and it hit me that Satan has been preoccupying my time. I am in no way trying to make excuses for failing to have my daily time in the word of God, just realized that we all need to be reminded from time to time that we must make the time to reflect in the wisdom and awesome love that God gives us.
On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them."John 7:37-38 (NIV)
John 7:37-38 gives us hope that even though the deceiver will try to make our paths cloudy, all who believes in Jesus will be shown the path.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
"Love"
The word love is used in 442 verses in the King James Version. We often hear people throw the word love around without fully understanding its meaning. One definition is: a profoundly tender, passionate affection for another person; a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, as for a parent, child, or friend. We all know what it feels like to love someone, and know the pain that love can cause in our lives. One thing is for certain and will never change.....The love that God has for us! God has proven to us time and time again how He loves us.
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.......And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:4-13
This reflection of love is best suited for relationships. When dealing with relationships, we must nurture the relationships in order to build the love for one another. Love is an emotion that and expressed through various types of relationships. Some of these relationships include: love of a spouse, love between siblings, love of your children or parents, and love of your friends.
"Faith and doubt cannot exist in the same mind at the same time, for one will dispel the other." Thomas S. Monson
"If you judge people, you have no time to love them." Mother Teresa
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that." Martin Luther King Jr.
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.......And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:4-13
This reflection of love is best suited for relationships. When dealing with relationships, we must nurture the relationships in order to build the love for one another. Love is an emotion that and expressed through various types of relationships. Some of these relationships include: love of a spouse, love between siblings, love of your children or parents, and love of your friends.
"Faith and doubt cannot exist in the same mind at the same time, for one will dispel the other." Thomas S. Monson
"If you judge people, you have no time to love them." Mother Teresa
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that." Martin Luther King Jr.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
"Can We Teach Discipline?"
In order to determine if we can teach discipline, we must first define discipline. Discipline means training to act in accordance with rules. This clearly states that it takes training in order to be disciplined. Parents take time to train their children to be disciplined while at home or when out in public. Just like our children, we too need to be disciplined. Our heavenly Father does just that. God expects His followers to be disciplined and act according to His words in the Bible.
"Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray." Proverbs 10:17 (NIV).
"For this command is a lamp, this teaching is a light and correction and instruction are the way to life" Proverbs 6:23 (NIV).
"Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies will have their fill of poverty." Proverbs 28:19 (NIV).
These verses tell us that God wants us as Christians to follow the rules and be disciplined and obedient to His teachings. We will be faced with the consequences for not following His teachings. Once we are taught the correct way, we should continue to move forward and never turn back to our undisciplined ways.
"Discipline is the training that develops and corrects." Charles Stanley
"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." Hebrews 12:11 (NIV).
"Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray." Proverbs 10:17 (NIV).
"For this command is a lamp, this teaching is a light and correction and instruction are the way to life" Proverbs 6:23 (NIV).
"Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies will have their fill of poverty." Proverbs 28:19 (NIV).
These verses tell us that God wants us as Christians to follow the rules and be disciplined and obedient to His teachings. We will be faced with the consequences for not following His teachings. Once we are taught the correct way, we should continue to move forward and never turn back to our undisciplined ways.
"Discipline is the training that develops and corrects." Charles Stanley
"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." Hebrews 12:11 (NIV).
Thursday, January 19, 2012
"Being Content With What We Have"
Contentment means different things to different people. For me, contentment was having an understanding that I should be happy with everything in my life and be thankful.
"But godliness with contentment is great gain." 1 Timothy 6:6 (NIV).
This verse tells us that we should honor God and center our desires on Him. Turning our thoughts and desires to God will allow God to teach us how to accept the gifts that God gives to us and be thankful for them. Not everything that happens in our lives are good and we must not dwell on the negative aspects because when we dwell on the negative situations, we are allowing ourselves to disobey God.
"The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace." Psalm 29:11 (NIV)
Each of us need to come to our own understanding of what it means to be content or to have contentment. No matter the troubles that we are facing in our own lives, we must remember that Jesus went through all these pains and sorrows so we could have an eternal life with Him!
"The most powerful life is the most simple life. The most powerful life is the life that knows where it's going, that knows where the source of strength is; it is the life that stays free of clutter and happenstance and hurriedness." Max Lucado
"But godliness with contentment is great gain." 1 Timothy 6:6 (NIV).
This verse tells us that we should honor God and center our desires on Him. Turning our thoughts and desires to God will allow God to teach us how to accept the gifts that God gives to us and be thankful for them. Not everything that happens in our lives are good and we must not dwell on the negative aspects because when we dwell on the negative situations, we are allowing ourselves to disobey God.
"The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace." Psalm 29:11 (NIV)
Each of us need to come to our own understanding of what it means to be content or to have contentment. No matter the troubles that we are facing in our own lives, we must remember that Jesus went through all these pains and sorrows so we could have an eternal life with Him!
"The most powerful life is the most simple life. The most powerful life is the life that knows where it's going, that knows where the source of strength is; it is the life that stays free of clutter and happenstance and hurriedness." Max Lucado
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
New Chapter
I want to first apologize for not writing anything in a very long while. Many people know the situation that I am in and will understand the meaning of this post. "If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic." Luke 6:29 (NIV). "But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also." Matthew 5:39 (NIV). I never really thought too much about these passages except that I thought it was referring to a physical altercation. I never realized that it can also refer to closing a chapter in ones life and opening a new chapter. While I still have a heavy heart about the entire situation and will always love the times that we had. I do realize that we will never be able to be together again and have come to the realization that I know God has plans for my life and will walk with me through the rough times.
I guess I should have continued to write my blogs as a way to get through these times, but I wasn't thinking clearly. I am extremely busy with work, school, and spending as much time with my kids as possible that I am finding it difficult to find time to write on this blog page. I will begin making time to write more frequently.
I guess I should have continued to write my blogs as a way to get through these times, but I wasn't thinking clearly. I am extremely busy with work, school, and spending as much time with my kids as possible that I am finding it difficult to find time to write on this blog page. I will begin making time to write more frequently.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
"New Beginnings"
"That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9 (NIV).
When we ask Jesus to forgive our sins and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are considered saved. Sometimes saved is referred to by other names such as: Born Again, New Believer, and baby Christians. While each of these phrases have a similar meanings, one really stood out to me. I am currently reading "Free Book" by Brian Tome and on page 37 he calls this "A Fresh New Start".
What is "A Fresh New Start"? How does this relate to "Being Saved"? Well, when we accept Jesus to live in our heart, He takes all the sin away from our past. This is shedding away the old sinful you and beginning a fresh new start. This is our clean slate in life and we should not continue to make the same mistakes or sins from the past.
"Jesus replied, "Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again." John 3:3 (NIV).
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV).
"No man is ever the same after God has laid His hand upon him." A. W. Tozer
Reference: "Free Book" by Brian Tome, page 37, paragraph 3: Thomas Nelson publishing, 2010.
When we ask Jesus to forgive our sins and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are considered saved. Sometimes saved is referred to by other names such as: Born Again, New Believer, and baby Christians. While each of these phrases have a similar meanings, one really stood out to me. I am currently reading "Free Book" by Brian Tome and on page 37 he calls this "A Fresh New Start".
What is "A Fresh New Start"? How does this relate to "Being Saved"? Well, when we accept Jesus to live in our heart, He takes all the sin away from our past. This is shedding away the old sinful you and beginning a fresh new start. This is our clean slate in life and we should not continue to make the same mistakes or sins from the past.
"Jesus replied, "Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again." John 3:3 (NIV).
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV).
"No man is ever the same after God has laid His hand upon him." A. W. Tozer
Reference: "Free Book" by Brian Tome, page 37, paragraph 3: Thomas Nelson publishing, 2010.
"God's Approval"
I know this sounds crazy but, I have often struggled with trying to earn God's approval for things that I do. I was always looking for new ways to gain God's approval. Some of these ways I tried were: attending church every Sunday and Wednesday (when I wasn't working), supporting all church functions and helping in anyway possible. I was doing this for all the wrong reasons and didn't realize at the time that I couldn't earn God's approval through my works. I know that I'm not the only person that has struggled with this, but I've made it past this foolish behavior and so can you.
"But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." Romans 3:21-24 (NIV).
"And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace." Romans 11:6 (NIV).
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV).
"That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9 (NIV).
The only way that God can give us His approval is for us to ask Jesus to forgive us for our sins, and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. The minute that we accept Jesus to live in our heart, we then gain God's approval. See, God cannot approve of anything that is unclean or has sin. The second that Jesus enters our life, our slate or sin is wiped clean with the blood of Christ and we become clean. Then we are worthy of God's approval!
"But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." Romans 3:21-24 (NIV).
"And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace." Romans 11:6 (NIV).
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV).
"That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9 (NIV).
The only way that God can give us His approval is for us to ask Jesus to forgive us for our sins, and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. The minute that we accept Jesus to live in our heart, we then gain God's approval. See, God cannot approve of anything that is unclean or has sin. The second that Jesus enters our life, our slate or sin is wiped clean with the blood of Christ and we become clean. Then we are worthy of God's approval!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
"The Lord Will Provide"
Throughout the Bible, God is given many names. One of the names is "The Lord Will Provide" (Yahweh - Yireh). "The Lord Will Provide" is a name that many find difficult to relate to because of the hardships in their life. I was one of those persons that felt that I could control and provide for myself. Some people may be out of work, homeless, have no food, and no clothes. It is important for everyone, even those down and out, to relate to God as "The Lord Will Provide". How is this done? First we need to start with by providing background for our story and end by showing the relationship between the sacrifice of Abraham and the sacrifice from God.
"But the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, "Abraham! Abraham!" "Here I am," he replied. "Do not lay a hand on the boy," he said. "Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son." Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, "On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided," Genesis 22:11-14 (NIV). I find it extremely amazing that Abraham was so obedient to the Lord, that he was willing to sacrifice his only son. In verse 14, Abraham called this particular place on the mountain Yireh. We also see the relationship between Abraham sacrificing his only son to God sacrificing His only Son. The one difference is that God provided Abraham with a ram or lamb to sacrifice when He saw how obedient Abraham was. God knew that sacrificing Jesus was the only way to provide a Savior to the world.
Yahweh - Yireh ~ "The Lord Will Provide"
Thank you God for sacrificing your one and only Son, in order to save me, a sinner, and give me everlasting life. Amen!
"But the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, "Abraham! Abraham!" "Here I am," he replied. "Do not lay a hand on the boy," he said. "Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son." Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, "On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided," Genesis 22:11-14 (NIV). I find it extremely amazing that Abraham was so obedient to the Lord, that he was willing to sacrifice his only son. In verse 14, Abraham called this particular place on the mountain Yireh. We also see the relationship between Abraham sacrificing his only son to God sacrificing His only Son. The one difference is that God provided Abraham with a ram or lamb to sacrifice when He saw how obedient Abraham was. God knew that sacrificing Jesus was the only way to provide a Savior to the world.
Yahweh - Yireh ~ "The Lord Will Provide"
Thank you God for sacrificing your one and only Son, in order to save me, a sinner, and give me everlasting life. Amen!
"Role Models"
Who should we be a role model for? Many of us have people looking up to us and watching our every move. Some of the people watching us are our children, co-workers, family, friends, and others that are looking for the way to live their life. Are we being a role model that is worthy of others following our lead? September 26, 2011 I went to a local coffee house to watch a live simulcast of Louie Giglio Passion 2012 Live Link. I really felt that what Louie was talking directly to me; telling me that I need to be a better role model for my kids, my co-workers, and the friends that I am around. I want people to see the way I live and know that I live for Jesus. I want people to see Jesus in everything I do. I want my kids to know that I will seek the guidance from Jesus for all decisions that I make and hopefully I can teach them to seek the same guidance.
"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV). Let your light shine so others can see Christ in your life.
"A man ought to live so that everybody knows he is a Christian, and most of all, his family ought to know." D. L. Moody
"As a child of God, rest in the knowledge that your Savior precedes you, and He will walk with you through each experience of your life." Henry Blackaby
I find this very reassuring that Jesus has already walked ahead of us to make sure we are able to make it through any situation as long as we have Jesus walking with us. This should give us confidence that we express through the shinning of our light to guide others.
So, if we have so many looking to us for the right way to live, shouldn't we begin to live a life that is worthy of letting our light shine to show the way for others? We shouldn't do anything in private that we couldn't do in public. Let your light shine! Let your light guide others! Be the role model for others!
"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV). Let your light shine so others can see Christ in your life.
"A man ought to live so that everybody knows he is a Christian, and most of all, his family ought to know." D. L. Moody
"As a child of God, rest in the knowledge that your Savior precedes you, and He will walk with you through each experience of your life." Henry Blackaby
I find this very reassuring that Jesus has already walked ahead of us to make sure we are able to make it through any situation as long as we have Jesus walking with us. This should give us confidence that we express through the shinning of our light to guide others.
So, if we have so many looking to us for the right way to live, shouldn't we begin to live a life that is worthy of letting our light shine to show the way for others? We shouldn't do anything in private that we couldn't do in public. Let your light shine! Let your light guide others! Be the role model for others!
Monday, October 3, 2011
"The Battle"
Each one of us have daily battles we fight. These battles can be at home, work, school, or in our everyday life. Satan exist and his quest is to destroy the and devour as many souls as he can. We need to realize that we are in a definite spiritual warfare. Satan knows what our weaknesses are and will continue to attack these weaknesses. This is Satan's battle that he aims toward believers and non-believers alike. Both believers and non-believers will fall to some of the temptations but the difference is the believers will repent for what they have done and try to turn from their sins.
Pride = Selfishness
Humility = Selflessness
"The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 23:11-12 (NIV).
"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4 (NIV).
John is telling us that the battle has already been won for us. Jesus will conquer all evil in our lives.
"That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day." 2 Timothy 1:12 (NIV).
We need to remember that the battles that we face daily, Jesus has already faced these temptations or battles, and won.
"Two works of mercy set a man free: forgive and you will be forgiven, and give and you will receive." St. Augustine.
Pride = Selfishness
Humility = Selflessness
"The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 23:11-12 (NIV).
"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4 (NIV).
John is telling us that the battle has already been won for us. Jesus will conquer all evil in our lives.
"That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day." 2 Timothy 1:12 (NIV).
We need to remember that the battles that we face daily, Jesus has already faced these temptations or battles, and won.
"Two works of mercy set a man free: forgive and you will be forgiven, and give and you will receive." St. Augustine.
Monday, September 19, 2011
"Faith and Endurance"
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4 (NIV).
People often face trials that test our ability to not have resentment toward those that cause the trials, and have a sense of peace after going through the trials. James doesn't say if we have trials, but says when we have trials. These trials are a way for us to profit from persevering through the trials. What? How can one persevere through the trials and find profit? The profit is the satisfaction of knowing that we trusted God to make it through the troubles. God will stay with us through the trials of life and never leave us nor forsake us.
We shouldn't pretend that everything is always alright, instead it is important for us to maintain a positive outlook. Christians should always look at the good and the bad and find the positive that can come from the situation. It is important to remember to always Thank God for promising to lead us through the trials. We should also ask God to solve the problems for us. It is then our turn to be have patience when waiting for God to respond to our request. This is the true test of faith and endurance.
"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trials, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12 (NIV).
People often face trials that test our ability to not have resentment toward those that cause the trials, and have a sense of peace after going through the trials. James doesn't say if we have trials, but says when we have trials. These trials are a way for us to profit from persevering through the trials. What? How can one persevere through the trials and find profit? The profit is the satisfaction of knowing that we trusted God to make it through the troubles. God will stay with us through the trials of life and never leave us nor forsake us.
We shouldn't pretend that everything is always alright, instead it is important for us to maintain a positive outlook. Christians should always look at the good and the bad and find the positive that can come from the situation. It is important to remember to always Thank God for promising to lead us through the trials. We should also ask God to solve the problems for us. It is then our turn to be have patience when waiting for God to respond to our request. This is the true test of faith and endurance.
"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trials, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12 (NIV).
Daily Choices
Every day we are faced with lots of choices as we go through the day. Some of these choices may feel very insignificant while others are of great importance. God wants us to turn to Him for each of these choices we make and especially for the large decisions that we have to make. These decisions can be about what you will do today or what words you will speak. It is extremely important that Christians need to rely on prayer for the direction we need to take with these choices. Some of the choices being made may seem like they are for the best, but only God knows what is best for our lives. Waiting to hear from God can take time. Time is how God gives us patience and also test our obedience. Waiting for God's response isn't always easy to sit back and wait. I have a very difficult time with waiting for the answer and God is working on this in my life right now. Since I have began to pray about every situation, I have been given more patience to sit and wait for God's response. In my personal life, God is still working out some of the details for what He wants me to do in furthering my education in order to benefit His Kingdom. I can't wait till all the details are given to me so I can begin this new chapter of my life and begin my ministry.
"So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 (NIV).
"Life is pretty much like a cafeteria line - it offers us many choices, both good and bad. The Christian must have a spiritual radar that detects the difference not only between bad and good but also among good, better, and best." Dennis Swanberg.
"So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 (NIV).
"Life is pretty much like a cafeteria line - it offers us many choices, both good and bad. The Christian must have a spiritual radar that detects the difference not only between bad and good but also among good, better, and best." Dennis Swanberg.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
"Disciples or Apostles"
While having lunch with a friend the other day, we began talking about apostles. I was oblivious to the fact that there was a distinct difference between the terms disciples and apostles. I was told what the difference was and took it upon myself to find out a little more.
The word disciple(s) is defined as a follower or student of some doctrine. Apostle(s) is defined as a messenger or the sent ones. What does this actually mean? How are we to respond to this in our day and time?
I know that I'm not the only one who thought that disciples and apostles were one in the same. Now that I know what the difference is I know which I would rather be called..... but I'll save that for later. Jesus had hundreds of people follow him from place to place to listen to him teach. Out of these hundreds of people Jesus chose twelve to be called His Disciples. These twelve were to learn from his teachings and grow in the faith and obedience to Jesus. This was the students following their teacher looking to Jesus for guidance. Jesus was preparing them to be the messengers for Christ.
Why did Jesus choose twelve to follow?
Jesus said "Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel." Matthew 19:28 (NIV). Jesus chose twelve to represent the twelve tribes of Israel.
So...when people of our time decide to follow Christ and become believers, we are disciples. We attend church regularly, listen to the sermons, and grow in our faith to Christ. But then we become complacent and this is were we need to change. We as Christians need to get off the pews and begin venturing out into the communities in which we live. It should be our desire to become apostles for Christ, sharing the knowledge that we have with others. We should break the mold and branch out into uncharted waters.
So, I ask again. What would you like to be considered...a disciple or an apostle? It is my desire to be an apostle.
I challenge each of you to find other scriptures were Jesus trains the disciples to become apostles. The majority of His teaching was done through parables.
"Instead of living a black-and-white existence, we'll be released into a Technicolor world of vibrancy and emotion when we more accurately reflect His nature to the world around us." Bill Hybels
The word disciple(s) is defined as a follower or student of some doctrine. Apostle(s) is defined as a messenger or the sent ones. What does this actually mean? How are we to respond to this in our day and time?
I know that I'm not the only one who thought that disciples and apostles were one in the same. Now that I know what the difference is I know which I would rather be called..... but I'll save that for later. Jesus had hundreds of people follow him from place to place to listen to him teach. Out of these hundreds of people Jesus chose twelve to be called His Disciples. These twelve were to learn from his teachings and grow in the faith and obedience to Jesus. This was the students following their teacher looking to Jesus for guidance. Jesus was preparing them to be the messengers for Christ.
Why did Jesus choose twelve to follow?
Jesus said "Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel." Matthew 19:28 (NIV). Jesus chose twelve to represent the twelve tribes of Israel.
So...when people of our time decide to follow Christ and become believers, we are disciples. We attend church regularly, listen to the sermons, and grow in our faith to Christ. But then we become complacent and this is were we need to change. We as Christians need to get off the pews and begin venturing out into the communities in which we live. It should be our desire to become apostles for Christ, sharing the knowledge that we have with others. We should break the mold and branch out into uncharted waters.
So, I ask again. What would you like to be considered...a disciple or an apostle? It is my desire to be an apostle.
I challenge each of you to find other scriptures were Jesus trains the disciples to become apostles. The majority of His teaching was done through parables.
"Instead of living a black-and-white existence, we'll be released into a Technicolor world of vibrancy and emotion when we more accurately reflect His nature to the world around us." Bill Hybels
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
"The Shepherd"
We have always heard references of Jesus being called "The Good Shepherd". We see this throughout the Bible. Why is Jesus called "The Good Shepherd"? Is this why the people who follow Jesus are called His flock? How are we like the sheep?
"Therefore Jesus said again, "Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep." John 10:7 (NIV).
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." John 10:11 (NIV).
In these two verses, Jesus calls Himself The Good Shepherd, and makes reference to the sacrifice that would be made. Jesus also tells of the sheep having to pass through Him because He is the gate. In verse 7 and 11, Jesus tells the followers or His flock that He is the only way to get to God The Father in heaven. Sheep are not the smartest animals and if we are considered His flock then Jesus knows that we are going to make mistakes and need His guidance. Sheep often travel in flocks and if one strays away from the flock, then more will follow the lost. If the sheep were to get loose and fall off a cliff or drown in a river, more of the flock will follow.
This is similar to the way that we act in our own lives. We may know right from wrong, but more than likely we will follow the rest of the pack, our peers. Jesus is telling us that we need to look to Him for guidance in our everyday life. In my personal life, I was once the lost sheep. I was constantly doing whatever I wanted without any regard to my personal relationship with Jesus. It took several years, even after asking Jesus to come into my life, before I actually fully understood what this meant. I know now that Jesus is my Shepherd and I am His sheep. I will follow my Shepherd wherever he leads me.
"Very Truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber." John 10:1 (NIV).
"Now may the God of peace who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep," Hebrews 13:20 (NIV).
"When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things." Mark 6:34 (NIV).
"My sheep listen to my voice: I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one." John 10:27-30 (NIV).
Thank You Jesus for allowing me (your sheep) to follow you!
"Therefore Jesus said again, "Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep." John 10:7 (NIV).
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." John 10:11 (NIV).
In these two verses, Jesus calls Himself The Good Shepherd, and makes reference to the sacrifice that would be made. Jesus also tells of the sheep having to pass through Him because He is the gate. In verse 7 and 11, Jesus tells the followers or His flock that He is the only way to get to God The Father in heaven. Sheep are not the smartest animals and if we are considered His flock then Jesus knows that we are going to make mistakes and need His guidance. Sheep often travel in flocks and if one strays away from the flock, then more will follow the lost. If the sheep were to get loose and fall off a cliff or drown in a river, more of the flock will follow.
This is similar to the way that we act in our own lives. We may know right from wrong, but more than likely we will follow the rest of the pack, our peers. Jesus is telling us that we need to look to Him for guidance in our everyday life. In my personal life, I was once the lost sheep. I was constantly doing whatever I wanted without any regard to my personal relationship with Jesus. It took several years, even after asking Jesus to come into my life, before I actually fully understood what this meant. I know now that Jesus is my Shepherd and I am His sheep. I will follow my Shepherd wherever he leads me.
"Very Truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber." John 10:1 (NIV).
"Now may the God of peace who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep," Hebrews 13:20 (NIV).
"When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things." Mark 6:34 (NIV).
"My sheep listen to my voice: I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one." John 10:27-30 (NIV).
Thank You Jesus for allowing me (your sheep) to follow you!
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Temptations
Temptations come in many forms, some more harmful to our body than others. Some of the temptations can be eating too much food, alcohol and drug abuse, and sexual temptation (Internet pornography, flirtatious speech, and adultery).It is important for us to remember that Satan is always at work (24/7) trying to cause heartache and harm through temptations.
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV).
This is very reassuring that we can depend on God to help see us through the temptations. A big misconception is that Christians cannot be tempted. In fact, Satan is sending as many temptations our way to make us fall into the trap of sin.Peter offered a stern warning to Christians about the temptations of Satan.
"Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings." 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV).
Many people including Christians, often try to shift the blame for our failure to follow what is right in the eyes of God. Some of the excuses that we may use are: it's the other person's fault, I couldn't help myself, everybody does it, it was just a mistake, no body's perfect, the Devil made me do it, peer pressure, i didn't know it was wrong, and God is tempting me. God does not tempt us, but does allow us to be tempted by Satan as a test of our faith that God will see us through the temptation.
Here are some more verses that talk about temptation:
"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." Matthew 6:13 (NIV).
"Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation." Luke 11:4 (NIV).
Jesus said to his disciples: "Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come." Luke 17:1 (NIV).
"Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted." Galatians 6:1 (NIV).
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet he did not sin." Hebrews 4:15 (NIV).
".....but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed." James 1:14 (NIV).
At times, it is extremely difficult to turn from our sinful ways. Each of our temptations may come in different forms and what sets Christians apart from others is the forgiveness that we have through Jesus Christ. Jesus died for our sin and by us accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are forgiven. This forgiveness doesn't mean that we should continue to sin, but instead turn from these sinful ways.
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV).
This is very reassuring that we can depend on God to help see us through the temptations. A big misconception is that Christians cannot be tempted. In fact, Satan is sending as many temptations our way to make us fall into the trap of sin.Peter offered a stern warning to Christians about the temptations of Satan.
"Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings." 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV).
Many people including Christians, often try to shift the blame for our failure to follow what is right in the eyes of God. Some of the excuses that we may use are: it's the other person's fault, I couldn't help myself, everybody does it, it was just a mistake, no body's perfect, the Devil made me do it, peer pressure, i didn't know it was wrong, and God is tempting me. God does not tempt us, but does allow us to be tempted by Satan as a test of our faith that God will see us through the temptation.
Here are some more verses that talk about temptation:
"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." Matthew 6:13 (NIV).
"Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation." Luke 11:4 (NIV).
Jesus said to his disciples: "Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come." Luke 17:1 (NIV).
"Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted." Galatians 6:1 (NIV).
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet he did not sin." Hebrews 4:15 (NIV).
".....but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed." James 1:14 (NIV).
At times, it is extremely difficult to turn from our sinful ways. Each of our temptations may come in different forms and what sets Christians apart from others is the forgiveness that we have through Jesus Christ. Jesus died for our sin and by us accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are forgiven. This forgiveness doesn't mean that we should continue to sin, but instead turn from these sinful ways.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Paul Teaches How To Pray
In the book of Colossians, Paul writes a letter to the people of Colosse telling them how to pray. Not just how to pray, but specifically how to pray for other Christians. Paul was in prison in Rome when he wrote to the people of Colosse. Colossians, Philippians, Ephesians, and Philemon are all referred to as the "Prison Letters". Unlike most of the other prisoners of the day, Paul is given special treatment. Paul was allowed to write letters and to have visitors. Colossians 1 verses 3-14 is known as Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer.
During these verses, Paul tells the people of Colosse 7 ways to pray for other Christians.
1. Give thanks for their faith and change in their lives. (vs.3)
2. Help them know what God wants them do do. (vs.9)
3. Give them deep spiritual understanding. (vs.9)
4. Help them live for God. (vs.10)
5. Give them more knowledge of God. (vs.10)
6. Give them strength for endurance. (vs.11)
7. Fill them with the joy, strength, and thankfulness. (vs.11)
"We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you," Colossians 1:3 (NIV)
"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives," Colossians 1:9 (NIV)
".....so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God," Colossians 1:10 (NIV)
".....being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience," Colossians 1:11 (NIV)
During these verses, Paul tells the people of Colosse 7 ways to pray for other Christians.
1. Give thanks for their faith and change in their lives. (vs.3)
2. Help them know what God wants them do do. (vs.9)
3. Give them deep spiritual understanding. (vs.9)
4. Help them live for God. (vs.10)
5. Give them more knowledge of God. (vs.10)
6. Give them strength for endurance. (vs.11)
7. Fill them with the joy, strength, and thankfulness. (vs.11)
"We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you," Colossians 1:3 (NIV)
"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives," Colossians 1:9 (NIV)
".....so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God," Colossians 1:10 (NIV)
".....being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience," Colossians 1:11 (NIV)
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
"Who I am in Christ?" part 2
Continuing where I left off last time:
"But whoever is the united with the Lord is one with him in spirit." 1 Corinthians 6:17 (NIV).
"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV).
"Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." 1 Corinthians 12:27 (NIV).
"For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit." Ephesians 2:18 (NIV).
".....in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." Colossians 1:14
".....and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority." Colossians 2:10 (NIV).
Once we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are giving our bodies to Christ. This means that Christ will be in total control of our bodies. When Jesus died for our sins, He paid the ultimate price for our freedom and in return we should respect our body that Jesus paid so much for.
"But whoever is the united with the Lord is one with him in spirit." 1 Corinthians 6:17 (NIV).
"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV).
"Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." 1 Corinthians 12:27 (NIV).
"For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit." Ephesians 2:18 (NIV).
".....in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." Colossians 1:14
".....and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority." Colossians 2:10 (NIV).
Once we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are giving our bodies to Christ. This means that Christ will be in total control of our bodies. When Jesus died for our sins, He paid the ultimate price for our freedom and in return we should respect our body that Jesus paid so much for.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Who I am in Christ? (part 1)
We are going to take a look at how believers are referred to in the New Testament. Each of these names should give comfort to those who are saved. Some of the names are God's child, friend, saint, and united with the Lord.
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God- John 1:12 (NIV). This passage refers to the believers as children of God. This is our spiritual life is considered a new life from God. All of our sins were rearranged and God changed us from the inside out. This means that we have new attitudes, desires, and motives.
Jesus said, "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his masters' business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." John 15:15 (NIV). How awesome is that to know that Jesus refers to us as a friend? Because Jesus is Lord and Master of the World, we should be called servants to the Lord, but Jesus confided in us God's plans for sending a savior to die for our sins. Only friends will confide in others this way.
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.... Romans 5:1 (NIV). Peace with God means that we have been reconciled with God. The sin that was prohibiting us from having a relationship with God is gone. The only reason we can have this peace with God is because Jesus paid the price for our sins.
We are so thankful to serve a loving God. Thank you for giving your son, Jesus, to die on the cross for my sins. Amen.
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God- John 1:12 (NIV). This passage refers to the believers as children of God. This is our spiritual life is considered a new life from God. All of our sins were rearranged and God changed us from the inside out. This means that we have new attitudes, desires, and motives.
Jesus said, "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his masters' business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." John 15:15 (NIV). How awesome is that to know that Jesus refers to us as a friend? Because Jesus is Lord and Master of the World, we should be called servants to the Lord, but Jesus confided in us God's plans for sending a savior to die for our sins. Only friends will confide in others this way.
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.... Romans 5:1 (NIV). Peace with God means that we have been reconciled with God. The sin that was prohibiting us from having a relationship with God is gone. The only reason we can have this peace with God is because Jesus paid the price for our sins.
We are so thankful to serve a loving God. Thank you for giving your son, Jesus, to die on the cross for my sins. Amen.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Freedom
What is freedom? According to dictionary.com, freedom is the state of being free or at liberty rather than in confinement or under physical restraint. This is a very accurate account of how some of us feel on a daily basis. While this doesn't apply to everyone, most of us can associate with the feeling of being enslaved to our sin. We can also have fear, guilt or have an addiction that is tearing our worlds apart. I am one that has had to overcome some of these feelings. In order to accomplish this, I had to realize that Jesus Christ was the freedom that would fill the void where the sin was.
In John 8:32 (NIV) Jesus says "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." A few verses later in verse 36 Jesus says "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
This tells me that we are free to make the choice to put our trust and our life in Jesus, as He is the truth, and this truth will set us free. This is the ultimate in freedom. I cannot tell you how much better I feel knowing that my sins are forgiven because of me realizing that I can't go through the events in this world alone. I must remember that I am never alone, because Jesus is always with me day in and day out! All I have to do is talk with Jesus in order to be reminded of this.
"Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God's slaves." 1 Peter 2:16 (NIV).
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Galatians 5:1 (NIV).
"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." 2 Corinthians 3:17 (NIV).
In John 8:32 (NIV) Jesus says "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." A few verses later in verse 36 Jesus says "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
This tells me that we are free to make the choice to put our trust and our life in Jesus, as He is the truth, and this truth will set us free. This is the ultimate in freedom. I cannot tell you how much better I feel knowing that my sins are forgiven because of me realizing that I can't go through the events in this world alone. I must remember that I am never alone, because Jesus is always with me day in and day out! All I have to do is talk with Jesus in order to be reminded of this.
"Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God's slaves." 1 Peter 2:16 (NIV).
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Galatians 5:1 (NIV).
"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." 2 Corinthians 3:17 (NIV).
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