There is a question of who is God’s child and who is His creation…it shows in how we live and why we live!

“But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is your life because of righteousness. Moreover if the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, the one who raised Christ from the dead will also make your mortal bodies alive through his Spirit who lives in you. So then, brothers and sisters, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh (for if you live according to the flesh, you will die), but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are the sons of God.” (Romans 8:10-14 NET BIBLE)

So…who is your DADDY?

What Do I Deserve?

“Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands love your wives and do not be embittered against them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing in the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become disheartened. Slaves, obey your earthly masters in every respect, not only when they are watching – like those who are strictly people-pleasers – but with a sincere heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you are doing, work at it with enthusiasm, as to the Lord and not for people, because you know that you will receive your inheritance from the Lord as the reward. Serve the Lord Christ. For the one who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there are no exceptions.” (Colossians 3:18-25 NET)

We all are guilty of thinking we deserve more than we get at times, whether it is from work in the form of a paycheck or at home concerning recognition or gratitude. Yet God tells us to continue to work hard, serving one another as if we are working directly for Christ…especially at home! What a challenge, for me and I imagine for you too. I am trying to remember that because of how this world is, I may not get any recognition until I see Jesus. So therefore, let’s remind each other, “It’s not about me!” Only what we do for Christ will last. Our labor is for an audience of ONE! Be encouraged today.

Whine or Worship

“Then the Lord said to Satan, ‘Have you thought about my servant Job? There isn't anyone on earth like him. He is honest. He does what is right. He has respect for me and avoids evil.’” (Job 1:8 NIrV)

We have all heard the story. As unbelievable as it may be, Satan does go around looking for people to pick on. He may not do it personally, but his henchmen do roam about tempting us and alluring us into sin. Job was honest, fair, and had a healthy respect for God and a seemingly healthy relationship with Him as well. God said it Himself to Satan, referring to His servant Job. Not all bad things happen because we are causing them to happen. This is a perfect example of God allowing things to happen. As we respond in obedience, God receives glory. Is this not our goal? Too many times, we respond with anger, confusion, and plain old disobedience! Oh, but look how Job responds…

“

After Job heard all of those reports, he got up and tore his robe. He shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground and worshiped the Lord. He said, ‘I was born naked. And I'll leave here naked. You have given, and you have taken away. May your name be praised.’ In spite of everything, Job didn't sin by blaming God for doing anything wrong.” (Job 1:20-22 NIrV)

Job loses his livestock, his servants, his children, later his health, and even the respect of his wife and friends. If that was you or me how would we respond…really? His wife responded,

“Are you still continuing to be faithful to the Lord? Speak evil things against him and die!" (Job 2:9NIrV)

This is more along the lines of how respond. Maybe not as severe as curse God and die, but we do ignore Him and do our own thing! Why do we choose whine rather than worship when things get challenging? What would our witness look like if as we go through, people found us praising God, singing psalms and hymns, and dancing like David danced? Would this not confuse the enemy? Would it perhaps encourage others carry the cross a bit further? Could it just possibly cause a non-believer to just consider Christ? Who knows what we are missing out on by not holding on one more day…one more week…one more year?

I thank God for the example I have in Job. I also am grateful to the many living out loud for Jesus before my very eyes…my wife, my Pastor, and many others. My prayer is that I too may be able to be so obedient as to please my Savior and also be able to encourage someone else along the way.

Soli Deo Gloria!!!!

Jesus had just finished feeding more than 5,000 men, women, and children with five loaves of bread and two fish. He had walked upon the rough seas of the water as the disciples were rowing furiously to go to the other side. The next day, people came looking for Him again, seeking more food. Jesus warned them not to work for mere food for the day, but the bread that brings life eternal (John 6:27). After all Jesus had done…they wanted more things, not more of Jesus.

“I am the bread of life. The one who comes to me will never go hungry, and the one who believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35 NET)

We see miracles every day; the birth of a new born baby…the healing of a cancer patient…the sunrise…the germination of a dead seed into a fruit–producing plant. These are things we sometimes assume will happen, or can happen, yet are miracles just the same. We come to expect the unexpected. Yet we tend to forget it is God in the middle of it all. We too want more things from Jesus more than we want more of Jesus.

We are consumed with the things we need in this world but we should be consumed with the One who provides it all.

Jesus said “This is the bread that came down from heaven; it is not like the bread your ancestors ate, but then later died. The one who eats this bread will live forever.” (John 6:58 NET)

We must be consumed with the Bread of Life…our Savior Jesus Christ! We who claim to follow the Lord must be obsessed with Him, inspired by Him, devoted to Him, and living for Him! He must be our focus and our passion.

What do we hunger and thirst for? In this all-consuming world, are we the followers of Jesus Christ known by our hunger and thirst for Him and His ways?

More…more…more…of Jesus! Let us want more of Him and be more like Him!

Standards of Living

>“You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.”

(Romans 2:1 NIV)

Do we realize God’s judgment of men is according to our own standards? The Jews had eagerly consented to the condemnation of the Gentiles. They were elated in it. The Jew had cheerfully assumed the bench of the judge. He pronounced the Gentiles guilty of God’s eternal wrath. The Jew sentenced them to eternal suffering. However, in doing this the Jew condemned himself by placing himself under his own principles. Jesus taught;

“Do not judge so that you will not be judged. “For by the standard you judge you will be judged, and the measure you use will be the measure you receive.” (Matthew 7:1-2 NET).

By this our Lord meant that when we set ourselves over others as their judge, we have imposed upon ourselves the same standard of measurement. In our days of situational ethics and relativity, some tell us that they do not feel it is wrong to lie, to steal, or even commit adultery. We can well afford to be tolerant concerning our own behavior, but if we are consistent then we must agree that it is acceptable for our children to lie to us, for our neighbors to steal from us or for a friend to violate the sanctity of our marriage.

Reality is that no one reaches the standard…God’s holiness and perfection. He is not so interested in the standards we set for ourselves as those we set for others. It is by these standards that we ourselves will be judged by God. Very few of us would wish to be judged by these standards, but the Scriptures tell us this is the case. Since the Jews have passionately condemned the Gentiles, they have assumed for themselves the same standards. Yet they are blinded to this reality. Paul will soon explain that judgment will come first to the Jew! (Romans 2: 9-10)

Woe to each of us if we live this life of double-standards. I pray that I can first see the beam in my own eye, before ever even attempting to point out another’s failure. (Matthew 7:3-5) While we are called to judge our fellow believers, will we do it by God’s standards? God has granted me so much grace…so much mercy. I must extend it to others and in the process we all can encourage one another to aim for God’s standards for each of us…holiness. Beauty for ashes…strength for fear…love and encouragement rather than hatred and condemnation: How different would our relationships be within our families, neighborhoods, and work places?

He’s returning soon…what will Jesus find us doing in relation to others?

04 06 09 A Part of the Crowd?

“See to it that no-one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.”
(Colossians 2:8 NIV)

Paul addressed the Colossians on the person and saving work of Jesus Christ in Chapter one. As he moves forward, he begins to move from doctrine to practical issues; namely the false teaching being spread among the believers there. His exhorting however is still based upon the basic teachings of the Gospel: the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ! His question to the Colossians was this: Why should anyone even want to listen to the false arguments of these heretical teachers and their claims of special knowledge and insight when they have the One in whom are found all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge? Why would one settle for a fake when they have the genuine article? Paul encourages the believers to hold fast to the things he taught them, which he learned from Christ Himself (Galatians 1:9-12).

Just as we have received Christ through the revelation of the Gospel through the Holy Spirit, we must hold fast to the basic doctrines we know to be true. The same truths Paul taught from the mouth of Christ are the same truths we who know the Savior were taught. Just as Paul would encourage believers to grow in faith and to be firmly rooted in basic doctrine (Colossians 2:7) we today need to stay focused on basic truths and beware of the deceptive teachings of human tradition and principles of this world!

Have you not noticed the traditional ways of society are changing? Surely we all can witness the fact that principles once held as fundamental and even sacred are now so easily discarded for more practical ways and practices. Tolerance, political correctness, individual rights, and freedom of expression are all different ways to express one thing in today’s society: the world is being taken captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy! We must not be found A PART OF THE CROWD!!!

We must be committed to the Gospel and be watchful to never fall back on our former ways. The things we used to trust in; the people we put our hope in are now gone and our trust is in God alone! (Galatians 4:8-9) In these last days, we have to be on the lookout for the enemy at every turn. We are called as a body to be a holy people (1 Peter 2:9). We must be unique in our stand for Christ amidst every challenge we face. Jesus was never just A PART OF THE CROWD and He calls us to stand out for Him today and every day!

WHO ARE WE AIMING TO PLEASE?

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. “(1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV)

It’s not about me and my agenda. Real life is solely based upon how God has designed me, what He has planned for me, and am I willing to submit to His plan, His time table, and His schedule of events.

Romans 12:1-2 instructs us to offer ourselves as living sacrifices unto God, being transformed from the world’s way of thinking. It becomes a mind-set. Worrying about things out of our control begins a downward spiral. Trying to keep up with those around us puts our focus on resources rather than the Source.

Ambition is good. Goals are wonderful. Dreams are necessary for one to aspire to great accomplishments. The question for believers is who are we aiming to please: ourselves, others, or our Creator God? Whose dreams are we living out?

Matthew 6:33 instructs us to seek first the kingdom of God…first things first. As we allow God to have His way in our lives, we begin to find peace in all circumstances. We become more add more content with life (Philippians 4:11) as we rest in His will. Trusting God’s plan for our life allows us to live beyond present circumstances and trust He has it all worked out. (Jeremiah 29:11). We must first admit that God is God and realize that He alone rewards those who seek to please Him (Hebrews 11:6), but in His timing!

In a time when everyone is seeking answers, we know the One who has everything already planned. As challenging as it may seem, what a witness it would be if we can commit ourselves to trust Him and allow Him move in His timing, not just so others can see Him at work, but for our own peace of mind as well. Let’s commit this verse to action, not just memory:

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24 NIV)

A CO-WORKER WITH THE SPIRIT

“Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the believers. You are faithful even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church about your love. Please help them by sending them on their way in a manner that honors God. They started on their journey to serve Jesus Christ. They didn't receive any help from those who aren't believers. So we should welcome people like them. We should work together with them for the truth.”(3 John 1:5-8 NIrV)

The last surviving Apostle is writing to his dear children, those under his authority to support missionaries travelling about from church to church defining the instructions of Christ as they come against false teachings. Clearly John does not refer to himself alone by the use of the first person plural pronoun here, since the issue is support for the traveling missionaries. He instructs that all true Christians ought to support the endeavors of these traveling missionaries in their efforts to counteract the heretical teaching of the opponents. What does this say to believers today: I believe every believer is called to missions!

We all need to sacrifice for the spreading of the Gospel. Some are called to sacrifice their life and vocation to go…some are called to sacrifice their finances and give…still others are called to sacrifice their time and petition God on behalf of the servants in the mission field.

John refers to himself, Gaius, and all genuine Christians, all of whom should “become coworkers in cooperation with the truth” (NET Bible) by supporting the efforts of the traveling missionaries. More explicitly (1 John 4:6) identifies the Holy Spirit as “the Spirit of truth”, a characterization repeated in (1 John 5:6). Thus it seems likely that the “truth” at work through the missionaries here is ultimately the Holy Spirit, who works through their efforts. Accordingly the Christian who supports them becomes a co-worker with the Spirit of God himself.

Do we all not desire to be an effective partner with God’s Spirit which is at work within each of us? What greater reward than to know we have been a part of winning a soul for Christ through the actions of a missionary, whether he is thousands of miles away or in our own neighborhood? The bottom line is that we are partnering with the Holy Spirit through the missionary to increase the Kingdom and equip the saints. That’s a winning team!

So how deep is our commitment to join in? How will we choose to go…literally, financially, through intercessory prayer? While many are called …the few commit do go.

A Commitment to Celebrate

“Remember your word to your servant,
for you have given me hope. This is what comforts me in my trouble,
for your promise revives me. Arrogant people do nothing but scoff at me.
Yet I do not turn aside from your law.” (Psalm 119:49-51)

My hope comes from God alone. His promise to sustain is all I can cling to at times. It’s not an empty promise or a vain hope, but a secure commitment from the God who never goes back on His word. It’s a promise from a God who never fails. It’s a guarantee from a God who cannot lie! In whom else can I put my faith in this present world? Oh, I realize my wife sticks right beside me and there are friends and family members who think what we are doing is deserving of praise and even a little support. But when I lie awake in the middle of the night or pour my heart out to my DADDY as I ride along with Him in the car, I realize it’s God and God alone who can come through every time and on time! It seems ridiculous to some, but I know God has a plan for us (Jeremiah 29:11) and He will come through, just as He did for Moses, Joshua, (Joshua 1:5-9) and so many more!

“Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus and released them. So they left the council rejoicing because they had been considered worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of the name. And every day both in the temple courts and from house to house, they did not stop teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus was the Christ.” (Acts 5:40-41 NET)

Like the disciples who were tried, beaten, and ridiculed publically in times past, I count it an honor to be made fun of for my feeble attempts to serve others and bring them a bit closer to the Savior. Folks look at us and wonder why. They see the work we do, compare it to the pay, and comment (mostly behind our backs) “How foolish”. Some have been so bold to suggest we are freeloading off of others. Wow! The best I can do is to pray for them…and us as well. Most people just don’t know the struggles and sacrifice it takes to do your best to live to please God and attempt to honor the calling He has placed upon us. It is very seldom easy, but is always rewarding.

When a child smiles at completing a homework assignment; draws us a picture depicting their thanks; or is encouraged by winning a game; we are rewarded. When a single mom gives a tearful testimony as to the spiritual and physical growth of their children, we are rewarded. When God whispers “well done” after a challenging few days of activity, we are rewarded. When an individual or family expresses their encouragement, offers to pray for us, or even sends a financial gift, we feel the Lord’s hand of support and we are rewarded. Our arms are lifted up (Exodus 17:12) and our strength is renewed (Isaiah 40:31).

As the freed Irish slave Patrick once said some 1600 years ago, “If I have any worth, it is to live my life for God.” That’s the legacy I seek to leave behind. Let’s celebrate that kind of commitment!

Feeling a Bit Overwhelmed?

Here is what Israel should say:

Suppose the Lord had not been on our side. Suppose the Lord had not been on our side when our enemies attacked us. Suppose He had not been on our side when their anger blazed out against us.

Then they would have swallowed us alive. They would have been like a flood that drowned us. They would have swept over us like a rushing river. They would have washed us away like a swollen stream.

Give praise to the Lord. He has not let our enemies chew us up. We have escaped like a bird from a hunter's trap.
The trap has been broken, and we have escaped
.
Our help comes from the Lord.
He is the Maker of heaven and earth.
(Psalm 124 NIrV)

Feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the pressures we face today: finances, health, marriage issues, children’s education, or what the future will bring? David, in his song of ascent unto the Lord offered the people of Israel this response: “Suppose the Lord had not been on our side?” We are where we are today…surviving up to this point, only because of His grace and mercy!

Ravenous economic beasts, raging waters of illness and disease, hidden snares concerning family issues, all await us and perhaps have caught up with us throughout the years. But what if God had not been there? As the old saying goes: When God is all we have, we realize He is all we need!

God alone is the Source of all we need. Whether it’s our physical strength, psychological stamina, financial supply, or simply a healthy dose of patience…He is our only Source! Our resources (a source of aid or support that may be drawn upon when needed) come from Him. David reminds the people of Israel that God is the Creator, Maker of heaven and earth. Do we need any more reminders that He can more than meet our needs?

The same God who did all that for Israel is ready, willing and able to do all the same for you and me. As we struggle, let’s remember all that He has done. Had He not been with us, we would not be standing today. We would have been swallowed up by the enemy! If God is for us, who can possibly harm us? (Romans 8:31) How can we fail? Will we continue to trust Him…even in these most trying of times?

Here is what we should say: “Give praise to the Lord…Our help comes from the Lord…”

The Sacrifice of Serving

"Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Do not take a purse or bag or sandals. And don't greet anyone on the road. "When you enter a house, first say, 'May this house be blessed with peace.' If someone there loves peace, your blessing of peace will rest on him. If not, it will return to you. Stay in that house. Eat and drink anything they give you. Workers are worthy of their pay. Do not move around from house to house. (Luke 10:3-7 NIrV)

Jesus sent out 70 others after sending the twelve (Luke 9:1-5) with similar instruction. They were to go into areas where He Himself would be visiting in the near future. They were not to take food or money, but rely upon the same Spirit who would guide their teaching to provide others to meet their physical needs as well. Jesus had just finished teaching on true discipleship (Luke 9:57-62) and He now lays out the plan. Then committed Christian worker (pastor, minister, missionary) is to work as God called him or her, and trust Him to provide.

The harvest in indeed plentiful, and we all need to answer the call God has given to each of us: To go or to support those who have gone. We cannot muzzle the ox (1 Timothy 5:18) or shut down the work by not providing for his living expenses as he shares the Good News. Those who deliver the Gospel day after day throughout the land, in churches, on the city streets, or among the various neighborhoods in which we live receive their living (support) from the Gospel.(1 Corinthians 9:14) It’s their job! We are their support system!

It’s am embarrassment to the church and to us who believe when those who are called to serve are hamstrung by finances. God commanded some to go and He commanded us all to provide. Even during tough economic times we can’t stop giving! (2 Corinthians 9:10) Our commitment to Christ is a witness to the world of our dependence upon Him to supply our needs, as we trust Him. (Philippians 4:19). Let’s allow His light to shine through us.

To Go or to Give…what is your calling for missions?

“At last you are concerned about me again. That makes me very happy. We belong to the Lord. I know that you have been concerned. But you had no chance to show it. I'm not saying that because I need anything. I have learned to be content no matter what happens to me. I know what it's like not to have what I need. I also know what it's like to have more than I need. I have learned the secret of being content no matter what happens. I am content whether I am well fed or hungry. I am content whether I have more than enough or not enough. I can do everything by the power of Christ. He gives me strength. But it was good of you to share in my troubles.” (Philippians 4:10-14 NIrV)

Since God called me into the mission field (well since I accepted His call) I remain amazed at how He uses so many others to sustain me. It’s all through Him, yet He uses so many others. Some I just knew would support the work, yet others who came along were not only surprises, but many times absolute strangers until we met. It is nothing less than astonishing how God supplies and enables when He gives an assignment.

It takes obedience from both sides. I must be obedient to stay faithful to His calling and trust in His word to supply my needs. I must admit, I do have my doubts at times. I am learning to be content in all things, not quite where Paul was! While I know what is like to have plenty at times and then find myself in need of help, I confess it’s easier to have plenty! But I am learning day by day to trust Him more and I believe my faith is growing! One thing I know: I can do all things through Christ when in His will and under His power! Yes I can!

The thing I am most amazed at is the obedience of others to give. Many have simply come up to us and placed a check or cash in our hands while saying “I just want to help out.” Wow! Many of these supporters are struggling themselves…even fellow missionaries. When God conveys His love through His people, it is nothing less than humbling. At times I just look at my wife and say, “My God…” He so loves us! My thanks is my commitment to serve more diligently, with more obedience, with more energy.

We all are called to serve in mission field in some way. How about you? Have you been called to go…or to give? May we all be obedient. It’s better than sacrifice!

“It is fitting to proclaim your loyal love in the morning,
and your faithfulness during the night…” (Psalm 92:2 NET)

Though this is a psalm for the Sabbath, as the inscription of Psalm 92 describes, we can enjoy our rest in Jesus every day. We don’t have to wait until Sunday morning!

In the morning, before all the excitement and challenges of the day, it is usually easy to give thanks. As God shows forth His love and care in the simple things (waking us up, the sunrise, the food on our table, clothes we have to wear, the vehicle we will be driving) we can very easily love Him in return and praise Him with words and songs of thanksgiving. We can shout to the Lord and sing His praises as we enter into His presence (Psalm 95). Worship honors God and brings forth a positive attitude to start the day. It prepares our hearts for what we will encounter throughout the day (Colossians 3:16).

Then we go out the door……

We face challenge after challenge. Time after time find ourselves struggling with our attitude, our choice of words, even our connection with our Savior. “Where are you Jesus?” “Lord, do You see what I have to put up with?” “Oh God, can you make him stop?” “How much longer Lord?”

We arrive safely home and the evening comes. As we ponder the day and all the
confrontations, we come to the conclusion that God has been right there all through the day. As we calm down, we can begin to declare His faithfulness! Though we may have been unfaithful at times during the day, trusting our own understanding and not acknowledging God at all times (Proverbs 3:5-6), He has been faithful. We have strayed off the path, though we knew His direction. We chose our own way out of selfishness, at times thinking we were ok on our own.

As we grow and mature, we come to realize that God cares about every aspect of our lives; big things, small things, work issues, family issues, and everything in between. The psalmist may have written this song for Sabbath worship, but I am challenged to use it day after day as a reminder to be ever thankful for not only His love, but His eternal faithfulness. I love my God so much, but how much more effective would I be for Him if would just be more faithful to Him!

02 23-09 God’s Plan for Africa

So Philip started out. On his way he met an Ethiopian official. The man had an important position. He was in charge of all the wealth of Candace. She was the queen of Ethiopia. He had gone to Jerusalem to worship. On his way home he was sitting in his chariot. He was reading the book of Isaiah the prophet. The Holy Spirit told Philip, "Go to that chariot. Stay near it."
So Philip ran up to the chariot. He heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. "Do you understand what you're reading?" Philip asked. "How can I?" he said. "I need someone to explain it to me." So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. Here is the part of Scripture the official was reading. It says,

"He was led like a sheep to be killed.
Just as lambs are silent while their wool is being cut off,
he did not open his mouth.
When he was treated badly, he was refused a fair trial.
Who can say anything about his children?
His life was cut off from the earth." (Isaiah 53:7- 8)

The official said to Philip, "Tell me, please. Who is the prophet talking about; Himself, or someone else?" Then Philip began with that same part of Scripture. He told him the good news about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water. The official said, "Look! Here is water! Why shouldn't I be baptized?" He gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the official went down into the water. Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away. The official did not see him again. He went on his way full of joy. (Acts 8:27-39 NIrV)

Not focusing on Philip, let’s examine the Ethiopian. He proceeded in a normal way, back to his native land after his conversion. We are told no more of this man in the New Testament yet many early church fathers (Irenaeus: A.D. 130-202) viewed this man as the father of evangelism in Ethiopia. What we are told is that this man went his way rejoicing (Acts 8:39). When the gospel is presented and is received, there is great joy. Such was the case in the city of Samaria (Acts 8:8). It is the case 1 Thessalonians 1:6 and it is the joy of our salvation in Psalm 51:12. How can there not be joy when a soul is redeemed?

The conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch was a very significant event, recorded in the midst of the great Samaritan revival. Samaritans, though considered half-breeds, were accepted by the church as believers. This Ethiopian was a kind of first fruits of the Gentiles. His race and if in fact he was a true eunuch, would have kept him from approaching God. Yet God approached him! God sought him out in the desert, making it clear that he was a true saint, and the first of many more to come. God is no respecter of person (Romans 2:11). He judges the heart of every man and woman. Saved through the efforts of Philip and not a highly-regarded apostle such as Peter (or even later Paul) God’s sovereign will is showcased.

God still guides. God still uses supernatural means at times. He specifically and unquestionably guides men to do that which they would not have ordinarily have done. Just as God guided Philip to set aside his Samaritan ministry for a time and to go to this remote place to bring about the conversion of an African, He may just ask you or me to step away from our plans and comfort zone to do His bidding. God will meet the needs. We have to supply the obedience! Through Philip, the Ethiopian met God in a deserted place, when he came to realize that his religion was not enough, and that Jesus was the Savior, who died for his sins. Are we willing to allow God to take us into the deserted places for His sake and the sake of others who need to experience the Savior?

(notes from: The Ethiopian Eunuch, Bob Deffinbaugh, Copyright ©1996-2006 Biblical Studies Press)

02 09 09 Caught Doing Good In Bad Times

“Don't forget to do good. Don't forget to share with others. God is pleased with those kinds of offerings.” (Hebrews 13:16 NIrV)

The Old Testament sacrificial system may be over and done, but we as believers are still to offer sacrifices of praise, wealth, and our very lives. (Romans 12:1-2) The work of Christs is finished, but the works of His followers needs to continue as an act of praise and thanksgiving to our God and a visual sign to the unbelievers that Christ is not just our Savior, but our Lord as well! God is indeed pleased with our heartfelt and sacrificial gifts to Him and to those in need. Our giving allows the Gospel to continue to be proclaimed in churches, on city streets, in hospitals, in rec centers, within mentoring programs, and in remote parts of the world.

“Tell them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, to be generous givers, sharing with others. In this way they will save up a treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the future and so lay hold of what is truly life.” (1 Timothy 6:18-19 NET)

Paul reminds young Timothy that those who have must realize their obligation to share with those who do not have. We must be so careful to realize we are not the source of our possessions nor are the banks, our employers, or our investments. The source is God and God alone and we must not simply enjoy His blessings, but share them for the expansion of His kingdom purposes. (Matthew 6:19-22) This is the only way to send blessings ahead and reap true dividends which last for eternity!

One thing we can not do if we are to reflect our faith in the Lord, is to stop giving in lean times. While we cut back in areas of leisure, excess, and comfort, we can not make cuts in giving. Giving is a foundational symbol of our faith. If those who look to the Church as a Body to be able to help, yet we as individuals have decided to stop giving, what does that say to those in need? “Has God abandoned us? Where is He when we need Him?”

What we do with God’s money and the gifts He had lent to us is His business, not ours. Who are we to decide how much of His resources we can keep? What do we expect from God in our time of need if we refuse to sacrifice to help others? Oh yes, these are the worst of times we are going through: joblessness, wars, political battles, and more. But these are also the best and most opportunistic of times to let people see the love, mercy, and providential hand of God at work through you and me. Let’s be caught doing good in bad times!

A Matter of Trust

Job replied to the Lord,
"I know that you can do anything.
No one can keep you from doing what you plan to do.
You asked me, 'Who do you think you are to disagree with my plans?
You do not know what you are talking about.'
I spoke about things I didn't completely understand.
I talked about things that were too wonderful for me to know.
"You said, 'Listen now, and I will speak.
I will ask you some questions.
Then I want you to answer me.'
My ears had heard about you.
But now my own eyes have seen you.
So I hate myself.
I'm really sorry for what I said about you.
That's why I'm sitting in dust and ashes." (Job 42:1-6 NIrV)

Don’t you believe me? Don’t you trust me? Don’t you love me? Three simple questions we all hear in conversations every day in one form or another. We hear children asking them of their parents. We hear students questioning their teachers. We hear spouses inquiring of their mates. Can we hear God asking us (His people), the very same questions? The degree of our relationship with God is a matter of trust.

Like Job, we know of God and believe He exists. We have a personal relationship with Him and yet we still want control. We talk of His wonderful care and provisions, yet we still complain and covet at times (at least I do!). But if we, as Job was, would be summoned face to face with God, what could we possibly say? Much like the stiff-necked Hebrews, we too are more proud of whom we are in Christ rather than who Christ is! Similar to Paul (Philippians 3:5), our degrees, jobs, education, or social status mean absolutely nothing before the Creator God. Everything we have and everything we are is because of our God. In Him we have our very existence (Acts 17:28).

May we never boast with reference to anything but the cross of Christ! (Galatians 6:14)

02 02 09 Give ’em the Evidence

“Thomas was one of the Twelve. He was called Didymus. He was not with the other disciples when Jesus came. So they told him, ‘We have seen the Lord!’ But he said to them, ‘First I must see the nail marks in his hands. I must put my finger where the nails were. I must put my hand into his side. Only then will I believe what you say.’ A week later, Jesus' disciples were in the house again. Thomas was with them. Even though the doors were locked, Jesus came in and stood among them. He said, ‘May peace be with you!’ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here. See my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’ Thomas said to him; ‘My Lord and my God!’ Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen me but still have believed.’" (John 20:24-29 NIrV)

Thomas couldn’t believe the others. He had to see Jesus for himself. He simply had to see Him with his own eyes. Jesus knew this also and went back to the disciples a week later. He provided what Thomas needed to believe. He did not give up on Thomas. He doesn’t give up on us.

Jesus came to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10). He called Zacchaeus down from the tree. He made a visit to see Thomas. He called out to you and to me in our hiding places...in our doubt....in our ignorance. He came to us.

Here is our question: Are we seeking those who need to see Jesus? Are going out or staying in? Are we seeking others who need to see, feel, and touch Jesus; or are we satisfied with the fact that we have been rescued?

Here is our challenge: Keep bringing people to Jesus. Seek out the stranger in line, the neighbor in the driveway, or the relative at the birthday party. Let others feel him as we perform kind acts. Let co-workers constantly hear Him in our speech. Let children feel His touch through our hands. Let store clerks experience Him in our friendship. Invite neighbors into our homes to become familiar with His fellowship. Let parents from school feel His compassion in our sincere words of concern and how we react to others’ needs.

Doubting people have a need to see, touch, experience Jesus today…much like Thomas. Even believers need to be reassured that He still cares and is wiling to reach down and touch a hurt. People from every background, of every age, and from every culture need to see concrete proof that God (Jesus) is alive and well! We are living proof (Romans 12:1-2). Let’s give ’em the evidence!

01 30-09 The Night is Coming!

“While it is still day, we must do the work of the One who sent me. Night is coming. Then no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world." (John 9:4-5 NIrV)

Jesus was constantly about doing His Father’s business. He had to persistently work to bring people to see the power of God. He had only a short time on earth. He knew the day would soon come when darkness would prevail. One day, he would walk the earth no more and His earthly ministry would be finished. He would have to obediently go to the cross. So while He was on earth, He would be the Light and expose the works of darkness; contrasting the saving grace and love of God with the evils of this world.

So we who have received that grace, what are we doing with it? While we are on this earth, while we still have the freedoms and privileges to do so, are we doing the work of our Father? Are we asking for wisdom from God (James 1:5) to pick our areas of confrontation and exposing the darkness as Christ would do? We who have the Light within us, are we letting it shine in a loving and compassionate way, drawing those in darkness toward Christ? Have we found ourselves crouching in the darkness rather than standing in the Light? It’s not too late!

We are the lights of the world now. We have to be Jesus to the misguided business leaders, the blinded school administrators, and the battered youth of our day. We have to take our candle, our light, and attack the darkness with a renewed energy and well-armored faith. The night is coming! The sun is indeed going down and dark clouds of doom appear on the horizon, but only for those who refuse to listen to and believe the Truth. Our challenge is to live out our days as if each day is our last. We must do the work of our Father and be found working when He comes!

Maranatha!!!

Cheerful Sacrifice for Others

“Here is something to remember. The one who plants only a little will gather only a little. And the one who plants a lot will gather a lot. You should each give what you have decided in your heart to give. You shouldn't give if you don't want to. You shouldn't give because you are forced to. God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to shower all kinds of blessings on you. In all things and at all times you will have everything you need. You will do more and more good works. It is written, ‘They have spread their gifts around to poor people. Their good works continue forever.’(Psalm 112:9)
God supplies seed to the planter. He supplies bread for food. God will also supply and increase the amount of your seed. He will increase the results of your good works. You will be made rich in every way. Then you can always give freely. We will take your many gifts to the people who need them. And they will give thanks to God. Your gifts meet the needs of God's people. And that's not all. Your gifts also cause many people to thank God.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-12 NIrV)

Covetousness is the illicit desire to have what belongs to another. Generosity is the godly desire for others in need to have what I possess. One cannot be covetous and generous at the same time. Paul turns our attention to those guiding principles concerning generosity which counter covetousness. The first principle of sowing and reaping can be stated very simply: The way you sow is the way you reap. There is a sense in which we should give away our excess material possessions to the poor and expect nothing from them in return. It is also true that when we do so, we know we will be rewarded by our Lord for our generosity in heaven. In these challenging times, can we afford not to give?

So what causes delays in giving…Some of us may have had a bad year in business and our ability to give may be diminished. Some may have lost heart and decided that since we can only contribute a fraction of what we promised, we might as well give nothing. Others of us may have been swindled by our Christian brother and we are hesitant to give. Another family may have been through a very difficult year and determined that they will use their promised contribution to take a much needed vacation.

When we give to the work of the church and outreach ministries, we give to those who need to see, feel, and hear the words of Jesus. Paul says it meets the needs of God’s people. He also says it causes these folks to in turn praise our God and Father. It’s a good thing to clothe a homeless man, deliver a meal to a needy family, or tutor a child in Math or English and see the resulting improved grades. But it’s even more rewarding to see the person we help in turn praise the God we serve and the One who causes us to serve. As we meet needs from your gifts, people experience God and ask to be saved!

If we don’t give, children and families go in need; for food, for clothing, for tutoring, for a friend, for love…God’s love! Thanks for your cheerful sacrifice for others.

01 19 09 A Suffering Nation

“And that's not all. We are full of joy even when we suffer. We know that our suffering gives us the strength to go on.” (Romans 5:3 NIrV)

Pressures in life tend to challenge folks, don’t they? It shows what we’re made of. One’s true colors show under pressure. Dr. Martin Luther King faced the challenges and pressures with not only a resolve to see change, but a faith to trust in the promises of God. I can’t believe it was simply a desire to change society that drove Dr. King, but a desire to see the hearts of men and women changed. To truly treat folks equally and judge one another by character rather than appearance; it takes a change of heart. Can we do that today? To coin a phrase; Yes we can!

Paul tells us that we can boast or triumph in our pressures. The Greek word for tribulation is “pressure.” It is an outside force that pushes on you and exerts stress on you to yield and conform to it. Paul tells us that we can triumph in these pressures as believers because of what the stress produces. The pressures of life, says Paul, are used by God to produce perseverance and determination. This is the quality of a person who when faced with problems he has no control over (and to which his only responses are either to endure with anger or to endure with patience) chooses to endure with patience. Paul goes on to say that the practice of fortitude under pressure produces in us character which has been proven. Determination in trials proves that the godly qualities we practice are what really motivate and control us, rain or shine. This proof of our growth toward godliness then encourages us all the more to trust in our hope: Jesus’ plans for our future glory that God has guaranteed us through His Son.

So how do we know we won’t be disillusioned? Can we possibly believe God will bring us through our trials and conform us to the image of Christ and thus saved forever?” Paul replies, “We know because of God’s love for us.”

Paul proclaims that because of Jesus Christ, the object of our faith, and what He has done we do in fact have peace with God and we can boast in our position, our pressures, and our possession of reconciliation. He is that hope and our confidence!

So as we lift up President Obama and his family today in prayer as he approaches severe challenges and pressures, we pray God’s blessings over them. We pray for the hope of the Nation to not simply change for change sake, but to seek God’s wisdom and favor to change the heats of men and women throughout the world. We pray for the President and this Nation to be open to the Spirit of God and to yield to His grace, His counsel, and the saving power of the blood of Christ. We pray that Mr. Obama’s heart is in your hands Lord (Proverbs 21:1) and that this Nation will again be one Nation under God! Blessed indeed is the Nation whose God is the Lord! (Psalm 33:12) Can we trust God at His word? Yes we can!

He Delivers

“They cried out to the LORD in their distress;
He delivered them from their troubles.” (Psalm 107:6 NET)

Psalm 105 is a wisdom psalm reviewing God’s enduring love, His provisions, His deliverance, and His salvation. It is also a call to rediscover His loyal love and commitment to those who cry out with a sincere heart. All throughout the psalm, the words ring out: “they cried out to the Lord in their distress…He delivered them from their troubles.”

We don’t cry out to God enough today. We rely upon our own abilities. We call upon family. We call upon friends. We call upon creditors and bankers. But we don’t call upon God! Is it that we don’t think He knows? Do we really believe that He cares? Has it finally gotten bad enough that we will finally call upon the God of all creation to deliver us, comfort us, and see us through?

In 2 Corinthians 11 and 12, Paul writes concerning his trials and tribulations. Of all the things he was, he was indeed tormented and troubled. As influential and educated as he was, he was also beaten, jailed, robbed, physically ill, abandoned by friends, and left for dead at times. Yet he boasted upon the Lord’s grace and the strength it gave him (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

We who thought we had it all figured out are now facing a crossroads. Who will we turn to…whom will we trust with our future? Though things seem impossible and somewhat of a mess, as for me and my house, we are now more committed to trust in and serve the Lord!

01 12 09 Seek God…Seek Others

“When you seek me in prayer and worship, you will find me available to you. If you seek me with all your heart and soul…” (Jeremiah 29:13 NET)

“…For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10 NET)

Pastor Rick Warren writes: “Some of us hesitate to commit ourselves to developing an intentional plan of growth that requires accountability or relationship with others because we believe spiritual growth is a personal and private matter. We choose to believe each person develops in his or her own way at his or her own rate. This is an aberration from the truth. The idolatry of individualism has influenced even the way we think about spiritual growth. So much of the teaching on spiritual formation is self-centered and self-focused without any reference to our relationship to other Christians. This is completely unbiblical and ignores much of the New Testament. The truth is that Christians need relationships to grow. We don’t grow in isolation from others. We develop in the context of fellowship.” (The Purpose Driven Life Daily Devotional, January 12, 2009, © 2008 Purpose Driven Life.

All rights reserved)

Oh how I am learning to lean on others as well as the Lord. There is nothing like Jesus with skin on, as they say. Jeremiah knew the pleasure of seeking the Lord’s presence, even in the darkest of days. Luke wrote that Jesus came to seek and save the lost. We have to be intentional if we are to be one with the Spirit and thus one in His will to reach the lost with His comforting promises. It’s not about our comfort, but the knowledge of knowing His peace and sharing it with so many who have no clue. What we have in Christ needs to be put on the hills, up in lights, and all over the internet! We who know need to purposely seek those who are hurting and share His love. It’s not enough to have Jesus for ourselves; we need to share Christ deliberately!

“Let us consider how we can stir up one another to love. Let us help one another to do good works. Let us not give up meeting together. Some are in the habit of doing this. Instead, let us cheer each other up with words of hope. Let us do it all the more as you see the day coming when Christ will return.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 NIrV)

In a day when the natural reaction is to shy away and retreat, we need to be sure not to give up meeting together, allowing others to see and experience the love of our dear Savior. Let’s cheer each other up. Let’s be a burst of energy to those in the faith who are a bit down. Let’s do it even more so as we see the days becoming more taxing and more demanding. Let’s be found working when Jesus returns and be sure to let others know before it’s too late. Let’s SEEK GOD throughout the day and SEEK OTHERS along the way!

Forgive Me…Forgive You…Forgive Ourselves?

“You are God's chosen people. You are holy and dearly loved. So put on tender mercy and kindness as if they were your clothes. Don't be proud. Be gentle and patient. Put up with each other. Forgive the things you are holding against one another. Forgive, just as the Lord forgave you. And over all of those good things put on love. Love holds them all together perfectly as if they were one. Let the peace that Christ gives rule in your hearts. As parts of one body, you were appointed to live in peace. And be thankful. Let Christ's word live in you like a rich treasure. Teach and correct each other wisely. Sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing with thanks in your hearts to God. Do everything you say or do in the name of the Lord Jesus. Always give thanks to God the Father through Christ.” (Colossians 3:12-17 NIrV)

As the Bible tells us, we are to forgive others when they harm us, even if they do not ask! It gives us a peace within our own heart if nothing else. I don’t know about you, but I don’t have a problem forgiving others. That is easy for me.

“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:8-9 NIrV)

I also have no problem admitting I am a sinner and I have a daily need to confess my sins to the Father and I know I receive His forgiveness. I know I am clean in His sight because of Christ’s blood sacrifice for me and His powerful demonstration of His authority over sin by being raised from the grave by God.

“I know the lawless acts I've committed.
I can't forget my sin.” (Psalm 51:3 NIrV)

Herein lays the struggle I face: I know I am a sinner, but just can’t forget that fact! Not just that: my sins haunt me at times. They disgust me. They tempt me. They seem at times to pursue me!

“Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.” (Romans 7:20 NIrV)

I face the battle every day. My sin nature is at war with Spirit living within me. I must realize it not me, but the sin. It makes me keenly aware of how despicable I am without Christ. It makes me desire to be with Him now and in eternity. Forgive me, as I forgive you, and we help one another to forgive ourselves and live in His power! Maranatha!