"All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had."
Acts 4:32
Near the advent of the church, there were many things they didn't understand. Jesus had recently left them and everything they did, every move they made was an adventure. None of the leaders of the church had been leaders before. They had been followers. But a new empowering had happened. The Holy Spirit was in them, and great things were happening. Miracles and healings were taking place and the church was flourishing. There was a central theme that was the key to their success. They were one in heart and mind.
It seems that all personal endeavors were put on hold. The people who made up the early church had committed themselves to only one mission; to proclaim the message of the risen Christ to the known world. They started with Jerusalem. As those in the city looked on, they saw a group of people who were completely unselfish. There were no separate agendas. Members were not trying to move up the leadership ladder. They were content in the common goal. Every heart, every mind was on the same page. There were no competing churches. There were no groups claiming to have the best thing going in Christian circles. They were all one, and this brought unparalleled success.
What would happen if the church today were one in heart and mind? What would happen if the petty things that separate us were destroyed in favor of having one heart for God? The early church people were so committed to one another that they literally sold things to provide for the needs of others. Is this a concept that is just too difficult for us to understand? I think we have been lulled into a selfish life in many ways. But the days are upon us when the church is being called to enter into greater relationship with God. The hallmark of the church, the thing that the world will be drawn to, is people who love each other enough to sacrifice themselves and their stuff for the sake of the common good. This can only be accomplished if we are committed to being one in heart and mind. Let the church arise and be the people God is calling us to be. The message of Christ will go forth with power and the day of the Lord will be ushered in. Let's commit ourselves to be one in the Spirit.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Faith for the Impossible
"Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said in his heart, 'Shall a child be born to a man who is one hundred years old? And shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?'"
Genesis 17:17
Abraham is the greatest hero of faith ever written about. Of course, he is the father of the entire Jewish nation and hundreds of millions of people have named him and do name him as their father. But the reason Abraham was such a great man has nothing to do with the fact that he fathered an entire nation and culture, it is that he had the faith to believe God. He had to act on such ludicrous instructions that it literally caused him to laugh. But he did it, and history was written.
Just think of some of the things Abraham did in response to God: He was told to leave his home and go where God would show him. He did. He was told that he would have a son at the age of over a hundred, with a wife of ninety who had been barren her entire life. They did. He was told to sacrifice that son on an altar. So he took Isaac, the son of God's promise, to the altar to kill. But God provided a lamb instead and the promise was still alive. But Abraham did everything God told him to do, even though it seemed ridiculous. This is what makes him the greatest man of faith who has ever lived.
So I wonder about my own faith. Am I willing to do what God asks me to do, no matter how ridiculous or impossible it seems? Am I willing to completely change my way of living in favor of following God's commands? I have always thought that I could answer yes to those questions, but when it comes time to act, sometimes I do not follow through. It just seems too difficult or crazy. But nevertheless, my desire is to be like Abraham. I sense a stirring in the Spirit. It is a stirring that may require faith and obedience that I have never had to use before. Though I don't know exactly what God may require, I do know this: I am willing.
Are you willing? If God asks you to go to a land that he will show you, will you go? If he asks you to change your career, will you obey? If he asks you to give up material possessions, will you follow through? I know these things are weighty and may even seem ridiculous to you. But God is a God of the impossible and ridiculous. These changes may look foolish to everyone around you, but ultimately you are not accountable to people, you are accountable to God. The wisdom of the world is foolishness to God. So the wisdom of God also seems foolish to the world. But it is God who made you. It is God who calls you. And it is God who will keep you through whatever he does. This is the stuff of faith. It is the essence of the faith of Abraham. It is faith for the impossible. Believe God, act on his word, and join the Faith Hall of Fame!
Genesis 17:17
Abraham is the greatest hero of faith ever written about. Of course, he is the father of the entire Jewish nation and hundreds of millions of people have named him and do name him as their father. But the reason Abraham was such a great man has nothing to do with the fact that he fathered an entire nation and culture, it is that he had the faith to believe God. He had to act on such ludicrous instructions that it literally caused him to laugh. But he did it, and history was written.
Just think of some of the things Abraham did in response to God: He was told to leave his home and go where God would show him. He did. He was told that he would have a son at the age of over a hundred, with a wife of ninety who had been barren her entire life. They did. He was told to sacrifice that son on an altar. So he took Isaac, the son of God's promise, to the altar to kill. But God provided a lamb instead and the promise was still alive. But Abraham did everything God told him to do, even though it seemed ridiculous. This is what makes him the greatest man of faith who has ever lived.
So I wonder about my own faith. Am I willing to do what God asks me to do, no matter how ridiculous or impossible it seems? Am I willing to completely change my way of living in favor of following God's commands? I have always thought that I could answer yes to those questions, but when it comes time to act, sometimes I do not follow through. It just seems too difficult or crazy. But nevertheless, my desire is to be like Abraham. I sense a stirring in the Spirit. It is a stirring that may require faith and obedience that I have never had to use before. Though I don't know exactly what God may require, I do know this: I am willing.
Are you willing? If God asks you to go to a land that he will show you, will you go? If he asks you to change your career, will you obey? If he asks you to give up material possessions, will you follow through? I know these things are weighty and may even seem ridiculous to you. But God is a God of the impossible and ridiculous. These changes may look foolish to everyone around you, but ultimately you are not accountable to people, you are accountable to God. The wisdom of the world is foolishness to God. So the wisdom of God also seems foolish to the world. But it is God who made you. It is God who calls you. And it is God who will keep you through whatever he does. This is the stuff of faith. It is the essence of the faith of Abraham. It is faith for the impossible. Believe God, act on his word, and join the Faith Hall of Fame!
Monday, February 27, 2012
In HIs Time
"Now Jesus himself was about thirty years old when he began his ministry. He was the son, so it was thought, of Joseph, the son of Heli."
Luke 3:23
Jesus is the foundation of Christianity. His life and ministry are so vital to us that there would be no salvation, no healing, no blessing without it. We know who he was and what he did. We understand his life, death, and resurrection. There is a part of Jesus' life that we don't often talk about. It is an important part of what he taught us, even though he never talked about it.
Jesus was thirty years old when he started his ministry. He never performed a miracle, taught publicly, or gathered disciples before that time. So what did he do from the time he was born until thirty years of age? He grew up just as you and I did. Joseph, his earthly father, is thought to have died when Jesus was still a boy. As the eldest son, it would have been the responsibility of Jesus to care for his family. He had brothers, sisters, and of course, Mary, his mother to provide for. So from the time he was a teenager until thirty years old, Jesus was a carpenter. He worked every day to care for those he loved. There was no glory, no followers.
There is a time for everything. Even God's own Son had to put in his time before he was released to do what he came to do. I think we sometimes forget this part of the Christian life. Yet, Jesus taught us this reality by his own example. God has always required preparation time before releasing people into the destiny he has provided. Moses had to tend sheep, working for his father-in-law until he was 80 years old, before he went to deliver the children of Israel. Joseph spent several years in an Egyptian prison before he became the second most powerful man in the land. He carried the nation through a seven year famine. King David tended sheep, and later lived a nomadic life on the run from Saul before he entered into the place God had prepared for him. Preparation time is always a part of God's plan.
Many of you have dreams and promises from God. You believe with all your heart that there is a ministry, business, or other career that God has laid before you. But it may not be here yet. The preparation may still be taking place. Be encouraged to not give up on God. His plan is set. Although the current circumstances you are facing may seem like God has abandoned you, he hasn't. Life is a process and no matter what age you are, you are still in that process. It sometimes feels difficult and lonely, but God still has his hand on your life. Great men have put in their time doing normal jobs. Some went through times of suffering. But all, became who God intended for them to be. Take courage, take heart, take comfort. God has not forgotten you. It will all happen in his time.
Luke 3:23
Jesus is the foundation of Christianity. His life and ministry are so vital to us that there would be no salvation, no healing, no blessing without it. We know who he was and what he did. We understand his life, death, and resurrection. There is a part of Jesus' life that we don't often talk about. It is an important part of what he taught us, even though he never talked about it.
Jesus was thirty years old when he started his ministry. He never performed a miracle, taught publicly, or gathered disciples before that time. So what did he do from the time he was born until thirty years of age? He grew up just as you and I did. Joseph, his earthly father, is thought to have died when Jesus was still a boy. As the eldest son, it would have been the responsibility of Jesus to care for his family. He had brothers, sisters, and of course, Mary, his mother to provide for. So from the time he was a teenager until thirty years old, Jesus was a carpenter. He worked every day to care for those he loved. There was no glory, no followers.
There is a time for everything. Even God's own Son had to put in his time before he was released to do what he came to do. I think we sometimes forget this part of the Christian life. Yet, Jesus taught us this reality by his own example. God has always required preparation time before releasing people into the destiny he has provided. Moses had to tend sheep, working for his father-in-law until he was 80 years old, before he went to deliver the children of Israel. Joseph spent several years in an Egyptian prison before he became the second most powerful man in the land. He carried the nation through a seven year famine. King David tended sheep, and later lived a nomadic life on the run from Saul before he entered into the place God had prepared for him. Preparation time is always a part of God's plan.
Many of you have dreams and promises from God. You believe with all your heart that there is a ministry, business, or other career that God has laid before you. But it may not be here yet. The preparation may still be taking place. Be encouraged to not give up on God. His plan is set. Although the current circumstances you are facing may seem like God has abandoned you, he hasn't. Life is a process and no matter what age you are, you are still in that process. It sometimes feels difficult and lonely, but God still has his hand on your life. Great men have put in their time doing normal jobs. Some went through times of suffering. But all, became who God intended for them to be. Take courage, take heart, take comfort. God has not forgotten you. It will all happen in his time.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Grace to Win
"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one."
John 17:15
If you are like me, there have probably been times when you may have told God that things are too difficult here. You may have said that it would be easier to just leave the world, either by death or rapture, than to remain in the difficulties we face on earth. I know, because I have said these things to God. It is not always easy to live in the world. It seems that the world is in a tailspin morally and financially. But we should make a decision to agree with the Word, the prayer of Jesus himself.
Sometimes, we Christians have an escapist mentality. Rather than stand and see what God is going to do, we would prefer to be removed from the situation. Of course, we still must contend with the enemy. He and his minions still roam the earth. But God's intent is for us to be victorious here on earth. I remember several years ago, the Portland Trailblazers of the National Basketball Association coined a phrase that became their rallying point for that season: "In it to win it." I believe this should be our mentality. There are often ways that seem easier for us to take, but the ones that God has in store for us are always better. His plans are set and he intends to use us to carry them out.
Remember, Jesus prayed this prayer shortly before he was to die on the cross. His prayer was based on the love he had for his disciples. He knew he would be leaving them. He also knew that they would feel the same way we sometimes do. They would see Jesus ascend to heaven and desire to follow him. Jesus understood and he had compassion for them. Yet when he was honest with the Father, he could only pray that they would remain here, be strong, and resist the enemy. His love, concern, and prayer for us has not changed, because he does not change.
There are amazing blessings in store for us. God is going to do great things on the earth. In fact, he intends to establish his kingdom here. It has always been his plan. Jesus understood this when he prayed. Let's take up a rally cry, "In it to win it!" We must change our ideas, change our thinking, about who we are. We must understand that God already knows us and has equipped us to fulfill his will on the earth. I know we long for heaven, but there is much to do here on the earth. And God has already given us the grace to win.
John 17:15
If you are like me, there have probably been times when you may have told God that things are too difficult here. You may have said that it would be easier to just leave the world, either by death or rapture, than to remain in the difficulties we face on earth. I know, because I have said these things to God. It is not always easy to live in the world. It seems that the world is in a tailspin morally and financially. But we should make a decision to agree with the Word, the prayer of Jesus himself.
Sometimes, we Christians have an escapist mentality. Rather than stand and see what God is going to do, we would prefer to be removed from the situation. Of course, we still must contend with the enemy. He and his minions still roam the earth. But God's intent is for us to be victorious here on earth. I remember several years ago, the Portland Trailblazers of the National Basketball Association coined a phrase that became their rallying point for that season: "In it to win it." I believe this should be our mentality. There are often ways that seem easier for us to take, but the ones that God has in store for us are always better. His plans are set and he intends to use us to carry them out.
Remember, Jesus prayed this prayer shortly before he was to die on the cross. His prayer was based on the love he had for his disciples. He knew he would be leaving them. He also knew that they would feel the same way we sometimes do. They would see Jesus ascend to heaven and desire to follow him. Jesus understood and he had compassion for them. Yet when he was honest with the Father, he could only pray that they would remain here, be strong, and resist the enemy. His love, concern, and prayer for us has not changed, because he does not change.
There are amazing blessings in store for us. God is going to do great things on the earth. In fact, he intends to establish his kingdom here. It has always been his plan. Jesus understood this when he prayed. Let's take up a rally cry, "In it to win it!" We must change our ideas, change our thinking, about who we are. We must understand that God already knows us and has equipped us to fulfill his will on the earth. I know we long for heaven, but there is much to do here on the earth. And God has already given us the grace to win.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Where Are You Going?
"The LORD had said to Abram, 'Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.'"
Genesis 12:1
We are people who like to control our own destinies. We want to make our own decision about where we go, what we do, where we live, and when to do all of these. One of the most difficult things for Christians to learn is to submit all of these things to God. An important part of every Christian's life is transferring control of our own lives to God. This only comes with the revelation that God knows us better than we know ourselves. It comes with the knowledge that he knows far more than we do and has much greater plans than we do. Abram, who would later be called Abraham, faced this needed change in his own life.
Just imagine if God were to speak to you and say, "I want you to pack up all your possessions, load the kids in the mini van and leave your home. I will let you know where you're going after you leave." This goes cross grain to everything we have been taught about responsibility, good stewardship, and the American way of life, doesn't it? But these are basically the same words God spoke to Abraham. I suppose it was an adventure of sorts, but still it must have been intimidating. Although many people in that time were nomadic, Abraham had settled in his own country. He lived among his own people and his family lived there as well. But if we were to read on, we would find that Abraham did exactly as God had commanded. This is a picture of a trusting, faith-filled relationship with God.
I have found over the years, that God does not speak these kinds of things to everyone. There are those who stay in the same house, go to the same job, and follow the same routine for years. Many are wonderful Christian people that God has called to 'bloom where they were planted.' But I have known some, in fact I have been one, whom God has called to different places. I must admit I haven't known anyone who didn't know where they were going. Usually, there is a location to go to, but the plan of what is to happen there, comes later. So the real issue is not whether you are called to move or stay. The issue is obedience. All of us must learn to obey.
Whether God is calling you to move or stay, be obedient to him. We are incredibly blessed to be able to hear the voice of God. How can we ignore such a wonderful privilege. I want to live my life in obedience to God. I want to be so sensitive to the Holy Spirit that when he speaks, I hear and obey. Sometimes I find myself a little hard of hearing. It may take a few times for my flesh to get out of the way so I can clearly hear his voice. But when I do, I will obey. How about you? Do you have enough confidence in God that you would be like Abraham? Would you answer the call and go to the land he will show you? This is true love for God that we obey his commands. There is nothing greater than to obey God and go where he leads. It's also fun to answer when people ask you, "Where are you going?"
Genesis 12:1
We are people who like to control our own destinies. We want to make our own decision about where we go, what we do, where we live, and when to do all of these. One of the most difficult things for Christians to learn is to submit all of these things to God. An important part of every Christian's life is transferring control of our own lives to God. This only comes with the revelation that God knows us better than we know ourselves. It comes with the knowledge that he knows far more than we do and has much greater plans than we do. Abram, who would later be called Abraham, faced this needed change in his own life.
Just imagine if God were to speak to you and say, "I want you to pack up all your possessions, load the kids in the mini van and leave your home. I will let you know where you're going after you leave." This goes cross grain to everything we have been taught about responsibility, good stewardship, and the American way of life, doesn't it? But these are basically the same words God spoke to Abraham. I suppose it was an adventure of sorts, but still it must have been intimidating. Although many people in that time were nomadic, Abraham had settled in his own country. He lived among his own people and his family lived there as well. But if we were to read on, we would find that Abraham did exactly as God had commanded. This is a picture of a trusting, faith-filled relationship with God.
I have found over the years, that God does not speak these kinds of things to everyone. There are those who stay in the same house, go to the same job, and follow the same routine for years. Many are wonderful Christian people that God has called to 'bloom where they were planted.' But I have known some, in fact I have been one, whom God has called to different places. I must admit I haven't known anyone who didn't know where they were going. Usually, there is a location to go to, but the plan of what is to happen there, comes later. So the real issue is not whether you are called to move or stay. The issue is obedience. All of us must learn to obey.
Whether God is calling you to move or stay, be obedient to him. We are incredibly blessed to be able to hear the voice of God. How can we ignore such a wonderful privilege. I want to live my life in obedience to God. I want to be so sensitive to the Holy Spirit that when he speaks, I hear and obey. Sometimes I find myself a little hard of hearing. It may take a few times for my flesh to get out of the way so I can clearly hear his voice. But when I do, I will obey. How about you? Do you have enough confidence in God that you would be like Abraham? Would you answer the call and go to the land he will show you? This is true love for God that we obey his commands. There is nothing greater than to obey God and go where he leads. It's also fun to answer when people ask you, "Where are you going?"
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
To Those Who Seek God
"The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed,
a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know your name will trust in you,
for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you."
Psalm 9:9&10
Sometimes I feel that we need a word of encouragement and comfort. When I have faced difficulties that seem too much for me to bear, I often find that comfort in the pages of the Psalms. The writers of the Psalms were people just like us, who faced the same kinds of difficulties we do. Often their lives were in danger, or there was famine or war. In these worldly struggles, the Psalmists found strength and comfort in God. The words they wrote are still cherished by all who read them.
If you feel oppressed today, there is a refuge for you. Oppression is simply "A sense of being weighed down in body or mind." (Merriam-Webster.com). Sometimes the weighing down of our souls is extreme. We cannot seem to gain victory over the flood of emotions that overcome us. Sometimes circumstances seem to close in around us, pressing on our lives so much that we feel the weight of oppression. But God is our refuge. When we cannot find solace anywhere else, he is our strong refuge.
Troubled times come upon all of us. They seem more common now than ever before. But there is nothing that can happen to us that God does not understand. In fact, Jesus experienced many of the same troubles we do, and more. When troubled times are upon us, we feel weak. It sometimes seems that we cannot rise above the trial or circumstance. It is in those times that we will find a source of strength, a stronghold in God himself. He promises it to us. We have a sure stronghold that will never fail us. He is God and he is all powerful.
For us, there remains only two things to do. We must trust him implicitly, and we must seek him with all our hearts. To those who will do this, he promises to be our refuge and stronghold. We can count on it. There are countless stories of those who have cried out to God in times of crisis. God has met them and provided for their needs. We read about them in the Bible and we hear the stories regularly. Even those who ordinarily do not acknowledge God, will cry out in desperate times. So for those who genuinely seek him, there is refuge and strength that is guaranteed. There is no force that can stop him, no foe that can stand against him.
A refuge is a place of security. A stronghold is a place of power. We have both...all the time. Today, take courage and comfort in the fact that God has promised to be our refuge and stronghold. As you take on each day and face oppressing times, let these words echo in your mind, "You, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." God is merciful, loving, and strong for those who seek him.
a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know your name will trust in you,
for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you."
Psalm 9:9&10
Sometimes I feel that we need a word of encouragement and comfort. When I have faced difficulties that seem too much for me to bear, I often find that comfort in the pages of the Psalms. The writers of the Psalms were people just like us, who faced the same kinds of difficulties we do. Often their lives were in danger, or there was famine or war. In these worldly struggles, the Psalmists found strength and comfort in God. The words they wrote are still cherished by all who read them.
If you feel oppressed today, there is a refuge for you. Oppression is simply "A sense of being weighed down in body or mind." (Merriam-Webster.com). Sometimes the weighing down of our souls is extreme. We cannot seem to gain victory over the flood of emotions that overcome us. Sometimes circumstances seem to close in around us, pressing on our lives so much that we feel the weight of oppression. But God is our refuge. When we cannot find solace anywhere else, he is our strong refuge.
Troubled times come upon all of us. They seem more common now than ever before. But there is nothing that can happen to us that God does not understand. In fact, Jesus experienced many of the same troubles we do, and more. When troubled times are upon us, we feel weak. It sometimes seems that we cannot rise above the trial or circumstance. It is in those times that we will find a source of strength, a stronghold in God himself. He promises it to us. We have a sure stronghold that will never fail us. He is God and he is all powerful.
For us, there remains only two things to do. We must trust him implicitly, and we must seek him with all our hearts. To those who will do this, he promises to be our refuge and stronghold. We can count on it. There are countless stories of those who have cried out to God in times of crisis. God has met them and provided for their needs. We read about them in the Bible and we hear the stories regularly. Even those who ordinarily do not acknowledge God, will cry out in desperate times. So for those who genuinely seek him, there is refuge and strength that is guaranteed. There is no force that can stop him, no foe that can stand against him.
A refuge is a place of security. A stronghold is a place of power. We have both...all the time. Today, take courage and comfort in the fact that God has promised to be our refuge and stronghold. As you take on each day and face oppressing times, let these words echo in your mind, "You, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." God is merciful, loving, and strong for those who seek him.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
The Prophets
"Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets."
Amos 3:7
In the time in which Amos lived, there was only one way that God's voice was heard. He spoke directly to the prophets who then delivered the message to the kings and peoples of different nations. Although God did speak directly to kings (most notably, David), the primary delivery method was through the prophets that God had called and placed in strategic locations. Today, we are all capable of hearing God's voice because of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. Yet even today, the prophets of God are still alive and active. The words written by Amos are still true. God does reveal his plans to today's prophets.
I watch very little Christian television and intentionally do not read a lot of Christian books. Sometimes people will either recommend or give me a book, but I do not actively seek what others are saying. Yet when I happen across a Christian television speaker, or read a portion of a book that has been given to me, I am often amazed that the themes follow exactly what I have been receiving from the Lord on a personal level. We cannot escape the will of God. The future is going to happen exactly as God has already ordained. But he still reveals pieces of the plan to his prophets.
Prophetic influence in the church is vital. It is often the prophetic revelation that brings great hope. The prophetic words of God are life-giving. There have been many times when I have received a revelation spoken by someone who may not have even known they were speaking to my heart. But God placed those words deep in me and I have seen the fulfillment of some.The Holy Spirit is always faithful to bring them back to my attention at exactly the right time. We need to embrace the prophetic. God is at work there. The influence brought to the church through the prophets cannot be found anywhere else. There is of course, a balance here. We need strong Biblical teaching. We need those who shepherd the churches. We need those who carry the message of Christ to the ends of the earth. But if we forget about his servants the prophets, we miss out on blessings and insights that God longs to give us.
There is a prophetic anointing that is alive and well in the church today. Some of the most incredible prophets I have ever seen are the most humble, simple, and non assuming people. They are strategically placed and many are waiting to be used. Let us never give up on the prophets. Let us never stop desiring the prophetic message. Let us never stop allowing the voice of God to be revealed in this precious way. The prophets were alive and well in the Old Testament times. They were alive and well in the early days of the church throughout the New Testament, and they are alive and well today. Let's open up our lives and churches to the blessing of the prophetic voice!
Amos 3:7
In the time in which Amos lived, there was only one way that God's voice was heard. He spoke directly to the prophets who then delivered the message to the kings and peoples of different nations. Although God did speak directly to kings (most notably, David), the primary delivery method was through the prophets that God had called and placed in strategic locations. Today, we are all capable of hearing God's voice because of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. Yet even today, the prophets of God are still alive and active. The words written by Amos are still true. God does reveal his plans to today's prophets.
I watch very little Christian television and intentionally do not read a lot of Christian books. Sometimes people will either recommend or give me a book, but I do not actively seek what others are saying. Yet when I happen across a Christian television speaker, or read a portion of a book that has been given to me, I am often amazed that the themes follow exactly what I have been receiving from the Lord on a personal level. We cannot escape the will of God. The future is going to happen exactly as God has already ordained. But he still reveals pieces of the plan to his prophets.
Prophetic influence in the church is vital. It is often the prophetic revelation that brings great hope. The prophetic words of God are life-giving. There have been many times when I have received a revelation spoken by someone who may not have even known they were speaking to my heart. But God placed those words deep in me and I have seen the fulfillment of some.The Holy Spirit is always faithful to bring them back to my attention at exactly the right time. We need to embrace the prophetic. God is at work there. The influence brought to the church through the prophets cannot be found anywhere else. There is of course, a balance here. We need strong Biblical teaching. We need those who shepherd the churches. We need those who carry the message of Christ to the ends of the earth. But if we forget about his servants the prophets, we miss out on blessings and insights that God longs to give us.
There is a prophetic anointing that is alive and well in the church today. Some of the most incredible prophets I have ever seen are the most humble, simple, and non assuming people. They are strategically placed and many are waiting to be used. Let us never give up on the prophets. Let us never stop desiring the prophetic message. Let us never stop allowing the voice of God to be revealed in this precious way. The prophets were alive and well in the Old Testament times. They were alive and well in the early days of the church throughout the New Testament, and they are alive and well today. Let's open up our lives and churches to the blessing of the prophetic voice!
Monday, February 20, 2012
Let Them Talk
"I want God to bless this team so much that people talk about it!"
From Facing the Giants
Sherwood Pictures
I have watched the dvd of this movie several times. The last time as I watched, this line grabbed my attention. The story is about a high school football coach who has had little success in his six years at the helm of his team. Finally, he seeks God and develops a plan for success. As he presents his new philosophy to the team, he passionately speaks out his heart's desire: "I want God to bless this team so much that people talk about it!"
It was not simply for the success of the team or himself that he spoke, it was so God would be exalted. In the film, God did bless the team and the coach in great and emotional ways. The plan the coach developed was inspired by God himself and he honored what he had told the coach to do. This is a great story of the faithfulness of God.
In our lives, I think we should be going to God asking the same kinds of questions the coach did. There is no shame in asking God to bless us. God is not a vending machine that will spit out the blessing of our choice, but he is a loving Father who wants to bless us in the same way we want to bless our own children. He is in the business of blessing. It was God who said that curses may last for two or three generations, but his blessings will endure for a thousand generations. Many times, he told people that he intended to bless them beyond measure. Consider Abraham. Though he was old and his wife Sarah, was well beyond child-bearing years, God promised them a son. He told Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. His descendents would number more than the sand on the shore of the sea. God kept his promise and blessed Abraham and Sarah, even though it seemed impossible.
I want to be blessed so much in my life that others will marvel at what God has done. It is not for the sake of wealth or comfort that I desire this. It is for the glory of God. My desire is to bring glory to him and his name. I want him to be famous. I want him to be praised, exalted, and worshiped by all. Join me. Ask God for blessing. In fact, ask him to bless you so much that others will talk about it. This is the kind of God we love and serve. He is one who blesses beyond measure, loves beyond understanding, and relents from bringing punishment. So let's have him bless us. Then, let the world talk about it!
From Facing the Giants
Sherwood Pictures
I have watched the dvd of this movie several times. The last time as I watched, this line grabbed my attention. The story is about a high school football coach who has had little success in his six years at the helm of his team. Finally, he seeks God and develops a plan for success. As he presents his new philosophy to the team, he passionately speaks out his heart's desire: "I want God to bless this team so much that people talk about it!"
It was not simply for the success of the team or himself that he spoke, it was so God would be exalted. In the film, God did bless the team and the coach in great and emotional ways. The plan the coach developed was inspired by God himself and he honored what he had told the coach to do. This is a great story of the faithfulness of God.
In our lives, I think we should be going to God asking the same kinds of questions the coach did. There is no shame in asking God to bless us. God is not a vending machine that will spit out the blessing of our choice, but he is a loving Father who wants to bless us in the same way we want to bless our own children. He is in the business of blessing. It was God who said that curses may last for two or three generations, but his blessings will endure for a thousand generations. Many times, he told people that he intended to bless them beyond measure. Consider Abraham. Though he was old and his wife Sarah, was well beyond child-bearing years, God promised them a son. He told Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. His descendents would number more than the sand on the shore of the sea. God kept his promise and blessed Abraham and Sarah, even though it seemed impossible.
I want to be blessed so much in my life that others will marvel at what God has done. It is not for the sake of wealth or comfort that I desire this. It is for the glory of God. My desire is to bring glory to him and his name. I want him to be famous. I want him to be praised, exalted, and worshiped by all. Join me. Ask God for blessing. In fact, ask him to bless you so much that others will talk about it. This is the kind of God we love and serve. He is one who blesses beyond measure, loves beyond understanding, and relents from bringing punishment. So let's have him bless us. Then, let the world talk about it!
Friday, February 17, 2012
The Day of the Lord
"The day of the Lord is near for all nations. Deliverers will go up on Mount Zion to govern the mountains of Esau. And the kingdom will be the Lord's."
Obadiah 15a&21
There are many kingdoms in the world. Nations have risen and fallen for generations. Some of these kingdoms have endured longer than others. Some were powerful, others survived only for a short time. Today, there are still many kingdoms, many nations upon the earth. They change so rapidly that one can barely keep up with the new names. Still, some are great and some are small. But all nations have one thing in common: The day of the Lord is near.
We often think of the day of the Lord as the day when Christ returns. This gives us the personal perspective. We know that Jesus is coming for those of us who have held to the truth of the gospel and lived in honor of the King of kings. But we now live in the day of the Lord. It is a season in which God is bringing all things to fulfillment. Creation has been groaning and the time is at hand.
No nation on the face of the earth will escape the day of the Lord. It is for all nations. The Bible says that Jesus came to be the light of all nations. The day of the Lord is all inclusive. No nation will be able to plead ignorance. None can say that they did not know the truth or understand the coming of that day. All nations will be held accountable for what they did and did not do. America will be judged, as well as every nation of the earth.
You see, there is ultimately only enough room for one kingdom. This is the kingdom of God. All of us are a part of his kingdom. We are experiencing it now as it exists in the Spirit. But then, it will become a reality. Every nation will give way to the one true kingdom. Every other kingdom, every mountain, will bow before the King and his kingdom. Right now, you and I are establishing God's kingdom. We are called to take the mountains of the world. Only one will remain, Mount Zion, the mountain of the Lord. His kingdom will reign forever and we will be home, living in the kingdom provided for us. "Therefore comfort one another with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:18). This is good news. We are living in the day of the Lord!
Obadiah 15a&21
There are many kingdoms in the world. Nations have risen and fallen for generations. Some of these kingdoms have endured longer than others. Some were powerful, others survived only for a short time. Today, there are still many kingdoms, many nations upon the earth. They change so rapidly that one can barely keep up with the new names. Still, some are great and some are small. But all nations have one thing in common: The day of the Lord is near.
We often think of the day of the Lord as the day when Christ returns. This gives us the personal perspective. We know that Jesus is coming for those of us who have held to the truth of the gospel and lived in honor of the King of kings. But we now live in the day of the Lord. It is a season in which God is bringing all things to fulfillment. Creation has been groaning and the time is at hand.
No nation on the face of the earth will escape the day of the Lord. It is for all nations. The Bible says that Jesus came to be the light of all nations. The day of the Lord is all inclusive. No nation will be able to plead ignorance. None can say that they did not know the truth or understand the coming of that day. All nations will be held accountable for what they did and did not do. America will be judged, as well as every nation of the earth.
You see, there is ultimately only enough room for one kingdom. This is the kingdom of God. All of us are a part of his kingdom. We are experiencing it now as it exists in the Spirit. But then, it will become a reality. Every nation will give way to the one true kingdom. Every other kingdom, every mountain, will bow before the King and his kingdom. Right now, you and I are establishing God's kingdom. We are called to take the mountains of the world. Only one will remain, Mount Zion, the mountain of the Lord. His kingdom will reign forever and we will be home, living in the kingdom provided for us. "Therefore comfort one another with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:18). This is good news. We are living in the day of the Lord!
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Raising the Dead
"Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.’ So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army."
Ezekiel 37:9&10
I have written before, about the valley of dry bones in the book of Ezekiel. It seems that the Lord keeps bringing this scripture to my mind, so again, I will take a look at a portion of it. You may remember that God took Ezekiel, in the spirit, to a valley filled with dry bones. These bones belonged to people who were long dead. God told Ezekiel to prophesy to them and as he did, miraculous things began to happen. Eventually, they came to life. It is at this point that we find our scripture for today.
I wonder if the story of the dry bones can be applied to people we know. There are many who sit in our churches who have lost the life they once had. Their zeal for God has long diminished, their passion for him long gone. But in the days in which we are living, God is intending to bring those people back to life. I absolutely believe this. As the word of the Lord is prophesied in the church, there is a stirring happening among the dry bones. They are coming together, they are taking form, they are rising from the dust of the spiritual desert.
The most crucial step in this resurrection is the new breath of life that they must receive. When Ezekiel spoke, the winds blew. This brought breath to the once dead. When we apply this to what God is doing today, we know that the wind is the Holy Spirit. This is what is so exciting about the days we are living in.. The Holy Spirit is breathing new life into those who have lacked breath. There is new life happening and the Holy Spirit is the author. Notice that when the dead people received breath, according to Ezekiel, they stood up and became a mighty army. This is the purpose for God's work today. He is raising up an army that is his church. Those who have been dead are joining. The result is going to be a mighty spiritual army of people who are full of God's Spirit, the true breath of life.
There may be some of you who feel a little like dry bones. The zeal for God, the passion for him and the fire of the Holy Spirit may seem to be far away. If this is you, then God is prophesying to you just as Ezekiel did to the dry bones. Get up, be rebuilt by God, and receive the fresh breath of the Holy Spirit. Then join the army. It is for God's purpose that you are raised to new life. The prophets of today are speaking. The challenge is going forth. Listen to what God is speaking and rise up. An army is being built and you have been called. Rise and receive new life. The army of God is not complete without you.
Ezekiel 37:9&10
I have written before, about the valley of dry bones in the book of Ezekiel. It seems that the Lord keeps bringing this scripture to my mind, so again, I will take a look at a portion of it. You may remember that God took Ezekiel, in the spirit, to a valley filled with dry bones. These bones belonged to people who were long dead. God told Ezekiel to prophesy to them and as he did, miraculous things began to happen. Eventually, they came to life. It is at this point that we find our scripture for today.
I wonder if the story of the dry bones can be applied to people we know. There are many who sit in our churches who have lost the life they once had. Their zeal for God has long diminished, their passion for him long gone. But in the days in which we are living, God is intending to bring those people back to life. I absolutely believe this. As the word of the Lord is prophesied in the church, there is a stirring happening among the dry bones. They are coming together, they are taking form, they are rising from the dust of the spiritual desert.
The most crucial step in this resurrection is the new breath of life that they must receive. When Ezekiel spoke, the winds blew. This brought breath to the once dead. When we apply this to what God is doing today, we know that the wind is the Holy Spirit. This is what is so exciting about the days we are living in.. The Holy Spirit is breathing new life into those who have lacked breath. There is new life happening and the Holy Spirit is the author. Notice that when the dead people received breath, according to Ezekiel, they stood up and became a mighty army. This is the purpose for God's work today. He is raising up an army that is his church. Those who have been dead are joining. The result is going to be a mighty spiritual army of people who are full of God's Spirit, the true breath of life.
There may be some of you who feel a little like dry bones. The zeal for God, the passion for him and the fire of the Holy Spirit may seem to be far away. If this is you, then God is prophesying to you just as Ezekiel did to the dry bones. Get up, be rebuilt by God, and receive the fresh breath of the Holy Spirit. Then join the army. It is for God's purpose that you are raised to new life. The prophets of today are speaking. The challenge is going forth. Listen to what God is speaking and rise up. An army is being built and you have been called. Rise and receive new life. The army of God is not complete without you.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
The Two Commandments
"‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:29-31
Jesus was asked by the Pharisees, what the greatest of the commandments was. The scripture above, was his answer. It is interesting that neither of these are found in the ten commandments, yet Jesus identified them as the greatest of all. If Jesus taught that these are of the greatest importance, then we should pay attention and learn.
First, we are to love the Lord with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength. To me, this means that we love him with our spirits, souls, and bodies. God desires us to love him completely. When we withhold any part of our beings from him, we withhold our love. So the obvious question is: How do we love God? Our love for him is far different than the world's idea of love. It is not based on emotion or attraction. Although our relationship with God will sometimes result in emotion, the foundation of our love for God is found in a few simple words: We love God by obeying what he says to us. It sounds simple, but is more difficult to work out in our lives. Again, this is the foundation of our love for God. Once we begin to live by obeying his commands, we begin to desire him. We miss him when we are not close, and we cherish our times with him. But we must learn to hear his voice and obey what he says in order for our love to be complete. This is the greatest commandment.
Jesus said that the second greatest commandment is to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. The only way that we will learn to love ourselves is through a love relationship with God. It is impossible to truly love ourselves or our neighbors without first possessing love for God. When we enter a relationship with God, the beauty of our lives is revealed. Without that relationship, all that is left is the ugly truth that we are lost slaves to the world and our flesh. The most obviously seen mark of a true disciple of Christ is our love for others. When we love our neighbors, friends, and family, people notice.
The greatest thing you and I can ever accomplish is found simply in obeying the first commandment. We need to love God with all of our being. When we do that, there is a natural overflow that results in love for others. These two commands cannot be separated. One is not possible without the other. So if you are struggling with the question: Do I really love God?, determine if you are obeying what he has told you. Then begin to see yourself as you really are; a child of God, created perfectly to be loved by him and to love him back. Then you will notice that you love others. You will have compassion where you have not had it before. You will desire to express love to those who are hurting or in trouble. This is full obedience to the greatest of commandments. Others may focus on the ten commandments and this is good, but we will never obey them if we do not first obey the two greatest commandments.
Mark 12:29-31
Jesus was asked by the Pharisees, what the greatest of the commandments was. The scripture above, was his answer. It is interesting that neither of these are found in the ten commandments, yet Jesus identified them as the greatest of all. If Jesus taught that these are of the greatest importance, then we should pay attention and learn.
First, we are to love the Lord with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength. To me, this means that we love him with our spirits, souls, and bodies. God desires us to love him completely. When we withhold any part of our beings from him, we withhold our love. So the obvious question is: How do we love God? Our love for him is far different than the world's idea of love. It is not based on emotion or attraction. Although our relationship with God will sometimes result in emotion, the foundation of our love for God is found in a few simple words: We love God by obeying what he says to us. It sounds simple, but is more difficult to work out in our lives. Again, this is the foundation of our love for God. Once we begin to live by obeying his commands, we begin to desire him. We miss him when we are not close, and we cherish our times with him. But we must learn to hear his voice and obey what he says in order for our love to be complete. This is the greatest commandment.
Jesus said that the second greatest commandment is to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. The only way that we will learn to love ourselves is through a love relationship with God. It is impossible to truly love ourselves or our neighbors without first possessing love for God. When we enter a relationship with God, the beauty of our lives is revealed. Without that relationship, all that is left is the ugly truth that we are lost slaves to the world and our flesh. The most obviously seen mark of a true disciple of Christ is our love for others. When we love our neighbors, friends, and family, people notice.
The greatest thing you and I can ever accomplish is found simply in obeying the first commandment. We need to love God with all of our being. When we do that, there is a natural overflow that results in love for others. These two commands cannot be separated. One is not possible without the other. So if you are struggling with the question: Do I really love God?, determine if you are obeying what he has told you. Then begin to see yourself as you really are; a child of God, created perfectly to be loved by him and to love him back. Then you will notice that you love others. You will have compassion where you have not had it before. You will desire to express love to those who are hurting or in trouble. This is full obedience to the greatest of commandments. Others may focus on the ten commandments and this is good, but we will never obey them if we do not first obey the two greatest commandments.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Year of Transition
"Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness."
Romans 6:13
There is no greater transition than the one in which we pass from death to life. It seems backwards, doesn't it? We usually think of passing from life to death. After all, when we die, we no longer live on the earth. People use phrases like: "He passed away," or "He is dead and gone." But really, when that event happens, we pass from death to life. So it is with our lives here on earth. Every time we overcome a sin, we pass from death to life. Every time we avoid giving in to sin, we have avoided death and moved into life. This is one transition, of many that the Lord wants to produce this year.
Occasionally, the prophet in me comes out. This is one of those times. I know I have heard the Holy Spirit speak to me about this year of 2012. This is a year of transition. This is true of my life, but I sense that this year of transition is bigger than just me. I believe that when we get to the end of the year, we will look back, attempting to remember what it was like at the beginning. But things will look so much different then, that we will not be able to remember the place we are right now.
Those of us who are Christians and are genuinely seeking God's kingdom, are going to experience such new things that our spiritual lives now will be but a blur. The church that is genuinely seeking God will experience such change that where we are right now will be a passing shadow. Even the world is going to look different when we get to the end of 2012. The wind of the Holy Spirit is blowing. Jesus told Nicodemus that we feel the effects of the wind, but we cannot see it. It blows wherever it wills. So it is with the Holy Spirit. We know him and we feel him, but we cannot predict where he is going or what he will do next. This makes every day of our lives exciting. It is the great hope of the church that Jesus will return quickly. In the mean time, the Holy Spirit is about his work. And things are changing...quickly.
Let me encourage you, my Christian brothers and sisters: This is a year of transition for you. What you see and experience right now is but a vapor compared to what God has in store for you. This is the year when you will transition into greater things than you ever thought possible. This is the year when your dreams are fulfilled. To the church of the Firstborn: This is the year of transition. Some churches will transition from mediocrity into complete freedom in Jesus. Other churches will truly experience what it means to be hot instead of lukewarm. The church that is seeking God, will find him in glorious abundance. The hurting will be filled with joy. The sick will be well. The poor will find riches. This transition is going to be a complete one. It is the revelation of opposites; sadness is joy, sickness is health, poverty is wealth. This is not a gospel of worldly increase, it is the gospel of the fulfilling of God's word. It is his intent, it is for his glory, and it is the year of transition!
Romans 6:13
There is no greater transition than the one in which we pass from death to life. It seems backwards, doesn't it? We usually think of passing from life to death. After all, when we die, we no longer live on the earth. People use phrases like: "He passed away," or "He is dead and gone." But really, when that event happens, we pass from death to life. So it is with our lives here on earth. Every time we overcome a sin, we pass from death to life. Every time we avoid giving in to sin, we have avoided death and moved into life. This is one transition, of many that the Lord wants to produce this year.
Occasionally, the prophet in me comes out. This is one of those times. I know I have heard the Holy Spirit speak to me about this year of 2012. This is a year of transition. This is true of my life, but I sense that this year of transition is bigger than just me. I believe that when we get to the end of the year, we will look back, attempting to remember what it was like at the beginning. But things will look so much different then, that we will not be able to remember the place we are right now.
Those of us who are Christians and are genuinely seeking God's kingdom, are going to experience such new things that our spiritual lives now will be but a blur. The church that is genuinely seeking God will experience such change that where we are right now will be a passing shadow. Even the world is going to look different when we get to the end of 2012. The wind of the Holy Spirit is blowing. Jesus told Nicodemus that we feel the effects of the wind, but we cannot see it. It blows wherever it wills. So it is with the Holy Spirit. We know him and we feel him, but we cannot predict where he is going or what he will do next. This makes every day of our lives exciting. It is the great hope of the church that Jesus will return quickly. In the mean time, the Holy Spirit is about his work. And things are changing...quickly.
Let me encourage you, my Christian brothers and sisters: This is a year of transition for you. What you see and experience right now is but a vapor compared to what God has in store for you. This is the year when you will transition into greater things than you ever thought possible. This is the year when your dreams are fulfilled. To the church of the Firstborn: This is the year of transition. Some churches will transition from mediocrity into complete freedom in Jesus. Other churches will truly experience what it means to be hot instead of lukewarm. The church that is seeking God, will find him in glorious abundance. The hurting will be filled with joy. The sick will be well. The poor will find riches. This transition is going to be a complete one. It is the revelation of opposites; sadness is joy, sickness is health, poverty is wealth. This is not a gospel of worldly increase, it is the gospel of the fulfilling of God's word. It is his intent, it is for his glory, and it is the year of transition!
Monday, February 13, 2012
Always the Same
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."
Hebrews 13:8
We need to be reminded regularly of the truth of this scripture. I think that sometimes, religion, theology, and denominational differences lead us to argue. Usually these things are about end times theology or beliefs about the scriptures. As long as there have been religious people, there have been differences of opinion. These have changed over time. Some religions have died, others have changed so dramatically that they bear little resemblance to the former state. Theologies, ideas about how we should worship, and philosophies about the purpose of the church have and will change. But one things remains constant and true through all of this: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."
There must be some basic beliefs to look at if we believe the scripture: If Jesus is the same now as he was before, he must still be creating. He was with God in the beginning and was actively involved in the process. If he is the same now as he was before, the miracles he performed are still happening. If he is the same now as he was before, his teachings are still bringing life. If he is the same now as he was before, he is still saving the lost. And if he is going to be the same in the future, these same things will be happening then.
Once we embrace this truth, many of the things that bring division and arguments will fall away. We will not have to justify our personal set of beliefs because we will know that the constant is Jesus. The flavor of our worship may change. The music may be different. The style of the preachers may vary. But the one constant is: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."
Let us rally around the truth of this scripture. Jesus is the main thing, let's keep it that way. All the other doctrines and theologies can become distractions if we allow them to be greater than the central truth of Jesus, the crucified and risen Savior. I believe what God is doing now and is about to do in the world will transcend denominations. No one will be greater than another. We are about to see God do unprecedented things. We live in spectacular days. Although we are approaching the end of the age, one thing remains constant: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." He is the author of everything just as he was in the past. He will be the author in the future. This is why we need not fear. We are secure in the knowledge that he remains constant, he never changes. What he has done, he is doing now. What he is doing now, he will continue to do in the future. One small scripture, one amazing truth. Believe it and live in victory.
Hebrews 13:8
We need to be reminded regularly of the truth of this scripture. I think that sometimes, religion, theology, and denominational differences lead us to argue. Usually these things are about end times theology or beliefs about the scriptures. As long as there have been religious people, there have been differences of opinion. These have changed over time. Some religions have died, others have changed so dramatically that they bear little resemblance to the former state. Theologies, ideas about how we should worship, and philosophies about the purpose of the church have and will change. But one things remains constant and true through all of this: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."
There must be some basic beliefs to look at if we believe the scripture: If Jesus is the same now as he was before, he must still be creating. He was with God in the beginning and was actively involved in the process. If he is the same now as he was before, the miracles he performed are still happening. If he is the same now as he was before, his teachings are still bringing life. If he is the same now as he was before, he is still saving the lost. And if he is going to be the same in the future, these same things will be happening then.
Once we embrace this truth, many of the things that bring division and arguments will fall away. We will not have to justify our personal set of beliefs because we will know that the constant is Jesus. The flavor of our worship may change. The music may be different. The style of the preachers may vary. But the one constant is: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."
Let us rally around the truth of this scripture. Jesus is the main thing, let's keep it that way. All the other doctrines and theologies can become distractions if we allow them to be greater than the central truth of Jesus, the crucified and risen Savior. I believe what God is doing now and is about to do in the world will transcend denominations. No one will be greater than another. We are about to see God do unprecedented things. We live in spectacular days. Although we are approaching the end of the age, one thing remains constant: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." He is the author of everything just as he was in the past. He will be the author in the future. This is why we need not fear. We are secure in the knowledge that he remains constant, he never changes. What he has done, he is doing now. What he is doing now, he will continue to do in the future. One small scripture, one amazing truth. Believe it and live in victory.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Believing in Jesus
"Do not believe me unless I do what my Father does. But if I do it, even though you do not believe me, believe the miracles, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father.”
John 10:37&38
"And many people came to him. They said, 'Though John never performed a miraculous sign, all that John said about this man was true.'"
John 10:41
When Jesus walked the earth, he faced a basic problem: Virtually no one believed he was the Son of God. He spoke with such wisdom that he could not be refuted. By the witness of the Pharisees themselves, there had never been one who spoke with such wisdom. Although he could speak with all the wisdom of heaven, it was not enough to persuade the people to believe in him. Even the miracles he performed failed to convince the Pharisees of his deity.
Jesus told the Pharisees that if they would not believe in him, at least they should believe in the miracles he did. What he said to them 2000 years ago, is still true today. Thousands of people around the world have come to know Jesus and believe in him as the Son of God because they saw the miracles that were done. This is why it is so important that we, as Christians, believe that he is still doing miracles. Although Jesus is not physically present in the world today, he is present through us. His promise to us is that we will do greater things than he did, is still intact. He makes himself known through us, and if he wants to use us to perform great miracles, he will. Miracles and healings are still happening today. The author of these is Jesus, but we are the vessels he uses to perform them. This was the way it worked in the days of the first century church and it is the same today.
There are many who have never seen a miracle. It seems to some that the miracles of God have gone away. Although this is not true, there is another way in which people will be drawn to Jesus. John the Baptist who preceded Jesus and announced his coming, never did one miracle. All he did was proclaim the coming of the Son of God, Messiah, Jesus. For most of his time on the earth, John didn't even know who the Messiah was, yet he remained faithful to the call. He proclaimed him and baptized people in preparation for the day of his coming.
Today, some are called to be like the great apostles of the early church. These people will perform miracles and heal the sick, not by their own strength or merit, but by the hand of God. All these miracles are done to draw people to the one true God through Jesus Christ. Others are called to be like John the Baptist. Though they may never perform a miracle, they will faithfully proclaim Jesus. Is one better than the other? Are miracles the only way people will believe in Jesus? Is the proclamation of Jesus the only way? Miracles, in themselves will not lead everyone to believe in Christ. The faithfulness of those who proclaim his name will not win every person for Jesus. We need both. We need each other. The miracle worker is no greater in the kingdom than the proclaimer. In the end, the argument does not matter. What matters is that God's word is being confirmed and lost souls are being brought to Christ. Believe in the miracle working power of God, but believe also, in the power of the proclamation of Christ. God is using all of us to be his hands, feet, and voice in the world. Join the team, that many will believe in Jesus.
John 10:37&38
"And many people came to him. They said, 'Though John never performed a miraculous sign, all that John said about this man was true.'"
John 10:41
When Jesus walked the earth, he faced a basic problem: Virtually no one believed he was the Son of God. He spoke with such wisdom that he could not be refuted. By the witness of the Pharisees themselves, there had never been one who spoke with such wisdom. Although he could speak with all the wisdom of heaven, it was not enough to persuade the people to believe in him. Even the miracles he performed failed to convince the Pharisees of his deity.
Jesus told the Pharisees that if they would not believe in him, at least they should believe in the miracles he did. What he said to them 2000 years ago, is still true today. Thousands of people around the world have come to know Jesus and believe in him as the Son of God because they saw the miracles that were done. This is why it is so important that we, as Christians, believe that he is still doing miracles. Although Jesus is not physically present in the world today, he is present through us. His promise to us is that we will do greater things than he did, is still intact. He makes himself known through us, and if he wants to use us to perform great miracles, he will. Miracles and healings are still happening today. The author of these is Jesus, but we are the vessels he uses to perform them. This was the way it worked in the days of the first century church and it is the same today.
There are many who have never seen a miracle. It seems to some that the miracles of God have gone away. Although this is not true, there is another way in which people will be drawn to Jesus. John the Baptist who preceded Jesus and announced his coming, never did one miracle. All he did was proclaim the coming of the Son of God, Messiah, Jesus. For most of his time on the earth, John didn't even know who the Messiah was, yet he remained faithful to the call. He proclaimed him and baptized people in preparation for the day of his coming.
Today, some are called to be like the great apostles of the early church. These people will perform miracles and heal the sick, not by their own strength or merit, but by the hand of God. All these miracles are done to draw people to the one true God through Jesus Christ. Others are called to be like John the Baptist. Though they may never perform a miracle, they will faithfully proclaim Jesus. Is one better than the other? Are miracles the only way people will believe in Jesus? Is the proclamation of Jesus the only way? Miracles, in themselves will not lead everyone to believe in Christ. The faithfulness of those who proclaim his name will not win every person for Jesus. We need both. We need each other. The miracle worker is no greater in the kingdom than the proclaimer. In the end, the argument does not matter. What matters is that God's word is being confirmed and lost souls are being brought to Christ. Believe in the miracle working power of God, but believe also, in the power of the proclamation of Christ. God is using all of us to be his hands, feet, and voice in the world. Join the team, that many will believe in Jesus.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Be Glorified
"Jesus replied, ' If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing.'"
John 8:54a
I find the words 'glory' or 'glorify' to be interesting. As Christians, we say these words all the time, but I wonder if we have really given thought to what they mean. To glorify means: To magnify, extol. or praise. To elevate to celestial glory. To cause to be better than the normal condition. Both the Greek word and the English translation of the word are similar in definition. Now that we understand the meaning of the word, let's take a look at the scripture referenced above.
Bringing glory to one's self does nothing. Another word for this act could be 'pride.' It is a self-centered person who bestows greatness on themselves. Jesus, while in the world, knew that he could not bring glory to himself. If he spoke on his own, he would be no better than a thousand who had come before him claiming to be someone great. Thousands more have come since he lived, claiming to be great, glorifying themselves. In the end, they amount to nothing and their deeds are pointless. If you read on in John 8, you will see that Jesus said it was his Father that brought glory to him. There was a weighty witness to his life and the things he did. God himself sent him and brought him glory.
There are others who bring glory to Jesus. We do. In the days of Jesus, very few glorified him. In other words, few were willing to accept the fact that he was not part of the normal circumstance, he was greater. In fact, he was God...fully God. Even his own disciples often questioned him. They did not understand who he was or the authority he had among them. The Pharisees claimed Jesus glorified himself by the things he said. But Jesus made it clear that he only spoke what our Heavenly Father spoke to him. Today, we are the ones who should glorify Jesus. He is not part of the old status quo. He is not a product of natural circumstance. He is God...fully God. It is incumbent on us to elevate him to that position in our own hearts. Then we will access the incredible miracles he has in store for us.
We know that God is all powerful. If he chose to control our lives as uif we were puppets on a string, he could. He has the right. After all, he created us and everything we know. But he chooses to not exercise control over us. He gave us free will because he knows that glorifying himself means nothing. When we glorify God, he is glorified. His name is exalted, his acts are praised, and his character honored. How will others come to know the glorified God? They will come by seeing us glorifying Him. As Jesus said about those who were crying out, "Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord," "I tell you, if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out." God deserves to be glorified and you and I are the ones who must do it. Let us say of the Lord, BE GLORIFIED!
John 8:54a
I find the words 'glory' or 'glorify' to be interesting. As Christians, we say these words all the time, but I wonder if we have really given thought to what they mean. To glorify means: To magnify, extol. or praise. To elevate to celestial glory. To cause to be better than the normal condition. Both the Greek word and the English translation of the word are similar in definition. Now that we understand the meaning of the word, let's take a look at the scripture referenced above.
Bringing glory to one's self does nothing. Another word for this act could be 'pride.' It is a self-centered person who bestows greatness on themselves. Jesus, while in the world, knew that he could not bring glory to himself. If he spoke on his own, he would be no better than a thousand who had come before him claiming to be someone great. Thousands more have come since he lived, claiming to be great, glorifying themselves. In the end, they amount to nothing and their deeds are pointless. If you read on in John 8, you will see that Jesus said it was his Father that brought glory to him. There was a weighty witness to his life and the things he did. God himself sent him and brought him glory.
There are others who bring glory to Jesus. We do. In the days of Jesus, very few glorified him. In other words, few were willing to accept the fact that he was not part of the normal circumstance, he was greater. In fact, he was God...fully God. Even his own disciples often questioned him. They did not understand who he was or the authority he had among them. The Pharisees claimed Jesus glorified himself by the things he said. But Jesus made it clear that he only spoke what our Heavenly Father spoke to him. Today, we are the ones who should glorify Jesus. He is not part of the old status quo. He is not a product of natural circumstance. He is God...fully God. It is incumbent on us to elevate him to that position in our own hearts. Then we will access the incredible miracles he has in store for us.
We know that God is all powerful. If he chose to control our lives as uif we were puppets on a string, he could. He has the right. After all, he created us and everything we know. But he chooses to not exercise control over us. He gave us free will because he knows that glorifying himself means nothing. When we glorify God, he is glorified. His name is exalted, his acts are praised, and his character honored. How will others come to know the glorified God? They will come by seeing us glorifying Him. As Jesus said about those who were crying out, "Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord," "I tell you, if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out." God deserves to be glorified and you and I are the ones who must do it. Let us say of the Lord, BE GLORIFIED!
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Belonging to God
"He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God."
John 8:47
At first glance, these are harsh words Jesus spoke. But when I really look at the scripture, I find great encouragement. Jesus did not say these things to condemn me, he said them to reveal a vital truth to me.
Jesus spoke these words to the Pharisees. They relied on their heritage and the laws that were given them, for their spiritual lives. Jesus wanted them to know that somewhere along the way, they had lost relationship with God. Yes, he had given the laws, and the stories they read and heard about their ancestors chronicled wonderful things that God had done. And Yes, the Pharisees were Jews, the chosen people of God. But they had no connection with God at all. The laws had become their God. There is an application for us here. We need to check our lives continually to make sure we do not fall into the trap of the Pharisees. Our relationship is not with God's laws, it is with God himself. We are not saved by religion, we are saved by faith in Jesus Christ. God help us to not become like the Pharisees!
The encouragement from this passage of scripture is absolutely critical for us to understand. In the beloved children's book, Charlotte's Web, there came a critical point when Wilbur the pig, had a breakthrough. All the other animals had the ability to talk. But Wilbur, the newcomer to the barn, could not. So they encouraged him to try. When he did, a few words came out. Soon, he was talking all the time. I think we need to have this same kind of experience. You see, we can hear God! We can hear exactly what he has to say. How is this possible? There is only one explanation: We belong to God!
How critical it is for us to understand that we belong to God. When we realize this, it opens up the greatest ability anyone could ever have; the ability to hear God speak. Our Christian lives are built on an understanding that God is actively working in our lives. Part of that foundation is the truth that he is always speaking to us as well. I often think that life would pretty dull if God never spoke to me. I live my life expecting him to speak...and he does. He is also speaking to you, if you have a relationship with him. His voice may be different than you are used to hearing from other sources. It is sometimes soft, and so subtle that you must pay careful attention to hear. Sometimes it is loud, bringing clear direction for us. But with practice, you will always recognize it. Don't condemn yourself, thinking that you may not belong to God. You do. And because you do, he is speaking to you. Listen up! In fact, I am confident that he is speaking to you right now, saying: "You belong to me."
John 8:47
At first glance, these are harsh words Jesus spoke. But when I really look at the scripture, I find great encouragement. Jesus did not say these things to condemn me, he said them to reveal a vital truth to me.
Jesus spoke these words to the Pharisees. They relied on their heritage and the laws that were given them, for their spiritual lives. Jesus wanted them to know that somewhere along the way, they had lost relationship with God. Yes, he had given the laws, and the stories they read and heard about their ancestors chronicled wonderful things that God had done. And Yes, the Pharisees were Jews, the chosen people of God. But they had no connection with God at all. The laws had become their God. There is an application for us here. We need to check our lives continually to make sure we do not fall into the trap of the Pharisees. Our relationship is not with God's laws, it is with God himself. We are not saved by religion, we are saved by faith in Jesus Christ. God help us to not become like the Pharisees!
The encouragement from this passage of scripture is absolutely critical for us to understand. In the beloved children's book, Charlotte's Web, there came a critical point when Wilbur the pig, had a breakthrough. All the other animals had the ability to talk. But Wilbur, the newcomer to the barn, could not. So they encouraged him to try. When he did, a few words came out. Soon, he was talking all the time. I think we need to have this same kind of experience. You see, we can hear God! We can hear exactly what he has to say. How is this possible? There is only one explanation: We belong to God!
How critical it is for us to understand that we belong to God. When we realize this, it opens up the greatest ability anyone could ever have; the ability to hear God speak. Our Christian lives are built on an understanding that God is actively working in our lives. Part of that foundation is the truth that he is always speaking to us as well. I often think that life would pretty dull if God never spoke to me. I live my life expecting him to speak...and he does. He is also speaking to you, if you have a relationship with him. His voice may be different than you are used to hearing from other sources. It is sometimes soft, and so subtle that you must pay careful attention to hear. Sometimes it is loud, bringing clear direction for us. But with practice, you will always recognize it. Don't condemn yourself, thinking that you may not belong to God. You do. And because you do, he is speaking to you. Listen up! In fact, I am confident that he is speaking to you right now, saying: "You belong to me."
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
A Right Judgement
"Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgement."
John 7:24
"You judge by human standards; I pass judgement on no one. But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me."
John 8:15&16
It is human nature to make judgements. As much as we would like to say, "We don't judge anyone," it is simply not true. We judge everything and everyone. If we see a person dressed differently than us, we comment on them in a negative way. When we observe those who are of a different nationality, we judge their lifestyle. When we see difficult times come to a person or family, we judge by making our own determination as to why the trouble has come. Even when we face our own troubles, we judge by attempting to figure it out. Often, we judge incorrectly because our judgement comes from our own perspective. It is produced by things we have been taught and through things we have lived through ourselves.
The problem with judging in this way is that we judge by appearances. We draw a conclusion based on what we can see with our eyes and hear with our ears. All the words in the above scripture were spoken by Jesus. Notice in John 8:15, Jesus said, "You judge by human standards." So this is the real issue. Judging in this way is really a matter of pride. Because the situation or the person does not match what we think or believe, we cast a judgement. This puts us in a position that is not rightfully ours. God is the judge and he is always perfect in his judgements.
We can gain insight into a situation or another person in only one way. Jesus said that he passed judgement on no one. When he said this, he was expressing the fact that he refused to judge based on human experience and emotion. The only judgements he made were based on what the Father told him. So it was not the judgement of a man, but the judgement of God himself. We have a source that flows from the throne of God. That source is the Holy Spirit. He empowers the Word of God to speak to us, and he lives in us, continually speaking to our hearts. We cannot judge on our own, but we can gain insight into situations, even other people, through the source we have, the precious Holy Spirit.
We need to stop judging. We even judge God. When a difficult circumstance comes our way, we somehow believe that we could better dictate our situation. We think that God is unfair in bringing certain things into our lives, therefore, we judge him. Allow me to reiterate the words of Jesus, "Stop judging by mere appearances." God is the judge, not us. God is the author of our lives and circumstances, not us. God is the creator of all people, not us. So where do we get the idea that these things are ours to judge? They are not. Let us instead listen carefully to the voice of God revealed to us through the Holy Spirit. Insights will be revealed that will bring us understanding. Let's rely on that and allow God be the judge. This is the right judgement!
John 7:24
"You judge by human standards; I pass judgement on no one. But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me."
John 8:15&16
It is human nature to make judgements. As much as we would like to say, "We don't judge anyone," it is simply not true. We judge everything and everyone. If we see a person dressed differently than us, we comment on them in a negative way. When we observe those who are of a different nationality, we judge their lifestyle. When we see difficult times come to a person or family, we judge by making our own determination as to why the trouble has come. Even when we face our own troubles, we judge by attempting to figure it out. Often, we judge incorrectly because our judgement comes from our own perspective. It is produced by things we have been taught and through things we have lived through ourselves.
The problem with judging in this way is that we judge by appearances. We draw a conclusion based on what we can see with our eyes and hear with our ears. All the words in the above scripture were spoken by Jesus. Notice in John 8:15, Jesus said, "You judge by human standards." So this is the real issue. Judging in this way is really a matter of pride. Because the situation or the person does not match what we think or believe, we cast a judgement. This puts us in a position that is not rightfully ours. God is the judge and he is always perfect in his judgements.
We can gain insight into a situation or another person in only one way. Jesus said that he passed judgement on no one. When he said this, he was expressing the fact that he refused to judge based on human experience and emotion. The only judgements he made were based on what the Father told him. So it was not the judgement of a man, but the judgement of God himself. We have a source that flows from the throne of God. That source is the Holy Spirit. He empowers the Word of God to speak to us, and he lives in us, continually speaking to our hearts. We cannot judge on our own, but we can gain insight into situations, even other people, through the source we have, the precious Holy Spirit.
We need to stop judging. We even judge God. When a difficult circumstance comes our way, we somehow believe that we could better dictate our situation. We think that God is unfair in bringing certain things into our lives, therefore, we judge him. Allow me to reiterate the words of Jesus, "Stop judging by mere appearances." God is the judge, not us. God is the author of our lives and circumstances, not us. God is the creator of all people, not us. So where do we get the idea that these things are ours to judge? They are not. Let us instead listen carefully to the voice of God revealed to us through the Holy Spirit. Insights will be revealed that will bring us understanding. Let's rely on that and allow God be the judge. This is the right judgement!
Monday, February 6, 2012
Born of God
"We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them."
1 John 5:18
This is an interesting scripture written by a man who had written about 'birth' before. This is the same John who wrote about the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in the gospel of John. Jesus told Nicodemus that he must be "born again." Here, John picks up the conversation again by talking about life after being born again. When we are born again, we become "Born of God." The experience of being born again is amazing. It is through this experience that we literally pass from death to life, and eternal life is ours. Yet, there is much more to be gained after this experience. We cannot stop there, we must grow up as those who are born of God.
This scripture makes one very bold statement, "Anyone born of God does not continue to sin." Is it really possible? We have been taught that we are still sinners. The difference between us and those who have not received Jesus is only that we have been saved by God's grace. While it is certainly true that we have been saved by God's grace, it is time that we believe that we can stop sinning. We can live a victorious life because we have been covered by the blood of Jesus. The process of the Christian life must include learning to live holy lives that are free from sin. If we do not move on, we remain spiritual infants who cannot affect the world around us.
This scripture also tells us, "The evil one cannot harm them." Those who are born of God have victory over the enemy. He cannot harm us. Those who don't recognize the position we have as sons and daughters of God, often miss this vital truth. They give too much credit to the enemy. The work of the cross of Christ destroyed the heavenly power of the enemy. While he is still loose on the earth, he is limited because he has already been defeated. Jesus faced a world that was overrun by the power of the enemy. Many were demon possessed and trapped by the enemy. But Jesus changed all that. Now we are born of God. He was the first, we followed, taking advantage of the suffering and death of Christ. His resurrection was the final nail in the coffin of the enemy.
Think about this today: Not only are you free from the power of the enemy, but you have within you the ability to live a life free from sin. This is not an interpretation of the scripture, it is simply reading what it says. You can live in victory over both sin and the enemy. We live a new life. We have moved into a new world, alive in the presence of God. These are two things that can change your life. Today, be comforted in the fact that you are free from sin, and you are victorious over a defeated foe. Now, that should make your day!
1 John 5:18
This is an interesting scripture written by a man who had written about 'birth' before. This is the same John who wrote about the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in the gospel of John. Jesus told Nicodemus that he must be "born again." Here, John picks up the conversation again by talking about life after being born again. When we are born again, we become "Born of God." The experience of being born again is amazing. It is through this experience that we literally pass from death to life, and eternal life is ours. Yet, there is much more to be gained after this experience. We cannot stop there, we must grow up as those who are born of God.
This scripture makes one very bold statement, "Anyone born of God does not continue to sin." Is it really possible? We have been taught that we are still sinners. The difference between us and those who have not received Jesus is only that we have been saved by God's grace. While it is certainly true that we have been saved by God's grace, it is time that we believe that we can stop sinning. We can live a victorious life because we have been covered by the blood of Jesus. The process of the Christian life must include learning to live holy lives that are free from sin. If we do not move on, we remain spiritual infants who cannot affect the world around us.
This scripture also tells us, "The evil one cannot harm them." Those who are born of God have victory over the enemy. He cannot harm us. Those who don't recognize the position we have as sons and daughters of God, often miss this vital truth. They give too much credit to the enemy. The work of the cross of Christ destroyed the heavenly power of the enemy. While he is still loose on the earth, he is limited because he has already been defeated. Jesus faced a world that was overrun by the power of the enemy. Many were demon possessed and trapped by the enemy. But Jesus changed all that. Now we are born of God. He was the first, we followed, taking advantage of the suffering and death of Christ. His resurrection was the final nail in the coffin of the enemy.
Think about this today: Not only are you free from the power of the enemy, but you have within you the ability to live a life free from sin. This is not an interpretation of the scripture, it is simply reading what it says. You can live in victory over both sin and the enemy. We live a new life. We have moved into a new world, alive in the presence of God. These are two things that can change your life. Today, be comforted in the fact that you are free from sin, and you are victorious over a defeated foe. Now, that should make your day!
Friday, February 3, 2012
God Provides
"Jonah went out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. Then the LORD God provided a vine and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the vine. But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the vine so that it withered. When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah’s head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, 'It would be better for me to die than to live.'"
Jonah 4:5-8
The story of Jonah is really a story about God's provision. Although Jonah didn't always accept the provision with joy, God provided for him every step of the way. The provision of God didn't always look like provision to Jonah. The fish was scary, The worm that ate the vine made him uncomfortable, the scorching east wind burned him. yet all of these things were the provision of God for Jonah.
There have been many times in my life when I did not recognize the provision of the Lord. Sometimes, I thought it was a natural thing. Other times, I though it simply happened in the normal course of life. There have been times of plenty. In those times it is easy to live in the blessing. There have been times of want. It is in those times that I have found the greatest spiritual growth. Both of these were God's provision in my life. Some brought joy, others brought pain.
Our lives will bring change all the time. God is always moving us into greater places. Sometimes these are manifested through incredible blessings. Other times, we are humbled before God. There are good times and bad, but God is the author of both. The circumstances should never dictate our relationship with God. On the contrary, our relationship with God should dictate the circumstances. This means, the way we go through the circumstance will change because we are talking to the author directly. Thus, we submit to his provision, knowing that it is the best for us. Even though it may bring pain, his provision always leads us into greater relationship with him.
I heard a speaker once say that his favorite scripture in the Bible is: "This too, shall pass." Yes, it is true. Whatever season of life we are in, no matter what difficulties we face, it will pass. Whether in a time of want or plenty, joy or pain, God always has something greater on the other side. If you are in a time of suffering, be encouraged that, This too, shall pass." If you are in a time rich with God's blessing, thank him for it, but always remember that God provides. Whatever he sends your way is his provision for your life. Although you may not understand, he has your best interest at heart. All this, because he loves you and his intent is always for your good. So be at peace, knowing that God provides.
Jonah 4:5-8
The story of Jonah is really a story about God's provision. Although Jonah didn't always accept the provision with joy, God provided for him every step of the way. The provision of God didn't always look like provision to Jonah. The fish was scary, The worm that ate the vine made him uncomfortable, the scorching east wind burned him. yet all of these things were the provision of God for Jonah.
There have been many times in my life when I did not recognize the provision of the Lord. Sometimes, I thought it was a natural thing. Other times, I though it simply happened in the normal course of life. There have been times of plenty. In those times it is easy to live in the blessing. There have been times of want. It is in those times that I have found the greatest spiritual growth. Both of these were God's provision in my life. Some brought joy, others brought pain.
Our lives will bring change all the time. God is always moving us into greater places. Sometimes these are manifested through incredible blessings. Other times, we are humbled before God. There are good times and bad, but God is the author of both. The circumstances should never dictate our relationship with God. On the contrary, our relationship with God should dictate the circumstances. This means, the way we go through the circumstance will change because we are talking to the author directly. Thus, we submit to his provision, knowing that it is the best for us. Even though it may bring pain, his provision always leads us into greater relationship with him.
I heard a speaker once say that his favorite scripture in the Bible is: "This too, shall pass." Yes, it is true. Whatever season of life we are in, no matter what difficulties we face, it will pass. Whether in a time of want or plenty, joy or pain, God always has something greater on the other side. If you are in a time of suffering, be encouraged that, This too, shall pass." If you are in a time rich with God's blessing, thank him for it, but always remember that God provides. Whatever he sends your way is his provision for your life. Although you may not understand, he has your best interest at heart. All this, because he loves you and his intent is always for your good. So be at peace, knowing that God provides.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
A Change of Plans
"But Jonah was greatly displeased and became angry. He prayed to the LORD, 'O LORD, is this not what I said when I was still at home? That is why I was so quick to flee to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Now, O LORD, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.'"
Jonah 4:1-3
There comes a moment in everyone's life when plans get changed. Generally, this is because our plans do not match God's. Jonah faced such a time. After that pesky big fish experience, he found himself in Nineveh, doing what God told him to do, even though he had gone the other direction. God told him to speak against the city. So when Jonah arrived he immediately began to tell them that the city would be destroyed in forty days. That was his message. You would think that it was not a popular one.
The people of Nineveh did receive the message of Jonah. They began to repent of the sin and wickedness that had overrun the city. Even the king, when he heard what Jonah said, repented for his sin and wickedness. He issued a decree that all should do the same. The city escaped destruction by listening to the prophet's words. They responded to God and he relented from bringing destruction.
Jonah was upset. He was angry. You see, what he told the people of Nineveh was this: "God is going to destroy this city in forty days." But God didn't. Jonah must have been thinking, God just made a liar out of me. So he was angry with God. Things did not turn out the way Jonah had planned. They did however, turn out the way God planned. Thus the conflict between Jonah's plan and God's came to a head. I can't help but notice the paradox between Jonah's way and God's. Jonah became angry, and quickly. God, by Jonah's own confession is, "Slow to anger and abounding in love." We too, must face times when our plans succumb to the plan of God.
Everything that God did was for the sake of the city of Nineveh. He called Jonah, went and got him when he had gone the wrong direction, and sent him to the city. A city of thousands, possibly over a million inhabitants, was spared the wrath of God.
Many times, we believe we know why God is calling us or sending us. However, when we get there, we find that it is much different than we had planned. God's will is always supreme. Success is not measured by our own thinking, it is measured by God in the light of eternity. Even though we may be humbled, if God's purpose is served, the kingdom of heaven will be advanced. Instead of becoming angry or distraught, we should instead thank God that his will has been accomplished. We can know that even though things look different than what we thought, God is in control and we have been used for his purpose. God loved Jonah. God loves us. He loves so deeply that no one on the face of the earth escapes him. He will use us to extend his love to those who don't know him. Life and death is in his hands and he will always accomplish his purpose with love. His love certainly looks different than we sometimes think. All are in his hands, all are called, and all are loved. Celebrate the working of his plan, even if it requires you to change your own.
Jonah 4:1-3
There comes a moment in everyone's life when plans get changed. Generally, this is because our plans do not match God's. Jonah faced such a time. After that pesky big fish experience, he found himself in Nineveh, doing what God told him to do, even though he had gone the other direction. God told him to speak against the city. So when Jonah arrived he immediately began to tell them that the city would be destroyed in forty days. That was his message. You would think that it was not a popular one.
The people of Nineveh did receive the message of Jonah. They began to repent of the sin and wickedness that had overrun the city. Even the king, when he heard what Jonah said, repented for his sin and wickedness. He issued a decree that all should do the same. The city escaped destruction by listening to the prophet's words. They responded to God and he relented from bringing destruction.
Jonah was upset. He was angry. You see, what he told the people of Nineveh was this: "God is going to destroy this city in forty days." But God didn't. Jonah must have been thinking, God just made a liar out of me. So he was angry with God. Things did not turn out the way Jonah had planned. They did however, turn out the way God planned. Thus the conflict between Jonah's plan and God's came to a head. I can't help but notice the paradox between Jonah's way and God's. Jonah became angry, and quickly. God, by Jonah's own confession is, "Slow to anger and abounding in love." We too, must face times when our plans succumb to the plan of God.
Everything that God did was for the sake of the city of Nineveh. He called Jonah, went and got him when he had gone the wrong direction, and sent him to the city. A city of thousands, possibly over a million inhabitants, was spared the wrath of God.
Many times, we believe we know why God is calling us or sending us. However, when we get there, we find that it is much different than we had planned. God's will is always supreme. Success is not measured by our own thinking, it is measured by God in the light of eternity. Even though we may be humbled, if God's purpose is served, the kingdom of heaven will be advanced. Instead of becoming angry or distraught, we should instead thank God that his will has been accomplished. We can know that even though things look different than what we thought, God is in control and we have been used for his purpose. God loved Jonah. God loves us. He loves so deeply that no one on the face of the earth escapes him. He will use us to extend his love to those who don't know him. Life and death is in his hands and he will always accomplish his purpose with love. His love certainly looks different than we sometimes think. All are in his hands, all are called, and all are loved. Celebrate the working of his plan, even if it requires you to change your own.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
A Big Fish
"But the LORD provided a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was inside the fish three days and three nights."
Jonah 1:17
The story of Jonah has become a treasured children's tale. The story has been told countless times. Usually, the great fish is called a whale. Of course, we don't know for sure, but more than likely it was exactly as the Bible says...A big fish.
Jonah was running from God. He was called to go to Nineveh and preach against the city because of their sin and wickedness. Not enthused at the prospect, Jonah chose to literally sail the opposite direction. When the seas became so violent that all aboard the ship were threatened, Jonah fessed up. He was the one running and he knew it. They cast him overboard and immediately the sea calmed. But it is what happened after, that is the heart of my thoughts today.
God PROVIDED a great fish. I'm sure Jonah didn't see it as provision at first. But it became evident that it was God's plan, his vehicle, to get Jonah to the place he was supposed to go. Three long days inside a fish will cause a man to think, and Jonah did. From the belly of the fish, Jonah cried out to God. He thanked him for saving him from the waves of the sea. He praised him for providing for him. He promised to do what God had called him to do. Imagine being swallowed by a fish. It sounds horrific, and I'm sure Jonah was frightened beyond any description. But from within the fish, God still spoke to him and Jonah responded. It was a preparation time that he would not have had otherwise. His rebellion and disobedience were turned into a three day communion with God. This was his provision.
Some of us may have run from God. But whether we have or not, one thing is sure: We will spend some time in the belly of the fish. Not literally of course, but we can be sure that God will put us in places that may not look very comfortable. it may be a cold, scary environment, but it may well be the vehicle God has chosen to prepare us for his purpose in our lives. Like Jonah, we must change our attitude about the fish. It is not a place of death or destruction, it is a provision given by God himself. In that time and place, he will prepare us for the great things he has planned. Let's not be afraid or angry. The big fish is sent for our good. From within its belly, let's praise and thank God. His plan is perfect.
Jonah 1:17
The story of Jonah has become a treasured children's tale. The story has been told countless times. Usually, the great fish is called a whale. Of course, we don't know for sure, but more than likely it was exactly as the Bible says...A big fish.
Jonah was running from God. He was called to go to Nineveh and preach against the city because of their sin and wickedness. Not enthused at the prospect, Jonah chose to literally sail the opposite direction. When the seas became so violent that all aboard the ship were threatened, Jonah fessed up. He was the one running and he knew it. They cast him overboard and immediately the sea calmed. But it is what happened after, that is the heart of my thoughts today.
God PROVIDED a great fish. I'm sure Jonah didn't see it as provision at first. But it became evident that it was God's plan, his vehicle, to get Jonah to the place he was supposed to go. Three long days inside a fish will cause a man to think, and Jonah did. From the belly of the fish, Jonah cried out to God. He thanked him for saving him from the waves of the sea. He praised him for providing for him. He promised to do what God had called him to do. Imagine being swallowed by a fish. It sounds horrific, and I'm sure Jonah was frightened beyond any description. But from within the fish, God still spoke to him and Jonah responded. It was a preparation time that he would not have had otherwise. His rebellion and disobedience were turned into a three day communion with God. This was his provision.
Some of us may have run from God. But whether we have or not, one thing is sure: We will spend some time in the belly of the fish. Not literally of course, but we can be sure that God will put us in places that may not look very comfortable. it may be a cold, scary environment, but it may well be the vehicle God has chosen to prepare us for his purpose in our lives. Like Jonah, we must change our attitude about the fish. It is not a place of death or destruction, it is a provision given by God himself. In that time and place, he will prepare us for the great things he has planned. Let's not be afraid or angry. The big fish is sent for our good. From within its belly, let's praise and thank God. His plan is perfect.
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