"When we three spoke ourself into human existence as the Son of God, we became fully human. We also chose to embrace all the limitations that this entailed. Even though we have always been in this created universe, we now became flesh and blood. It would be like this bird, whose nature it is to fly, choosing only to walk and remain grounded. He doesn't stop being the bird, but it does alter his experience of life significantly."
"A bird is not defined by being grounded but by his ability to fly. Remember this, humans are not defined by their limitations, but by the intentions that I have for them; not by what they seem to be, but by everything it means to be created in My image."
"The Shack" William Paul Young
This is my favorite part of this book because it makes the point that God, Creator, Master of all, Eternal and never-ending, chose to limit Himself to redeem us. He purposely decided to suffer human existence, including death, the ultimate human limit, so that we could have a relationship with Him.
That's big, y'all. God grounded Himself for me. He spoke creation, but wouldn't even speak His own salvation from the cross. Because He loves me, and I guess you, too, enough to want to restore our relationship.
So what defines me is not my limits, it's my purpose in Him, my likeness to Christ.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Actions speak louder
"How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?" (Romans 10:15)
No one wakes up one day knowing about Jesus. I heard about Him from my family, and church family as a child. I know people who heard about Him later in life from a preacher or evangelist. No one comes to Christ without hearing about Him. So then, who are the preachers?
Every single one of us who have believed.
It's not just the guy in the pulpit. It's not just the guy on television. It's the entire body of believers.
If it is so easy as to just talk to people about the One we love the most, then why aren't more people accepting Christ?
Because, I think, we don't live it. Oh, we talk it, alright. But if the lost people around us see strife and arguing, if all they see is God's family hating each other, complaining and seeking only the things that benefit the individual, why would they even want to become part of that family? Would you want to join a Jerry Springer family? I should hope not.
"But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves." (James 1:22)
We can talk all we want but lost people should see us living the things we talk about. They should see us loving, caring, and burden-bearing (I really didn't mean to rhyme). Our words are only as good as the proof of them. And our actions are the proof that we believe what we are trying to get them to believe.
So, how about it? Is it really so hard to live like we believe? I really, really hope not. Because if we don't believe it enough to show it, then our words, His Word, falls on deaf ears. And deaf hearts.
No one wakes up one day knowing about Jesus. I heard about Him from my family, and church family as a child. I know people who heard about Him later in life from a preacher or evangelist. No one comes to Christ without hearing about Him. So then, who are the preachers?
Every single one of us who have believed.
It's not just the guy in the pulpit. It's not just the guy on television. It's the entire body of believers.
If it is so easy as to just talk to people about the One we love the most, then why aren't more people accepting Christ?
Because, I think, we don't live it. Oh, we talk it, alright. But if the lost people around us see strife and arguing, if all they see is God's family hating each other, complaining and seeking only the things that benefit the individual, why would they even want to become part of that family? Would you want to join a Jerry Springer family? I should hope not.
"But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves." (James 1:22)
We can talk all we want but lost people should see us living the things we talk about. They should see us loving, caring, and burden-bearing (I really didn't mean to rhyme). Our words are only as good as the proof of them. And our actions are the proof that we believe what we are trying to get them to believe.
So, how about it? Is it really so hard to live like we believe? I really, really hope not. Because if we don't believe it enough to show it, then our words, His Word, falls on deaf ears. And deaf hearts.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
A.P.W.B.D.
"It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live, remember that."
Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore
Wise words. Sometimes we dream too much. Life becomes part of the dream. The problem with that is that dreams are not real. They are wishes and wants but when they become reality, the dream is ended. Then it's time for other dreams. Dreaming is for the future because that's where dreams reside.
Dreams are healthy. I hope everyone I know has dreams, desires, and hopes for their future. But to live for the dream is destructive. Life is happening now, not later. If we dream to the point of forgetting to live, we risk losing the dream as well as the things we are doing now. Because the things we are doing now are paving the way for that dream.
Our dreams must be handed over to God. All good things come from Him, including fulfilled dreams. He knows if our dreams are right for us because He knows that His will is right. His word says to not worry about tomorrow, but to focus on Him and let Him worry about tomorrow.
Tomorrow is a new day.
Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore
Wise words. Sometimes we dream too much. Life becomes part of the dream. The problem with that is that dreams are not real. They are wishes and wants but when they become reality, the dream is ended. Then it's time for other dreams. Dreaming is for the future because that's where dreams reside.
Dreams are healthy. I hope everyone I know has dreams, desires, and hopes for their future. But to live for the dream is destructive. Life is happening now, not later. If we dream to the point of forgetting to live, we risk losing the dream as well as the things we are doing now. Because the things we are doing now are paving the way for that dream.
Our dreams must be handed over to God. All good things come from Him, including fulfilled dreams. He knows if our dreams are right for us because He knows that His will is right. His word says to not worry about tomorrow, but to focus on Him and let Him worry about tomorrow.
Tomorrow is a new day.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Nowhere to run
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
(Psalm 139:7-10)
I like knowing that I am never out of God's reach. From the heavens to the depths, He is there to guide me. That's comforting.
But there's another side to this.
What about when I'm trying to run? What about those times when I don't want to obey Him? You guessed it, I still can't get away.
Sometimes God asks, no commands things of us that we don't like. Sometimes we would rather disobey Him and live by our own decisions. Moses tried this. So did Jonah and King David. In each of those situations, as well as many others, God allowed them to continue in their disobedience for a while. But He eventually caught up to them and they suffered consequences for running from Him.
I've done this and you have, too. Maybe even now. But what God has asked of us, He still wants done. He will see it done. If we are wise, we will listen. We will stop running away and start running toward Him. That is where the blessings are, that is where HE is. The time He allows us to run away is also time He allows us to repent and turn back to Him. You can't outrun God.
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
(Psalm 139:7-10)
I like knowing that I am never out of God's reach. From the heavens to the depths, He is there to guide me. That's comforting.
But there's another side to this.
What about when I'm trying to run? What about those times when I don't want to obey Him? You guessed it, I still can't get away.
Sometimes God asks, no commands things of us that we don't like. Sometimes we would rather disobey Him and live by our own decisions. Moses tried this. So did Jonah and King David. In each of those situations, as well as many others, God allowed them to continue in their disobedience for a while. But He eventually caught up to them and they suffered consequences for running from Him.
I've done this and you have, too. Maybe even now. But what God has asked of us, He still wants done. He will see it done. If we are wise, we will listen. We will stop running away and start running toward Him. That is where the blessings are, that is where HE is. The time He allows us to run away is also time He allows us to repent and turn back to Him. You can't outrun God.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Don't get distracted
I think that sometimes our distractions can fool us into thinking we are serving God well when really we are missing the point altogether.
She had a sister named Mary, who was seated at the Lord's feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me!"
But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:39-42)
How many times do we think we are serving better than someone else? That's really self-serving. Martha was distracted. She had other things on her mind, like preparing the meal and hosting the party, so to speak. In other words, she was more concerned with doing something for Jesus than with spending time with Him.
Mary, on the other hand, was sitting with Him, listening to His word. I can visualize her wide-eyed, hanging on every word, almost giddy as He shared with her. She desired Him, whereas Martha desired to do for Him.
Aren't we like that? Don't we focus more on what we can do for Him, not realizing that He wants us to choose to be with Him? It's about priorities. He said that Mary had chosen what is better and He wasn't going to jump down her throat just because Martha was having to do all the work. He came to their home for them, not just for supper.
So while we are worried and bothered and distracted, let's not forget that what Jesus wants most of all is just us. No extras, no sideshows, just us. The service and the things we can do on His behalf He will bring our way when it's time. But He is the focus, not the works. The works are not ours, anyway. They are His, too.
The next time we pat ourselves on the back for what we think we're doing for God, maybe we should stop and think if we are serving Him or if we are just serving us. Like He said, "Only one thing is necessary." He'll take care of the rest.
She had a sister named Mary, who was seated at the Lord's feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me!"
But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:39-42)
How many times do we think we are serving better than someone else? That's really self-serving. Martha was distracted. She had other things on her mind, like preparing the meal and hosting the party, so to speak. In other words, she was more concerned with doing something for Jesus than with spending time with Him.
Mary, on the other hand, was sitting with Him, listening to His word. I can visualize her wide-eyed, hanging on every word, almost giddy as He shared with her. She desired Him, whereas Martha desired to do for Him.
Aren't we like that? Don't we focus more on what we can do for Him, not realizing that He wants us to choose to be with Him? It's about priorities. He said that Mary had chosen what is better and He wasn't going to jump down her throat just because Martha was having to do all the work. He came to their home for them, not just for supper.
So while we are worried and bothered and distracted, let's not forget that what Jesus wants most of all is just us. No extras, no sideshows, just us. The service and the things we can do on His behalf He will bring our way when it's time. But He is the focus, not the works. The works are not ours, anyway. They are His, too.
The next time we pat ourselves on the back for what we think we're doing for God, maybe we should stop and think if we are serving Him or if we are just serving us. Like He said, "Only one thing is necessary." He'll take care of the rest.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
I don't have to fail all the time
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where for forty days He was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them He was hungry. (Luke 4:1,2)
The passages that follow these are the three temptations of Jesus that we all know of: Satan telling Him to turn the stone to bread, to bow and worship him, and to jump off the temple so the angels could rescue Him. But what got my attention today about the Scripture above is that it says Jesus was tempted for the full forty days before He became hungry and faced the more widely known temptations.
I have always heard and believed that Jesus knew and suffered the same temptations that I face. But I honestly thought, "I've never suffered hunger to that degree, I've never considered bowing to Satan, and I've certainly never stood on the pinnacle of the temple and wanted to jump off."
But now I understand that these were just three of probably dozens of things that Satan used to try to get Jesus to give in. Who knows what other things Jesus faced in that time of temptation? Well, we know. Because we suffer them daily, or at least sometime in our life. And that is what makes Him the Perfect Sacrifice. He faced those trials and never gave in.
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin. (Hebrews 4:15)
This, dear friends, is why we can identify with God. Because He came down, limited Himself, just for us. Just to redeem us to Himself. And the fact that He had our same weaknesses, but overcame them, is why we can rely on Him to see us through. But, more importantly, this is why He can identify with us. He isn't just an observer. He's a player/manager.
And if you think being close to God and strong in Him is relief from temptation, notice that this occurred when Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit. Does that mean He was full of Himself?
The passages that follow these are the three temptations of Jesus that we all know of: Satan telling Him to turn the stone to bread, to bow and worship him, and to jump off the temple so the angels could rescue Him. But what got my attention today about the Scripture above is that it says Jesus was tempted for the full forty days before He became hungry and faced the more widely known temptations.
I have always heard and believed that Jesus knew and suffered the same temptations that I face. But I honestly thought, "I've never suffered hunger to that degree, I've never considered bowing to Satan, and I've certainly never stood on the pinnacle of the temple and wanted to jump off."
But now I understand that these were just three of probably dozens of things that Satan used to try to get Jesus to give in. Who knows what other things Jesus faced in that time of temptation? Well, we know. Because we suffer them daily, or at least sometime in our life. And that is what makes Him the Perfect Sacrifice. He faced those trials and never gave in.
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin. (Hebrews 4:15)
This, dear friends, is why we can identify with God. Because He came down, limited Himself, just for us. Just to redeem us to Himself. And the fact that He had our same weaknesses, but overcame them, is why we can rely on Him to see us through. But, more importantly, this is why He can identify with us. He isn't just an observer. He's a player/manager.
And if you think being close to God and strong in Him is relief from temptation, notice that this occurred when Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit. Does that mean He was full of Himself?
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
I've been avoiding this...really I have.
I really, really hate to go here but, I swear, I can't help it. This has been on my mind for weeks. Politics.
For all who read this, all who celebrate or argue or complain around watercoolers or cubicles, all who suffer through the inevitable tsunami of e-mails that will start going around today, I have one thing to say: It doesn't matter.
Whether you consider yourself victorious or defeated after the presidential election, let me assure you, you didn't have alot to do with it. The impending doom or prosperity of our nation is completely unaffected by the president-elect. And, yes, I believe this without question. The only thing we voted for was the target of the jokes and which party laughs at them.
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. --(Romans 13:1)
This doesn't mean that God endorses candidates. It means He has a greater plan in mind. And it means He is in control, still. He sees time all at once. He sees the beginning and end and He sees His plan for this world, not just this country, as it pertains to His will.
Joseph submitted to the Egyptians. Daniel submitted to the Babylonians. And Jesus submitted to the Romans. You won't find much godliness in those governments, but they existed as God designed for His higher purposes, and, ultimately, for His glory.
Jesus told Pilate, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above." (John 19:11) So, relax. It's still a two-party system. His party and everyone else.
For all who read this, all who celebrate or argue or complain around watercoolers or cubicles, all who suffer through the inevitable tsunami of e-mails that will start going around today, I have one thing to say: It doesn't matter.
Whether you consider yourself victorious or defeated after the presidential election, let me assure you, you didn't have alot to do with it. The impending doom or prosperity of our nation is completely unaffected by the president-elect. And, yes, I believe this without question. The only thing we voted for was the target of the jokes and which party laughs at them.
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. --(Romans 13:1)
This doesn't mean that God endorses candidates. It means He has a greater plan in mind. And it means He is in control, still. He sees time all at once. He sees the beginning and end and He sees His plan for this world, not just this country, as it pertains to His will.
Joseph submitted to the Egyptians. Daniel submitted to the Babylonians. And Jesus submitted to the Romans. You won't find much godliness in those governments, but they existed as God designed for His higher purposes, and, ultimately, for His glory.
Jesus told Pilate, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above." (John 19:11) So, relax. It's still a two-party system. His party and everyone else.
Open your eyes
Then the king of Aram sent horses and chariots and a strong force there. They went by night and surrounded the city. When the servant of Elisha got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. "Oh, my lord, what shall we do?" the servant asked. "Don't be afraid," the prophet answered. "Those who are with us are more than those who are with them." And Elisha prayed, "O Lord, open his eyes so he may see." Then the Lord opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. --(2 Kings 6:14-17)
Sometimes we fear what we see because we don't know what it is we aren't seeing. Clear as mud? What I mean is, Elisha's servant was afraid because he saw the Aramean army surrounding the city. He knew that they had been sent there because the king of Aram wanted Elisha dead. But Elisha wasn't the least bit scared. He knew that God had his back. He simply prayed for his servant's eyes to be opened so that he could see the army of God that was assembled around them. After this, Elisha prayed for God to blind the enemy, which He did, and Elisha led them into the city where their sight was returned and they were captured. Voila! Happy ending.
I often fear things because of what I see. I was thinking about this today. What we see, and visualize, is frequently the source of our fears. But God doesn't dwell in our visualized world. He has other things going on; things we are unaware of. Faith, not sight, remember? We can't see His presence surrounding us and sometimes we can't feel it. But that doesn't make it any less "there." He is with us, ready to defend us. If we can't see that, then the real trouble is with our spiritual eyes.
Another thing I like in this passage is "those who are with us are more than those who are with them." This reminds me of 1 John 4:4 - the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. Some fears are real and justified. They lead to some of our most earnest prayers. I'm not suggesting we be flippant and casual about everything. But I am suggesting we pay a little more attention to what God sees instead of only what we see.
I think I just stepped on my own toes.
Sometimes we fear what we see because we don't know what it is we aren't seeing. Clear as mud? What I mean is, Elisha's servant was afraid because he saw the Aramean army surrounding the city. He knew that they had been sent there because the king of Aram wanted Elisha dead. But Elisha wasn't the least bit scared. He knew that God had his back. He simply prayed for his servant's eyes to be opened so that he could see the army of God that was assembled around them. After this, Elisha prayed for God to blind the enemy, which He did, and Elisha led them into the city where their sight was returned and they were captured. Voila! Happy ending.
I often fear things because of what I see. I was thinking about this today. What we see, and visualize, is frequently the source of our fears. But God doesn't dwell in our visualized world. He has other things going on; things we are unaware of. Faith, not sight, remember? We can't see His presence surrounding us and sometimes we can't feel it. But that doesn't make it any less "there." He is with us, ready to defend us. If we can't see that, then the real trouble is with our spiritual eyes.
Another thing I like in this passage is "those who are with us are more than those who are with them." This reminds me of 1 John 4:4 - the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. Some fears are real and justified. They lead to some of our most earnest prayers. I'm not suggesting we be flippant and casual about everything. But I am suggesting we pay a little more attention to what God sees instead of only what we see.
I think I just stepped on my own toes.
Monday, November 3, 2008
No offense to Isaac C. Thomas
Then God said, "Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about." Early the next morning Abraham got up and saddled his donkey." (Genesis 22:2,3)
This has always been one of my favorite parts of Scripture. I think this may be one of the greatest acts of obedience in recorded history, second only to Jesus going to the cross. After waiting decades for his promised son to be born, God asks Abraham to sacrifice him. But that doesn't mean just killing Isaac. As a burnt offering, that means slaughtering him, draining the blood, and burning his body.
As if that isn't enough for Abraham to look forward to, God's command starts with a heart-wrenching description: "your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love." As if Abraham didn't know. Then He tells Abe to go to Moriah. So Abraham has 60 miles - three whole days - to dread what will happen. Three days to visualize the horror of sacrificing his only son.
But that didn't stop Abraham. I don't know if he thought God would stop it. That seems counter-productive to me. I think he went simply out of obedience, not knowing the outcome. All he knew was that God had always been faithful and had always fulfilled His promises. That was enough for Abraham. So he got up the next morning, no questions asked.
Is that enough for us? If God asks us to make a sacrifice of the things, or persons, we love the most, will His faithfulness to us in the past be enough to prompt our immediate obedience? We talk a good game most of the time, but when it comes down to crunch time, I, for one, am not always so obedient.
Things are happening all around me right now. I see things that would make a really good Old Testament miracle story. But with that comes sacrifice, for all of us. So it's gut-check time. What will we give up? More importantly, will we give up everything? It wasn't just God's track record with Abraham that led him to obey, it was Abraham's love for, and devotion to, God. More on that later.
This has always been one of my favorite parts of Scripture. I think this may be one of the greatest acts of obedience in recorded history, second only to Jesus going to the cross. After waiting decades for his promised son to be born, God asks Abraham to sacrifice him. But that doesn't mean just killing Isaac. As a burnt offering, that means slaughtering him, draining the blood, and burning his body.
As if that isn't enough for Abraham to look forward to, God's command starts with a heart-wrenching description: "your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love." As if Abraham didn't know. Then He tells Abe to go to Moriah. So Abraham has 60 miles - three whole days - to dread what will happen. Three days to visualize the horror of sacrificing his only son.
But that didn't stop Abraham. I don't know if he thought God would stop it. That seems counter-productive to me. I think he went simply out of obedience, not knowing the outcome. All he knew was that God had always been faithful and had always fulfilled His promises. That was enough for Abraham. So he got up the next morning, no questions asked.
Is that enough for us? If God asks us to make a sacrifice of the things, or persons, we love the most, will His faithfulness to us in the past be enough to prompt our immediate obedience? We talk a good game most of the time, but when it comes down to crunch time, I, for one, am not always so obedient.
Things are happening all around me right now. I see things that would make a really good Old Testament miracle story. But with that comes sacrifice, for all of us. So it's gut-check time. What will we give up? More importantly, will we give up everything? It wasn't just God's track record with Abraham that led him to obey, it was Abraham's love for, and devotion to, God. More on that later.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Truth Rebellion
So here we go. The first mention of rebellion, revolt, revolution. It was bound to happen so I'm getting it out of the way. I can hear the glycerin pills being swallowed already.
The Truth Rebellion - not a rebellion against truth. It's a rebellion FOR truth. This is what JGen is all about. It's a new reformation, it's getting God out from behind all the things we use to block Him and the work of His Spirit. I guess it's simply an attitude. But it's an attitude with desire and hunger. An attitude that is angry about what our faith has become because of choosing to ignore His truth. It's an attitude that is fed up with seeing diluted worship and a quenched Spirit. So we put the attitude to work.
Truth is absolute - not relative. It doesn't apply differently to each situation. It is the standard. I don't want an ever-changing standard. I want one that is unmoveable. And that is what God's truth is. Unchangeable. As things start to change around us I hope we all stay focused on the truth as it is in Him.
The Truth Rebellion - not a rebellion against truth. It's a rebellion FOR truth. This is what JGen is all about. It's a new reformation, it's getting God out from behind all the things we use to block Him and the work of His Spirit. I guess it's simply an attitude. But it's an attitude with desire and hunger. An attitude that is angry about what our faith has become because of choosing to ignore His truth. It's an attitude that is fed up with seeing diluted worship and a quenched Spirit. So we put the attitude to work.
Truth is absolute - not relative. It doesn't apply differently to each situation. It is the standard. I don't want an ever-changing standard. I want one that is unmoveable. And that is what God's truth is. Unchangeable. As things start to change around us I hope we all stay focused on the truth as it is in Him.
Starting Point
So it's okay to be angry, but it's not enough. You have to do something about it, and you have to start with yourself. - Ms. Mays
I've been thinking alot about the emerging young adult ministry we're starting and the whole birth of this thing this week. It's been an amazing work of God, and to see and be part of it is really unexplainable. From ideas to actions, He has given the same inspiration to those of us involved. Only He can do that.
But there's a catch. As we plan and build this ministry, I couldn't help but think about myself. What I mean is my spiritual condition. I am probably closer to God than I've ever been. So, green light, right? Go forth. Not necessarily.
God wants me to use times like this to check myself. As with all things God brings us to, there are personal reasons, too. I can plan and preach and pray all I want but God wants me to keep an eye on my own heart as well. If I'm not where I'm supposed to be, I could seriously cripple this ministry. My sin and rebellion could affect the course the ministry takes. I don't want that. I don't want to be a "curse" on something with so much potential.
So I pray. I've been asking God to straighten me out - more. I don't want to feel like I've achieved some state of accomplishment. I want to be ever-growing in Him. Anything we do for God must begin with searching our own hearts for things that He doesn't want there. We have to start with ourselves.
I've been thinking alot about the emerging young adult ministry we're starting and the whole birth of this thing this week. It's been an amazing work of God, and to see and be part of it is really unexplainable. From ideas to actions, He has given the same inspiration to those of us involved. Only He can do that.
But there's a catch. As we plan and build this ministry, I couldn't help but think about myself. What I mean is my spiritual condition. I am probably closer to God than I've ever been. So, green light, right? Go forth. Not necessarily.
God wants me to use times like this to check myself. As with all things God brings us to, there are personal reasons, too. I can plan and preach and pray all I want but God wants me to keep an eye on my own heart as well. If I'm not where I'm supposed to be, I could seriously cripple this ministry. My sin and rebellion could affect the course the ministry takes. I don't want that. I don't want to be a "curse" on something with so much potential.
So I pray. I've been asking God to straighten me out - more. I don't want to feel like I've achieved some state of accomplishment. I want to be ever-growing in Him. Anything we do for God must begin with searching our own hearts for things that He doesn't want there. We have to start with ourselves.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
It's an Isaiah kind of day
So will My Word be which goes forth from My mouth; it will not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it. (Isaiah 55:11)
God continually stresses, in His Word, that it is His word that speaks for Him. Here it is viewed as a messenger of sorts. It carries His desires, His instructions and then returns in the fruits of His message. It returns in our prayers, through the Holy Spirit's intervention. It is His Word and His Spirit that teach us what to pray:
In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings to deep for words. (Romans 8:27)
One of the workings of the Spirit is to communicate to us and for us. That intercession allows us to hear Him in prayer and the Word. It's nearly impossible to separate the two means of communication.
Think of all we ask for when talking to God. We need so many answers for the questions in our lives. The good news is that the answers are there, when we need them. He has promised that. We may not like what He tells us, but as I said in a previous post, in His ways we will find what we are looking for.
I must say, I'm pretty happy right now. God has been telling me some things that, frankly, aren't easy. But they match up with His Word. That means He cares enough about me to show me His word in action in my life. Just between you and me, that's exciting. The creator of ALL things is moving in my life. Kinda hard to argue with that.
God continually stresses, in His Word, that it is His word that speaks for Him. Here it is viewed as a messenger of sorts. It carries His desires, His instructions and then returns in the fruits of His message. It returns in our prayers, through the Holy Spirit's intervention. It is His Word and His Spirit that teach us what to pray:
In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings to deep for words. (Romans 8:27)
One of the workings of the Spirit is to communicate to us and for us. That intercession allows us to hear Him in prayer and the Word. It's nearly impossible to separate the two means of communication.
Think of all we ask for when talking to God. We need so many answers for the questions in our lives. The good news is that the answers are there, when we need them. He has promised that. We may not like what He tells us, but as I said in a previous post, in His ways we will find what we are looking for.
I must say, I'm pretty happy right now. God has been telling me some things that, frankly, aren't easy. But they match up with His Word. That means He cares enough about me to show me His word in action in my life. Just between you and me, that's exciting. The creator of ALL things is moving in my life. Kinda hard to argue with that.
His Ways
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," declares the Lord. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:8,9)
We talk alot about understanding God and His will and what He's doing in and with our lives. I have struggled with this more in recent months than ever before. Once we get that warm, fuzzy feeling inside, we start telling ourselves God has revealed all to us. The problem is that feeling is just a feeling. It's our human emotions, our ways and thoughts. God warns us not to trust them. His Word also tells us trust in Him and not our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Only He knows the way. Only He can lead and guide. We can only follow. We will fail ourselves, and Him, every time.
The only hope is to follow Him. Sure, this takes discernment and wisdom but He promises to give these freely if we will only ask. The important thing is to listen and hear Him, and not assume we know what He is saying just because it makes us feel good. Again, His word is the standard. If what we hear doesn't match up with that, then we are just plain wrong. Yeah, I don't like that either. But what I do like is knowing that only in His ways will I find everything I could ever dream of. Peace, joy, abundant life are there for the receiving if I can only put aside my desires and my human ways.
We talk alot about understanding God and His will and what He's doing in and with our lives. I have struggled with this more in recent months than ever before. Once we get that warm, fuzzy feeling inside, we start telling ourselves God has revealed all to us. The problem is that feeling is just a feeling. It's our human emotions, our ways and thoughts. God warns us not to trust them. His Word also tells us trust in Him and not our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Only He knows the way. Only He can lead and guide. We can only follow. We will fail ourselves, and Him, every time.
The only hope is to follow Him. Sure, this takes discernment and wisdom but He promises to give these freely if we will only ask. The important thing is to listen and hear Him, and not assume we know what He is saying just because it makes us feel good. Again, His word is the standard. If what we hear doesn't match up with that, then we are just plain wrong. Yeah, I don't like that either. But what I do like is knowing that only in His ways will I find everything I could ever dream of. Peace, joy, abundant life are there for the receiving if I can only put aside my desires and my human ways.
We're all young
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12)
You're never too young to make a difference. Timothy was young, yet Paul had made him sort of a ministerial representative to the Ephesian church. He received at least two letters from Paul and probably knew Paul better than anyone else. Paul considered Timothy a son.
Too often we make the mistake of thinking that age and spiritual maturity are linked. That's true to some extent. I know things about God and His ways now that even ten years ago I would have disagreed with. Growth does take time and experience only comes from living through experiences. But that's not a reason to write off a generation, especially when God has charged that generation with making a difference for Him. There's a movement afoot, y'all.
Paul told his "son" to set an example; in the way he talked, loved, lived, and believed. You don't have to set examples for those who are getting it right, so, obviously, this church had some shortcomings. They needed to see someone who was doing things God's way. Sound familiar?
Don't be afraid to set an example. Even to those who should be our example. They need a nudge every now and then. We know the basics of how to live, and we most likely know more than that. Let God grow you through time and experience. Our minds and hearts will change as that growth takes place. It's just us being formed into His likeness. It's all there in His Word for us to read and study and apply. For the young and growing.
You're never too young to make a difference. Timothy was young, yet Paul had made him sort of a ministerial representative to the Ephesian church. He received at least two letters from Paul and probably knew Paul better than anyone else. Paul considered Timothy a son.
Too often we make the mistake of thinking that age and spiritual maturity are linked. That's true to some extent. I know things about God and His ways now that even ten years ago I would have disagreed with. Growth does take time and experience only comes from living through experiences. But that's not a reason to write off a generation, especially when God has charged that generation with making a difference for Him. There's a movement afoot, y'all.
Paul told his "son" to set an example; in the way he talked, loved, lived, and believed. You don't have to set examples for those who are getting it right, so, obviously, this church had some shortcomings. They needed to see someone who was doing things God's way. Sound familiar?
Don't be afraid to set an example. Even to those who should be our example. They need a nudge every now and then. We know the basics of how to live, and we most likely know more than that. Let God grow you through time and experience. Our minds and hearts will change as that growth takes place. It's just us being formed into His likeness. It's all there in His Word for us to read and study and apply. For the young and growing.
What's really important
The seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your Name." And He said to them, "I was watching Satan fall from Heaven like lightning. Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will injure you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in Heaven." (Luke 10:17-20)
I love how Jesus casually tells His disciples that it's really no big deal that they can cast out demons. It's almost like He is saying, "So? I defeated him a long time ago. I saw Him fall then and I see him falling now as he suffers defeat at your hands. It's My power, not yours, so don't get all cocky. Just be glad that you are going to heaven." I paraphrased.
Man's salvation is more important than power to overcome the enemy. That power comes from Jesus and His sacrifice. It may be ours to use but it's only obtainable through acceptance of the sacrifice. We should be thankful, not of the ability to resist, but of the chance to spend eternity with Him.
I love how Jesus casually tells His disciples that it's really no big deal that they can cast out demons. It's almost like He is saying, "So? I defeated him a long time ago. I saw Him fall then and I see him falling now as he suffers defeat at your hands. It's My power, not yours, so don't get all cocky. Just be glad that you are going to heaven." I paraphrased.
Man's salvation is more important than power to overcome the enemy. That power comes from Jesus and His sacrifice. It may be ours to use but it's only obtainable through acceptance of the sacrifice. We should be thankful, not of the ability to resist, but of the chance to spend eternity with Him.
That is Sovereignty
He communicated to them arithmetic, and delivered to them the science of astronomy; for, before Abram came into Egypt, they were unacquainted with those parts of learning. Josephus -first century Jewish historian
Did you catch that? Josephus said that the Egyptians, renowned for their sciences and study of astronomy, had no knowledge of them before Abram came to Egypt and taught them. He brought this knowledge from the Chaldeans. Josephus has long been considered a reliable source for history outside the Bible. Here's what I think makes this really cool:
For the Scripture says to Pharaoh: "For this very purpose I raised you up, to demonstrate My power in you, and that My Name might be proclaimed throughout the whole earth." (Romans 9:17)
The Bible testifies to the fact that God raised Egypt up to the status of the world's first empire so that He might use them to show His power. That's nearly 1000 years prior to Moses and the deliverance of the Israelites.
Just a friendly reminder that God has it under control. Then, now, and later.
Did you catch that? Josephus said that the Egyptians, renowned for their sciences and study of astronomy, had no knowledge of them before Abram came to Egypt and taught them. He brought this knowledge from the Chaldeans. Josephus has long been considered a reliable source for history outside the Bible. Here's what I think makes this really cool:
For the Scripture says to Pharaoh: "For this very purpose I raised you up, to demonstrate My power in you, and that My Name might be proclaimed throughout the whole earth." (Romans 9:17)
The Bible testifies to the fact that God raised Egypt up to the status of the world's first empire so that He might use them to show His power. That's nearly 1000 years prior to Moses and the deliverance of the Israelites.
Just a friendly reminder that God has it under control. Then, now, and later.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
What's Your Price?
"A woman came to Him with an alabaster vial of very costly perfume, and she poured it on His head as He reclined at the table. But the disciples were indignant when they saw this, and said, "Why this waste? For this perfume might have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor." But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, "Why do you bother the woman? For she has done a good deed to Me. For you always have the poor with you; but you do not always have Me." (Matthew 26:7-12)
What happens when the religion becomes bigger than the God? What about when the acts of service start to become more important than serving Him? That's what is going on with the disciples in this passage. Maybe they were looking for Jesus' approval, maybe a word of praise from Him. It's like they were writing scripture while the Word was right there with them. In any case, Jesus quickly corrects them. And I must say I love what He is saying to them. True worship. Him first. That's what He is looking for. Not rituals, not service, not witnessing, not anything. Just Him. The first and most important thing to God is our relationship with Him. He wants that above all. When He says we will always have the poor with us, substitute any word you want in place of poor; sick, hurting, fallen, lost, sinners, any of them. I believe He wants us to understand that without our relationship with Him being whole, it won't matter what we do. He'll take care of them in His time. We must have Him in His rightful place.
Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, "What are you willing to give me to betray Him to you?" And they weighed our thirty pieces of silver to him. From then on he began looking for a good opportunity to betray Jesus. (vv. 14-16)
So it's still about the money. Or is it? Maybe it doesn't have anything to do with monetary gain. I think it's just about being weak. "Weak, unspiritual people all have a price to turn their backs on Jesus." So says the Reverend Benji Fowler. For Judas, money was the gratification. What about you and I? Money, success, career, fame, personal glory, relationships, people, church? You name it. Anything can be an idol. Any one of these things can cause us to sell Him out for our own gain. The only hope of avoiding this is to keep Him in the center of our lives. Not our rules, religion, or our own chosen direction, but just simply Him.
What's your price? Have you already named it?
What happens when the religion becomes bigger than the God? What about when the acts of service start to become more important than serving Him? That's what is going on with the disciples in this passage. Maybe they were looking for Jesus' approval, maybe a word of praise from Him. It's like they were writing scripture while the Word was right there with them. In any case, Jesus quickly corrects them. And I must say I love what He is saying to them. True worship. Him first. That's what He is looking for. Not rituals, not service, not witnessing, not anything. Just Him. The first and most important thing to God is our relationship with Him. He wants that above all. When He says we will always have the poor with us, substitute any word you want in place of poor; sick, hurting, fallen, lost, sinners, any of them. I believe He wants us to understand that without our relationship with Him being whole, it won't matter what we do. He'll take care of them in His time. We must have Him in His rightful place.
Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, "What are you willing to give me to betray Him to you?" And they weighed our thirty pieces of silver to him. From then on he began looking for a good opportunity to betray Jesus. (vv. 14-16)
So it's still about the money. Or is it? Maybe it doesn't have anything to do with monetary gain. I think it's just about being weak. "Weak, unspiritual people all have a price to turn their backs on Jesus." So says the Reverend Benji Fowler. For Judas, money was the gratification. What about you and I? Money, success, career, fame, personal glory, relationships, people, church? You name it. Anything can be an idol. Any one of these things can cause us to sell Him out for our own gain. The only hope of avoiding this is to keep Him in the center of our lives. Not our rules, religion, or our own chosen direction, but just simply Him.
What's your price? Have you already named it?
Prayer
I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe. Ephesians 1:16-19
Monday, October 27, 2008
Within
"Today I have got out of all trouble, or rather I have cast out all trouble, for it was not outside, but within and in my opinions." The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius
Wise words. Of course, you wouldn't expect a second century Roman Emperor to be filled with the wisdom of God, but valid words, nonetheless.
I wonder how much of our own trouble is from within. Not in the actions of others but in the reactions of ourselves. I'll bet anyone who reads this has certain issues that are gnawing at their peace, even if they won't admit it. That's the problem isn't it? If we would admit it, then we might address those issues. But it's easier to place the blame outside. It's like I was saying Sunday night, change the inside and the outside changes, too. Look within, search your heart and look for the things you're denying. Seek peace. I want it for you.
Wise words. Of course, you wouldn't expect a second century Roman Emperor to be filled with the wisdom of God, but valid words, nonetheless.
I wonder how much of our own trouble is from within. Not in the actions of others but in the reactions of ourselves. I'll bet anyone who reads this has certain issues that are gnawing at their peace, even if they won't admit it. That's the problem isn't it? If we would admit it, then we might address those issues. But it's easier to place the blame outside. It's like I was saying Sunday night, change the inside and the outside changes, too. Look within, search your heart and look for the things you're denying. Seek peace. I want it for you.
My thoughts on "Pandemonium"
I thought I'd weigh in on this, too, because it's enlightening. (see Blessed Ministries for more).
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." (John 10:27)
"We are only right when we listen, when we hear." I think Heather's right about that. We aren't capable of guiding ourselves, that is why the Holy Spirit was sent after Jesus ascended. He knew we would need a Helper, a Counselor to lead us. In ancient Palestine, and maybe still, shepherds don't drive their flocks; they lead them. They walk ahead of them. It's not forced, it's voluntary, so to speak. But they follow only one voice, that of the shepherd they know. They will not follow a stranger (John 10:4,5).
So, yeah. We have to listen to hear. But hearing is useless if we don't follow. We have to hear to follow, but only in the following are we fulfilling His wishes. And, again, it's voluntary.
I don't think God is casual about speaking to us. I think He wants us to hear and follow so badly that He sometimes screams.
Maybe that is the pandemonium. Maybe it isn't a bunch of voices trying to have their say. Maybe it's one Voice coming from all different directions, with one message.
"But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come." (John 16:13)
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." (John 10:27)
"We are only right when we listen, when we hear." I think Heather's right about that. We aren't capable of guiding ourselves, that is why the Holy Spirit was sent after Jesus ascended. He knew we would need a Helper, a Counselor to lead us. In ancient Palestine, and maybe still, shepherds don't drive their flocks; they lead them. They walk ahead of them. It's not forced, it's voluntary, so to speak. But they follow only one voice, that of the shepherd they know. They will not follow a stranger (John 10:4,5).
So, yeah. We have to listen to hear. But hearing is useless if we don't follow. We have to hear to follow, but only in the following are we fulfilling His wishes. And, again, it's voluntary.
I don't think God is casual about speaking to us. I think He wants us to hear and follow so badly that He sometimes screams.
Maybe that is the pandemonium. Maybe it isn't a bunch of voices trying to have their say. Maybe it's one Voice coming from all different directions, with one message.
"But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come." (John 16:13)
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