God still parts the waters. But what may be even more miraculous is to see Him put them back together. I believe I was part of such an event tonight.
A good ol' Baptist church business meeting turned prayer meeting. Who'd a thunk it? We had our regular business meeting with a hot-topic issue on the docket and, in typical God fashion, the issue was gone before it even came up. It didn't even need church approval. Wow. I guess after creating the universe, everything else is small potatos. Or potatoes.
What sized up to be a dragging-through-the-mud of our Pastor Search Committee ended up being just the opposite--a vote of confidence for them. Probably a real burr in the saddle to some, but that doesn't matter anymore. Because God showed up.
The unification of our church began tonight. At least I hope so. Many weren't present to weigh in but I feel like this thing might just take off. The weird thing is that it is just what we've been preaching and praying for months. Maybe not weird, how about glorious.
Some months ago, God began burdening a few hearts about love, unity, surrender, compromise, resolution and so forth. I mean really getting to what God wants out of us. Becoming His. Living Christianity instead of merely claiming to. Pursuing peace, humbling ourselves, and LOVING like HE loves. JGen was born out of this. And tonight, about 75 other people followed suit. In a good old-fashioned altar, prayers were offered up on behalf of a church that simply needed to pray as one.
"So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind." Philippians 2:1,2
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Three guesses what this one is about
Big stuff going on, folks. In the course of one Sunday morning, I have seen a church full of unfamiliar faces, a children's Christmas program that was, well, different, a seven year old preach the gospel, and an outcry against idiocy that would make PETA proud. (the Webster's definition of idiocy fits to the letter, look it up)
The point I need to make here is that making decisions or taking action without seeking God is just wrong. And potentially disastrous. As I said in my most recent post, God is moving, big time. He's all over the place at church right now. So why is it that some feel the need to help Him out? Why do we jump in and try to take over when He promises to take care of things in His time? Doesn't faith demand that we trust Him to resolve things when He is ready, and when the things He has caused to work together for good have played out?
God knows what He is doing. I don't believe that man can thwart the purposes of God but I do believe that we can delay them. He gave us freewill to choose Him, but also to choose to follow His plans.
Okay, so Heather beat me to the punch on this, but I share her frustration with this matter. What is happening this week at church is just baloney (see Webster's again). Here's how I see it. If you don't like the work of a particular Search Committee then go to them and express your disagreement to them. Just like the rest of us do. Don't look for a backdoor or a loophole. Our way of doing things might be flawed but it's honest and it has been agreed upon. It works. Maybe not in a way that suits the individual, but it works for the whole. And that encourages unity. It encourages love. The opposite of that is to encourage strife and self-serving. The Bible warns of such things.
I raised my hand in support of the committee. I voted for them as did most everyone else. I have faith in them. I know three of them extremely well and consider them spiritual mentors to me. I sometimes furl my brow at their decisions or their reasoning but I still believe they are seeking God for His glory first, and for the good of the whole. My prayers are continually with them.
The church is the bride of Christ. We are His most precious. He will take care of us. He doesn't need our help to do it. He just needs our obedience and our love for Him. We just have to seek His desires and follow.
The point I need to make here is that making decisions or taking action without seeking God is just wrong. And potentially disastrous. As I said in my most recent post, God is moving, big time. He's all over the place at church right now. So why is it that some feel the need to help Him out? Why do we jump in and try to take over when He promises to take care of things in His time? Doesn't faith demand that we trust Him to resolve things when He is ready, and when the things He has caused to work together for good have played out?
God knows what He is doing. I don't believe that man can thwart the purposes of God but I do believe that we can delay them. He gave us freewill to choose Him, but also to choose to follow His plans.
Okay, so Heather beat me to the punch on this, but I share her frustration with this matter. What is happening this week at church is just baloney (see Webster's again). Here's how I see it. If you don't like the work of a particular Search Committee then go to them and express your disagreement to them. Just like the rest of us do. Don't look for a backdoor or a loophole. Our way of doing things might be flawed but it's honest and it has been agreed upon. It works. Maybe not in a way that suits the individual, but it works for the whole. And that encourages unity. It encourages love. The opposite of that is to encourage strife and self-serving. The Bible warns of such things.
I raised my hand in support of the committee. I voted for them as did most everyone else. I have faith in them. I know three of them extremely well and consider them spiritual mentors to me. I sometimes furl my brow at their decisions or their reasoning but I still believe they are seeking God for His glory first, and for the good of the whole. My prayers are continually with them.
The church is the bride of Christ. We are His most precious. He will take care of us. He doesn't need our help to do it. He just needs our obedience and our love for Him. We just have to seek His desires and follow.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Christmas time's a-coming
Today I finally sat down and made out my Christmas list. Not the one I give to Santa but the list of who I want to give something to this year and what I will get for them. Yeah, I'm a little behind.
I was noticing how this list changes from year to year. The names on the list, at least some of them, are different from last year. What does that say about me?
At first, I felt incapable of maintaining a relationship for more than a year. That's not outside the realm of possibility. But then I thought of how God has worked in my life this year and all the unbelievable things He has done around me and in the lives of the special people in my life.
I've changed a lot this year. The fact that I'm listening to Jeremy Camp, Audio Adrenaline, and Sanctus Real while I write this testifies to those changes. But the changes that caused those changes are much deeper and more real. God showed His love to me this year by simply not letting me go. And He changed my heart. It hasn't been easy and at times it's been maddening but as Sarah said, "Rain makes things grow." "Things grow in valleys," is the way Heather put it, I believe. So, at times I must dwell in the rain and in the valley. But that causes me to remain dependent on God and to grow. Pain or not, that's a fair trade.
I'm working with a short list this year. Not because I'm a Scrooge or a penny-pincher, but because there are a few people who stand out as those who have made an impact on me this year. And since this is the time of year when we celebrate God's showing of love to us, then I'm celebrating the love I've been shown by these folks. To me, that's what gift-giving is about. Saying, "Thank you." It's not about obligation. As always, it's about love.
I was noticing how this list changes from year to year. The names on the list, at least some of them, are different from last year. What does that say about me?
At first, I felt incapable of maintaining a relationship for more than a year. That's not outside the realm of possibility. But then I thought of how God has worked in my life this year and all the unbelievable things He has done around me and in the lives of the special people in my life.
I've changed a lot this year. The fact that I'm listening to Jeremy Camp, Audio Adrenaline, and Sanctus Real while I write this testifies to those changes. But the changes that caused those changes are much deeper and more real. God showed His love to me this year by simply not letting me go. And He changed my heart. It hasn't been easy and at times it's been maddening but as Sarah said, "Rain makes things grow." "Things grow in valleys," is the way Heather put it, I believe. So, at times I must dwell in the rain and in the valley. But that causes me to remain dependent on God and to grow. Pain or not, that's a fair trade.
I'm working with a short list this year. Not because I'm a Scrooge or a penny-pincher, but because there are a few people who stand out as those who have made an impact on me this year. And since this is the time of year when we celebrate God's showing of love to us, then I'm celebrating the love I've been shown by these folks. To me, that's what gift-giving is about. Saying, "Thank you." It's not about obligation. As always, it's about love.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
It's over.....
finally. The "revival" at my church, I mean. I'll catch a whole lot of grief for this post, but, sorry. This is my place to be honest. If you don't like it, click on the little red "X" at the top right of your screen.
I put quotations around revival because that seems to be just the accepted word we use for any church service that is on a weeknight. If it were truly a revival, we wouldn't have to have them twice a year.
Don't get me wrong. The evangelist spoke many good, solid biblical truths. We saw decisions for Christ. But my issue is that the sermons were geared toward a different church. It was old school "repent or be damned" all the way. Again, not untrue but I believe we are in a different place.
I grew up hearing about the awful, torturous fires of hell. I've seen many men point out at the congregation, red-faced and bloodshot-eyed, and scream, "Come to Jesus or burn in hayul!" Well, duh. How many people have ran to the altar begging for mercy because the preacher had scared them into thinking that eternal fire was creeping up their britches leg?
So here is the official Carver position:
It's not hell's fires that make me shudder, it's the eternity without God. No good, no mercy, no hope, no anything at all to ease the suffering. Just darkness; physical, emotional, spiritual darkness. Forever. No relief, no tears of joy, no restoration, no peace in the storm. Just the unending storm itself.
This evangelist quoted, as they all do, Billy Graham's famous remark, "Eighty-five percent of all church members are lost." I say that's probably right. But it's because of preaching like that. Those people were told to pray a prayer that would keep them from burning, and to give up their sinful ways. They were never told what to turn to. They weren't told that they needed to put on the love of Christ. They weren't told about God's love, only His wrath and judgment.
I want to see people fall in love with God. I want them to accept Him because of who He is and what He has done, and why He did it. Not because of the condemning Law. Not because of impending pain, but because of immeasurable love.
When people fall in love with God, their lives change. Devotion, commitment, and a desire to please Him replace the sinful patterns of the old self. The pyramids of Egypt weren't built by slaves fearing the king's wrath, they were built by loving, devoted followers of someone looked upon as a god. You catch my drift?
We need to spread the message of love. God wants His message of love spoken, preached, taught, shouted, and proclaimed. At least that's what I'm hearing from Him lately. Maybe it's just me. But I think love is a better motivator than fear. It's all there in the Bible, ya know. "Perfect love casts away fear." "Love bears all things. Love never fails." "For God so loved the world." Yada, yada, yada. Blah, blah, blah. Etc., etc.
I think that's what the world needs to hear. His love redeemed us. His love sent Jesus. His love provides the way. His love changes hearts.
I put quotations around revival because that seems to be just the accepted word we use for any church service that is on a weeknight. If it were truly a revival, we wouldn't have to have them twice a year.
Don't get me wrong. The evangelist spoke many good, solid biblical truths. We saw decisions for Christ. But my issue is that the sermons were geared toward a different church. It was old school "repent or be damned" all the way. Again, not untrue but I believe we are in a different place.
I grew up hearing about the awful, torturous fires of hell. I've seen many men point out at the congregation, red-faced and bloodshot-eyed, and scream, "Come to Jesus or burn in hayul!" Well, duh. How many people have ran to the altar begging for mercy because the preacher had scared them into thinking that eternal fire was creeping up their britches leg?
So here is the official Carver position:
It's not hell's fires that make me shudder, it's the eternity without God. No good, no mercy, no hope, no anything at all to ease the suffering. Just darkness; physical, emotional, spiritual darkness. Forever. No relief, no tears of joy, no restoration, no peace in the storm. Just the unending storm itself.
This evangelist quoted, as they all do, Billy Graham's famous remark, "Eighty-five percent of all church members are lost." I say that's probably right. But it's because of preaching like that. Those people were told to pray a prayer that would keep them from burning, and to give up their sinful ways. They were never told what to turn to. They weren't told that they needed to put on the love of Christ. They weren't told about God's love, only His wrath and judgment.
I want to see people fall in love with God. I want them to accept Him because of who He is and what He has done, and why He did it. Not because of the condemning Law. Not because of impending pain, but because of immeasurable love.
When people fall in love with God, their lives change. Devotion, commitment, and a desire to please Him replace the sinful patterns of the old self. The pyramids of Egypt weren't built by slaves fearing the king's wrath, they were built by loving, devoted followers of someone looked upon as a god. You catch my drift?
We need to spread the message of love. God wants His message of love spoken, preached, taught, shouted, and proclaimed. At least that's what I'm hearing from Him lately. Maybe it's just me. But I think love is a better motivator than fear. It's all there in the Bible, ya know. "Perfect love casts away fear." "Love bears all things. Love never fails." "For God so loved the world." Yada, yada, yada. Blah, blah, blah. Etc., etc.
I think that's what the world needs to hear. His love redeemed us. His love sent Jesus. His love provides the way. His love changes hearts.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Image is everything
I get the feeling that this is the goal of many, many pastors and church leaders today.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A few days ago, I wrote about being "sold out." For some reason I feel compelled to elaborate and explain what I mean.
Some months ago, Dr. Sullivan preached about "going a little further." He used the Scripture from Matthew 26 where Jesus goes to pray in Gethsemane. It was his most memorable sermon to date.
That sermon really spoke to me because I was in a place where I had no desire to go further or even go anywhere, really. But it kinda stuck in my head and eventually God used it to change my heart and grow in me the desire to follow Him more closely. It's taken these many months for me to get on board with Him.
So back to sold out. My point of all that is God is calling people to certain things. He's moving alot these days at Stock Creek. I don't think I'm the only one who has been given a message to bring. So, I wonder, who else is like me? Who else has been called but fears isolation? Who fears going it alone? Because I do. I fear it because a single, lonely sheep is easy prey. Too many wolves out there. There are too many ways for me to be distracted and deterred.
So I want to go further. I want to spread the message I've been given--for His glory. That's why I issued the challenge. I really think others feel this way, called and alone. But we don't have to be alone. Strength in numbers and all that jazz. That's the original plan for the church, anyway. It's time we get back to that.
If this speaks to you, pray about it. You may be the reason I felt I should write it.
And I'm taking suggestions to replace the phrase "sold out." I really don't like it and there has to be a different way to say it. Little help, please.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Leftovers and Robert
Robert is a homeless man who is at McDonald's every morning. He keeps to himself, over in a corner, and sips coffee. He walks with a limp and is unshaven, wears ratty clothes, and probably bathes very seldom. I know his name from overhearing some of the regulars speak to him.
Occasionally I'll see someone offer him a biscuit, their leftovers that they were too full to eat. Most people, like me, just avoid him altogether. No eye contact at all.
My partner and I stop in two or three days a week for a cup of coffee, an apple pie, or a deluxe big breakfast, all the way, with extra bacon. I see Robert all the time, but I never lift a finger to help him. I won't even look at him.
But not today. This morning, business as usual, I walk past Robert and order my food. While I'm sitting there eating, God brought to mind my post from yesterday which is essentially my new commitment to live more like Jesus. I want people to be touched by Him through me. So today, God called me out.
"Here's your chance, big guy," says God.
"What? Already? This place is full of people. Surely someone else will step up. Can't I have one day to bask in the warmth of my pride?"
"Bask all you want, but do it without Me."
"Craaapppp!"
"You want to be like ME? Prove it."
So I finish eating, all the while thinking of what to do. I'm an uncaring coward by nature who would rather keep my comfort zone intact. So I procrastinate. Maybe tomorrow we'll be back. That way I can pray about it tonight and find some charity that I can just write a check to, thus remaining anonymously satisfied. Pray about it...yeah, right.
So, as my partner walks out, I go up to the counter and purchase a gift card. Because at this point I realize God isn't going to let me leave McDonald's until I do something. And I really want to get away from the egg-in-a-jug smell. I walk over to where Robert is and lay the card down and say, with a smile, "Merry Christmas, Robert. God wants me to love you."
Then the weirdest thing happened. He looked at me, returned my smile, and said, "Thanks. I appreciate that." Robert can talk! And he's articulate! No hateful tone, no ogre/troll voice, just a polite thank you.
Before you start thinking that Chuck is swelled with pride and patting himself on the back for his good deed, let me finish the story.
I first saw Robert three and a half years ago. My partner and I have been to this McDonald's at least twice a week for that length of time. I did the math - that's at least 345 mornings that I have denied this man a meal. 345 times that I have turned my back on someone in need. 345 strikes with a hammer, onto a nail, through Holy Flesh, into a Roman cross.
Then He will say to those on His left, "Depart from Me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink..."
"Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me." (Matthew 25:41-42, 45)
Poor Robert. I don't know his situation. Maybe bad luck, maybe drugs or alcohol, maybe he lost someone he loves. But I've treated him like a leper, a prostitute, a demoniac. I wasn't even willing to give him my leftovers, my scraps. Until today, I couldn't even give him the thing I have an abundance of...love.
I have no way to end this story. Pray for Robert. He's a human being that God loves just as much as He loves me. Pray for me, too.
Occasionally I'll see someone offer him a biscuit, their leftovers that they were too full to eat. Most people, like me, just avoid him altogether. No eye contact at all.
My partner and I stop in two or three days a week for a cup of coffee, an apple pie, or a deluxe big breakfast, all the way, with extra bacon. I see Robert all the time, but I never lift a finger to help him. I won't even look at him.
But not today. This morning, business as usual, I walk past Robert and order my food. While I'm sitting there eating, God brought to mind my post from yesterday which is essentially my new commitment to live more like Jesus. I want people to be touched by Him through me. So today, God called me out.
"Here's your chance, big guy," says God.
"What? Already? This place is full of people. Surely someone else will step up. Can't I have one day to bask in the warmth of my pride?"
"Bask all you want, but do it without Me."
"Craaapppp!"
"You want to be like ME? Prove it."
So I finish eating, all the while thinking of what to do. I'm an uncaring coward by nature who would rather keep my comfort zone intact. So I procrastinate. Maybe tomorrow we'll be back. That way I can pray about it tonight and find some charity that I can just write a check to, thus remaining anonymously satisfied. Pray about it...yeah, right.
So, as my partner walks out, I go up to the counter and purchase a gift card. Because at this point I realize God isn't going to let me leave McDonald's until I do something. And I really want to get away from the egg-in-a-jug smell. I walk over to where Robert is and lay the card down and say, with a smile, "Merry Christmas, Robert. God wants me to love you."
Then the weirdest thing happened. He looked at me, returned my smile, and said, "Thanks. I appreciate that." Robert can talk! And he's articulate! No hateful tone, no ogre/troll voice, just a polite thank you.
Before you start thinking that Chuck is swelled with pride and patting himself on the back for his good deed, let me finish the story.
I first saw Robert three and a half years ago. My partner and I have been to this McDonald's at least twice a week for that length of time. I did the math - that's at least 345 mornings that I have denied this man a meal. 345 times that I have turned my back on someone in need. 345 strikes with a hammer, onto a nail, through Holy Flesh, into a Roman cross.
Then He will say to those on His left, "Depart from Me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink..."
"Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me." (Matthew 25:41-42, 45)
Poor Robert. I don't know his situation. Maybe bad luck, maybe drugs or alcohol, maybe he lost someone he loves. But I've treated him like a leper, a prostitute, a demoniac. I wasn't even willing to give him my leftovers, my scraps. Until today, I couldn't even give him the thing I have an abundance of...love.
I have no way to end this story. Pray for Robert. He's a human being that God loves just as much as He loves me. Pray for me, too.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Sold Out (ugh!)
I was talking to Reverend Mullet today about all the talk lately of really getting serious about our walk with God. We claim to be this generation of revolutionaries who are ready to do things right - the way God wants it done. Then why aren't we?
I'm not saying we aren't trying, I just wonder if we are as devoted as we say we are.
Don't take offense, I'm at the top of the list. Here's how I see it. We can't be sold out (a term I despise) on our own. We can't be left alone or rejected like that. We must have compatriots walking with us.
The church is designed as a body. Eyes and ears, fingers and toes, knees and elbows. I personally know a few butts. The point is, it is supposed to work just like our physical bodies - in harmony and for a single purpose. Even if you break it down to a small group level, it's still a functioning body. And a body part can't work alone.
So here's my challenge: I'm ready for the change. But I need my body to come along with me, just like you need me, as part of your body, to come along. I'm ready to disciple, admonish, encourage, pray, carry, walk, crawl, endure or anything else that may be necessary to show this world, or at least our little corner, who and what God is.
People are going to hell. People are suffering here. Some have no hope. Others have no will or desire. I have heaven, peace, hope and purpose. Shouldn't I be sharing it? Did Jesus die exclusively for me?
So, the question I'm afraid to ask is, "Who's with me?" I'm just tired of all talk and no action. Either we are His reflection or we're not.
I believe this is the key to the "abundant life." Not just for me and you but for everyone.
This is the heart and soul of the Jonah Generation. Answering the call. But we need a strong circle of like-minded people to make it work. I'm in. Reverend Mullet is in. How about you?
I'm not saying we aren't trying, I just wonder if we are as devoted as we say we are.
Don't take offense, I'm at the top of the list. Here's how I see it. We can't be sold out (a term I despise) on our own. We can't be left alone or rejected like that. We must have compatriots walking with us.
The church is designed as a body. Eyes and ears, fingers and toes, knees and elbows. I personally know a few butts. The point is, it is supposed to work just like our physical bodies - in harmony and for a single purpose. Even if you break it down to a small group level, it's still a functioning body. And a body part can't work alone.
So here's my challenge: I'm ready for the change. But I need my body to come along with me, just like you need me, as part of your body, to come along. I'm ready to disciple, admonish, encourage, pray, carry, walk, crawl, endure or anything else that may be necessary to show this world, or at least our little corner, who and what God is.
People are going to hell. People are suffering here. Some have no hope. Others have no will or desire. I have heaven, peace, hope and purpose. Shouldn't I be sharing it? Did Jesus die exclusively for me?
So, the question I'm afraid to ask is, "Who's with me?" I'm just tired of all talk and no action. Either we are His reflection or we're not.
I believe this is the key to the "abundant life." Not just for me and you but for everyone.
This is the heart and soul of the Jonah Generation. Answering the call. But we need a strong circle of like-minded people to make it work. I'm in. Reverend Mullet is in. How about you?
"If you love Me, "
Jesus said, "If you love Me, you will obey what I command." (John14:15)
We all say we love Jesus. I hope. I've never heard any of my Christian friends say, "I don't love Jesus." I hope I never do. So the next question is obvious. Do we obey His commandments?
Because if we don't obey, then, according to Jesus Himself, we don't love Him. That makes me shudder. And heave and convulse. I can't imagine not loving Him after all He has done for me. And after all He has done for the ones I love. He has done everything - He IS everything.
So, His commands. The last thing Jesus said before His ascension was the Great Commission. Think about that. His final words were a command to go and teach others. Makes one think it is important to Him, huh?
Francis Chan puts it this way: "Some people claim that we can be Christians without necessarily becoming disciples. I wonder, then, why the last thing Jesus told us was to go into all the world, making disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey all that He commanded? You'll notice that He didn't add, "But hey, if that's too much to ask, tell them to just become Christians - you know, the people who get to heaven without having to commit to anything."
First John 2:4 says that whoever claims to know Him but does not keep His commands is a liar.
So let's evaluate this "love" we have for Jesus. Is it real? Is it noticable? Can others see it? Only if it is being shared. Only if we take the love that He gives us and give it to those who need it.
We all say we love Jesus. I hope. I've never heard any of my Christian friends say, "I don't love Jesus." I hope I never do. So the next question is obvious. Do we obey His commandments?
Because if we don't obey, then, according to Jesus Himself, we don't love Him. That makes me shudder. And heave and convulse. I can't imagine not loving Him after all He has done for me. And after all He has done for the ones I love. He has done everything - He IS everything.
So, His commands. The last thing Jesus said before His ascension was the Great Commission. Think about that. His final words were a command to go and teach others. Makes one think it is important to Him, huh?
Francis Chan puts it this way: "Some people claim that we can be Christians without necessarily becoming disciples. I wonder, then, why the last thing Jesus told us was to go into all the world, making disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey all that He commanded? You'll notice that He didn't add, "But hey, if that's too much to ask, tell them to just become Christians - you know, the people who get to heaven without having to commit to anything."
First John 2:4 says that whoever claims to know Him but does not keep His commands is a liar.
So let's evaluate this "love" we have for Jesus. Is it real? Is it noticable? Can others see it? Only if it is being shared. Only if we take the love that He gives us and give it to those who need it.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
It's my turn...
to thank God for the people who continue to touch my life in unimaginable ways. I won't go into a list of names because that could get me into trouble.
If you are in the youth center on Sunday nights, I love you and thank God for you.
If you are at Benji's on Friday nights, I love you and thank God for you.
If you call yourself a JGenner, I love you and thank God for you.
If I make you so mad that sometimes you want to punch me in the face and you share ministry leadership with me, I love you and thank God for you.
If you have a son named Isaac, I love you and thank God for you.
If you are the only ordained minister on staff at my church right now, I love you and thank God for you.
If you date a girl who lives in Kentucky 5 days a week, I love you and thank God for you.
If you are the girl who lives in Kentucky 5 days a week, I love you and thank God for you.
If you are the second born of three sisters, are a masseuse, and always give me a hug and a smile, I love you and thank God for you.
You are the people who have captured my heart. You are the people who walk with me through Heaven and Hell. You are the people who I would walk through Hell with and for. This year has been one of refining us as a group. And it's been a trial by fire. But, as Benji would agree, the things that are coming are nothing short of glorious.
Mostly, I thank God for His love. It saved me, it sustains me, it teaches me, it disciplines me, it grows me, and it is the one constant in my life.
Happy Thanksgiving.
If you are in the youth center on Sunday nights, I love you and thank God for you.
If you are at Benji's on Friday nights, I love you and thank God for you.
If you call yourself a JGenner, I love you and thank God for you.
If I make you so mad that sometimes you want to punch me in the face and you share ministry leadership with me, I love you and thank God for you.
If you have a son named Isaac, I love you and thank God for you.
If you are the only ordained minister on staff at my church right now, I love you and thank God for you.
If you date a girl who lives in Kentucky 5 days a week, I love you and thank God for you.
If you are the girl who lives in Kentucky 5 days a week, I love you and thank God for you.
If you are the second born of three sisters, are a masseuse, and always give me a hug and a smile, I love you and thank God for you.
You are the people who have captured my heart. You are the people who walk with me through Heaven and Hell. You are the people who I would walk through Hell with and for. This year has been one of refining us as a group. And it's been a trial by fire. But, as Benji would agree, the things that are coming are nothing short of glorious.
Mostly, I thank God for His love. It saved me, it sustains me, it teaches me, it disciplines me, it grows me, and it is the one constant in my life.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Flew the coop
Now the word of the LORD came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, "Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me." But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went on board, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD. (Jonah 1:1-3)
How do you flee from the presence of the Omnipresent? It's a self-answering question - you don't. God doesn't play hide-and-seek. Where's Waldo? How about "where's Jonah?" No. It doesn't work like that and Jonah, as a prophet, knew this well. I don't think he was running scared. I think he was running because of anger, frustration, and rebellion. He wasn't afraid of what God was asking, he was mad about it. God's call didn't fit in with Jonah's agenda.
So Jonah changed his itinerary. Instead of Iraq, he went to Spain, possibly to run with the bulls. The way verse three is worded, it almost sounds like God's presence didn't reach to Tarshish.
I wonder if Jonah thought that God was giving him a way out. I mean, there was a ship available to take him to the western-most part of the (known) world. It must have looked like a blessing to Jonah. Maybe he thought that God was indifferent to his disobedience.
How often do we think this way in our own lives? Do we justify our sins and rebellious attitudes by thinking that God will actually provide a way to escape His conviction? That doesn't sound like a God of infinite love to me.
Sometimes things arise that seem like providence. We probably ascribe to God things that He wants nothing to do with. The truth is this - there are no shortcuts with God. The situations he uses to correct, discipline, and restore us cannot be dodged. He will never bless or honor our disobedience. Providences to the contrary of His word are not from Him.
So here's my heart on this matter --when we disobey God, it's like a chain-reaction. The first time is the hardest. After that, it gets easier to say no to Him. And we won't always recognize the things He is doing. But we won't recognize what Satan is doing either. What seems like a good opportunity may be a trap.
"...for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light."
(2 Corinthians 11:14)
How do you flee from the presence of the Omnipresent? It's a self-answering question - you don't. God doesn't play hide-and-seek. Where's Waldo? How about "where's Jonah?" No. It doesn't work like that and Jonah, as a prophet, knew this well. I don't think he was running scared. I think he was running because of anger, frustration, and rebellion. He wasn't afraid of what God was asking, he was mad about it. God's call didn't fit in with Jonah's agenda.
So Jonah changed his itinerary. Instead of Iraq, he went to Spain, possibly to run with the bulls. The way verse three is worded, it almost sounds like God's presence didn't reach to Tarshish.
I wonder if Jonah thought that God was giving him a way out. I mean, there was a ship available to take him to the western-most part of the (known) world. It must have looked like a blessing to Jonah. Maybe he thought that God was indifferent to his disobedience.
How often do we think this way in our own lives? Do we justify our sins and rebellious attitudes by thinking that God will actually provide a way to escape His conviction? That doesn't sound like a God of infinite love to me.
Sometimes things arise that seem like providence. We probably ascribe to God things that He wants nothing to do with. The truth is this - there are no shortcuts with God. The situations he uses to correct, discipline, and restore us cannot be dodged. He will never bless or honor our disobedience. Providences to the contrary of His word are not from Him.
So here's my heart on this matter --when we disobey God, it's like a chain-reaction. The first time is the hardest. After that, it gets easier to say no to Him. And we won't always recognize the things He is doing. But we won't recognize what Satan is doing either. What seems like a good opportunity may be a trap.
"...for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light."
(2 Corinthians 11:14)
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Resolving Jonah
Jonah--was a prophet, had previously prophesied for God (2 Kings 14:25), ran from God's call to Nineveh because of his selfish desire for Israel to stay superior to Nineveh, disobeyed God, which brought God's wrath on all those around him in the form of a violent storm, tried to commit suicide, was saved by a giant fish sent by God, reluctantly obeyed God the second time around, complained to God when his worst fears were realized, begged for death again because things weren't going his way, found relief under an overnight-growing tree, begged for death a third time because the tree died, and still never found compassion for the Ninevites.
God sure can pick 'em.
So why do we look to Jonah for inspiration and spiritual lessons to be learned? Because Jonah is us. You and me. The important thing is this:
Even though Jonah didn't want to be used, he was used. And as God planned to use Jonah to reach the Ninevites, he had to reach Jonah first. We can only assume that the unwritten part of Jonah's story found him ever-growing in the Lord.
The story of Jonah seems to be the part of God's word that is being used to reach a group of us at Stock Creek right now. So now that we have torn Jonah down, we will begin to build him back up in the coming days.
More to come.
God sure can pick 'em.
So why do we look to Jonah for inspiration and spiritual lessons to be learned? Because Jonah is us. You and me. The important thing is this:
Even though Jonah didn't want to be used, he was used. And as God planned to use Jonah to reach the Ninevites, he had to reach Jonah first. We can only assume that the unwritten part of Jonah's story found him ever-growing in the Lord.
The story of Jonah seems to be the part of God's word that is being used to reach a group of us at Stock Creek right now. So now that we have torn Jonah down, we will begin to build him back up in the coming days.
More to come.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Free Ride
Today, while driving home from work, I had another one of those "clarity" moments with God. I call it that because it's like every so often God decides to show me how things are in His perfect world instead of my sometimes vague world. (click here for another example)
I can't wait to get home and get changed out of my Arctic gear that I've had to wear all week. I'm really tired, too. So I'm driving and listening to Audio Adrenaline, Underdog or Bloom, not sure which, and "It is Well with My Soul" comes on. One of the best renderings of this old song, by the way. It's always been one of my favorite hymns, anyway. I turn up the volume and begin to sing along (a frequent event in my truck). Then I notice that I'm singing "is it well" instead of "it is well". And not because I don't know the right words.
At first I chuckled. Then I kept singing it wrong and thinking about how transposing two small words changes the whole meaning. It goes from a song of praise and thanksgiving to a song of doubt and struggling with faith. So I started talking to God about it. "Is it well, God? I mean really well, with my soul? Can I honestly come to you day in and day out and mean it when I praise you? Or am I just psyching myself up? Am I actually holding on to you and following or am I fooling myself with a false faith, a faith based on self? 'Cause You've put some real big mountains in my path lately and even though I know You have directed my steps and made some things happen, am I really okay with it all?"
God said, "You tell me."
"I'd rather You tell me. Isn't that how this relationship is supposed to work? I ask, You tell. You lead, I follow. I mean, You're Lord, right?"
"Am I? Am I really your Lord?"
"Crap."
"Because if I am your true Lord, in control of all you have and all you want, then anything and everything is well. That's how My Love works."
Then the peace came. The wonderful, incomprehensible sense of well-being that lets you know you are inseparable from Him. Because that is how He designed the relationship. No matter what comes along, if we remain in Him and follow His leading, He stays with us. Even when times are difficult or impossible to understand, He does not let us out of His care.
"Let Me ask you again. Is it well?"
Yeah. It sure is.
Then I rocked it out to "Free Ride".
I can't wait to get home and get changed out of my Arctic gear that I've had to wear all week. I'm really tired, too. So I'm driving and listening to Audio Adrenaline, Underdog or Bloom, not sure which, and "It is Well with My Soul" comes on. One of the best renderings of this old song, by the way. It's always been one of my favorite hymns, anyway. I turn up the volume and begin to sing along (a frequent event in my truck). Then I notice that I'm singing "is it well" instead of "it is well". And not because I don't know the right words.
At first I chuckled. Then I kept singing it wrong and thinking about how transposing two small words changes the whole meaning. It goes from a song of praise and thanksgiving to a song of doubt and struggling with faith. So I started talking to God about it. "Is it well, God? I mean really well, with my soul? Can I honestly come to you day in and day out and mean it when I praise you? Or am I just psyching myself up? Am I actually holding on to you and following or am I fooling myself with a false faith, a faith based on self? 'Cause You've put some real big mountains in my path lately and even though I know You have directed my steps and made some things happen, am I really okay with it all?"
God said, "You tell me."
"I'd rather You tell me. Isn't that how this relationship is supposed to work? I ask, You tell. You lead, I follow. I mean, You're Lord, right?"
"Am I? Am I really your Lord?"
"Crap."
"Because if I am your true Lord, in control of all you have and all you want, then anything and everything is well. That's how My Love works."
Then the peace came. The wonderful, incomprehensible sense of well-being that lets you know you are inseparable from Him. Because that is how He designed the relationship. No matter what comes along, if we remain in Him and follow His leading, He stays with us. Even when times are difficult or impossible to understand, He does not let us out of His care.
"Let Me ask you again. Is it well?"
Yeah. It sure is.
Then I rocked it out to "Free Ride".
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
The Blame Game
The soul who sins is the one who will die. The son will not share the guilt of the father, nor will the father share the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous man will be credited to him, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against him. (Ezekiel 18:20)
I don't know about you but I kinda get tired of hearing people blame others for the crap going on in their lives. Believe me, I am not blameless, but it seems like when things are unstable and the "road is rocky" the first reaction of some is to start pointing fingers. I notice this the most at church, ashamedly.
Let's face it, our church is in a time of uncertainty. Maybe that's the wrong word. It's not at all uncertain; I believe God will take care of His church. But we are in a difficult time. From the stories I hear, it just seems that people are all too quick to find fault with other people but never, not once, do they stop and consider themselves. Maybe a little perspective wouldn't hurt, huh?
Anyway, this passage just spoke to me in this way. Whether it is sin or some other crisis going on, I think we should first look at our own hearts before we jump to the conclusion that the problem is with someone else. It all comes down to a prideful, self-centered attitude. The bible says, "as much as depends on you, be at peace with all men" (Romans 12:18). The part that depends on us is to evaluate ourselves. We can't be at peace with anyone if we think they are always in the wrong.
I like the last verse of Ezekiel 18, also: "For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live!"
I don't know about you but I kinda get tired of hearing people blame others for the crap going on in their lives. Believe me, I am not blameless, but it seems like when things are unstable and the "road is rocky" the first reaction of some is to start pointing fingers. I notice this the most at church, ashamedly.
Let's face it, our church is in a time of uncertainty. Maybe that's the wrong word. It's not at all uncertain; I believe God will take care of His church. But we are in a difficult time. From the stories I hear, it just seems that people are all too quick to find fault with other people but never, not once, do they stop and consider themselves. Maybe a little perspective wouldn't hurt, huh?
Anyway, this passage just spoke to me in this way. Whether it is sin or some other crisis going on, I think we should first look at our own hearts before we jump to the conclusion that the problem is with someone else. It all comes down to a prideful, self-centered attitude. The bible says, "as much as depends on you, be at peace with all men" (Romans 12:18). The part that depends on us is to evaluate ourselves. We can't be at peace with anyone if we think they are always in the wrong.
I like the last verse of Ezekiel 18, also: "For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live!"
Monday, November 17, 2008
Is God a large black woman?
"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.
"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.
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.
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