Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
In this short portion of scripture we find some important heart attitudes that make all the difference in our spiritual lives. The first is to rejoice always. We’ve got to set our hearts on the eternal perspective. It’s easier to rejoice in difficult circumstances when our hearts are set on eternity because we remember that whatever is going on here, we are soon to be with our Father. The second is to pray without ceasing. We must have our hearts inclined toward the Father. As we talk together, our relationship increases, following Him is easier, and I am filled with more joy. The third is to give thanks in everything. During hard times it’s often hard to give thanks, but we can thank God that He is bigger than our difficulties. There is much in life that can be difficult, but our salvation, hope, and confidence is in Jesus and cannot be taken from us. Victory is already ours.
Let’s keep focused on our Father and remember to practice living out the Word. Let’s anchor our souls in the eternal and choose to measure our lives by that standard because that’s where life is.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Matthew 28:5-7
But the angel answered and said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead. Matthew 28:5-7
Can you imagine what it would be like if Jesus had not risen from the dead? Everything would end with us visiting His tomb and imagining His great suffering and death. And then we would go home without victory over death and Hell. Good Friday is the day that we remember the suffering, shame, and death of Jesus. But we are not without hope! We know that Easter morning is coming. It’s the day we remember that Jesus didn’t just suffer and die, He conquered death and Hell and, in so doing, granted to us the opportunity for salvation, an eternity in Heaven, and victory.
So rejoice! Christ has risen, He has ascended on high, He has given us the power of the Holy Spirit, He has given us victory, power, love, acceptance and a new covenant that is ours to live out and enjoy. Let’s rejoice because our Savior is risen; He is risen!
Do you get it? The Christ who died for you has risen, and the same Spirit that rose Jesus Christ from the dead abides in you if you choose Him. Meditate on the reality of Jesus’ resurrection. Ponder the truth and let your mind expand to bring this incredible reality into the center of your thinking. We are conquerors. We are victors. We are Christ’s and He is ours. All He has established of resurrection life is ours. Let’s rejoice!! He is Risen!!
Can you imagine what it would be like if Jesus had not risen from the dead? Everything would end with us visiting His tomb and imagining His great suffering and death. And then we would go home without victory over death and Hell. Good Friday is the day that we remember the suffering, shame, and death of Jesus. But we are not without hope! We know that Easter morning is coming. It’s the day we remember that Jesus didn’t just suffer and die, He conquered death and Hell and, in so doing, granted to us the opportunity for salvation, an eternity in Heaven, and victory.
So rejoice! Christ has risen, He has ascended on high, He has given us the power of the Holy Spirit, He has given us victory, power, love, acceptance and a new covenant that is ours to live out and enjoy. Let’s rejoice because our Savior is risen; He is risen!
Do you get it? The Christ who died for you has risen, and the same Spirit that rose Jesus Christ from the dead abides in you if you choose Him. Meditate on the reality of Jesus’ resurrection. Ponder the truth and let your mind expand to bring this incredible reality into the center of your thinking. We are conquerors. We are victors. We are Christ’s and He is ours. All He has established of resurrection life is ours. Let’s rejoice!! He is Risen!!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Psalm 8:3-6
When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him? For You have made him a little lower than the angels, and You have crowned him with glory and honor. You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet. Psalm 8:3-6
How painful for our Heavenly Father when mean chose sin instead of obedience in the Garden of Eden! It was Satan’s absolute deathblow to us and caused us to be separated from our heavenly Father. Forevermore our sins had to be covered by blood sacrifice. We see this in the Old Testament in all the rituals and sacrifices and specifications that men had to perform in order for sin to be covered. It’s hard to imagine all the mess and find the worship of God in it, but a Holy God cannot be in the midst of sin.
I know that we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ this month, but we must remember the price that we were purchased with. The ritual of sacrifice is not required of us because Jesus took care of it all with His own blood. Our sin still requires blood, only now it’s our acceptance of the blood of Jesus that enables us to be in relationship with our Holy God. What a value He places on us! Let’s rejoice in the fact that our great and Holy God loves us! But let’s never forget what it cost. Let’s be sobered by the fact that our sin cost so much while we rejoice in the overwhelming love of our Father who gave His Son for us. Let’s remember the amazing value that God places on us and the incredible privilege of our redemption.
How painful for our Heavenly Father when mean chose sin instead of obedience in the Garden of Eden! It was Satan’s absolute deathblow to us and caused us to be separated from our heavenly Father. Forevermore our sins had to be covered by blood sacrifice. We see this in the Old Testament in all the rituals and sacrifices and specifications that men had to perform in order for sin to be covered. It’s hard to imagine all the mess and find the worship of God in it, but a Holy God cannot be in the midst of sin.
I know that we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ this month, but we must remember the price that we were purchased with. The ritual of sacrifice is not required of us because Jesus took care of it all with His own blood. Our sin still requires blood, only now it’s our acceptance of the blood of Jesus that enables us to be in relationship with our Holy God. What a value He places on us! Let’s rejoice in the fact that our great and Holy God loves us! But let’s never forget what it cost. Let’s be sobered by the fact that our sin cost so much while we rejoice in the overwhelming love of our Father who gave His Son for us. Let’s remember the amazing value that God places on us and the incredible privilege of our redemption.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Ephesians 3:14-19
For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height — to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:14-19
A couple of weeks ago we had what we called a Family Sunday. We stepped out of the comfort of our usual order of service for an interactive time of prayer, games, and fellowship. Our goal was to build relationship, unity, and teamwork in the family unit and in our larger church family unit. In this day and age, the importance of the family has been devalued. The Biblical precedent of passing down wisdom and knowledge has largely been lost in our culture. We are called to step into that role and be a family unit that is supportive and a blessing to each other.
We’re all related. We all share in the same riches, grace, love and blessings and are all anchored in the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. We’re filled and continuing to be filled by the Holy Spirit with the fullness of God. We are so rich! But all of these blessings transpire in the middle of God’s family. The is where we all belong , we are all needed, and we are all valued. We are God’s keys to unlocking the Kingdom for those we serve. Praise God for His grace. As we sow into future generations, we’ll see everything of God’s kingdom released and growing.
A couple of weeks ago we had what we called a Family Sunday. We stepped out of the comfort of our usual order of service for an interactive time of prayer, games, and fellowship. Our goal was to build relationship, unity, and teamwork in the family unit and in our larger church family unit. In this day and age, the importance of the family has been devalued. The Biblical precedent of passing down wisdom and knowledge has largely been lost in our culture. We are called to step into that role and be a family unit that is supportive and a blessing to each other.
We’re all related. We all share in the same riches, grace, love and blessings and are all anchored in the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. We’re filled and continuing to be filled by the Holy Spirit with the fullness of God. We are so rich! But all of these blessings transpire in the middle of God’s family. The is where we all belong , we are all needed, and we are all valued. We are God’s keys to unlocking the Kingdom for those we serve. Praise God for His grace. As we sow into future generations, we’ll see everything of God’s kingdom released and growing.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Colossians 3:15-16
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:15-16.
Peace is a choice. Worry, fear, and unrest come because we choose not to believe God. He hasn’t given us a spirit of fear, but of love, power and a sound mind. He can be trusted and has your best interests on His mind and heart. When we choose to believe Him, His character, His Word, and His promises are yes and amen to us. As we grow in grace, we also grow in thanksgiving and appreciation for His body of believers. This heart of thanksgiving and peace reflects the heart of God. Let’s choose to believe Him. As we do, let’s watch the peace of God rule in our hearts.
Peace is a choice. Worry, fear, and unrest come because we choose not to believe God. He hasn’t given us a spirit of fear, but of love, power and a sound mind. He can be trusted and has your best interests on His mind and heart. When we choose to believe Him, His character, His Word, and His promises are yes and amen to us. As we grow in grace, we also grow in thanksgiving and appreciation for His body of believers. This heart of thanksgiving and peace reflects the heart of God. Let’s choose to believe Him. As we do, let’s watch the peace of God rule in our hearts.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Genesis 2:7
And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place. Then the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man. And Adam said: “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; She shall be called woman, because she was taken out of man.” Genesis 2:7, 18, 21-23
Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, and said, “I have acquired a man from the Lord.” Then she bore again, this time his brother Abel.
Genesis 4:1-2
These verses are about the first family. If you read on you’ll find that in this family is where the act of murder comes on the Biblical scene. Family can be a difficult thing, or it can be a joyful, refreshing part of life. There’s nothing like a family for giving joy and laughter and there’s nothing like it for inflicting pain. The devil hates family and works to destroy it wherever possible. But God’s purpose for family is that within it He would be honored and loved. There’s just no way to comprehend God’s design for family unless we truly know Jesus and His Word. I’m not talking about who does what work within the home, I’m talking about honoring God and His Word in our hearts so that what He has purposed for us is embraced. God’s plan is to heal, and that means healing for our families as well. Once we begin to live out His purposes for us, we will begin to see His purposes realized within our homes and families.
Today we choose to celebrate family - both our individual family units and our church family. God designed the church family to be a mirror to individual family units. We are to be bonded together, loving, supporting and helping each other, but most of all rejoicing in the presence of God and enjoying fellowship with each other. Let’s embrace His wholeness and allow His love to pour through us to one another so that we all would be bonded, joined and functional in a way that would cause the world to know Him and us to rejoice in Him.
Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, and said, “I have acquired a man from the Lord.” Then she bore again, this time his brother Abel.
Genesis 4:1-2
These verses are about the first family. If you read on you’ll find that in this family is where the act of murder comes on the Biblical scene. Family can be a difficult thing, or it can be a joyful, refreshing part of life. There’s nothing like a family for giving joy and laughter and there’s nothing like it for inflicting pain. The devil hates family and works to destroy it wherever possible. But God’s purpose for family is that within it He would be honored and loved. There’s just no way to comprehend God’s design for family unless we truly know Jesus and His Word. I’m not talking about who does what work within the home, I’m talking about honoring God and His Word in our hearts so that what He has purposed for us is embraced. God’s plan is to heal, and that means healing for our families as well. Once we begin to live out His purposes for us, we will begin to see His purposes realized within our homes and families.
Today we choose to celebrate family - both our individual family units and our church family. God designed the church family to be a mirror to individual family units. We are to be bonded together, loving, supporting and helping each other, but most of all rejoicing in the presence of God and enjoying fellowship with each other. Let’s embrace His wholeness and allow His love to pour through us to one another so that we all would be bonded, joined and functional in a way that would cause the world to know Him and us to rejoice in Him.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
1 Timothy 2:1-5
Therefore, I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-5
Praying for our leaders is a directive from the Word. We need to pray for those who are in authority over us. It doesn’t matter what our party affiliation is or if we agree with the politics of the person, we still need to pray for them. In fact, it isn’t just about what our authorities will gain or lose if we pray, God assures us that there’s something in it for us as well. When we pray for our authorities, we reap a life of peace, godliness, and reverence. God approves of our prayers and He loves thanksgiving in all men. Let’s be a united body of believer and pray for our president. Let’s pray that he’ll have a close and intimate walk with God, through His Son, Jesus Christ. And let’s pray that he’ll make Godly decisions, that he would be open to Godly council, and that the enemy would have no influence over him.
We also need to be praying for each other. We need the church to be a real, living body of believers. We know that God wants us to touch the world as Jesus did and through Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit in us, we can. But, as the scripture says, first comes supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks. As we live out this directive, let’s rejoice in the Lord and know that God loves answering prayers that are in accordance with His heart. Let’s pray for the nation, pray for the church, and believe for a great and powerful release of God’s abiding and transforming presence.
Praying for our leaders is a directive from the Word. We need to pray for those who are in authority over us. It doesn’t matter what our party affiliation is or if we agree with the politics of the person, we still need to pray for them. In fact, it isn’t just about what our authorities will gain or lose if we pray, God assures us that there’s something in it for us as well. When we pray for our authorities, we reap a life of peace, godliness, and reverence. God approves of our prayers and He loves thanksgiving in all men. Let’s be a united body of believer and pray for our president. Let’s pray that he’ll have a close and intimate walk with God, through His Son, Jesus Christ. And let’s pray that he’ll make Godly decisions, that he would be open to Godly council, and that the enemy would have no influence over him.
We also need to be praying for each other. We need the church to be a real, living body of believers. We know that God wants us to touch the world as Jesus did and through Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit in us, we can. But, as the scripture says, first comes supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks. As we live out this directive, let’s rejoice in the Lord and know that God loves answering prayers that are in accordance with His heart. Let’s pray for the nation, pray for the church, and believe for a great and powerful release of God’s abiding and transforming presence.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
John 15:11-14
These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. John 15:11-14
Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8
Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart. 1 Peter 1:22
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 1 John 4:7
No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. 1 John 4:12
When we’re born again and embrace our salvation, we receive resurrection power and life. When we’re forgiven, we have the joy and privilege of forgiving those who have wronged us also. How could we keep a record of wrongs when we know that God has forgiven us for so much? When we practice forgiveness we open up our hearts so that we can love like Jesus does. We can be God’s heart, hands, and mouth extended to those who are His creation.
It’s amazing to me how simple the Word really is. There is always a very simple answer with our Father; it’s us who complicate things. We can sometimes stretch and twist God’s Word or argue with it when our flesh cries fowl. If we can die to our desire to have it our way, give up the need to have all the answers, be willing to sacrifice a bit of ourselves, then God’s Word is so simple. We can love others the way Jesus loves us. Let’s ask God for a greater infilling of the Holy Spirit so we can love others. Let’s forget the things that are behind us and press toward the mark of the high calling in Christ Jesus, rejoicing that we belong to our Savior and we are His love extended to a world that needs Him.
Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8
Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart. 1 Peter 1:22
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 1 John 4:7
No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. 1 John 4:12
When we’re born again and embrace our salvation, we receive resurrection power and life. When we’re forgiven, we have the joy and privilege of forgiving those who have wronged us also. How could we keep a record of wrongs when we know that God has forgiven us for so much? When we practice forgiveness we open up our hearts so that we can love like Jesus does. We can be God’s heart, hands, and mouth extended to those who are His creation.
It’s amazing to me how simple the Word really is. There is always a very simple answer with our Father; it’s us who complicate things. We can sometimes stretch and twist God’s Word or argue with it when our flesh cries fowl. If we can die to our desire to have it our way, give up the need to have all the answers, be willing to sacrifice a bit of ourselves, then God’s Word is so simple. We can love others the way Jesus loves us. Let’s ask God for a greater infilling of the Holy Spirit so we can love others. Let’s forget the things that are behind us and press toward the mark of the high calling in Christ Jesus, rejoicing that we belong to our Savior and we are His love extended to a world that needs Him.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Psalm 107:2
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy!
Psalm 107:2
As a young boy I remember my mom saving her S&H green stamps, it was a family event when we got ready to redeem them at the redemption center. We as a family would get around the table, mom would pull out her box of stamps and we would begin the task of pasting the stamps in the stamp book. Little did I know that I was seeing and experiencing one of the best examples of what redemption means.
Only when we are blinded by our sin and our heart is hardened by the enemy of our soul; when we find we’ve been sold a bill of goods or sold down the river only to find that we are in bondage at the end of our trip. When we feel there is no way out, we are lost, alone, isolated and life is less than we ever thought it would be. Then God.
Then God sent His Son to redeem us. Yes, Jesus walked in to the “store”, the world, and paid the price for our sins, all of our sins, and we were bought with a price. The price being the blood of Jesus, which cleanses us from all unrighteousness, and opens all of heaven for our sakes. Not only when this life is over, but the life we now live we live by the power of the Son of God, who bought us, redeemed us from death and destruction, and restored to us our original purpose of life. That is to worship and enjoy in fellowship our Heavenly Father who redeemed us from this world and the influence of the god of this world, the devil, and established us in His kingdom. He loves us and empowers us and blesses us far above what we can imagine or even see. We are blessed beyond our own perception, and eternity is ours to enjoy. Yes, we are bought with a price, we belong to Jesus, and we are His precious possession. We embrace all He has for us, by surrendering all we used to be for a much better future, eternity, and a much better life. For we have God’s love pouring out towards us and through us for His sake. We are by His choosing the salt of the earth, filled with His love, and full of His grace and power. We are His, He is ours, and we have been bought for such a time as this.
Psalm 107:2
As a young boy I remember my mom saving her S&H green stamps, it was a family event when we got ready to redeem them at the redemption center. We as a family would get around the table, mom would pull out her box of stamps and we would begin the task of pasting the stamps in the stamp book. Little did I know that I was seeing and experiencing one of the best examples of what redemption means.
Only when we are blinded by our sin and our heart is hardened by the enemy of our soul; when we find we’ve been sold a bill of goods or sold down the river only to find that we are in bondage at the end of our trip. When we feel there is no way out, we are lost, alone, isolated and life is less than we ever thought it would be. Then God.
Then God sent His Son to redeem us. Yes, Jesus walked in to the “store”, the world, and paid the price for our sins, all of our sins, and we were bought with a price. The price being the blood of Jesus, which cleanses us from all unrighteousness, and opens all of heaven for our sakes. Not only when this life is over, but the life we now live we live by the power of the Son of God, who bought us, redeemed us from death and destruction, and restored to us our original purpose of life. That is to worship and enjoy in fellowship our Heavenly Father who redeemed us from this world and the influence of the god of this world, the devil, and established us in His kingdom. He loves us and empowers us and blesses us far above what we can imagine or even see. We are blessed beyond our own perception, and eternity is ours to enjoy. Yes, we are bought with a price, we belong to Jesus, and we are His precious possession. We embrace all He has for us, by surrendering all we used to be for a much better future, eternity, and a much better life. For we have God’s love pouring out towards us and through us for His sake. We are by His choosing the salt of the earth, filled with His love, and full of His grace and power. We are His, He is ours, and we have been bought for such a time as this.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Deuteronomy 7:9
Therefore, know that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments. Deuteronomy 7:9
God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
1 Corinthians 1:9
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13
Therefore, let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful creator. 1 Peter 4:19
God is faithful! He’s a good God, all the time, without a dark side to His nature. Sometimes we may find doubts about His goodness creeping in. We may find ourselves wondering if His Word is really true or if God really intends to keep His promises, but when we entertain those doubts, we begin to lose our battle. When we face trying times we need to choose to align ourselves with His Word regardless of what we see with our eyes. The Word is ours, given to us for our encouragement and direction. We have promises to claim! If you are suffering in your finances, go to the Word. Find out what God has to say about finances. Obey Him, trust Him, and watch Him fulfill the promises. The same is true for health issues, family issues, work issues, etc. Go to the Word, find out what He has to say about it, obey His directives, and watch Him fulfill His promises. He is faithful! He is altogether righteous and never changes. Let’s walk together embracing God’s faithfulness and receiving all He has declared is ours if we follow Him.
God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
1 Corinthians 1:9
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13
Therefore, let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful creator. 1 Peter 4:19
God is faithful! He’s a good God, all the time, without a dark side to His nature. Sometimes we may find doubts about His goodness creeping in. We may find ourselves wondering if His Word is really true or if God really intends to keep His promises, but when we entertain those doubts, we begin to lose our battle. When we face trying times we need to choose to align ourselves with His Word regardless of what we see with our eyes. The Word is ours, given to us for our encouragement and direction. We have promises to claim! If you are suffering in your finances, go to the Word. Find out what God has to say about finances. Obey Him, trust Him, and watch Him fulfill the promises. The same is true for health issues, family issues, work issues, etc. Go to the Word, find out what He has to say about it, obey His directives, and watch Him fulfill His promises. He is faithful! He is altogether righteous and never changes. Let’s walk together embracing God’s faithfulness and receiving all He has declared is ours if we follow Him.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
1 Peter 5:8-11
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:8-11
There’s no escaping the fact that sometimes life is hard. We’re often faced with trials, stressors, and pain that come from all sorts of places. Some we bring on ourselves through poor choices or outright sin and some are just the result of living in a fallen world alongside broken people. But we have a God who loves us and victory is ours in spite of difficult circumstances.
Psalm 107:17&19 say that “Some became fools through their rebellious ways and suffered affliction because of their iniquities. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress.”
Let’s remember to be steadfast in our faith and lean on God, His Word, and His promises. And let’s not forget to look outside of our own circumstances to see our brothers and sisters. Find someone who needs your words of encouragement and someone who can encourage you. As we persist in pursuing and obeying God, He will be faithful (as the Word says) to perfect, establish, strengthen and settle us. His peace will rule and His resurrection power will rise in us. Praise God, we are not alone!
There’s no escaping the fact that sometimes life is hard. We’re often faced with trials, stressors, and pain that come from all sorts of places. Some we bring on ourselves through poor choices or outright sin and some are just the result of living in a fallen world alongside broken people. But we have a God who loves us and victory is ours in spite of difficult circumstances.
Psalm 107:17&19 say that “Some became fools through their rebellious ways and suffered affliction because of their iniquities. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress.”
Let’s remember to be steadfast in our faith and lean on God, His Word, and His promises. And let’s not forget to look outside of our own circumstances to see our brothers and sisters. Find someone who needs your words of encouragement and someone who can encourage you. As we persist in pursuing and obeying God, He will be faithful (as the Word says) to perfect, establish, strengthen and settle us. His peace will rule and His resurrection power will rise in us. Praise God, we are not alone!
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Psalm 111:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; Psalm 111:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the Lord is to hate evil Proverbs 8:13
The fear of the Lord prolongs days, Proverbs 10:27
In the fear of the Lord there is strong confidence Proverbs 14:26
The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life Proverbs 14:27
Better is a little with the fear of the Lord Proverbs 15:16
And by the fear of the Lord one departs from evil. Proverbs 16:16
The fear of the lord leads to life Proverbs 19:23
When I was a child I learned how to “fear the Lord” by first learning to respect and honor my parents. There was always a consequence for my disobedience. I learned to “walk the line” by knowing that judgment would come my way if I made poor choices. Later on this step in my learning process translated to an understanding that my choices as an adult still lead to judgment – or to blessing. So often we have a poor understanding of the heart of God because of the unhealthy things we’ve experienced as children. We wind up believing that fearing God means being afraid of Him.
God loves us and sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for us. He wants to bless us and He knows what is and isn’t good for us. He’s given us His Word so we can choose to walk in the way of blessing and righteousness. The “fear of the Lord” is not about an angry God who wants to hurt you, but a loving father that wants to help you walk in the way of blessing. In our culture today, fear of the Lord can best be translated as honor, respect, and reverence. When we declare that God is smarter than we are, wiser than we are, and knows the beginning from the end; when we follow His Word and trust Him when we don’t understand we are “fearing the Lord.” These things aren’t always easy to do, but they are the way of wisdom and blessing. Following His Word is our hope and joy. Sometimes we’ll understand and sometimes we’ll walk by faith, but in it all we’ll be blessed and the fruit of the Spirit will be our portion.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the Lord is to hate evil Proverbs 8:13
The fear of the Lord prolongs days, Proverbs 10:27
In the fear of the Lord there is strong confidence Proverbs 14:26
The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life Proverbs 14:27
Better is a little with the fear of the Lord Proverbs 15:16
And by the fear of the Lord one departs from evil. Proverbs 16:16
The fear of the lord leads to life Proverbs 19:23
When I was a child I learned how to “fear the Lord” by first learning to respect and honor my parents. There was always a consequence for my disobedience. I learned to “walk the line” by knowing that judgment would come my way if I made poor choices. Later on this step in my learning process translated to an understanding that my choices as an adult still lead to judgment – or to blessing. So often we have a poor understanding of the heart of God because of the unhealthy things we’ve experienced as children. We wind up believing that fearing God means being afraid of Him.
God loves us and sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for us. He wants to bless us and He knows what is and isn’t good for us. He’s given us His Word so we can choose to walk in the way of blessing and righteousness. The “fear of the Lord” is not about an angry God who wants to hurt you, but a loving father that wants to help you walk in the way of blessing. In our culture today, fear of the Lord can best be translated as honor, respect, and reverence. When we declare that God is smarter than we are, wiser than we are, and knows the beginning from the end; when we follow His Word and trust Him when we don’t understand we are “fearing the Lord.” These things aren’t always easy to do, but they are the way of wisdom and blessing. Following His Word is our hope and joy. Sometimes we’ll understand and sometimes we’ll walk by faith, but in it all we’ll be blessed and the fruit of the Spirit will be our portion.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Acts 4:29-30
Soon after Jesus’ death and resurrection, the early church leaders found themselves under vicious attack. They were threatened, beaten, and put to death. Here is how they responded in prayer:
“And now, O Lord, hear their threats and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your Word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” Acts 4:29-30
This is an amazing response. It shows that they were determined that the gospel should continue to move forward. They were sold out to Jesus and knew that fear wasn’t really an option – obedience was the only choice. There are some good points in this prayer that I would like to have you pray over the pastors and leaders of this church:
Pray that we will have great boldness in declaring the Word of the Lord in our teaching, counsel, and leadership.
Pray that as we minister and pray for individuals healing power will be manifest and we will see and experience the fullness of New Testament life.
Pray that miraculous signs and wonders will be done in Jesus’ name, to confirm His Word and impact our world with the living reality of Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
I want us to be a center of New Testament life. Let’s pray that God releases it and that what we teach and declare will be manifest in all of us. Let’s pray that wherever we go, the world will never be the same because where we are the kingdom of God is for Christ dwells in us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
“And now, O Lord, hear their threats and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your Word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” Acts 4:29-30
This is an amazing response. It shows that they were determined that the gospel should continue to move forward. They were sold out to Jesus and knew that fear wasn’t really an option – obedience was the only choice. There are some good points in this prayer that I would like to have you pray over the pastors and leaders of this church:
Pray that we will have great boldness in declaring the Word of the Lord in our teaching, counsel, and leadership.
Pray that as we minister and pray for individuals healing power will be manifest and we will see and experience the fullness of New Testament life.
Pray that miraculous signs and wonders will be done in Jesus’ name, to confirm His Word and impact our world with the living reality of Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
I want us to be a center of New Testament life. Let’s pray that God releases it and that what we teach and declare will be manifest in all of us. Let’s pray that wherever we go, the world will never be the same because where we are the kingdom of God is for Christ dwells in us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Joshua 1:6-9
Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Do not let the Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:6-9
Joshua was facing the greatest challenge of his life; bring the children of Israel into the promised land and give them their inheritance. But God is good to give him this word of strength and guidance for his life. He is to follow God, obey what He says, and meditate on the Word and in return God promises to prosper him and give him success. These words are true for us today. Though following Jesus (obeying Him and living out His heart of love and service) can be quite a challenge, we need to be strong and courageous as we set out to accomplish what Jesus calls us to do.
There are so many voices around us that tell us who we are and what we need. So we need to adopt a bit of a warfare mentality as we determine to be strong and courageous to follow God’s principles and not the world’s. We need to set out each day (maybe even moment by moment) to focus on what God says and meditating on His Word will help. God is so faithful to us to provide. Only He is the answer and anchoring our lives in Him will bring us peace. Obedience to Him will bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
God also says to us that we should not be dismayed. In other words, don’t be intimidated or overwhelmed. Don’t be afraid. Near the heart of God there is a place of quiet rest. As we meditate on His Word and His promises to us, we find our anchor. So let’s move ahead, anchored in Him, trusting His promises and walking in His strength and courage. Only in Him do we have hope, a future, and wonderful purpose as we walk out the abundant life God has promised us.
Joshua was facing the greatest challenge of his life; bring the children of Israel into the promised land and give them their inheritance. But God is good to give him this word of strength and guidance for his life. He is to follow God, obey what He says, and meditate on the Word and in return God promises to prosper him and give him success. These words are true for us today. Though following Jesus (obeying Him and living out His heart of love and service) can be quite a challenge, we need to be strong and courageous as we set out to accomplish what Jesus calls us to do.
There are so many voices around us that tell us who we are and what we need. So we need to adopt a bit of a warfare mentality as we determine to be strong and courageous to follow God’s principles and not the world’s. We need to set out each day (maybe even moment by moment) to focus on what God says and meditating on His Word will help. God is so faithful to us to provide. Only He is the answer and anchoring our lives in Him will bring us peace. Obedience to Him will bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
God also says to us that we should not be dismayed. In other words, don’t be intimidated or overwhelmed. Don’t be afraid. Near the heart of God there is a place of quiet rest. As we meditate on His Word and His promises to us, we find our anchor. So let’s move ahead, anchored in Him, trusting His promises and walking in His strength and courage. Only in Him do we have hope, a future, and wonderful purpose as we walk out the abundant life God has promised us.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Luke 11:28
Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice. Luke 11:28
Over the years, I’ve met a lot of people who have received Jesus as Savior and who love Him. But there is more to life with Jesus than accepting Him as Savior, there is an abundant life that we can enter into as those who join in His inheritance. The joy of the Lord that guards our hearts places our souls and minds in a place of peace and rest because we’re assured of his promises. We know that we aren’t perfect, but we grow in grace.
I remember when I first started participating in sports. I had to practice the skills that eventually made me a better player. This is true of our walk with Jesus. When we begin to practice walking out what we read in His Word, we find ourselves improving in our understanding, in relationship with Him, in trusting Him and in faith. As we read through the Word this year, let’s practice what we’re reading. When you find a defining action, a new heart attitude, or feel the breath of the Spirit that refreshes us, let’s spend the time to practice it. Let’s practice worshipping, praying for and with others, and setting our minds and hearts on the Lord. Let’s pay attention while we see what a wonderful and fulfilling life we can embrace as we walk out our faith in practical, Biblical patterns empowered by the Holy Spirit, and motivated by His love.
Over the years, I’ve met a lot of people who have received Jesus as Savior and who love Him. But there is more to life with Jesus than accepting Him as Savior, there is an abundant life that we can enter into as those who join in His inheritance. The joy of the Lord that guards our hearts places our souls and minds in a place of peace and rest because we’re assured of his promises. We know that we aren’t perfect, but we grow in grace.
I remember when I first started participating in sports. I had to practice the skills that eventually made me a better player. This is true of our walk with Jesus. When we begin to practice walking out what we read in His Word, we find ourselves improving in our understanding, in relationship with Him, in trusting Him and in faith. As we read through the Word this year, let’s practice what we’re reading. When you find a defining action, a new heart attitude, or feel the breath of the Spirit that refreshes us, let’s spend the time to practice it. Let’s practice worshipping, praying for and with others, and setting our minds and hearts on the Lord. Let’s pay attention while we see what a wonderful and fulfilling life we can embrace as we walk out our faith in practical, Biblical patterns empowered by the Holy Spirit, and motivated by His love.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Joel 2:25
The Lord says, “I will give you back what you lost to the stripping locusts, the cutting locusts, the swarming locusts, and the hopping locusts. Once again you will have all the food you want, and you will praise the Lord your God, who does these miracles for you. Never again will my people be disgraced like this.” Joel 2:25
We’ve all lost things that are valuable to us. But God loves restoring! He restored a widow’s sons in 2 Kings. In Genesis He restored Israel’s territory and He restored it again in 1946. Worship was restored in the temple in 2 Chron. Job’s losses are restored to him in Job 42:10. Jesus restores health all the time in the New Testament and God restores relationship in Hebrews 13:19. God is in the restoring mood. He never changes! Whether it is lost life, blessing, hope, health, land, or inheritance God restores. God wants us to live in abundant life. We can trust Him, we can trust His Word, and we can trust His heart to restore. Times of loss are difficult and painful. But we only need to believe His Word and restoration will overtake us. Let’s follow our Savior, walk in the light of He Word and enjoy the power of His presence.
Let me say it to you again: Right now is and will always be a season of restoration. Praise His great and holy name!
We’ve all lost things that are valuable to us. But God loves restoring! He restored a widow’s sons in 2 Kings. In Genesis He restored Israel’s territory and He restored it again in 1946. Worship was restored in the temple in 2 Chron. Job’s losses are restored to him in Job 42:10. Jesus restores health all the time in the New Testament and God restores relationship in Hebrews 13:19. God is in the restoring mood. He never changes! Whether it is lost life, blessing, hope, health, land, or inheritance God restores. God wants us to live in abundant life. We can trust Him, we can trust His Word, and we can trust His heart to restore. Times of loss are difficult and painful. But we only need to believe His Word and restoration will overtake us. Let’s follow our Savior, walk in the light of He Word and enjoy the power of His presence.
Let me say it to you again: Right now is and will always be a season of restoration. Praise His great and holy name!
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