The herdsmen fled and told it in the city and in the country. And people came to see what it was that had happened. And they came to Jesus and saw the demon-possessed man, the one who had had the legion, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. And those who had seen it described to them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and to the pigs. And they began to beg Jesus to depart from their region. Mark 5:14-17
Why is it when God does something in our lives that affects what we selfishly see as our well-being, we immediately treat him with contempt? I mean seriously, we all have this fight or flight mentality innate in us that can serve us well in moments of physical or emotional danger. Yet, too often, we use this response against God when we know He is working in our lives.
The people in the region of the Gerasenes had a similar response when they saw their herd of pigs killed. Instead of recognizing the power and authority of Jesus and what He did, they turned against him because their financial and physical livelihoods had been adversely affected. The Bible says they were afraid of what Jesus had done, instead of in awe of what He could do. This most likely is the result of a lack of knowledge of Jewish traditions in this region, but it still serves to teach us a valuable lesson.
As we come to the end of 2010 and begin a new year tomorrow, be mindful of turning your back against the the work God is doing in your life. Be careful not to allow yourself to turn from Jesus because your life circumstances may change. But rather trust in the fact that His work is evidence of His love for people and His good and perfect plan for your life.
This coming year, let's let Jesus get in our way instead of asking Him to get out of our way.
Happy New Year
Friday, December 31, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Shiny Floors
I can do all things through him [Christ] who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
For the past week, the idea of forgiveness has been on my heart. I know why, but honestly, I really haven't wanted to face it or do anything about it. In fact, I would prefer to shove it in the background and let it fade away as I've done so many times before. But this time seems different. It's not because what's going on is a new situation, but rather now it seems the right time to pull back the rug that has laid on top of a lot of bitterness for a long time.
Today as I was driving and listening to the radio, a short commercial shared the verse Philippians 4:13. As I was listening, a connection between Paul's words and the power of forgiveness hit me. You see Christ is the one that gives us the power to forgive others and we have the choice to use that power or not. When we choose not to forgive others, we are merely saying that I don't have the ability to forgive and I am deciding NOT to trust Christ to forgive for me and through me. So we just lift up the rug and sweep it away to be dealt with another day.
The only possible result of not forgiving someone is a well of bitterness pooling up in your life. When you decide to sweep your problems under the rug for another day, this bitterness will simply cut a hole in the floor under that pretty rug you've designed to cover up your problems. It may not be seen, but dare to the person who steps on the rug. And, at the end of the day, it will simply swallow the rug and consume everything around it.
Friend, you are the floor and your life is the rug. Take care of the junk under your rug, so the floor will be able to shine.
For the past week, the idea of forgiveness has been on my heart. I know why, but honestly, I really haven't wanted to face it or do anything about it. In fact, I would prefer to shove it in the background and let it fade away as I've done so many times before. But this time seems different. It's not because what's going on is a new situation, but rather now it seems the right time to pull back the rug that has laid on top of a lot of bitterness for a long time.
Today as I was driving and listening to the radio, a short commercial shared the verse Philippians 4:13. As I was listening, a connection between Paul's words and the power of forgiveness hit me. You see Christ is the one that gives us the power to forgive others and we have the choice to use that power or not. When we choose not to forgive others, we are merely saying that I don't have the ability to forgive and I am deciding NOT to trust Christ to forgive for me and through me. So we just lift up the rug and sweep it away to be dealt with another day.
The only possible result of not forgiving someone is a well of bitterness pooling up in your life. When you decide to sweep your problems under the rug for another day, this bitterness will simply cut a hole in the floor under that pretty rug you've designed to cover up your problems. It may not be seen, but dare to the person who steps on the rug. And, at the end of the day, it will simply swallow the rug and consume everything around it.
Friend, you are the floor and your life is the rug. Take care of the junk under your rug, so the floor will be able to shine.
Labels:
Character,
Forgiveness
Friday, December 24, 2010
He Has Come
"See, I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, who you desire, will come," says the LORD Almighty. But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? For he will be like a refiner's fire or a launderer's soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness, and the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be acceptable to the LORD, as in days gone by, as in former years. Malachi 3:1-4
God sent His Son Jesus to die for our sins, so we could not only have relationship with Him, but our value to eternity would be restored. This Christmas, let's celebrate His gift by giving Him our ________.
Merry Christmas
God sent His Son Jesus to die for our sins, so we could not only have relationship with Him, but our value to eternity would be restored. This Christmas, let's celebrate His gift by giving Him our ________.
Merry Christmas
Labels:
Thankfulness
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Replacing Emptiness
He must become greater; I must become less. John 3:30
Do we believe the reward found in Jesus is worth the risk of following Him? It seems that everything we do is to guarantee our own comfort in this life. Our own comfort in the house we live in, the car we drive and the retirement plan we invest in for the future. And unfortunately, our own comfort in the church. But Jesus has called us to something more. Something greater than our own comfort. Something bigger than our own self-worship, self-gratification, and self-envy. He has called us to be His light to a lost world to bring glory to the God of heaven. And following His call demands less self and more of Him.
Scripture teaches that He has come to give us life, and give it to the fullest. This isn't an empty promise to those willing to follow, yet so many believers live in emptiness rather than abundance. Why? Isn't that the exact opposite result of what we want, the reason why we've accepted Him as Savior and Lord, and what He has promised to those who come to Him in faith? So why are we left so empty? Because Jesus called anyone who wishes to be His disciple to deny ourselves, pick up our cross and follow Him. Not sit on our comfortable couches and stockpile the luxuries of this world. There is much work to do friend, and I promise you if you do it, the fullness of Him will not leave you empty any longer.
Do we believe the reward found in Jesus is worth the risk of following Him? It seems that everything we do is to guarantee our own comfort in this life. Our own comfort in the house we live in, the car we drive and the retirement plan we invest in for the future. And unfortunately, our own comfort in the church. But Jesus has called us to something more. Something greater than our own comfort. Something bigger than our own self-worship, self-gratification, and self-envy. He has called us to be His light to a lost world to bring glory to the God of heaven. And following His call demands less self and more of Him.
Scripture teaches that He has come to give us life, and give it to the fullest. This isn't an empty promise to those willing to follow, yet so many believers live in emptiness rather than abundance. Why? Isn't that the exact opposite result of what we want, the reason why we've accepted Him as Savior and Lord, and what He has promised to those who come to Him in faith? So why are we left so empty? Because Jesus called anyone who wishes to be His disciple to deny ourselves, pick up our cross and follow Him. Not sit on our comfortable couches and stockpile the luxuries of this world. There is much work to do friend, and I promise you if you do it, the fullness of Him will not leave you empty any longer.
Labels:
God
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
The Direction of Your Thoughts
Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever if commendable - if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise - dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8
God has given you free will, including the ability to influence the direction and the tone of your thoughts. The quality of your attitude will help determine the quality of your life, so you must guard your thoughts accordingly. So the next time you find yourself dwelling upon the negative aspects of your life, refocus your attention on things positive. And, the next time you're tempted to waste valuable time gossiping or complaining, resist those temptations with all your might. And remember: You'll never whine your way to the top...so don't waste your breath.
Bible in a Year
Micah 6-7
Revelation 14
God has given you free will, including the ability to influence the direction and the tone of your thoughts. The quality of your attitude will help determine the quality of your life, so you must guard your thoughts accordingly. So the next time you find yourself dwelling upon the negative aspects of your life, refocus your attention on things positive. And, the next time you're tempted to waste valuable time gossiping or complaining, resist those temptations with all your might. And remember: You'll never whine your way to the top...so don't waste your breath.
Bible in a Year
Micah 6-7
Revelation 14
Monday, December 20, 2010
Limitless Power, Limitless Love
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the glorious riches of His inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working of His vast strength. Ephesians 1:18:19
Because God's power is limitless, it is far beyond the comprehension of mortal minds. Yet even though we cannot fully understand the awesome power of God, we can praise it. When we worship God with faith and assurance, when we place Him at the absolute center of our lives, we invite His love into our hearts. In turn, we grow to love Him more deeply as we sense His love for us. St. Augustine wrote, "I love you, Lord, no doubtingly, but with absolute certainty. Your Word beat upon my heart until I fell in love with you, and now the universe and everything in it tells me to love you."
Let us pray that we, too, will turn our hearts to the Creator, knowing with certainty that His heart has ample room for each of us, and that we, in turn, must make room in our hearts for Him.
Our God is in control of His world and your world. Rely upon Him.
Bible in a Year
Micah 1-3
Revelation 12
Because God's power is limitless, it is far beyond the comprehension of mortal minds. Yet even though we cannot fully understand the awesome power of God, we can praise it. When we worship God with faith and assurance, when we place Him at the absolute center of our lives, we invite His love into our hearts. In turn, we grow to love Him more deeply as we sense His love for us. St. Augustine wrote, "I love you, Lord, no doubtingly, but with absolute certainty. Your Word beat upon my heart until I fell in love with you, and now the universe and everything in it tells me to love you."
Let us pray that we, too, will turn our hearts to the Creator, knowing with certainty that His heart has ample room for each of us, and that we, in turn, must make room in our hearts for Him.
Our God is in control of His world and your world. Rely upon Him.
Bible in a Year
Micah 1-3
Revelation 12
Labels:
God
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Forgiveness at Home
Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32
Sometimes it's easy to become angry with the people we love most, and sometimes it's hard to forgive them. After all, we know that our family will still love us no matter how angry we become. But while it's easy to become angry at home, it's usually wrong.
The next time you're tempted to lose your temper or to remain angry at a close family member, ask God to help you find the wisdom to forgive. And while you're at it, do your best to calm down sooner rather than later because peace is always beautiful, especially when it's peace at your house.
When you lose your temper...you lose.
Sometimes it's easy to become angry with the people we love most, and sometimes it's hard to forgive them. After all, we know that our family will still love us no matter how angry we become. But while it's easy to become angry at home, it's usually wrong.
The next time you're tempted to lose your temper or to remain angry at a close family member, ask God to help you find the wisdom to forgive. And while you're at it, do your best to calm down sooner rather than later because peace is always beautiful, especially when it's peace at your house.
When you lose your temper...you lose.
Labels:
Forgiveness,
Growth,
Others
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Faith versus Reason
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength. Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
The first battle between faith and human reason took place in the garden of Eden. Spurred on by the lies of the serpent, Eve began to look at her situation from a purely logical perspective and decided she was being cheated by God out of something good. Her faith faltered as "reasonable" thoughts of self-interest filled her mind.
I am not saying that the way of faith is never logical, but by operating only on the basis of reason, a conflict with the Lord is inevitable. The reason is that His instructions and actions don't always appear reasonable from a human perspective. Although Isaiah 55:8-9 describes God's thoughts and ways as higher than man's, many people judge divine ideas to be lower than human intelligence.
Paul emphasizes this when he points out that God's choices are illogical by the world's standards. His message of salvation seems foolish, and His messengers appear weak and unimpressive. In an age that thrives on recognition, admiration, and importance, a person who believes the Bible is considered a weakling in need of a religious crutch to cope with life. While this description is given in derision, it's actually quite accurate. Recognizing their helplessness, believers lean on Christ so He can raise them to stand with Him in righteousness.
That day in Eden, sin and self-importance entered the human heart. But all the worldly wisdom that fuels our pride is nullified by God. He is looking not for great and impressive people but for weak, humble servants who can boast only in Christ. The Savior alone is their strength and wisdom.
The first battle between faith and human reason took place in the garden of Eden. Spurred on by the lies of the serpent, Eve began to look at her situation from a purely logical perspective and decided she was being cheated by God out of something good. Her faith faltered as "reasonable" thoughts of self-interest filled her mind.
I am not saying that the way of faith is never logical, but by operating only on the basis of reason, a conflict with the Lord is inevitable. The reason is that His instructions and actions don't always appear reasonable from a human perspective. Although Isaiah 55:8-9 describes God's thoughts and ways as higher than man's, many people judge divine ideas to be lower than human intelligence.
Paul emphasizes this when he points out that God's choices are illogical by the world's standards. His message of salvation seems foolish, and His messengers appear weak and unimpressive. In an age that thrives on recognition, admiration, and importance, a person who believes the Bible is considered a weakling in need of a religious crutch to cope with life. While this description is given in derision, it's actually quite accurate. Recognizing their helplessness, believers lean on Christ so He can raise them to stand with Him in righteousness.
That day in Eden, sin and self-importance entered the human heart. But all the worldly wisdom that fuels our pride is nullified by God. He is looking not for great and impressive people but for weak, humble servants who can boast only in Christ. The Savior alone is their strength and wisdom.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Are You Willing?
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Matthew 7:7-8
A few weeks back, I was given the news that I would be laid off come the end of the year. Luckily, I didn't freak out and accepted the news with grace from my boss. It's not that I didn't want to freak out, but because I'm a firm believer that God is in control. Yet I have to admit, this is testing me to the core.
Thankfully, I have gotten much encouragement and support from those around me during this time, and I've gotten a lot of opinions on what my next step should be. Either way, I'm so glad to have people around me that truly care.
But lately, God has asked me a very specific question. He simply asked, "Are you willing?" "Am I willing to do what?" "Willing to completely trust Me." Am I? Am I truly willing? Am I truly willing to put aside what I know in my head to be the logical thing to do, that is to freak out about what is going to happen in this situation. But just then, after thinking about it for a minute, a peace only explainable by God and only understandable by His Spirit, covers me. And I can truly answer the question with honesty and sincerity. "I am willing God." "I am willing." While I don't understand it, I am willing to accept it because He simply offers hope to those who truly seek it, listen to His voice and rest their cares upon Him.
Thank you God for allowing me to walk in peace during this time. I don't know where I am going or what you have for me in the future, but I know it's good.
A few weeks back, I was given the news that I would be laid off come the end of the year. Luckily, I didn't freak out and accepted the news with grace from my boss. It's not that I didn't want to freak out, but because I'm a firm believer that God is in control. Yet I have to admit, this is testing me to the core.
Thankfully, I have gotten much encouragement and support from those around me during this time, and I've gotten a lot of opinions on what my next step should be. Either way, I'm so glad to have people around me that truly care.
But lately, God has asked me a very specific question. He simply asked, "Are you willing?" "Am I willing to do what?" "Willing to completely trust Me." Am I? Am I truly willing? Am I truly willing to put aside what I know in my head to be the logical thing to do, that is to freak out about what is going to happen in this situation. But just then, after thinking about it for a minute, a peace only explainable by God and only understandable by His Spirit, covers me. And I can truly answer the question with honesty and sincerity. "I am willing God." "I am willing." While I don't understand it, I am willing to accept it because He simply offers hope to those who truly seek it, listen to His voice and rest their cares upon Him.
Thank you God for allowing me to walk in peace during this time. I don't know where I am going or what you have for me in the future, but I know it's good.
Labels:
God,
Thankfulness,
Trust
He Renews our Strength
Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength. Isaiah 40:28-29
When we genuinely lift our hearts and prayers to God, He renews our strength. Are you almost too weary to lift your head? Then bow it. Offer your concerns and your fears to your Father in heaven. He is always at your side, offering His love and His strength.
Are you troubled or anxious? Take your anxieties to God in prayer. Are you weak or worried? Delve deeply into God's Holy Word and sense His presence in the quiet moments of the day. Are you spiritually exhausted? Call upon fellow believers to support you, and call upon Christ to renew your spirit and your life. Your Savior will never let you down. To the contrary, He will always lift you up if you ask Him to. So what, dear friend, are you waiting for?
God wants to give you peace, and He wants to renew your spirit. It's up to you to slow down and give Him a chance to do so.
Bible in a Year
Hosea 8-11
Revelation 5
When we genuinely lift our hearts and prayers to God, He renews our strength. Are you almost too weary to lift your head? Then bow it. Offer your concerns and your fears to your Father in heaven. He is always at your side, offering His love and His strength.
Are you troubled or anxious? Take your anxieties to God in prayer. Are you weak or worried? Delve deeply into God's Holy Word and sense His presence in the quiet moments of the day. Are you spiritually exhausted? Call upon fellow believers to support you, and call upon Christ to renew your spirit and your life. Your Savior will never let you down. To the contrary, He will always lift you up if you ask Him to. So what, dear friend, are you waiting for?
God wants to give you peace, and He wants to renew your spirit. It's up to you to slow down and give Him a chance to do so.
Bible in a Year
Hosea 8-11
Revelation 5
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Fast Food Christianity
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:13-14
I was sitting in the drive-thru line at McDonalds the other day and God spoke ever so clearly. He said, if you want to live a deep and fulfilling Christian life, stop feeding on the bits and pieces of Christianity. If you want to be mature and grow in your faith, begin to ingest the deep truths of God's Word and the rich mercies of sitting in His lap. Fast food is for the world who choose not to take the time to do things the hard way. But the hard way, is the true way to God, the road less traveled. There is only a false allusion of growth in our walk when we settle for the crumbs rather than taking the time to work hard at growing in our faith. What will you do today to take the road less traveled?
I was sitting in the drive-thru line at McDonalds the other day and God spoke ever so clearly. He said, if you want to live a deep and fulfilling Christian life, stop feeding on the bits and pieces of Christianity. If you want to be mature and grow in your faith, begin to ingest the deep truths of God's Word and the rich mercies of sitting in His lap. Fast food is for the world who choose not to take the time to do things the hard way. But the hard way, is the true way to God, the road less traveled. There is only a false allusion of growth in our walk when we settle for the crumbs rather than taking the time to work hard at growing in our faith. What will you do today to take the road less traveled?
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Thinking Bigger
Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces. Matthew 7:6
I'm always amazed at what we can learn from God when we are selflessly obedient to doing what He has asked. If you know anything about our church, you know were are focusing on serving others right now during the Christmas season. This is something we have done for the past three years I've been going to ChristWay, but this time is different for me. Maybe it's because I'm totally open to God at this point in my life, and maybe it's just the simple fact that I'm finally being more sensitive to His leading. Whatever the reason, He touched my life today.
Yesterday, I was eating my lunch and saw a couple across the way. They were talking a little bit, looking at their phones, and just enjoying a quiet lunch. There wasn't anything particular about them, but I thought it would be nice to pick up their tab if only I could get to the cashier before they did. After eating about 3/4 of my sandwich and soup, I decided it was time to go make this happen, so I got up, took my check and headed to do the deed. When I handed the cashier my check I leaned over and said, "I'll pick up the tab for the couple over my shoulder." She looked puzzled and after pointing their way, she got their check and gave me the total. At this point the card machine decides not to work, so she took my card to the "other" machine. Now this whole time I'm standing there beginning to shake and thinking this guy is going to walk up behind me wanting to pay for his meal...and you know what happened right? Yes, he walked up just as the lady came back with the receipt. So I signed the receipt, put a tip for both tables, turned around to hand him a "you got served" card and dropped it on the floor. By this time I'm shaking even worse because I had hoped to be done and gone by then, but God has a way of keeping me humble. Anyway, I picked up the card off of the floor, handed it to the guy, said "Merry Christmas", and turned around and walked out of there as fast as I could. Needless to say, I think I was shaking for 20 minutes after the fact.
But what is cool is the end result. This couple wasn't just some random people I picked out in a restaurant. They were God ordained to be in that place at that time. My little bit of generosity is resulting in them talking to their pastor about their church being more generous to their community. Who would have thought that? I thought "You Got Served" was supposed to be about helping people in need. But what God showed me today is, we are supposed to help those who God leads us to help, not just those in need. So today as you help others, be mindful that God desires to open the door to those who need help AND to those who are going to take that help and help others. Let's think bigger than the needy. Let's think about the kingdom.
I'm always amazed at what we can learn from God when we are selflessly obedient to doing what He has asked. If you know anything about our church, you know were are focusing on serving others right now during the Christmas season. This is something we have done for the past three years I've been going to ChristWay, but this time is different for me. Maybe it's because I'm totally open to God at this point in my life, and maybe it's just the simple fact that I'm finally being more sensitive to His leading. Whatever the reason, He touched my life today.
Yesterday, I was eating my lunch and saw a couple across the way. They were talking a little bit, looking at their phones, and just enjoying a quiet lunch. There wasn't anything particular about them, but I thought it would be nice to pick up their tab if only I could get to the cashier before they did. After eating about 3/4 of my sandwich and soup, I decided it was time to go make this happen, so I got up, took my check and headed to do the deed. When I handed the cashier my check I leaned over and said, "I'll pick up the tab for the couple over my shoulder." She looked puzzled and after pointing their way, she got their check and gave me the total. At this point the card machine decides not to work, so she took my card to the "other" machine. Now this whole time I'm standing there beginning to shake and thinking this guy is going to walk up behind me wanting to pay for his meal...and you know what happened right? Yes, he walked up just as the lady came back with the receipt. So I signed the receipt, put a tip for both tables, turned around to hand him a "you got served" card and dropped it on the floor. By this time I'm shaking even worse because I had hoped to be done and gone by then, but God has a way of keeping me humble. Anyway, I picked up the card off of the floor, handed it to the guy, said "Merry Christmas", and turned around and walked out of there as fast as I could. Needless to say, I think I was shaking for 20 minutes after the fact.
But what is cool is the end result. This couple wasn't just some random people I picked out in a restaurant. They were God ordained to be in that place at that time. My little bit of generosity is resulting in them talking to their pastor about their church being more generous to their community. Who would have thought that? I thought "You Got Served" was supposed to be about helping people in need. But what God showed me today is, we are supposed to help those who God leads us to help, not just those in need. So today as you help others, be mindful that God desires to open the door to those who need help AND to those who are going to take that help and help others. Let's think bigger than the needy. Let's think about the kingdom.
A Mindset to Follow
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:5-11
Philippians 2:5-11 describes Christ's example of humility as he emptied himself of his divine rights and privileges and made himself of no reputation. By rights, Jesus could have demanded that every knee bow to his authority. Instead, he suffered and died at the hands of wicked men in order that our response to him would be out of love, no coercion. He was willing to renounce his heavenly citizenship for an earthly one. Now he asks his followers to do just the opposite!
What price are you willing to pay today to follow in his footsteps? Are you willing to be inconvenienced by someone who calls or drops by unannounced with a need for your time and attention? Are you willing to rearrange your priorities in order to serve the needs of someone else? Are you willing to use money you were saving for a personal purchase to meet someone else's need?
Taking the form of a servant may not earn you any applause or fanfare, but it will demonstrate that you are serious about having the mind of Christ. And perhaps you will agree that that's definitely the mind to have!
Philippians 2:5-11 describes Christ's example of humility as he emptied himself of his divine rights and privileges and made himself of no reputation. By rights, Jesus could have demanded that every knee bow to his authority. Instead, he suffered and died at the hands of wicked men in order that our response to him would be out of love, no coercion. He was willing to renounce his heavenly citizenship for an earthly one. Now he asks his followers to do just the opposite!
What price are you willing to pay today to follow in his footsteps? Are you willing to be inconvenienced by someone who calls or drops by unannounced with a need for your time and attention? Are you willing to rearrange your priorities in order to serve the needs of someone else? Are you willing to use money you were saving for a personal purchase to meet someone else's need?
Taking the form of a servant may not earn you any applause or fanfare, but it will demonstrate that you are serious about having the mind of Christ. And perhaps you will agree that that's definitely the mind to have!
Labels:
Character
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Beyond Worry
The one who understands a matter finds success, and the one who trusts in the Lord will be happy. Proverbs 16:20
Because we are imperfect human beings, we worry. Even though we are Christians who have been given the assurance of salvation - even though we are Christians who have received the promise of God's love and protection - we find ourselves fretting over the countless details of everyday life. Jesus understood our concerns when He spoke the reassuring words found in Matthew 6: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life..."
As you consider the promises of Jesus, remember that God still sits in His heaven and you are His beloved child. Then, perhaps, you will worry a little less and trust God a little more, and that's as it should be because God is trustworthy...and you are protected.
Bible in a Year
Daniel 7-8
Jude
Because we are imperfect human beings, we worry. Even though we are Christians who have been given the assurance of salvation - even though we are Christians who have received the promise of God's love and protection - we find ourselves fretting over the countless details of everyday life. Jesus understood our concerns when He spoke the reassuring words found in Matthew 6: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life..."
As you consider the promises of Jesus, remember that God still sits in His heaven and you are His beloved child. Then, perhaps, you will worry a little less and trust God a little more, and that's as it should be because God is trustworthy...and you are protected.
Bible in a Year
Daniel 7-8
Jude
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
The Answer to Adversity
I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; surely I will heal you. - 2 Kings 20:5
From time to time, all of us must endure discouragement and defeat. And, we sometimes experience life-changing personal losses that leave us reeling. When we do, God stands ready to protect us. When we are troubled, we must call upon God, and, in His own time and according to His own plan, He will heal us.
Are you anxious? Take those anxieties to God. Are you troubled? Take your troubles to Him. Does your world seem to be trembling beneath your feet? Seek protection from the One who cannot be moved. The same God who created the universe will protect you if you ask Him...so ask Him.
In dealing with difficult situations, view God as your comfort and your strength. And remember: Tough times can also be times of intense personal growth.
Bible in a Year
Daniel 5-6
3 John 1
From time to time, all of us must endure discouragement and defeat. And, we sometimes experience life-changing personal losses that leave us reeling. When we do, God stands ready to protect us. When we are troubled, we must call upon God, and, in His own time and according to His own plan, He will heal us.
Are you anxious? Take those anxieties to God. Are you troubled? Take your troubles to Him. Does your world seem to be trembling beneath your feet? Seek protection from the One who cannot be moved. The same God who created the universe will protect you if you ask Him...so ask Him.
In dealing with difficult situations, view God as your comfort and your strength. And remember: Tough times can also be times of intense personal growth.
Bible in a Year
Daniel 5-6
3 John 1
Monday, December 6, 2010
So Many Temptations
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so that you are able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13
This world is filled to the brim with temptations. Some of these temptations are small; eating a second scoop of ice cream, for example, is tempting, but not very dangerous. Other temptations, however, are not nearly so harmless. The devil is working 24/7, and he's causing pain and heartache in more ways than ever before. Thankfully, in the battle against Satan, we are never alone. God is always with us, and He gives us the power to resist temptation whenever we ask Him for the strength to do so.
In a letter to believers, Peter offered a stern warning: "Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). As Christians, we must take that warning seriously, and we must behave accordingly.
Sometimes immorality is obvious and sometimes it's not. So beware: the most subtle forms of sin are often the most dangerous.
This world is filled to the brim with temptations. Some of these temptations are small; eating a second scoop of ice cream, for example, is tempting, but not very dangerous. Other temptations, however, are not nearly so harmless. The devil is working 24/7, and he's causing pain and heartache in more ways than ever before. Thankfully, in the battle against Satan, we are never alone. God is always with us, and He gives us the power to resist temptation whenever we ask Him for the strength to do so.
In a letter to believers, Peter offered a stern warning: "Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). As Christians, we must take that warning seriously, and we must behave accordingly.
Sometimes immorality is obvious and sometimes it's not. So beware: the most subtle forms of sin are often the most dangerous.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Pleasing God
But either exile nor homecoming is the main thing. Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, and that's what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions - 2 Cor 5:9 MSG
When God made you, He equipped you with an array of talents and abilities that are you uniquely yours. It's up to you to discover those talents and to use them, but sometimes the world will encourage you to do otherwise. At times, society will attempt to cubbyhole you, to standardize you, and to make you fit into a particular, preformed mold. Sometimes, because you're an imperfect human being, you may become so wrapped up in meeting society's expectations that you fail to focus on God's expectations. To do so is a mistake of major proportions - don't make it.
Who will you try to please today: God or man? Your primary obligation is not to please imperfect men and women. Your obligation is to strive diligently to meet the expectations of an all-knowing and perfect God. Trust Him always. Love Him always. Praise Him always. And seek to please Him. Always.
Bible in a Year
Ezekiel 47-48
1 John 4
When God made you, He equipped you with an array of talents and abilities that are you uniquely yours. It's up to you to discover those talents and to use them, but sometimes the world will encourage you to do otherwise. At times, society will attempt to cubbyhole you, to standardize you, and to make you fit into a particular, preformed mold. Sometimes, because you're an imperfect human being, you may become so wrapped up in meeting society's expectations that you fail to focus on God's expectations. To do so is a mistake of major proportions - don't make it.
Who will you try to please today: God or man? Your primary obligation is not to please imperfect men and women. Your obligation is to strive diligently to meet the expectations of an all-knowing and perfect God. Trust Him always. Love Him always. Praise Him always. And seek to please Him. Always.
Bible in a Year
Ezekiel 47-48
1 John 4
Friday, December 3, 2010
Wisdom in a Donut Shop
My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever - Psalm 23:5-6
Many years ago, this rhyme was posted on the wall of a small donut shop:
As you travel through life brother,
Whatever be your goal,
Keep your eye upon the donut,
And not upon the hole.
These simple words remind us of a profound truth: we should spend more time looking at the things we have, not worrying about the things we don't have.
When you think about it, you've got more blessings than you can count. So make it a habit to thank God for the gifts He's given you, not the gifts you wish He'd given you.
Bible in a Year
Ezekiel 45-46
1 John 3
Many years ago, this rhyme was posted on the wall of a small donut shop:
As you travel through life brother,
Whatever be your goal,
Keep your eye upon the donut,
And not upon the hole.
These simple words remind us of a profound truth: we should spend more time looking at the things we have, not worrying about the things we don't have.
When you think about it, you've got more blessings than you can count. So make it a habit to thank God for the gifts He's given you, not the gifts you wish He'd given you.
Bible in a Year
Ezekiel 45-46
1 John 3
Labels:
Thankfulness
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Treasure Hunter
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also - Luke 12:34
All of mankind is engaged in a colossal, worldwide treasure hunt. Some people seek treasure from earthly sources, treasures such as material wealth or public acclaim; others seek God's treasures by making Him the cornerstone of their lives.
What kind of treasure hunter are you? Are you so caught up in the demands of everyday living that you sometimes allow the search for worldly treasures to become your primary focus? If so, it's time to think long and hard about what you value, and why. All the items on your daily to-do list are not created equal. That's why you must put first things first by placing God in His rightful place: first place. The world's treasures are difficult to find and difficult to keep; God's treasures are ever-present and everlasting. Which treasures, then, will you claim as your own?
Bible in a Year
Ezekiel 42-44
1 John 2
All of mankind is engaged in a colossal, worldwide treasure hunt. Some people seek treasure from earthly sources, treasures such as material wealth or public acclaim; others seek God's treasures by making Him the cornerstone of their lives.
What kind of treasure hunter are you? Are you so caught up in the demands of everyday living that you sometimes allow the search for worldly treasures to become your primary focus? If so, it's time to think long and hard about what you value, and why. All the items on your daily to-do list are not created equal. That's why you must put first things first by placing God in His rightful place: first place. The world's treasures are difficult to find and difficult to keep; God's treasures are ever-present and everlasting. Which treasures, then, will you claim as your own?
Bible in a Year
Ezekiel 42-44
1 John 2
The Voice of God
Be silent before Me - Isaiah 41:1
Sometimes God speaks loudly and clearly. More often, He speaks in a quiet voice - and if you are wise, you will be listening carefully when He does. To do so, you must carve out quiet moments each day to study His Word and sense His direction.
Can you quiet yourself long enough to listen to your conscience? Are you attuned to the subtle guidance of your intuition? Are you willing to pray sincerely and then wait quietly for God's response? Hopefully so. Usually God refrains from sending His messages on stone tablets or city billboards. More often, He communicates in subtler ways. If you sincerely desire to hear His voice, you must listen carefully, and you must do so in the silent corners of your quiet, willing heart.
Prayer is two-way communication with God. Talking to God isn't enough; you should also listen to Him.
Bible in a Year
Ezekiel 40-41
1 John 1
Sometimes God speaks loudly and clearly. More often, He speaks in a quiet voice - and if you are wise, you will be listening carefully when He does. To do so, you must carve out quiet moments each day to study His Word and sense His direction.
Can you quiet yourself long enough to listen to your conscience? Are you attuned to the subtle guidance of your intuition? Are you willing to pray sincerely and then wait quietly for God's response? Hopefully so. Usually God refrains from sending His messages on stone tablets or city billboards. More often, He communicates in subtler ways. If you sincerely desire to hear His voice, you must listen carefully, and you must do so in the silent corners of your quiet, willing heart.
Prayer is two-way communication with God. Talking to God isn't enough; you should also listen to Him.
Bible in a Year
Ezekiel 40-41
1 John 1
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