10-30-2009
Jesus Heals All
We are all born into this world broken, and with a sinful nature. It’s through grace, mercy, and salvation that only Christ offers which enables us to die to self and live a new life in Him. We all experience the ups and downs of life, and at times many feel broken. Just as Christ literally healed the lame, cured the blind, and allowed the mute to speak, he can carry you through the ups and downs of life.
Matthew 15:21-31 says the following:
21Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. 22A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is suffering terribly from demon-possession."
23Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, "Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us."
24He answered, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel."
25The woman came and knelt before him. "Lord, help me!" she said.
26He replied, "It is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to their dogs."
27"Yes, Lord," she said, "but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table."
28Then Jesus answered, "Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted." And her daughter was healed from that very hour.
29Jesus left there and went along the Sea of Galilee. Then he went up on a mountainside and sat down. 30Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he healed them. 31The people were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled made well, the lame walking and the blind seeing. And they praised the God of Israel.”
Allow this story to encourage everyone that Christ can and does heal those that are faithful. He doesn’t care about your background, economic status, your past, gender, and etcetera. We simply need to remain faithful and allow God to be God! I love Philippians 4:13 which says, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” No matter how faithful you have or haven’t been, Jesus is calling you today. Jesus isn’t concerned whether you’ve lived a sin filled life or a sinless life. He’s focused on where your faith stands today. If you’ve been faithful, GREAT, stick with it and keep growing. If you’ve strayed off the path, no problem, hop back on God’s path, as that is the only path to pure joy and freedom. God Bless!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Inner Purity
10-29-2009
Inner Purity
God desires for us to be made pure. Baptism in symbolic of the cleansing of our sins, thus making us pure. When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, the Bible says, out with the old and in with the new, as we are a new creation. If we truly live for Christ we should live a life of purity. That doesn’t mean we are going to be perfect, but what it should mean is we strive for sanctification (to be Christ like), and when we make mistakes we genuinely ask for forgiveness. Everything we do and say should have pure intentions. Jesus desires for us to have inner purity.
Matthew 15:1-20 says the following:
Clean and Unclean
1Then some Pharisees and teachers of the law came to Jesus from Jerusalem and asked, 2"Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They don't wash their hands before they eat!"
3Jesus replied, "And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition? 4For God said, 'Honor your father and mother’ and 'Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.'5But you say that if a man says to his father or mother, 'Whatever help you might otherwise have received from me is a gift devoted to God,' 6he is not to 'honor his father' with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. 7You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: 8" 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 9They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.'"
10Jesus called the crowd to him and said, "Listen and understand. 11What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean,' but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him 'unclean.' "
12Then the disciples came to him and asked, "Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?"
13He replied, "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. 14Leave them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit."
15Peter said, "Explain the parable to us."
16"Are you still so dull?" Jesus asked them. 17"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? 18But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' 19For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 20These are what make a man 'unclean'; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him 'unclean.' "
When our hearts are in the right place, our worship is meaningful, but to simply do religious traditions is meaningless. Showing up to church doesn’t make you a Christian, just like showing up to Burger King doesn’t make me a Burger! It’s about the condition of our heart and our motives. Do we act and think with purity. The devil knows a lot of God and the Bible, but he doesn’t KNOW God. Anyone can memorize scripture and sit at church with Bibles in hand on Sundays. God wants a commitment from us. Check your spiritual growth and purity, and make sure your heart is in the right place. Pray that you will find self assurance in what God thinks of you, and not what man thinks of you. God knows all and sees all, so let’s give him our all!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 15:1-20
2. Check your purity
Inner Purity
God desires for us to be made pure. Baptism in symbolic of the cleansing of our sins, thus making us pure. When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, the Bible says, out with the old and in with the new, as we are a new creation. If we truly live for Christ we should live a life of purity. That doesn’t mean we are going to be perfect, but what it should mean is we strive for sanctification (to be Christ like), and when we make mistakes we genuinely ask for forgiveness. Everything we do and say should have pure intentions. Jesus desires for us to have inner purity.
Matthew 15:1-20 says the following:
Clean and Unclean
1Then some Pharisees and teachers of the law came to Jesus from Jerusalem and asked, 2"Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They don't wash their hands before they eat!"
3Jesus replied, "And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition? 4For God said, 'Honor your father and mother’ and 'Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.'5But you say that if a man says to his father or mother, 'Whatever help you might otherwise have received from me is a gift devoted to God,' 6he is not to 'honor his father' with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. 7You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: 8" 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 9They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.'"
10Jesus called the crowd to him and said, "Listen and understand. 11What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean,' but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him 'unclean.' "
12Then the disciples came to him and asked, "Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?"
13He replied, "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. 14Leave them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit."
15Peter said, "Explain the parable to us."
16"Are you still so dull?" Jesus asked them. 17"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? 18But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' 19For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 20These are what make a man 'unclean'; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him 'unclean.' "
When our hearts are in the right place, our worship is meaningful, but to simply do religious traditions is meaningless. Showing up to church doesn’t make you a Christian, just like showing up to Burger King doesn’t make me a Burger! It’s about the condition of our heart and our motives. Do we act and think with purity. The devil knows a lot of God and the Bible, but he doesn’t KNOW God. Anyone can memorize scripture and sit at church with Bibles in hand on Sundays. God wants a commitment from us. Check your spiritual growth and purity, and make sure your heart is in the right place. Pray that you will find self assurance in what God thinks of you, and not what man thinks of you. God knows all and sees all, so let’s give him our all!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 15:1-20
2. Check your purity
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Meaningless Traditions
10-28-2009
Meaningless Traditions
Though I’m not Methodist, I have worked at Methodist churches while in youth ministry. As with a lot of churches, traditions are practiced regularly. It might be the clothes the minister wears, the number of times the bell rings before or after a service, the types of flowers in the sanctuary, or even the times of worship. Some churches serve communion and some don’t. Amongst the churches that serve communion, some use grape juice while others use wine. There are many traditions practiced throughout the churches of our world, and they can certainly enrich the worship experience, but have little to do with the true significance of worship.
Matthew 15:1-2 says the following:
“1Then some Pharisees and teachers of the law came to Jesus from Jerusalem and asked, 2"Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They don't wash their hands before they eat!"
Jesus was being scrutinized for not following the traditions of the church. The Pharisees and teachers of the law put the same emphasis on their traditions as they did the law. Traditions should help us to understand God’s law, but not become law.
As we grow in our understanding of who Christ is and who he wants us to be, it’s important to refrain from putting your focus on the legalities of traditions. Traditions can be respected, but they should never be viewed as an equal to God’s law. At the end of the day, we are called to do two things above everything: love God and love people. Let’s stay focused on what Christ called us to do, and refrain from spending too much time on the things that really aren’t that important. Make a point to remind yourself and others about the true meaning of Christianity.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 15:1-2
2. Have you allowed certain traditions to overpower God’s greatest commandments of love?
Meaningless Traditions
Though I’m not Methodist, I have worked at Methodist churches while in youth ministry. As with a lot of churches, traditions are practiced regularly. It might be the clothes the minister wears, the number of times the bell rings before or after a service, the types of flowers in the sanctuary, or even the times of worship. Some churches serve communion and some don’t. Amongst the churches that serve communion, some use grape juice while others use wine. There are many traditions practiced throughout the churches of our world, and they can certainly enrich the worship experience, but have little to do with the true significance of worship.
Matthew 15:1-2 says the following:
“1Then some Pharisees and teachers of the law came to Jesus from Jerusalem and asked, 2"Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They don't wash their hands before they eat!"
Jesus was being scrutinized for not following the traditions of the church. The Pharisees and teachers of the law put the same emphasis on their traditions as they did the law. Traditions should help us to understand God’s law, but not become law.
As we grow in our understanding of who Christ is and who he wants us to be, it’s important to refrain from putting your focus on the legalities of traditions. Traditions can be respected, but they should never be viewed as an equal to God’s law. At the end of the day, we are called to do two things above everything: love God and love people. Let’s stay focused on what Christ called us to do, and refrain from spending too much time on the things that really aren’t that important. Make a point to remind yourself and others about the true meaning of Christianity.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 15:1-2
2. Have you allowed certain traditions to overpower God’s greatest commandments of love?
Monday, October 26, 2009
Give/Get Mindset
10-27-2009
Give/Get Mindset
Have you ever been around someone that always wants something out of you? For example, when you see their name on the caller ID, you know they are calling because they want something. As we study the example of Jesus, we see the exact opposite. He serves, gives, and heals. Are you a giver or a taker? It’s not the amount that you give, or what you give that’s important. It’s the fact that you give. Find ways to provide for people. It might be serving, financial gifts, etc. Regardless of how you give, make a point to be one that provides for others versus the type that always takes from everyone. Don’t be the type that always asks for a pay raise; work so hard your superior can’t wait to give you a bonus!
For many of you it may be a mindset where you don’t feel you are getting what you deserve to get. There’s only one way to change that problem, and that’s by changing the way you think. Don’t expect a bonus or a raise. Instead, be grateful for what you have, and do everything in your power to show your gratitude. Don’t see what you can get out of the world; instead see what you can put into the world.
Matthew 14:34-36 says the following:
34When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched him were healed.”
T
hink of all the miracles Jesus performed, yet when push came to shove so many denied ever knowing him. They ran to him when they wanted something, and were done with him when he no longer provided something they needed. These people never understood who Jesus was. People came to Jesus for their physical well being, yet he has the power to give them eternal healing! Let’s change our outlook on life. Live to serve and provide, and you will be blessed abundantly. As long as we live to get, we will never get enough, and we will always be left wanting.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:34-36
2. What’s your give/get mindset?
Give/Get Mindset
Have you ever been around someone that always wants something out of you? For example, when you see their name on the caller ID, you know they are calling because they want something. As we study the example of Jesus, we see the exact opposite. He serves, gives, and heals. Are you a giver or a taker? It’s not the amount that you give, or what you give that’s important. It’s the fact that you give. Find ways to provide for people. It might be serving, financial gifts, etc. Regardless of how you give, make a point to be one that provides for others versus the type that always takes from everyone. Don’t be the type that always asks for a pay raise; work so hard your superior can’t wait to give you a bonus!
For many of you it may be a mindset where you don’t feel you are getting what you deserve to get. There’s only one way to change that problem, and that’s by changing the way you think. Don’t expect a bonus or a raise. Instead, be grateful for what you have, and do everything in your power to show your gratitude. Don’t see what you can get out of the world; instead see what you can put into the world.
Matthew 14:34-36 says the following:
34When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched him were healed.”
T
hink of all the miracles Jesus performed, yet when push came to shove so many denied ever knowing him. They ran to him when they wanted something, and were done with him when he no longer provided something they needed. These people never understood who Jesus was. People came to Jesus for their physical well being, yet he has the power to give them eternal healing! Let’s change our outlook on life. Live to serve and provide, and you will be blessed abundantly. As long as we live to get, we will never get enough, and we will always be left wanting.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:34-36
2. What’s your give/get mindset?
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Jesus Walks On Water
10-26-2009
Jesus Walks On Water
We all have moments in our lives where we lose focus on Jesus, and get wrapped up in self. Very rarely do we have these moments in our lives where things don’t start to turn south in a hurry. The only way to keep from drowning during these moments is by fixing your eyes on Jesus, thus enabling us to handle our issues with the proper perspective. When we lose faith, we are pretty much guaranteeing ourselves a drowning situation just as Peter experienced. Matthew 14:22-32 says the following:
Jesus Walks on the Water
“22Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24but the boat was already a considerable distance[a] from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
29"Come," he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
32And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.”
We’ve all had Peter moments! We step out in this great thing called life, and just when we feel we have things going the way we want them, adversity strikes. Soon fear takes over, and we start to doubt our very existence, we lose faith, and we start to sink. It’s during these sinking moments we begin to lose self confidence and self worth. Everything we do is like walking on egg shells, as doubt and fear dominate your every thought. The best way out of this victim mentality is to focus on what to do and how to do it, and most importantly who you must allow to carry you along the journey. Remember, you are who you are because God made you the way you are. You are where God wants you to be and will be where God wants you to be as long as you focus on your Savior. God will put you where he wants you. Your job is to remain obedient to his word, and to stay focused on his will in your life. Instead of thinking about your inadequacies, focus on the power of God!
We all have tough times in our lives when we lose faith, and we need to do exactly as Peter does by saying, “Lord, save me!” Don’t allow the peaks and valleys of your life to control your outlook, because no matter how fast you feel like your sinking, God is one simple shout away from getting you right back in the boat of life! Life is amazing when you allow Jesus to carry you every day of your life.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:22-32
2. When you have doubts, just send out a shout to Jesus!
Jesus Walks On Water
We all have moments in our lives where we lose focus on Jesus, and get wrapped up in self. Very rarely do we have these moments in our lives where things don’t start to turn south in a hurry. The only way to keep from drowning during these moments is by fixing your eyes on Jesus, thus enabling us to handle our issues with the proper perspective. When we lose faith, we are pretty much guaranteeing ourselves a drowning situation just as Peter experienced. Matthew 14:22-32 says the following:
Jesus Walks on the Water
“22Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24but the boat was already a considerable distance[a] from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
29"Come," he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
32And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.”
We’ve all had Peter moments! We step out in this great thing called life, and just when we feel we have things going the way we want them, adversity strikes. Soon fear takes over, and we start to doubt our very existence, we lose faith, and we start to sink. It’s during these sinking moments we begin to lose self confidence and self worth. Everything we do is like walking on egg shells, as doubt and fear dominate your every thought. The best way out of this victim mentality is to focus on what to do and how to do it, and most importantly who you must allow to carry you along the journey. Remember, you are who you are because God made you the way you are. You are where God wants you to be and will be where God wants you to be as long as you focus on your Savior. God will put you where he wants you. Your job is to remain obedient to his word, and to stay focused on his will in your life. Instead of thinking about your inadequacies, focus on the power of God!
We all have tough times in our lives when we lose faith, and we need to do exactly as Peter does by saying, “Lord, save me!” Don’t allow the peaks and valleys of your life to control your outlook, because no matter how fast you feel like your sinking, God is one simple shout away from getting you right back in the boat of life! Life is amazing when you allow Jesus to carry you every day of your life.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:22-32
2. When you have doubts, just send out a shout to Jesus!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Jesus Feeds Five Thousand
10-23-2009
Jesus Feeds Five Thousand
I had a lunch meeting with an old friend/mentor of mine, Brian Summerall, which I hadn’t seen in a while. This is the man God used to lead me to Christ. He was the head of Young Life in Richardson, Texas at the time, and he had invited me for well over a year to attend a Young Life event. They occurred every Monday night at 7:29, and I always had an excuse as to why I couldn’t go. Young Life is geared for high school aged kids where all are welcome. On any given night they will sing songs, have talent shows, slam dunk competitions, you name it, and for about five to 10 minutes they will speak about Christ. It’s an amazing outreach program that doesn’t feel at all like church, yet delivers amazing messages week after week about life and where Christ fits in to the entire scenario. Needless to say, I went once, and never missed another Young Life again. For those of you that have kids, I want to encourage you to get your kids plugged into their local Young Life club as it changed my life and ultimately led me to accepting Christ as my Lord and Savior.
Matthew 14:13-21 says the following:
13When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. 14When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.
15As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, "This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food."
16Jesus replied, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat."
17"We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered.
18"Bring them here to me," he said. 19And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. 20They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 21The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children.”
Jesus used five loaves of bread and two fish to feed five thousand people. How often do we feel our efforts are insignificant? Do we truly understand how God can multiply our efforts into everlasting and eternal results?
Brian Summerall and Young Life were the platform God used to lead me to my eternal destination. As a result, we have a Christ centered baseball organization (www.dallaspatriots.com), I went into youth ministry, etc. The moral of this story is God uses us in ways we can’t even fathom. After sitting down with Brian, I don’t think he even understood the impact he had in my life. When we feel our contribution in this world is minimal, just remember that Jesus can multiply our efforts and does!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:13-21
2. Stay focused on making an impact, and allow God to multiply your efforts!
Jesus Feeds Five Thousand
I had a lunch meeting with an old friend/mentor of mine, Brian Summerall, which I hadn’t seen in a while. This is the man God used to lead me to Christ. He was the head of Young Life in Richardson, Texas at the time, and he had invited me for well over a year to attend a Young Life event. They occurred every Monday night at 7:29, and I always had an excuse as to why I couldn’t go. Young Life is geared for high school aged kids where all are welcome. On any given night they will sing songs, have talent shows, slam dunk competitions, you name it, and for about five to 10 minutes they will speak about Christ. It’s an amazing outreach program that doesn’t feel at all like church, yet delivers amazing messages week after week about life and where Christ fits in to the entire scenario. Needless to say, I went once, and never missed another Young Life again. For those of you that have kids, I want to encourage you to get your kids plugged into their local Young Life club as it changed my life and ultimately led me to accepting Christ as my Lord and Savior.
Matthew 14:13-21 says the following:
13When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. 14When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.
15As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, "This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food."
16Jesus replied, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat."
17"We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered.
18"Bring them here to me," he said. 19And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. 20They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 21The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children.”
Jesus used five loaves of bread and two fish to feed five thousand people. How often do we feel our efforts are insignificant? Do we truly understand how God can multiply our efforts into everlasting and eternal results?
Brian Summerall and Young Life were the platform God used to lead me to my eternal destination. As a result, we have a Christ centered baseball organization (www.dallaspatriots.com), I went into youth ministry, etc. The moral of this story is God uses us in ways we can’t even fathom. After sitting down with Brian, I don’t think he even understood the impact he had in my life. When we feel our contribution in this world is minimal, just remember that Jesus can multiply our efforts and does!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:13-21
2. Stay focused on making an impact, and allow God to multiply your efforts!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Solitude
10-22-2009
Solitude
I have a good friend of mine that literally disappears for about a month or so during the fall of each year. I’ve learned to stop calling him, as he’s not going to answer, and he certainly isn’t going to return a phone call…until a month later. It’s hilarious; out of the blue he will literally call me back a month or so later as if I never called him. My first response is something along the lines of, “Are you okay? Where have you been? I was worried about you.” His response goes something along the lines of, “Hey man what’s up? Things are great here!” After a back and forth conversation about how he hadn’t called me back for a while, he mentioned to me the importance of vacating and escaping the world. He feels it’s important to get away from everything and reflect on his life. Therefore, I no longer worry about his disappearing act, as I know exactly what he’s doing. About January, I know I will hear from him again. I’ve learned a lot from my buddies approach, and I’ve learned to adopt a version of this in my life. I won’t leave for months, but I do go on vacations with my wife on a frequent basis. This allows me to focus on both my wife, and to reflect on what I’m doing and where I want to go with respect to business, relationships, etc. I’m amazed at the impact a vacation does on my mental, spiritual, and emotional well being. I come home from vacations ready to rock and roll!
As we read Matthew chapter 14:13, we understand Jesus’ perspective on vacating:
“When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place.”
Once Jesus heard that John the Baptist was beheaded by King Herod’s orders, he vacated to reflect on the situation. If Jesus feels it’s important to have alone time shouldn’t we? Of course! We all need time in our lives to turn the cell phones and computers off, and to allow ourselves to seek peace and clarity. In order to have clear thought, peace, and undistracted thoughts, we need to vacate. Life moves so quickly, thus we need to MAKE time to slow down and gather our thoughts. Make time for solitude or you will wish you had.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:13-14
2. Make time for solitude.
Solitude
I have a good friend of mine that literally disappears for about a month or so during the fall of each year. I’ve learned to stop calling him, as he’s not going to answer, and he certainly isn’t going to return a phone call…until a month later. It’s hilarious; out of the blue he will literally call me back a month or so later as if I never called him. My first response is something along the lines of, “Are you okay? Where have you been? I was worried about you.” His response goes something along the lines of, “Hey man what’s up? Things are great here!” After a back and forth conversation about how he hadn’t called me back for a while, he mentioned to me the importance of vacating and escaping the world. He feels it’s important to get away from everything and reflect on his life. Therefore, I no longer worry about his disappearing act, as I know exactly what he’s doing. About January, I know I will hear from him again. I’ve learned a lot from my buddies approach, and I’ve learned to adopt a version of this in my life. I won’t leave for months, but I do go on vacations with my wife on a frequent basis. This allows me to focus on both my wife, and to reflect on what I’m doing and where I want to go with respect to business, relationships, etc. I’m amazed at the impact a vacation does on my mental, spiritual, and emotional well being. I come home from vacations ready to rock and roll!
As we read Matthew chapter 14:13, we understand Jesus’ perspective on vacating:
“When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place.”
Once Jesus heard that John the Baptist was beheaded by King Herod’s orders, he vacated to reflect on the situation. If Jesus feels it’s important to have alone time shouldn’t we? Of course! We all need time in our lives to turn the cell phones and computers off, and to allow ourselves to seek peace and clarity. In order to have clear thought, peace, and undistracted thoughts, we need to vacate. Life moves so quickly, thus we need to MAKE time to slow down and gather our thoughts. Make time for solitude or you will wish you had.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:13-14
2. Make time for solitude.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Right Thing For The Right Reasons
10-21-2009
Right Thing For The Right Reasons
We all make mistakes in life, but one saying I stress is to “do the right thing for the right reasons all the time.” Make sure to keep pride where pride belongs. When mistakes are made, admit it, make things right, and move forward. Moreover, don’t bite off more than you can chew, and when you do, make sure to do the right thing for the right reasons even if it’s going to make you look bad. If only King Herod had done so!
Matthew 14:1-12 says the following:
John the Baptist Beheaded
“ 1At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the reports about Jesus, 2and he said to his attendants, "This is John the Baptist; he has risen from the dead! That is why miraculous powers are at work in him."
3Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, 4for John had been saying to him: "It is not lawful for you to have her." 5Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people, because they considered him a prophet.
6On Herod's birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for them and pleased Herod so much 7that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. 8Prompted by her mother, she said, "Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist." 9The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he ordered that her request be granted 10and had John beheaded in the prison. 11His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who carried it to her mother. 12John's disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus.”
What a crazy thing to do! King Herod didn’t want to kill John the Baptist, but due to the fact that he didn’t want to look bad in front of his guests, he had John the Baptist beheaded. We all have moments in our lives where the opportunity to compromise what’s right for temporary gain meet head on. In the end, always do what’s right, even if it means back tracking and cleaning up a mess you’ve made. It’s never too late to do the right thing. If you’ve done someone wrong, confess, make it right if at all possible, and pray for forgiveness. Do not allow the sinful natures (greed, envy, pride, jealousy, etc.) of the world to allow you to compromise what’s right. Maybe you’re on the other side of this situation. Maybe you are the one that was taken advantage of or cheated. Do as Christ commands us to do and forgive the person. Do not hold a grudge as it only eats at your soul. Whether you’ve done wrong or have been done wrong remember to o the right things for the right reasons all the time!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:1-12
2. What messes in your life do you need to clean up?
Right Thing For The Right Reasons
We all make mistakes in life, but one saying I stress is to “do the right thing for the right reasons all the time.” Make sure to keep pride where pride belongs. When mistakes are made, admit it, make things right, and move forward. Moreover, don’t bite off more than you can chew, and when you do, make sure to do the right thing for the right reasons even if it’s going to make you look bad. If only King Herod had done so!
Matthew 14:1-12 says the following:
John the Baptist Beheaded
“ 1At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the reports about Jesus, 2and he said to his attendants, "This is John the Baptist; he has risen from the dead! That is why miraculous powers are at work in him."
3Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, 4for John had been saying to him: "It is not lawful for you to have her." 5Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people, because they considered him a prophet.
6On Herod's birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for them and pleased Herod so much 7that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. 8Prompted by her mother, she said, "Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist." 9The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he ordered that her request be granted 10and had John beheaded in the prison. 11His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who carried it to her mother. 12John's disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus.”
What a crazy thing to do! King Herod didn’t want to kill John the Baptist, but due to the fact that he didn’t want to look bad in front of his guests, he had John the Baptist beheaded. We all have moments in our lives where the opportunity to compromise what’s right for temporary gain meet head on. In the end, always do what’s right, even if it means back tracking and cleaning up a mess you’ve made. It’s never too late to do the right thing. If you’ve done someone wrong, confess, make it right if at all possible, and pray for forgiveness. Do not allow the sinful natures (greed, envy, pride, jealousy, etc.) of the world to allow you to compromise what’s right. Maybe you’re on the other side of this situation. Maybe you are the one that was taken advantage of or cheated. Do as Christ commands us to do and forgive the person. Do not hold a grudge as it only eats at your soul. Whether you’ve done wrong or have been done wrong remember to o the right things for the right reasons all the time!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 14:1-12
2. What messes in your life do you need to clean up?
Faith Focus
10-20-2009
Faith Focus
I read a devotional from Wisdom Hunters this week, and I felt I would share it with everyone as part of today’s devotional. The terms “Jesus Freak” and “Bible Beaters” are common characteristics given to those that walk with the Lord daily. Heck, I’ve had friends from my childhood look me up to see what I’ve been up to, and they will ask questions such as, “When did you become some religious?” My response to that question is an entire other devotional in itself. The point we need to grasp from today’s devotional is simple: if you are a follower of Christ people should know it. There should be consistency with your conduct and conversation no matter where you are or whom you’re with. Let’s read the devotional.
Faith Focus… “… love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life…” Deuteronomy 30:20 a
The Christian life is a matter of focus. Do I focus on my fears, my problems and my needs or I do I focus on God? Do I love Him, listen to Him, trust Him and allow Him to consume my life or am I wrapped up in myself? These are two very different perspectives. One takes life, the other gives life. One saps energy, the other gives energy. So how can we listen to God, trust God and make God our life? It does start with love. When we love God our affections are heavenward. “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:1-2). Love means we want to be with Him, understand Him and please Him. Loving God, means our love for others or things pales in comparison to our love for Him. Others may become jealous because of the time and attention you give God. It may be hard for them to understand, but in reality if your love of God is pure, those closest to you will be better off. It’s because the Lord loves you and you love Him that you can’t help but love those around you. “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers” (1 John 3:16). Focus on God also means you listen to Him. Quietness and solitude become a part of who you are, because God’s voice is clear and crisp during stillness and reflection. Other competing noises are snuffed out when you take time to listen. Listen to Him in soft contemplative worship music, listen to Him through meditation on His word, or listen to Him beside a bubbling brook under the canopy of His creation. His voice cares and comforts. He is always searching out to communicate with and calm His children. How well do you listen to the Lord? Does it take a posture of desperation? Do the ears of your soul perk up in the presence of your Holy Creator? How can we not listen to the One who holds the world in his hands and who loves us beyond comprehension? Therefore, listen to Him and do quickly what He says. By faith obedience acts on what it hears. Trust is also a part of your focus on God. He can be trusted because He is trustworthy. Others will let you down, but not God. He is always there to comfort you in your affliction and to convict you in your sin. Trust His flawless character. It is out of this trust that flows peace and love that this life does not offer. “The LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him” (Psalm 32:10). “Is my faith focused on receiving the love of my Heavenly Father?” Do I rest in His peace the security of His love?
Faith Focus
I read a devotional from Wisdom Hunters this week, and I felt I would share it with everyone as part of today’s devotional. The terms “Jesus Freak” and “Bible Beaters” are common characteristics given to those that walk with the Lord daily. Heck, I’ve had friends from my childhood look me up to see what I’ve been up to, and they will ask questions such as, “When did you become some religious?” My response to that question is an entire other devotional in itself. The point we need to grasp from today’s devotional is simple: if you are a follower of Christ people should know it. There should be consistency with your conduct and conversation no matter where you are or whom you’re with. Let’s read the devotional.
Faith Focus… “… love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life…” Deuteronomy 30:20 a
The Christian life is a matter of focus. Do I focus on my fears, my problems and my needs or I do I focus on God? Do I love Him, listen to Him, trust Him and allow Him to consume my life or am I wrapped up in myself? These are two very different perspectives. One takes life, the other gives life. One saps energy, the other gives energy. So how can we listen to God, trust God and make God our life? It does start with love. When we love God our affections are heavenward. “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:1-2). Love means we want to be with Him, understand Him and please Him. Loving God, means our love for others or things pales in comparison to our love for Him. Others may become jealous because of the time and attention you give God. It may be hard for them to understand, but in reality if your love of God is pure, those closest to you will be better off. It’s because the Lord loves you and you love Him that you can’t help but love those around you. “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers” (1 John 3:16). Focus on God also means you listen to Him. Quietness and solitude become a part of who you are, because God’s voice is clear and crisp during stillness and reflection. Other competing noises are snuffed out when you take time to listen. Listen to Him in soft contemplative worship music, listen to Him through meditation on His word, or listen to Him beside a bubbling brook under the canopy of His creation. His voice cares and comforts. He is always searching out to communicate with and calm His children. How well do you listen to the Lord? Does it take a posture of desperation? Do the ears of your soul perk up in the presence of your Holy Creator? How can we not listen to the One who holds the world in his hands and who loves us beyond comprehension? Therefore, listen to Him and do quickly what He says. By faith obedience acts on what it hears. Trust is also a part of your focus on God. He can be trusted because He is trustworthy. Others will let you down, but not God. He is always there to comfort you in your affliction and to convict you in your sin. Trust His flawless character. It is out of this trust that flows peace and love that this life does not offer. “The LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him” (Psalm 32:10). “Is my faith focused on receiving the love of my Heavenly Father?” Do I rest in His peace the security of His love?
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Familiarity Breeds Contempt
10-19-2009
Familiarity Breeds Contempt
The term “familiarity breeds contempt” basically means we put less value on the people or things we are most familiar with. I guess this is why kids never listen to their parents, and in time, why parents never listen to their children. Both parties are too familiar with each other. I’ve coached many baseball players over the years, and many times we will tell a kid the same thing their parents told them, but coming from us they listen. I’ll never forget the first time I saw one of “my kids” on television…playing Major League Baseball! Even though this young man is an All-Star in the Majors, I can’t help but look at him as a teenager. It’s crazy to think he’s all grown up. Just as we face the “familiarity breeds contempt” issues in our lives, Jesus Christ did as well.
Matthew 13:53-58 says the following:
53When Jesus had finished these parables, he moved on from there. 54Coming to his hometown, he began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. "Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?" they asked. 55"Isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother's name Mary, and aren't his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? 56Aren't all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?" 57And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown and in his own house is a prophet without honor."
58And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.”
Here we read that Jesus was rejected in his hometown, therefore, Jesus didn’t perform many miracles. Imagine if the Savior of the world were from your home town, yet no one had faith in him because they knew him and his family too well. Do you listen to the wisdom from people you know well? We should all be intent on seeking truth whether we know the person speaking well or not. Let’s not allow our pride to keep us from listening to those around us or we may fall victim to the “familiarity breeds contempt” diseaseJ.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:53-58
2. Whom should you lend an ear to that you may have pushed to the side?
Familiarity Breeds Contempt
The term “familiarity breeds contempt” basically means we put less value on the people or things we are most familiar with. I guess this is why kids never listen to their parents, and in time, why parents never listen to their children. Both parties are too familiar with each other. I’ve coached many baseball players over the years, and many times we will tell a kid the same thing their parents told them, but coming from us they listen. I’ll never forget the first time I saw one of “my kids” on television…playing Major League Baseball! Even though this young man is an All-Star in the Majors, I can’t help but look at him as a teenager. It’s crazy to think he’s all grown up. Just as we face the “familiarity breeds contempt” issues in our lives, Jesus Christ did as well.
Matthew 13:53-58 says the following:
53When Jesus had finished these parables, he moved on from there. 54Coming to his hometown, he began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. "Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?" they asked. 55"Isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother's name Mary, and aren't his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? 56Aren't all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?" 57And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown and in his own house is a prophet without honor."
58And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.”
Here we read that Jesus was rejected in his hometown, therefore, Jesus didn’t perform many miracles. Imagine if the Savior of the world were from your home town, yet no one had faith in him because they knew him and his family too well. Do you listen to the wisdom from people you know well? We should all be intent on seeking truth whether we know the person speaking well or not. Let’s not allow our pride to keep us from listening to those around us or we may fall victim to the “familiarity breeds contempt” diseaseJ.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:53-58
2. Whom should you lend an ear to that you may have pushed to the side?
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Kingdom Of Heaven
10-16-2009
Kingdom Of Heaven
The Bible is very clear about Heaven and Hell; in that both exist, yet a strange conversation took place that I will never forget involving these to eternal destinations. I was an assistant youth minister at the time when another minister informed me he didn’t believe in Hell. My immediate response was silence, and then absolute shock. I recall asking him something along the lines of, “what Bible are you reading out of?” Needless to say this gentleman lost ALL credibility with me as it pertains to Biblical knowledge and understanding. Though I would love to think everyone goes to Heaven, the Bible is pretty clear there’s only one way to Heaven, faith in Jesus Christ, and not everyone follows down that path. I thank God I’m not the one doing the judging, only the ministering.
Matthew 13 is full of parables describing God’s method at the end of our lives. Matthew 13:33-52 says the following:
33He told them still another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount[a] of flour until it worked all through the dough."
34Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. 35So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: "I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world."[b]
The Parable of the Weeds Explained
36Then he left the crowd and went into the house. His disciples came to him and said, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field."
37He answered, "The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man. 38The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, 39and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels.
40"As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. 41The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. 42They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
44"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
45"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. 46When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.
The Parable of the Net
47"Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. 48When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away. 49This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous 50and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
51"Have you understood all these things?" Jesus asked. "Yes," they replied.
52He said to them, "Therefore every teacher of the law who has been instructed about the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old."
Understanding the magnitude of Heaven is something we can only hope to understand while on earth.
Application:
1. Do you understand the Kingdom of heaven and its significance?
2. Re-read Matthew 13:33-52
Kingdom Of Heaven
The Bible is very clear about Heaven and Hell; in that both exist, yet a strange conversation took place that I will never forget involving these to eternal destinations. I was an assistant youth minister at the time when another minister informed me he didn’t believe in Hell. My immediate response was silence, and then absolute shock. I recall asking him something along the lines of, “what Bible are you reading out of?” Needless to say this gentleman lost ALL credibility with me as it pertains to Biblical knowledge and understanding. Though I would love to think everyone goes to Heaven, the Bible is pretty clear there’s only one way to Heaven, faith in Jesus Christ, and not everyone follows down that path. I thank God I’m not the one doing the judging, only the ministering.
Matthew 13 is full of parables describing God’s method at the end of our lives. Matthew 13:33-52 says the following:
33He told them still another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount[a] of flour until it worked all through the dough."
34Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. 35So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: "I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world."[b]
The Parable of the Weeds Explained
36Then he left the crowd and went into the house. His disciples came to him and said, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field."
37He answered, "The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man. 38The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, 39and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels.
40"As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. 41The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. 42They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
44"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
45"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. 46When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.
The Parable of the Net
47"Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. 48When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away. 49This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous 50and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
51"Have you understood all these things?" Jesus asked. "Yes," they replied.
52He said to them, "Therefore every teacher of the law who has been instructed about the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old."
Understanding the magnitude of Heaven is something we can only hope to understand while on earth.
Application:
1. Do you understand the Kingdom of heaven and its significance?
2. Re-read Matthew 13:33-52
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Footprints In The Sand
10-14-2009
Footprints In The Sand
There are difficult times for all of us in life, and we can either embrace adversity and allow Jesus to carry us through, or we can allow the adversity to overcome us. I was reminded today of an amazing poem written by Mary Stevenson, so I thought I would share. I am sure many of you have read this poem before, but we could all use the reminder that our Lord and Savior is always there to carry us through every situation in our lives!
Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed
that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from
anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,
"You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during
the most trying periods of my life
there have only been one
set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?"
The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints in the sand,
is when I carried you."
Mary Stevenson
Footprints In The Sand
There are difficult times for all of us in life, and we can either embrace adversity and allow Jesus to carry us through, or we can allow the adversity to overcome us. I was reminded today of an amazing poem written by Mary Stevenson, so I thought I would share. I am sure many of you have read this poem before, but we could all use the reminder that our Lord and Savior is always there to carry us through every situation in our lives!
Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed
that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from
anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,
"You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during
the most trying periods of my life
there have only been one
set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?"
The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints in the sand,
is when I carried you."
Mary Stevenson
Monday, October 12, 2009
Mustard Seed
10-13-2009
Parable of the Mustard Seed
The mustard seed was the smallest seed a farmer used, therefore, Jesus uses the parable of the mustard seed to show what can come from something or someone with little beginnings. Never underestimate the power of your actions, as you may or may not see immediate results, but you will in time. There are many people struggling with their faith right now, and my encouragement to you is to read the parable of the mustard seed and understand that many have been where you are. Don’t be intimidated by the Bible or church. Everything that is great came from humble beginnings. Some of the greatest companies in the world came from a simple idea and a little faith. As they continued to build the company, their idea and faith grew, and IN TIME that little faith turned into a dream come true. Our Christian journey can be very similar. We start off on the wrong foot, as we are all born into this world with a sinful nature. We then turn to Jesus for answers and guidance. Eventually we continue to build on our faith until we get to the point where nothing will keep us from our Lord and Savior. Regardless of your faith journey, everything that’s great now was at one point the size of a mustard seed!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:31-32
2. You will have small beginnings, and in time you have will great success!
Parable of the Mustard Seed
The mustard seed was the smallest seed a farmer used, therefore, Jesus uses the parable of the mustard seed to show what can come from something or someone with little beginnings. Never underestimate the power of your actions, as you may or may not see immediate results, but you will in time. There are many people struggling with their faith right now, and my encouragement to you is to read the parable of the mustard seed and understand that many have been where you are. Don’t be intimidated by the Bible or church. Everything that is great came from humble beginnings. Some of the greatest companies in the world came from a simple idea and a little faith. As they continued to build the company, their idea and faith grew, and IN TIME that little faith turned into a dream come true. Our Christian journey can be very similar. We start off on the wrong foot, as we are all born into this world with a sinful nature. We then turn to Jesus for answers and guidance. Eventually we continue to build on our faith until we get to the point where nothing will keep us from our Lord and Savior. Regardless of your faith journey, everything that’s great now was at one point the size of a mustard seed!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:31-32
2. You will have small beginnings, and in time you have will great success!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Parable of the Weeds
10-9-2009
Parable of the Weeds
Parables can be interpreted in different ways, so the focus on each should be one of spiritual growth and not on literal meaning. When I read the parable of the weeds in Matthew 13, I can’t help but think about the wheat being the followers and the weeds being the evil that is prevalent in the world. We can’t rid ourselves of the evil, but Christ followers will rise in due time. When that time comes, those that are obedient and follow the ways of Christ will in fact be “gathered” while those that do evil will be tied into bundles to be burned. Matthew 13:24-30 says:
“24Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. 26When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared.
27"The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?'
28" 'An enemy did this,' he replied. "The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?'
29" 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them. 30Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' "
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:24-30
2. Are you wheat or weeds?
Parable of the Weeds
Parables can be interpreted in different ways, so the focus on each should be one of spiritual growth and not on literal meaning. When I read the parable of the weeds in Matthew 13, I can’t help but think about the wheat being the followers and the weeds being the evil that is prevalent in the world. We can’t rid ourselves of the evil, but Christ followers will rise in due time. When that time comes, those that are obedient and follow the ways of Christ will in fact be “gathered” while those that do evil will be tied into bundles to be burned. Matthew 13:24-30 says:
“24Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. 26When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared.
27"The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?'
28" 'An enemy did this,' he replied. "The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?'
29" 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them. 30Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' "
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:24-30
2. Are you wheat or weeds?
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Roots of Christ
10-7-2009
Roots of Christ
It’s easy to get caught up in the things of this world, and without the proper mindset, the world will consume you. When we allow God to run our lives, and be at the center of every decision we make, the worldly views rest to the side, and we are able to keep things in perspective. Day in and day out I watch Godly men and women fall to their knees as their worldly possessions disappear. It may be a lost job, bankruptcy, or a simply case of living outside of their means. As we dive into the parable of the four souls, ask yourself just how strong your root is in Christ.
Matthew 13:18-23 says:
18"Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 20The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. 22The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. 23But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown."
When our roots are deep, the things of this world lose value. Sometimes we simply need a reminder of what’s truly important and what’s not. As I write this devotional I’m reminded of the joy and peace we have in Christ!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:18-23
2. Let go of the world, and dig deep into your relationship with Christ!
Roots of Christ
It’s easy to get caught up in the things of this world, and without the proper mindset, the world will consume you. When we allow God to run our lives, and be at the center of every decision we make, the worldly views rest to the side, and we are able to keep things in perspective. Day in and day out I watch Godly men and women fall to their knees as their worldly possessions disappear. It may be a lost job, bankruptcy, or a simply case of living outside of their means. As we dive into the parable of the four souls, ask yourself just how strong your root is in Christ.
Matthew 13:18-23 says:
18"Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 20The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. 22The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. 23But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown."
When our roots are deep, the things of this world lose value. Sometimes we simply need a reminder of what’s truly important and what’s not. As I write this devotional I’m reminded of the joy and peace we have in Christ!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:18-23
2. Let go of the world, and dig deep into your relationship with Christ!
Sober Leadership
10-7-2009
Sober Leadership
I’ve referenced devotionals from Wisdom Hunters Resources from time to time, as I love the messages they post, so today I am doing the same. I’m often asked what my thoughts are about alcohol as it pertains to Christian leadership. I had my first sip July 30th, 2005 at my brother’s wedding. I feel it’s extremely important to abide by biblical references to all subject matters, and to make sure you read those biblical references in the context in which they were written. For our young readers, you SHOULD NOT DRINK ALCHOLOL UNTIL THE AGE OF 21. It’s harmful on the body, and has all types of physical repercussions as well as mental, emotional, and spiritual. For those over the age of 21, given certain situations, I personally don’t find a problem with having a drink from time to time. Let’s take a look at a 3rd party daily devotional on this topic. Be blessed!
Sober Leadership… “It is not for kings, O Lemuel not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.” Proverbs 31:4-5
Sober leadership is needed for serious leaders, men and women who seek what’s best for the team without being tempted by temporary inebriation. Alcohol and drugs can cause people in power to pretend one thing and do another. It is during casual circumstances that a leader can find their integrity compromised from conducting a too familiar behavior. Leaders in the church are described in this way, “Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.” (1Timothy 3:8-9). Sober leadership sets the tone for other team members to follow their example. What the leader tolerates in moderation can be taken to the extreme by the less mature. What are your guidelines to protect your decision-making? What behavior do you predetermine before attending a company party or a business trip where your associates expect shady social activities? It is easy to get sucked into a regrettable situation if there are no behavioral boundaries. Perhaps you stay focused on work during the workweek and enjoy rest and relaxation with friends and family on the weekend. Mixing business and pleasure can prove to be an unproductive and destructive combination. Sober leadership sends a message of sincerity and a sense of urgency. It is not void of joy and laughter, but there is an undertone of discipline and seriousness which invites loyalty. Stay sober as a leader and you will reap the rewards of respect and results. Ask others to confront your questionable decisions and actions. Fools flail away in confused thinking while sober minded leaders are clear-headed and humbled by God. “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment…” (Romans 12:3b). Is my leadership sober minded? Am I conscious of Christ’s wisdom?
Sober Leadership
I’ve referenced devotionals from Wisdom Hunters Resources from time to time, as I love the messages they post, so today I am doing the same. I’m often asked what my thoughts are about alcohol as it pertains to Christian leadership. I had my first sip July 30th, 2005 at my brother’s wedding. I feel it’s extremely important to abide by biblical references to all subject matters, and to make sure you read those biblical references in the context in which they were written. For our young readers, you SHOULD NOT DRINK ALCHOLOL UNTIL THE AGE OF 21. It’s harmful on the body, and has all types of physical repercussions as well as mental, emotional, and spiritual. For those over the age of 21, given certain situations, I personally don’t find a problem with having a drink from time to time. Let’s take a look at a 3rd party daily devotional on this topic. Be blessed!
Sober Leadership… “It is not for kings, O Lemuel not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.” Proverbs 31:4-5
Sober leadership is needed for serious leaders, men and women who seek what’s best for the team without being tempted by temporary inebriation. Alcohol and drugs can cause people in power to pretend one thing and do another. It is during casual circumstances that a leader can find their integrity compromised from conducting a too familiar behavior. Leaders in the church are described in this way, “Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.” (1Timothy 3:8-9). Sober leadership sets the tone for other team members to follow their example. What the leader tolerates in moderation can be taken to the extreme by the less mature. What are your guidelines to protect your decision-making? What behavior do you predetermine before attending a company party or a business trip where your associates expect shady social activities? It is easy to get sucked into a regrettable situation if there are no behavioral boundaries. Perhaps you stay focused on work during the workweek and enjoy rest and relaxation with friends and family on the weekend. Mixing business and pleasure can prove to be an unproductive and destructive combination. Sober leadership sends a message of sincerity and a sense of urgency. It is not void of joy and laughter, but there is an undertone of discipline and seriousness which invites loyalty. Stay sober as a leader and you will reap the rewards of respect and results. Ask others to confront your questionable decisions and actions. Fools flail away in confused thinking while sober minded leaders are clear-headed and humbled by God. “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment…” (Romans 12:3b). Is my leadership sober minded? Am I conscious of Christ’s wisdom?
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Same Message Different Outcome
10-6-2009
Same Message Different Outcome
When getting my psychology degree in college we used to look at pictures with the question attached; what do you see? It was very interesting because depending on how you looked at the picture you would see a totally different object. For example, two people would look at the same exact picture yet one person would see a lady while the other person would see a bird. What’s even crazier is it’s just a black and white picture. It’s not 3D or even in color; just a simple picture with two totally different messages.
Jesus spoke in parables so that his followers would hear a different message than those that weren’t following him. He wanted all those thought genuinely sought him to hear the message he was preaching, while those that didn’t have any desire to follow him wouldn’t understand. Although he wanted everyone to hear the good news, there were some that simply didn’t have the purity to follow, therefore the parables were nothing more than stories to this group. Those that were hungry to have a relationship with Christ were able to be fed through the parables, and at the same time Jesus’ enemies couldn’t find a stronghold.
Matthew 13:10-17 says the following:
“10The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?”11He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 12Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. 13This is why I speak to them in parables: "Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. 14In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: " 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. 15For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.'16But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. 17For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.”
What picture do you see? In other words, genuinely look for Christ and seek his council? Those that truly seek Christ will find him. The world looks different in the eyes of a follower of Christ!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:1-17
2. What picture do you see?
Same Message Different Outcome
When getting my psychology degree in college we used to look at pictures with the question attached; what do you see? It was very interesting because depending on how you looked at the picture you would see a totally different object. For example, two people would look at the same exact picture yet one person would see a lady while the other person would see a bird. What’s even crazier is it’s just a black and white picture. It’s not 3D or even in color; just a simple picture with two totally different messages.
Jesus spoke in parables so that his followers would hear a different message than those that weren’t following him. He wanted all those thought genuinely sought him to hear the message he was preaching, while those that didn’t have any desire to follow him wouldn’t understand. Although he wanted everyone to hear the good news, there were some that simply didn’t have the purity to follow, therefore the parables were nothing more than stories to this group. Those that were hungry to have a relationship with Christ were able to be fed through the parables, and at the same time Jesus’ enemies couldn’t find a stronghold.
Matthew 13:10-17 says the following:
“10The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?”11He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 12Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. 13This is why I speak to them in parables: "Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. 14In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: " 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. 15For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.'16But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. 17For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.”
What picture do you see? In other words, genuinely look for Christ and seek his council? Those that truly seek Christ will find him. The world looks different in the eyes of a follower of Christ!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:1-17
2. What picture do you see?
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Planting Seeds
10-5-2009
Planting Seeds
Jesus used many parables, or illustrations, when speaking to the crowds of people that followed him. It’s in Matthew 13:1-9 we read about the parable of the four soils.
“1That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. 2Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. 3Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 7Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. 8Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. 9He who has ears, let him hear."
One of the ways people come to know Christ is through human interaction. We do not have any control over someone’s decision to truly accept Christ or not. God’s Holy Spirit uses our words and actions to lead others to him. We should be intentional about our willingness to plant the seed of Christ in people’s lives. We shouldn’t beat people over the head with a Bible, but there should always be plenty of opportunities to share your testimony with others in a subtle yet affective way. It may take a long time for someone to accept Christ, but that shouldn’t be your concern. Remember, control what you can control, and allow God to be God. Don’t be discouraged if someone close to you is hesitant to turn their life over to Christ. Rather, continue to plant the seed of Christ everywhere you go. Have a loving, subtle, yet bold message to share with all you come in contact with when the time presents itself, and remember the most important message you share won’t require words!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:1-9
2. Do you walk with walk? Do you live out the message of Christ?
3. Are you comfortable sharing the message of Christ with someone? If not, let’s make a point to learn what to say when the situation calls for the message of salvation.
Planting Seeds
Jesus used many parables, or illustrations, when speaking to the crowds of people that followed him. It’s in Matthew 13:1-9 we read about the parable of the four soils.
“1That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. 2Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. 3Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 7Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. 8Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. 9He who has ears, let him hear."
One of the ways people come to know Christ is through human interaction. We do not have any control over someone’s decision to truly accept Christ or not. God’s Holy Spirit uses our words and actions to lead others to him. We should be intentional about our willingness to plant the seed of Christ in people’s lives. We shouldn’t beat people over the head with a Bible, but there should always be plenty of opportunities to share your testimony with others in a subtle yet affective way. It may take a long time for someone to accept Christ, but that shouldn’t be your concern. Remember, control what you can control, and allow God to be God. Don’t be discouraged if someone close to you is hesitant to turn their life over to Christ. Rather, continue to plant the seed of Christ everywhere you go. Have a loving, subtle, yet bold message to share with all you come in contact with when the time presents itself, and remember the most important message you share won’t require words!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 13:1-9
2. Do you walk with walk? Do you live out the message of Christ?
3. Are you comfortable sharing the message of Christ with someone? If not, let’s make a point to learn what to say when the situation calls for the message of salvation.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Brothers and Sisters
10-2-2009
Brothers and Sisters
Yesterday’s devotional consisted of a testimonial of an 11 year old boy accepting Christ as his Lord and Savior. As this young man and I were walking out of the room, I informed him that he was now my brother. He looked at me as if I was crazy, as I’m old enough to be his father. I then explained to him that all boys and men that believe in Christ are “brothers” in Christ. I then explained to him that my wife, Haley, was his sister in Christ. I think he liked that idea more than me being his brother…HA.
Matthew 12:46-50 says, “46While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. 47Someone told him, "Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you."[a]
48He replied to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" 49Pointing to his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. 50For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother."
Our spiritual family consists of all believers in Christ, and as such we should treat them properly. We are called to love all people, and spiritual relationships should be as binding as physical relationships. The 12 year old boy is truly my brother now, and I will do for him as I would for anyone. It’s my responsibility to aid him in his spiritual development just as I would my actual brother.
How do you view your brother’s and sister’s in Christ? Do you see them as family? If not, why? We aren’t all going to get along, and we certainly aren’t all going to agree on everything, but regardless of political views, and etcetera, we are called to be brother’s and sister’s in Christ. Let’s love all as Christ loved all!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 12:46-50
2. Develop strong relationships with your brother’s and sisters.
Brothers and Sisters
Yesterday’s devotional consisted of a testimonial of an 11 year old boy accepting Christ as his Lord and Savior. As this young man and I were walking out of the room, I informed him that he was now my brother. He looked at me as if I was crazy, as I’m old enough to be his father. I then explained to him that all boys and men that believe in Christ are “brothers” in Christ. I then explained to him that my wife, Haley, was his sister in Christ. I think he liked that idea more than me being his brother…HA.
Matthew 12:46-50 says, “46While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. 47Someone told him, "Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you."[a]
48He replied to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" 49Pointing to his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. 50For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother."
Our spiritual family consists of all believers in Christ, and as such we should treat them properly. We are called to love all people, and spiritual relationships should be as binding as physical relationships. The 12 year old boy is truly my brother now, and I will do for him as I would for anyone. It’s my responsibility to aid him in his spiritual development just as I would my actual brother.
How do you view your brother’s and sister’s in Christ? Do you see them as family? If not, why? We aren’t all going to get along, and we certainly aren’t all going to agree on everything, but regardless of political views, and etcetera, we are called to be brother’s and sister’s in Christ. Let’s love all as Christ loved all!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 12:46-50
2. Develop strong relationships with your brother’s and sisters.
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