11-30-2009
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving has become a regular time for my family to vacate to the beach each year. We tried the big dinner at my house ONCE, and then offered to take everyone to a wonderful place where Haley (my wife) doesn’t have to prepare or wash anything. We literally landed just a couple of hours ago from the trip, and I couldn’t help but count our blessings. It’s very easy for all of us to find things to complain about, after all, there’s a lot of “bad” in the world. However, there’s a lot more to be thankful for than to complain about.
The most important thanks we should all recognize and do our best to understand is the love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness our Heavenly Father blesses us with. Very few people truly appreciate what Jesus did for us on the cross, and none of us can comprehend the Savior of the world, but we should all live a life of faith.
Haley and I love to reflect while on vacation. We spend an hour every night together talking about how grateful we are and how much we have to look forward to. We KNOW God has plans for us, and we are so excited to live in His will for our lives. We could talk for hours and hours about the will of God, and how His plan could take us in any number of different directions. Our philosophy is to Let God Be God, because we have absolute faith that He will put us where he wants us. Here’s a little story you may be able to relate to with your faith journey.
Three men were sitting around the breakfast table one morning trying to figure out how they were going to survive the severe drought they were experiencing. All three of them lived on a farm, and relied upon the rain to keep their crops healthy. Finally the three men decide to pray to God for rain. “God, we have absolute faith that you are going to bring rain for our crops. We know you will let it pour TODAY. That’s the kind of faith we have in you, God!”As the three men dressed and prepared for Church, they peeked outside and noticed it hadn’t starting raining yet, so they started to pray again. “God we never doubt you, and we trust with all the Faith in the world you will bring rain today. We are putting our Sunday best on and heading to church, and we know you will have it rain before Church is out.” The three men went to church, and as they were walking out of the service, they couldn’t help but notice there wasn’t even a cloud in the sky, so they decided to pray again, but just when they started to pray, the voice of God thundered down from Heaven saying, “If you fellas have so much faith in me, why didn’t any of you carry and umbrella?”
What kind of faith do you have? Do you pray with a thankful heart? Do you pray that you will walk in God’s will, or do you pray selfish prayers and use God like a wish list? When you pray, do you pray expectantly? When we pray, we should pray with all the faith in the world.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 17:1-13
2. Be thankful and have faith!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
You Can't Put A Stop Watch On God
11-20-2009
You Can’t Put A Stop Watch On God
We should all learn to let God be God. He knows what’s he’s doing, and our job is to control what we can control. We’ve probably all been guilty of trying to time God, and ask God to do things when we want things done, but at the end of the day, God’s the man!
Our job is to follow him every second of our life. We have the choice to do right or do wrong, and we will and do face the consequences for our actions. There will even be times where you do right, yet the wrong result seems to take place. It’s in these moments we must remind ourselves to allow God to be God. We will see the outcome God has for us in HIS time. We must remain focused on service and love towards others, and not simply on the good and bad of life. It’s easy to throw pity parties, but its right to stay focused on the eternal. When things don’t go exactly how you want them to go, remember God knows what He’s doing. As long as your focus is on his will in your life, you can rest assured he has plans to prosper you. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Let’s put the stop watch down, and let God be God. Our goal is to make disciples of all nations regardless of our personal problems. To much is given, much is required, and for those of us that have excepted God’s grace, and have committed our lives to him, we have been given much, therefore, much is required!
Application:
1. Do you try to control God’s timing?
2. Do you allow the pressures and stresses of this world to impact your mission on earth to serve God?
You Can’t Put A Stop Watch On God
We should all learn to let God be God. He knows what’s he’s doing, and our job is to control what we can control. We’ve probably all been guilty of trying to time God, and ask God to do things when we want things done, but at the end of the day, God’s the man!
Our job is to follow him every second of our life. We have the choice to do right or do wrong, and we will and do face the consequences for our actions. There will even be times where you do right, yet the wrong result seems to take place. It’s in these moments we must remind ourselves to allow God to be God. We will see the outcome God has for us in HIS time. We must remain focused on service and love towards others, and not simply on the good and bad of life. It’s easy to throw pity parties, but its right to stay focused on the eternal. When things don’t go exactly how you want them to go, remember God knows what He’s doing. As long as your focus is on his will in your life, you can rest assured he has plans to prosper you. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Let’s put the stop watch down, and let God be God. Our goal is to make disciples of all nations regardless of our personal problems. To much is given, much is required, and for those of us that have excepted God’s grace, and have committed our lives to him, we have been given much, therefore, much is required!
Application:
1. Do you try to control God’s timing?
2. Do you allow the pressures and stresses of this world to impact your mission on earth to serve God?
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Life Is Short
11-19-2009
Life Is Short
Matthew 16:24-28 says the following:
“24Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. 26What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? 27For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done. 28I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom."
For those that truly believe in Christ, they understand what it means to lose their life for Christ so they may find life. In other words, Jesus is the center of everything they do. Before any business decision is made, the first question and last question asked is, “Will Jesus be glorified?” Before any spousal relationship is even thought of, Jesus must be the priority in the relationship. In other words, Christ is the focus in all they do.
For those that don’t truly KNOW Christ, choices are made based on worldly/temporal satisfactions. The things of this world are of the most importance and all their focus is messed up. These are the folks that do everything they can to bring themselves glory.
You fall in one of the two categories above. You are either living for Christ, or you are living for self. The choice is yours, so remember life is short, eternity is forever……you choose what’s most important!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:24-28
2. Have you denied yourself and taken up the cross?
Life Is Short
Matthew 16:24-28 says the following:
“24Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. 26What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? 27For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done. 28I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom."
For those that truly believe in Christ, they understand what it means to lose their life for Christ so they may find life. In other words, Jesus is the center of everything they do. Before any business decision is made, the first question and last question asked is, “Will Jesus be glorified?” Before any spousal relationship is even thought of, Jesus must be the priority in the relationship. In other words, Christ is the focus in all they do.
For those that don’t truly KNOW Christ, choices are made based on worldly/temporal satisfactions. The things of this world are of the most importance and all their focus is messed up. These are the folks that do everything they can to bring themselves glory.
You fall in one of the two categories above. You are either living for Christ, or you are living for self. The choice is yours, so remember life is short, eternity is forever……you choose what’s most important!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:24-28
2. Have you denied yourself and taken up the cross?
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Jesus Predicts His Death For The First Time
11-18-2009
Jesus Predicts His Death For The First Time
Can you imagine being Peter in this situation? First you confess that Jesus is Lord, and then you hear him say he will be killed. As we read the following passage from Matthew 16:21-23, it’s
pretty easy to understand why Peter would say what he does.
“21From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.
22Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. "Never, Lord!" he said. "This shall never happen to you!"
23Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."
Jesus’ words to Peter seem pretty harsh, but Jesus was simply telling Peter he knows what he’s doing. Peter tried to talk Jesus out of this prediction, but Jesus wouldn’t have anything to do with it because Jesus knew the resurrection would be the reason we are saved to this day. Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection are the fundamental truths that Christians understand and believe.
It’s hard to understand how people don’t believe in Jesus as Lord when documented evidence shows he predicted his death and resurrection. If someone told you they were going to be crucified, die, and then rise again, and you witnessed all of this happen, how in the world could you not believe!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:21-23
2. Do you understand the prophecy that took place?
Jesus Predicts His Death For The First Time
Can you imagine being Peter in this situation? First you confess that Jesus is Lord, and then you hear him say he will be killed. As we read the following passage from Matthew 16:21-23, it’s
pretty easy to understand why Peter would say what he does.
“21From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.
22Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. "Never, Lord!" he said. "This shall never happen to you!"
23Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."
Jesus’ words to Peter seem pretty harsh, but Jesus was simply telling Peter he knows what he’s doing. Peter tried to talk Jesus out of this prediction, but Jesus wouldn’t have anything to do with it because Jesus knew the resurrection would be the reason we are saved to this day. Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection are the fundamental truths that Christians understand and believe.
It’s hard to understand how people don’t believe in Jesus as Lord when documented evidence shows he predicted his death and resurrection. If someone told you they were going to be crucified, die, and then rise again, and you witnessed all of this happen, how in the world could you not believe!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:21-23
2. Do you understand the prophecy that took place?
Monday, November 16, 2009
Peter Says Jesus Is Lord
11-17-2009
Peter says Jesus is the Lord
Matthew 16:13-20 says the following:
“13When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?"
14They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets."
15"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?"
16Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
17Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven. 18And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will bebound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." 20Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.”
This section of Matthew is loaded with talking points. Peter’s confession to Jesus, Jesus’ calling to Peter, and the often debated subject matter in verse 19 where Jesus gives Peter the keys of the kingdom are all topics we could spend hours researching. For today’s lesson, I couldn’t help but notice the last sentence which states, “Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.”
Have you ever had such great news you wanted to tell everyone? Imagine seeing Jesus Christ face to face, and then being told you can’t tell anyone! When first reading this, I couldn’t help but ask why not? One of the greatest characteristics is patience, and Jesus knew the disciples weren’t prepared to speak of Jesus as the Christ until they fully understood who he was and why he was with them. To relate this to our world, it’s like getting a new job, and not understanding how to do the job. If you aren’t trained on what to do and what your job entails, you are going to do a lousy job. Let’s say it’s a sales position. You might be so anxious to get the first sale underway so you can hit your mark and put food on the table, but if you rush to sell before you know your product, chances are you may misrepresent the company and/or the product, thus causing a potential problem.
Jesus knew the time would come to spread the word the King has come, but not yet. Imagine if our decision making process was so refined we knew exactly what to do and when to do it? The great news is Christ can and does bless us with clarity when we call on him. Just as Peter had the clarity to confess Christ as Lord, we too can have the clarity to do what God calls us to do if we will simply seek his will in our lives.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:13-20
2. Study the dialogue between Jesus and Peter
Peter says Jesus is the Lord
Matthew 16:13-20 says the following:
“13When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?"
14They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets."
15"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?"
16Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
17Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven. 18And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will bebound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." 20Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.”
This section of Matthew is loaded with talking points. Peter’s confession to Jesus, Jesus’ calling to Peter, and the often debated subject matter in verse 19 where Jesus gives Peter the keys of the kingdom are all topics we could spend hours researching. For today’s lesson, I couldn’t help but notice the last sentence which states, “Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.”
Have you ever had such great news you wanted to tell everyone? Imagine seeing Jesus Christ face to face, and then being told you can’t tell anyone! When first reading this, I couldn’t help but ask why not? One of the greatest characteristics is patience, and Jesus knew the disciples weren’t prepared to speak of Jesus as the Christ until they fully understood who he was and why he was with them. To relate this to our world, it’s like getting a new job, and not understanding how to do the job. If you aren’t trained on what to do and what your job entails, you are going to do a lousy job. Let’s say it’s a sales position. You might be so anxious to get the first sale underway so you can hit your mark and put food on the table, but if you rush to sell before you know your product, chances are you may misrepresent the company and/or the product, thus causing a potential problem.
Jesus knew the time would come to spread the word the King has come, but not yet. Imagine if our decision making process was so refined we knew exactly what to do and when to do it? The great news is Christ can and does bless us with clarity when we call on him. Just as Peter had the clarity to confess Christ as Lord, we too can have the clarity to do what God calls us to do if we will simply seek his will in our lives.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:13-20
2. Study the dialogue between Jesus and Peter
Sunday, November 15, 2009
TOB
11-16-2009
TOB
It’s easy to find fault in others, especially when it takes the blame away from the individual that actually made the mistake or was in the wrong. We have an excuse filled society that I like to call TOB. My wife and I joke around anytime someone wants to transfer blame from themselves to someone else. We call this TOB for transfer of blame.
TOB occurs with kids on a regular basis, yet where do you think they learn it? Why do we have such a difficult time facing the music? If you make a mistake, admit it, make it right, and move forward. Don’t look for others to blame. At the end of the day, you are the decision maker for what you do and don’t do, say and don’t say. If you fail to do something that needs to be done, avoid transferring the blame. We ought to look for reasons as to why it was our fault before we look for reasons why it wasn’t. We are teaching our kids the evil lessons of TOB.
While sitting in church this morning at Preston Trails community church in Frisco, Texas, Senior Pastor Jim Johnson preached a great sermon about Surviving Death. In the sermon, he quoted another minister whose twenty four year old son had been killed. To summarize, someone approached the grieving minister and said, “It was God’s will that your son died.” The minister, enraged, said, “No it was not.” The point the minister was making is God hurts just like we do. Death is the enemy as it steals everything from us. God’s heart brakes when death occurs. It’s not his will that we die, it’s our own doing. We shouldn’t cast off bad things as if God willed it to happen. Instead, we should understand we will have consequences for our actions. If we don’t care for ourselves, we will probably have a shorter life span. If we drive and text message at the same time, there’s a good chance we are going to get in a wreck, which could possibly cost someone a life. It’s time we face the music and understand we are being held accountable for our actions. Therefore, don’t blame God, people, or anything else for misfortunes. Instead, find a way to fix the problem, and understand God is for us, not against us. Can God heal anything? YES! He can do whatever he wants, but we still pay the price for poor decisions, so let’s make good decisions.
I truly believe we all know right from wrong, but very few people have the discipline to do the right thing on a consistent basis. When we live a life the right way, we may still have misfortunes, but whatever we do, let’s face those misfortunes head on. Let’s refrain from looking for someone to blame. Instead, show love to others, and focus on being all you can be regardless of the situation.
Application:
1. Read John 11:1-44
2. Do you wear the TOB title?
TOB
It’s easy to find fault in others, especially when it takes the blame away from the individual that actually made the mistake or was in the wrong. We have an excuse filled society that I like to call TOB. My wife and I joke around anytime someone wants to transfer blame from themselves to someone else. We call this TOB for transfer of blame.
TOB occurs with kids on a regular basis, yet where do you think they learn it? Why do we have such a difficult time facing the music? If you make a mistake, admit it, make it right, and move forward. Don’t look for others to blame. At the end of the day, you are the decision maker for what you do and don’t do, say and don’t say. If you fail to do something that needs to be done, avoid transferring the blame. We ought to look for reasons as to why it was our fault before we look for reasons why it wasn’t. We are teaching our kids the evil lessons of TOB.
While sitting in church this morning at Preston Trails community church in Frisco, Texas, Senior Pastor Jim Johnson preached a great sermon about Surviving Death. In the sermon, he quoted another minister whose twenty four year old son had been killed. To summarize, someone approached the grieving minister and said, “It was God’s will that your son died.” The minister, enraged, said, “No it was not.” The point the minister was making is God hurts just like we do. Death is the enemy as it steals everything from us. God’s heart brakes when death occurs. It’s not his will that we die, it’s our own doing. We shouldn’t cast off bad things as if God willed it to happen. Instead, we should understand we will have consequences for our actions. If we don’t care for ourselves, we will probably have a shorter life span. If we drive and text message at the same time, there’s a good chance we are going to get in a wreck, which could possibly cost someone a life. It’s time we face the music and understand we are being held accountable for our actions. Therefore, don’t blame God, people, or anything else for misfortunes. Instead, find a way to fix the problem, and understand God is for us, not against us. Can God heal anything? YES! He can do whatever he wants, but we still pay the price for poor decisions, so let’s make good decisions.
I truly believe we all know right from wrong, but very few people have the discipline to do the right thing on a consistent basis. When we live a life the right way, we may still have misfortunes, but whatever we do, let’s face those misfortunes head on. Let’s refrain from looking for someone to blame. Instead, show love to others, and focus on being all you can be regardless of the situation.
Application:
1. Read John 11:1-44
2. Do you wear the TOB title?
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Just A Little
11-13-2009
Just A Little
Just a little of anything can create a whole lot of bad. One wrong ingredient and the entire batch of cookies can be ruined. I knew an individual that found a piece of toe nail in their burrito. It was just a small piece of nail, but I can assure you, he didn’t eat the rest of the burrito. I coach youth baseball teams, and one bad parent, can ruin the experience for the rest of the families. Again, just a little can cause disastrous results.
Matthew 16:5-12 says the following:
“5When they went across the lake, the disciples forgot to take bread. 6"Be careful," Jesus said to them. "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."
7They discussed this among themselves and said, "It is because we didn't bring any bread."
8Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked, "You of little faith, why are you talking among yourselves about having no bread? 9Do you still not understand? Don't you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? 10Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? 11How is it you don't understand that I was not talking to you about bread? But be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees." 12Then they understood that he was not telling them to guard against the yeast used in bread, but against the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”
There are many false teachers in today’s world. It might be someone that uses manipulation to get their way, or someone that uses the art of persuasion as a means to an end. As we speak, we must make sure the words we say are used to glorify God, and serve others. Let’s not be overcome with selfish motives like the Pharisees and Sadducees. Remember, you can say 99.99% truth when you speak, but that one little .01% could cause ruin to you and to others. Avoid exaggeration. Refuse to leave out things of importance that need to be said. Speak and teach truth at all times and God will bless your endeavors!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:5-12
2. Do you speak truth at all times?
Just A Little
Just a little of anything can create a whole lot of bad. One wrong ingredient and the entire batch of cookies can be ruined. I knew an individual that found a piece of toe nail in their burrito. It was just a small piece of nail, but I can assure you, he didn’t eat the rest of the burrito. I coach youth baseball teams, and one bad parent, can ruin the experience for the rest of the families. Again, just a little can cause disastrous results.
Matthew 16:5-12 says the following:
“5When they went across the lake, the disciples forgot to take bread. 6"Be careful," Jesus said to them. "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."
7They discussed this among themselves and said, "It is because we didn't bring any bread."
8Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked, "You of little faith, why are you talking among yourselves about having no bread? 9Do you still not understand? Don't you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? 10Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? 11How is it you don't understand that I was not talking to you about bread? But be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees." 12Then they understood that he was not telling them to guard against the yeast used in bread, but against the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”
There are many false teachers in today’s world. It might be someone that uses manipulation to get their way, or someone that uses the art of persuasion as a means to an end. As we speak, we must make sure the words we say are used to glorify God, and serve others. Let’s not be overcome with selfish motives like the Pharisees and Sadducees. Remember, you can say 99.99% truth when you speak, but that one little .01% could cause ruin to you and to others. Avoid exaggeration. Refuse to leave out things of importance that need to be said. Speak and teach truth at all times and God will bless your endeavors!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:5-12
2. Do you speak truth at all times?
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Looking For A Sign
11-12-2009
Looking For A Sign
Matthew 16:1-4 says the following:
1The Pharisees and Sadducees came to Jesus and tested him by asking him to show them a sign from heaven.
2He replied, "When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' 3and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. 4A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." Jesus then left them and went away.”
If there’s one thing to learn from this passage it’s don’t test God! The Pharisees and Saducees weren’t going to believe Jesus was the Messiah even if he had performed the miracles they were asking of him. They wanted to see a sign from heaven proving Jesus was who he said he was. They attributed all of the miracles Jesus had done as some sort of magic, thus they were out to try to prove he wasn’t the real deal. John 20:29 says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” If you truly want to see and witness the miracles of God, simply have faith. Pray expectantly, and never doubt the power of God. He can do all for all if you simply have faith!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:1-4
2. How strong is your faith? Can you believe in what you cannot see?
Looking For A Sign
Matthew 16:1-4 says the following:
1The Pharisees and Sadducees came to Jesus and tested him by asking him to show them a sign from heaven.
2He replied, "When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' 3and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. 4A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." Jesus then left them and went away.”
If there’s one thing to learn from this passage it’s don’t test God! The Pharisees and Saducees weren’t going to believe Jesus was the Messiah even if he had performed the miracles they were asking of him. They wanted to see a sign from heaven proving Jesus was who he said he was. They attributed all of the miracles Jesus had done as some sort of magic, thus they were out to try to prove he wasn’t the real deal. John 20:29 says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” If you truly want to see and witness the miracles of God, simply have faith. Pray expectantly, and never doubt the power of God. He can do all for all if you simply have faith!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 16:1-4
2. How strong is your faith? Can you believe in what you cannot see?
Monday, November 9, 2009
Let God Be God!
11-10-2009
Let God Be God
We often have times in our lives where we put limitations on God’s power. In other words, we find ourselves in situations where we may not see an end, yet most often, these are the times where God reveals himself!
As we continue our study on the book of Matthew we read the following in chapter 15:32-39:
32Jesus called his disciples to him and said, "I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way."
33His disciples answered, "Where could we get enough bread in this remote place to feed such a crowd?"
34"How many loaves do you have?" Jesus asked. "Seven," they replied, "and a few small fish."
35He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. 36Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people. 37They all ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 38The number of those who ate was four thousand, besides women and children. 39After Jesus had sent the crowd away, he got into the boat and went to the vicinity of Magadan.”
When life seems to hit you upside the head, and you want to call mercy, just remember, God cares and is there to bring you out of any and all situations when you truly trust in him. In order for God to be God, we must keep all human emotions in check, especially our pride. There’s no use in being prideful, as it often causes the downfall of many. Embrace humility and understand God is the sole source of everything!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 15
2. Do you forget the power of God? What do you allow to stand in the way of his power?
Let God Be God
We often have times in our lives where we put limitations on God’s power. In other words, we find ourselves in situations where we may not see an end, yet most often, these are the times where God reveals himself!
As we continue our study on the book of Matthew we read the following in chapter 15:32-39:
32Jesus called his disciples to him and said, "I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way."
33His disciples answered, "Where could we get enough bread in this remote place to feed such a crowd?"
34"How many loaves do you have?" Jesus asked. "Seven," they replied, "and a few small fish."
35He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. 36Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people. 37They all ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 38The number of those who ate was four thousand, besides women and children. 39After Jesus had sent the crowd away, he got into the boat and went to the vicinity of Magadan.”
When life seems to hit you upside the head, and you want to call mercy, just remember, God cares and is there to bring you out of any and all situations when you truly trust in him. In order for God to be God, we must keep all human emotions in check, especially our pride. There’s no use in being prideful, as it often causes the downfall of many. Embrace humility and understand God is the sole source of everything!
Application:
1. Read Matthew 15
2. Do you forget the power of God? What do you allow to stand in the way of his power?
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Practice Creates Desire
11-9-2009
Practice Creates Desire
The past week or so has been nothing short of busy. We purchased a new home, moved out of our old home, went to Mexico with our staff of the Dallas Patriots for our annual trip, and then returned to continue our move. Needless to say, I didn’t have any spare time, thus many things were sacrificed over the course of the week. This morning my wife and I had the fortunate opportunity to get back to our normal routine which begins each day with a trip to the gym for a good workout. This was the first time in years that I had taken a week off from working out, and I don’t plan on ever doing so again! This was the hardest workout I’ve ever had. I just couldn’t get motivated to go to the gym, and once I began my workout, I was lethargic. I wasn’t able to perform at my normal ability, and simply wanted to stop all together. It was at this point that I realized practice creates desire. When I am on a good workout routine, I desire to workout regularly, and I can’t stand going a day without a workout. My workouts are progressively better, and I feel great. After this week of not working out, I was able to understand why people don’t workout on a regular basis; they don’t have the desire because they don’t make it a part of their routine. They have the same feeling I had today, and simply STOP and don’t return to the gym. They don’t practice enough to instill a desire to continue.
While pressing through the workout, I paralleled this same concept to spiritual and personal development. When we don’t practice regularly, we become complacent, and eventually we stop reading the Bible and going to church all together. We need to understand the importance of overcoming the “I can’t do this anymore” the “I don’t want to do this anymore”, and the “I don’t see the benefit of doing this, I’m not getting anywhere” attitude. Once you create a habit of doing what you need to do, you will do what needs to be done, so you can be and have all you want in life! Remember, the hardest part is often the simple act of getting started.
Application:
1. Read the Bible daily, even if it’s a small verse or two.
2. Understand what needs to be done so you can be all God desires for you to be.
3. The hardest part with just about anything is getting started!
Practice Creates Desire
The past week or so has been nothing short of busy. We purchased a new home, moved out of our old home, went to Mexico with our staff of the Dallas Patriots for our annual trip, and then returned to continue our move. Needless to say, I didn’t have any spare time, thus many things were sacrificed over the course of the week. This morning my wife and I had the fortunate opportunity to get back to our normal routine which begins each day with a trip to the gym for a good workout. This was the first time in years that I had taken a week off from working out, and I don’t plan on ever doing so again! This was the hardest workout I’ve ever had. I just couldn’t get motivated to go to the gym, and once I began my workout, I was lethargic. I wasn’t able to perform at my normal ability, and simply wanted to stop all together. It was at this point that I realized practice creates desire. When I am on a good workout routine, I desire to workout regularly, and I can’t stand going a day without a workout. My workouts are progressively better, and I feel great. After this week of not working out, I was able to understand why people don’t workout on a regular basis; they don’t have the desire because they don’t make it a part of their routine. They have the same feeling I had today, and simply STOP and don’t return to the gym. They don’t practice enough to instill a desire to continue.
While pressing through the workout, I paralleled this same concept to spiritual and personal development. When we don’t practice regularly, we become complacent, and eventually we stop reading the Bible and going to church all together. We need to understand the importance of overcoming the “I can’t do this anymore” the “I don’t want to do this anymore”, and the “I don’t see the benefit of doing this, I’m not getting anywhere” attitude. Once you create a habit of doing what you need to do, you will do what needs to be done, so you can be and have all you want in life! Remember, the hardest part is often the simple act of getting started.
Application:
1. Read the Bible daily, even if it’s a small verse or two.
2. Understand what needs to be done so you can be all God desires for you to be.
3. The hardest part with just about anything is getting started!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Salesman-REPOST
11-5-2009-REPOST
Salesman
4-20-2009I’ve heard the words, “I am not a sales person” many times. Truth is we are all a sales person, but many of us haven’t come to grips with this reality. Every time you engage in a conversation with someone, you are selling yourself. If you are consistent in conduct and conversation, you won’t have a hard time selling you. If you aren’t doing things the right way for the right reasons, you will do a horrible job of selling you.I speak at various business training events, and the most popular question I’m asked is, “if you could tell me one secret to success, what is it?” I used to laugh and think about it depending on the audience and what that particular person was trying to sell. Now, there isn’t any hesitation when I’m asked the question because the answer is the same no matter who is asking it and no matter what they do for a living. The key to success is YOU! You can have the greatest pick up lines, sales pitches, game plan, etcetera, but if your audience isn’t bought into you, then everything you say will fall on deaf ears due to a lack of credibility. On the flip side, you can have a bad “pick-up” line and change the world. Do any of these sound familiar:“Come, follow me” (Matthew 4:19)“Let’s go over to the other side of the lake” (Luke 8:22)“My child, get up!” (Luke 8:54)Jesus Christ wasn’t some fancy wordsmith, yet He is the most influential person to ever walk the earth. He is proof it isn’t what is said that’s most important, it’s who is saying it. If you are the person God has called you to be, you too will be able to accomplish your dreams, but God will not give you the success you desire if you aren’t prepared for it. Therefore, doesn’t it make sense to schedule time for personal development? The fact that you are reading this devotional speaks volumes as very few are willing to take the time to do this simple act. Humans would rather read insignificant emails, gossip, watch television, or some other form of time waster and income reducer than focus on personal development. If you want to be successful, it starts with YOU!Application:1. Read Matthew 4:18-222. Make time to grow daily3. Make sure you have some form of accountability (discuss what you read each day with a friend, so you both can hold each other accountable)
Salesman
4-20-2009I’ve heard the words, “I am not a sales person” many times. Truth is we are all a sales person, but many of us haven’t come to grips with this reality. Every time you engage in a conversation with someone, you are selling yourself. If you are consistent in conduct and conversation, you won’t have a hard time selling you. If you aren’t doing things the right way for the right reasons, you will do a horrible job of selling you.I speak at various business training events, and the most popular question I’m asked is, “if you could tell me one secret to success, what is it?” I used to laugh and think about it depending on the audience and what that particular person was trying to sell. Now, there isn’t any hesitation when I’m asked the question because the answer is the same no matter who is asking it and no matter what they do for a living. The key to success is YOU! You can have the greatest pick up lines, sales pitches, game plan, etcetera, but if your audience isn’t bought into you, then everything you say will fall on deaf ears due to a lack of credibility. On the flip side, you can have a bad “pick-up” line and change the world. Do any of these sound familiar:“Come, follow me” (Matthew 4:19)“Let’s go over to the other side of the lake” (Luke 8:22)“My child, get up!” (Luke 8:54)Jesus Christ wasn’t some fancy wordsmith, yet He is the most influential person to ever walk the earth. He is proof it isn’t what is said that’s most important, it’s who is saying it. If you are the person God has called you to be, you too will be able to accomplish your dreams, but God will not give you the success you desire if you aren’t prepared for it. Therefore, doesn’t it make sense to schedule time for personal development? The fact that you are reading this devotional speaks volumes as very few are willing to take the time to do this simple act. Humans would rather read insignificant emails, gossip, watch television, or some other form of time waster and income reducer than focus on personal development. If you want to be successful, it starts with YOU!Application:1. Read Matthew 4:18-222. Make time to grow daily3. Make sure you have some form of accountability (discuss what you read each day with a friend, so you both can hold each other accountable)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
James Dobson
11-4-2009
James Dobson
I’m in the process of moving as I write this devotional, and let’s just say I can’t wait to complete the task! A great friend of mine emailed me a quote by James Dobson that says the following:
"I have concluded that the accumulation of wealth, even if I could achieve it, is an insufficient reason for living.
When I reach the end of my days... a moment or two from now, I must look backward on something more meaningful than the pursuit of houses and land and machines and stocks and bonds. Nor is fame of any lasting benefit.
I will consider my earthly existence to have been wasted unless I can recall a loving family, a consistent investment in the lives of people, and an earnest attempt to serve the God who made me.
Nothing else makes much sense.”
Through this entire moving experience, it can be very easy to get wrapped up in the grind of buy this, pay for that, move this, etcetera. At the end of the day, I pray God will bless every home, and may they be used to glorify our maker in every way possible!
God Bless!
James Dobson
I’m in the process of moving as I write this devotional, and let’s just say I can’t wait to complete the task! A great friend of mine emailed me a quote by James Dobson that says the following:
"I have concluded that the accumulation of wealth, even if I could achieve it, is an insufficient reason for living.
When I reach the end of my days... a moment or two from now, I must look backward on something more meaningful than the pursuit of houses and land and machines and stocks and bonds. Nor is fame of any lasting benefit.
I will consider my earthly existence to have been wasted unless I can recall a loving family, a consistent investment in the lives of people, and an earnest attempt to serve the God who made me.
Nothing else makes much sense.”
Through this entire moving experience, it can be very easy to get wrapped up in the grind of buy this, pay for that, move this, etcetera. At the end of the day, I pray God will bless every home, and may they be used to glorify our maker in every way possible!
God Bless!
Monday, November 2, 2009
Money
12-15-2009
7-16-2009-REPOST
Money
Money can be a very controversial issue when dealing with the Christian faith. It’s extremely important to read the Bible in context so you can understand each verse for what it means. As we continue to study the book of Matthew, Jesus speaks about the role of money and the Christian faith.
19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
We find a common theme when discussing the temporal (things of the world). We shouldn’t put our faith in anything of this world. Money comes and goes, and your material possessions mean NOTHING in the big picture. Our treasure needs to rest in the eternal where we will never be let down. Everything of this world will vanish eventually. The eternal is forever. Our time on this earth is just a blip on the radar screen, so make sure your focus is on the kingdom of God, and not on the size of your bank account.
God will bless certain individuals with financial success, but that doesn’t make you happy. Those that understand the role of money deal with financial success properly. Though Christ followers may have a lot of money, they do not put their hope, faith, or focus on money, but instead use the money they have to further the kingdom of God. Before you judge people for having nice things, remember, a person of wealth may donate 90% of what they make and only keep 10% for themselves. There are a lot of people that have a lot of money, and they are miserable. Money is important, as we have to have it in order to live, but it shouldn’t be a factor in what you do on this earth. In other words, follow your heart. If you make business decisions purely on financial gain, you will be miserable. When you follow your heart you will find peace and fulfillment. You will be excited about life. For example, if you want to be a coach, then be a coach. It may not pay a lot of money, but do what you feel God wants you to do. You won’t be able to have some of the material possessions others have, but you will live a life of fulfillment and happiness because you did what you were called to do.
The world needs generous people, and God wants generous people. If you have plenty of money, yet don’t support your church, then you don’t understand what God has called us to do. It’s not your money! Giving 10% SHOULDN’T BE AN OPTION. Blessing those in need shouldn’t be an option. God will bless you financially if you give abundantly.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 6:19-21
2. How do you view money? Are you giving as Christ has called you to give?
7-16-2009-REPOST
Money
Money can be a very controversial issue when dealing with the Christian faith. It’s extremely important to read the Bible in context so you can understand each verse for what it means. As we continue to study the book of Matthew, Jesus speaks about the role of money and the Christian faith.
19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
We find a common theme when discussing the temporal (things of the world). We shouldn’t put our faith in anything of this world. Money comes and goes, and your material possessions mean NOTHING in the big picture. Our treasure needs to rest in the eternal where we will never be let down. Everything of this world will vanish eventually. The eternal is forever. Our time on this earth is just a blip on the radar screen, so make sure your focus is on the kingdom of God, and not on the size of your bank account.
God will bless certain individuals with financial success, but that doesn’t make you happy. Those that understand the role of money deal with financial success properly. Though Christ followers may have a lot of money, they do not put their hope, faith, or focus on money, but instead use the money they have to further the kingdom of God. Before you judge people for having nice things, remember, a person of wealth may donate 90% of what they make and only keep 10% for themselves. There are a lot of people that have a lot of money, and they are miserable. Money is important, as we have to have it in order to live, but it shouldn’t be a factor in what you do on this earth. In other words, follow your heart. If you make business decisions purely on financial gain, you will be miserable. When you follow your heart you will find peace and fulfillment. You will be excited about life. For example, if you want to be a coach, then be a coach. It may not pay a lot of money, but do what you feel God wants you to do. You won’t be able to have some of the material possessions others have, but you will live a life of fulfillment and happiness because you did what you were called to do.
The world needs generous people, and God wants generous people. If you have plenty of money, yet don’t support your church, then you don’t understand what God has called us to do. It’s not your money! Giving 10% SHOULDN’T BE AN OPTION. Blessing those in need shouldn’t be an option. God will bless you financially if you give abundantly.
Application:
1. Read Matthew 6:19-21
2. How do you view money? Are you giving as Christ has called you to give?
Clay Ball
11-2-2009
Clay Ball
This email was forwarded to me, and I feel it’s worth the read!
A man was exploring caves by the Seashore. In one of the caves he found a canvas bag with a bunch of hardened clay balls. It was like someone had rolled clay balls and left them out in the sun to bake. They didn't look like much, but they intrigued the man, so he took the bag out of the cave with him. As he strolled along the beach, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into the ocean as far as he could.
He thought little about it, until he dropped one of the clay balls and it cracked open on a rock . Inside was a beautiful, precious stone!
Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained a similar treasure. He found thousands of dollars worth of jewels in the 20 or so clay balls he had left.
Then it struck him. He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown maybe 50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves. Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure, he could have taken home tens of thousands, but he had just thrown it away!
It's like that with people. We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and we see the external clay vessel. It doesn't look like much from the outside. It isn't always beautiful or sparkling, so we discount it.
We see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or well known or wealthy. But we have not taken the time to find the treasure hidden inside that person...
There is a treasure in each and every one of us. If we take the time to get to know that person, and if we ask God to show us that person the way He sees them, then the clay begins to peel away and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth. May we not come to the end of our lives and find out that we have thrown away a fortune in friendships because the gems were hidden in bits of clay. May we see the people in our world as God sees them. I am so blessed by the gems of friendship we share. Thank you for looking beyond my clay vessel. APPRECIATE EVERY
SINGLE THING YOU HAVE, ESPECIALLY YOUR FRIENDS! LIFE IS TOO SHORT AND FRIENDS ARE TOO FEW!
Clay Ball
This email was forwarded to me, and I feel it’s worth the read!
A man was exploring caves by the Seashore. In one of the caves he found a canvas bag with a bunch of hardened clay balls. It was like someone had rolled clay balls and left them out in the sun to bake. They didn't look like much, but they intrigued the man, so he took the bag out of the cave with him. As he strolled along the beach, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into the ocean as far as he could.
He thought little about it, until he dropped one of the clay balls and it cracked open on a rock . Inside was a beautiful, precious stone!
Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained a similar treasure. He found thousands of dollars worth of jewels in the 20 or so clay balls he had left.
Then it struck him. He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown maybe 50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves. Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure, he could have taken home tens of thousands, but he had just thrown it away!
It's like that with people. We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and we see the external clay vessel. It doesn't look like much from the outside. It isn't always beautiful or sparkling, so we discount it.
We see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or well known or wealthy. But we have not taken the time to find the treasure hidden inside that person...
There is a treasure in each and every one of us. If we take the time to get to know that person, and if we ask God to show us that person the way He sees them, then the clay begins to peel away and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth. May we not come to the end of our lives and find out that we have thrown away a fortune in friendships because the gems were hidden in bits of clay. May we see the people in our world as God sees them. I am so blessed by the gems of friendship we share. Thank you for looking beyond my clay vessel. APPRECIATE EVERY
SINGLE THING YOU HAVE, ESPECIALLY YOUR FRIENDS! LIFE IS TOO SHORT AND FRIENDS ARE TOO FEW!
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