2-1-2010
Mouthing Off
My senior Pastor at Preston Trail Community Church gave a great sermon titled, “Mouthing Off.” The sermon derives from James 3:2-5 in which James writes about the power of the tongue.
“2We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.
3When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.”
The ability to tame the tongue not only involves what you say, but also what you don’t say. As pastor Johnson said, “Don’t prove to people you are a jerk.” By being quite we often save ourselves and others from hurt. Things we need to avoid at all costs are gossip, negativity, slander, boasting, exaggerating, complaining, lying, false teaching, and putting others down. I truly believe we put people down in an attempt to somehow elevate ourselves. Those that are insecure make a habit of putting others down.
A great rule to live by is this: you are the star in a reality television show and the entire world is watching, be careful what you say! In reality, God hears everything we say and the intent in which it was said. He’s the one we should live to impress, so make sure our words are pleasing to God!
Application:
1. Look up Ephesians 4:29
2. Have someone hold you accountable to what you say.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Great Cloud Of Witnesses
1-29-2010
Great Cloud Of Witnesses
The Christian walk can be described as a sprint and it can also be described as a marathon, so let’s just settle on calling it a marathon sprint. We are daily seeking to know Christ fully while maintaining a big picture mindset. In one breath we need to do everything we can to honor God today because we aren’t guaranteed tomorrow, while at the same time we are to build relationships that lead to long lasting transformations of lives.
Hebrews 12:1-4 says the following:
“1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. 4In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.”
To walk with Christ daily can be very difficult at times. Let’s face it, life is very unpredictable, and there’s no telling what tomorrow may bring. As Christ followers it’s important we stay the course and do the hard right thing all the time. It’s easy to think doing the wrong thing one time isn’t a big deal, but Christ calls us to do the right thing all the time just as he did.
Very few people have what it takes to stay the course in life and to see a task through to completion. Hebrews 12 encourages us by way of those that have come before us. To know that others have struggled through the same issues we deal with today and still came out victorious is an encouragement. Let us never forget the great could of witnesses that sit in the stands looking down on us from above rooting us on as we fight the good fight!
Great Cloud Of Witnesses
The Christian walk can be described as a sprint and it can also be described as a marathon, so let’s just settle on calling it a marathon sprint. We are daily seeking to know Christ fully while maintaining a big picture mindset. In one breath we need to do everything we can to honor God today because we aren’t guaranteed tomorrow, while at the same time we are to build relationships that lead to long lasting transformations of lives.
Hebrews 12:1-4 says the following:
“1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. 4In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.”
To walk with Christ daily can be very difficult at times. Let’s face it, life is very unpredictable, and there’s no telling what tomorrow may bring. As Christ followers it’s important we stay the course and do the hard right thing all the time. It’s easy to think doing the wrong thing one time isn’t a big deal, but Christ calls us to do the right thing all the time just as he did.
Very few people have what it takes to stay the course in life and to see a task through to completion. Hebrews 12 encourages us by way of those that have come before us. To know that others have struggled through the same issues we deal with today and still came out victorious is an encouragement. Let us never forget the great could of witnesses that sit in the stands looking down on us from above rooting us on as we fight the good fight!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Reviving The Soul
1-28-2009
Reviving The Soul
Here’s a great one from Wisdom Hunters!
Reviving The Soul... “The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.” Psalm 19:7
From time to time our soul needs a revival that only the Word of God can create. Our soul becomes soiled from working in the garden of everyday life, but the washing by the Word removes the impediments to our intimacy with Christ. “How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word” (Psalm 119:9). His commands cleanse.
Our soul can go into a slump like an athlete who is no longer able to execute. So consider a change in your religious routine. Begin journaling or praying out loud the Psalms. Indeed, it is during this funk in our faith that the fire from God's word can remove our apathetic attitudes. “Is not my word like fire," declares the LORD, "and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces” (Jeremiah 23:29). His word burns away bad attitudes.
How is the state of your soul? Do you have energy for eternal matters? Are you motivated to meditate on the Bible? The incorruptible Word of God works wonders on a weary soul. It purifies and solicits salvation. “Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever” (1 Peter 1:22-23, NKJV).
Once your soul is revived, your mind is ready to receive wisdom. Your revitalized relationship with Jesus is a launching pad to process His precepts. The Holy Spirit breathes life into your faith so that you can embrace and understand Holy Scripture. The Bible, to a renewed spirit, is like a smorgasbord for a famished friend whom you invite over for a holiday feast. Let Scripture stimulate your soul and you will grow stronger.
“But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers” (Psalm 1:2-3).
Am I committed to my soul’s care? What does my soul need to grow strong and sure?
Related Readings: 2 Kings 23:25; Psalm 42:5-7; Matthew 16:26; Hebrews 4:12
Reviving The Soul
Here’s a great one from Wisdom Hunters!
Reviving The Soul... “The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.” Psalm 19:7
From time to time our soul needs a revival that only the Word of God can create. Our soul becomes soiled from working in the garden of everyday life, but the washing by the Word removes the impediments to our intimacy with Christ. “How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word” (Psalm 119:9). His commands cleanse.
Our soul can go into a slump like an athlete who is no longer able to execute. So consider a change in your religious routine. Begin journaling or praying out loud the Psalms. Indeed, it is during this funk in our faith that the fire from God's word can remove our apathetic attitudes. “Is not my word like fire," declares the LORD, "and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces” (Jeremiah 23:29). His word burns away bad attitudes.
How is the state of your soul? Do you have energy for eternal matters? Are you motivated to meditate on the Bible? The incorruptible Word of God works wonders on a weary soul. It purifies and solicits salvation. “Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever” (1 Peter 1:22-23, NKJV).
Once your soul is revived, your mind is ready to receive wisdom. Your revitalized relationship with Jesus is a launching pad to process His precepts. The Holy Spirit breathes life into your faith so that you can embrace and understand Holy Scripture. The Bible, to a renewed spirit, is like a smorgasbord for a famished friend whom you invite over for a holiday feast. Let Scripture stimulate your soul and you will grow stronger.
“But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers” (Psalm 1:2-3).
Am I committed to my soul’s care? What does my soul need to grow strong and sure?
Related Readings: 2 Kings 23:25; Psalm 42:5-7; Matthew 16:26; Hebrews 4:12
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Romans 8:28
1-27-2010
Romans 8:28
It’s easy to ask the question, “Why me God? What purpose does this serve in my life?” It seems for every 100 news clips only 1 has a positive theme. We are bombarded with negativity and the press does everything they can to highlight this truth. I read the newspaper every morning and in the local news section everything involves something bad.
Followers of Christ and non-believers struggle with the negative events that occur in our lives. As a Christ follower, we are not immune to the tough times. Divorces, sickness, financial problems, and other “Oh No” events will and do occur, so how are we to handle these times? Instead of doing the easy thing and saying, “why me God,” let’s understand what Romans 8:28 tells us.
“28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Notice this verse says, “We know that in ALL THINGS God ….purpose.” He doesn’t just work in isolated incidents; he is always there, so that we may fulfill His purpose for our lives. This isn’t about our purpose, but His purpose. God works for the good of the eternal, not the temporal.
When life hits us upside the head, we must remind ourselves of Romans 8:28. He knows what He is doing. He has the full view and big picture in mind. We must remind ourselves of this vision, and not allow the temporal issues this world throws upon us to deter us from the narrow path God intends for us.
Application:
1.Meditate on Romans 8:28
2.Do you have events in your life that lead your focus astray from the eternal view God desires for us?
Romans 8:28
It’s easy to ask the question, “Why me God? What purpose does this serve in my life?” It seems for every 100 news clips only 1 has a positive theme. We are bombarded with negativity and the press does everything they can to highlight this truth. I read the newspaper every morning and in the local news section everything involves something bad.
Followers of Christ and non-believers struggle with the negative events that occur in our lives. As a Christ follower, we are not immune to the tough times. Divorces, sickness, financial problems, and other “Oh No” events will and do occur, so how are we to handle these times? Instead of doing the easy thing and saying, “why me God,” let’s understand what Romans 8:28 tells us.
“28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Notice this verse says, “We know that in ALL THINGS God ….purpose.” He doesn’t just work in isolated incidents; he is always there, so that we may fulfill His purpose for our lives. This isn’t about our purpose, but His purpose. God works for the good of the eternal, not the temporal.
When life hits us upside the head, we must remind ourselves of Romans 8:28. He knows what He is doing. He has the full view and big picture in mind. We must remind ourselves of this vision, and not allow the temporal issues this world throws upon us to deter us from the narrow path God intends for us.
Application:
1.Meditate on Romans 8:28
2.Do you have events in your life that lead your focus astray from the eternal view God desires for us?
Monday, January 25, 2010
Full View
1-26-2010
Full View
If you were asked to jump out of an airplane without a parachute for 1 million dollars would you do it? If you’re like me, you probably said no. Now, what if I told you the airplane was on the ground? Just imagine if we had God’s perspective. He knows every aspect of our lives and the world in its entirety. We often forget this very important point. We try to control things and make decisions based solely on what our little minds and perspective can comprehend, and when we do this we often pass over an opportunity to cash in on 1 million dollars because we didn’t see the full view of the question . Truth be known, we will never be able to fully comprehend the power and knowledge of God, but we can rest assured of God’s power in our lives when 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.”
I love to look out of an airplane window and see the details of the subdivisions and roadways of the city. When we are entrenched in the middle of the skyscrapers and buildings, it’s easy to get turned around, lost, and confused. However, when we look down upon the city from and airplane, it’s amazing how simple the grid system is of a city. Everything appears so peaceful and slow paced.
We all have moments in our lives where the clock seems to move a lot faster than normal and more and more deadlines and tasks pile up. It’s in these moments we need to remind ourselves of the full view and keep a big picture mentality. “Don’t sweat the small stuff” may be a quote we’ve all heard, and while many of our events don’t seem “small”, they pale in comparison to the magnitude and importance of all God has in store for us!
Application:
1. Think about all the things in life you have to be grateful for.
2. Always keep in mind you don’t know what you don’t know!
Full View
If you were asked to jump out of an airplane without a parachute for 1 million dollars would you do it? If you’re like me, you probably said no. Now, what if I told you the airplane was on the ground? Just imagine if we had God’s perspective. He knows every aspect of our lives and the world in its entirety. We often forget this very important point. We try to control things and make decisions based solely on what our little minds and perspective can comprehend, and when we do this we often pass over an opportunity to cash in on 1 million dollars because we didn’t see the full view of the question . Truth be known, we will never be able to fully comprehend the power and knowledge of God, but we can rest assured of God’s power in our lives when 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.”
I love to look out of an airplane window and see the details of the subdivisions and roadways of the city. When we are entrenched in the middle of the skyscrapers and buildings, it’s easy to get turned around, lost, and confused. However, when we look down upon the city from and airplane, it’s amazing how simple the grid system is of a city. Everything appears so peaceful and slow paced.
We all have moments in our lives where the clock seems to move a lot faster than normal and more and more deadlines and tasks pile up. It’s in these moments we need to remind ourselves of the full view and keep a big picture mentality. “Don’t sweat the small stuff” may be a quote we’ve all heard, and while many of our events don’t seem “small”, they pale in comparison to the magnitude and importance of all God has in store for us!
Application:
1. Think about all the things in life you have to be grateful for.
2. Always keep in mind you don’t know what you don’t know!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
To Be Cut Off
1-25-2010
To Be Cut Off
The sin of Adam and Even led to the separation of God and his people. God’s perfect will was finished on earth, as humans quickly became aware of sin. Through salvation, we become one with God and the barrier is broken down. However, believers and non-believers alike still put up barriers with others on earth just as the Jews and Gentiles did.
Ephesians 2:13-18 says the following:
“13But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.
14For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, 16and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.”
Christ has removed the walls of division, thus we can have a real unity with everyone. Christ’s death on the cross made us one, thus removing the hostility any of us should have against each other. Just as Christ fused the Jews and the Gentiles together, we too should be one with our brother’s in Christ. Christianity is the understanding that Jesus Christ died and rose again. He is our Lord and Savior! We shouldn’t allow human opinion and interpretation of the scriptures to divide us. As a Christ follower we are all one church, some may simply prefer a certain type of “worship setting.” In the end, Christ brought unity to all of us, so let’s rejoice!
Application:
1. Read Ephesians 2:1-18
2. What do you allow to divide you from others?
To Be Cut Off
The sin of Adam and Even led to the separation of God and his people. God’s perfect will was finished on earth, as humans quickly became aware of sin. Through salvation, we become one with God and the barrier is broken down. However, believers and non-believers alike still put up barriers with others on earth just as the Jews and Gentiles did.
Ephesians 2:13-18 says the following:
“13But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.
14For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, 16and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.”
Christ has removed the walls of division, thus we can have a real unity with everyone. Christ’s death on the cross made us one, thus removing the hostility any of us should have against each other. Just as Christ fused the Jews and the Gentiles together, we too should be one with our brother’s in Christ. Christianity is the understanding that Jesus Christ died and rose again. He is our Lord and Savior! We shouldn’t allow human opinion and interpretation of the scriptures to divide us. As a Christ follower we are all one church, some may simply prefer a certain type of “worship setting.” In the end, Christ brought unity to all of us, so let’s rejoice!
Application:
1. Read Ephesians 2:1-18
2. What do you allow to divide you from others?
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Yes Be Yes, No Be No
1-22-2009
Yes Be Yes, No Be No
I remember the days where a contract was a hand shake. When a person said they were going to do something, and they did it. Wisdom Hunters has a great devotional on this subject, so enjoy!
Just Say No… “Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” Matthew 5:37
Is it hard for you to say “no”? No to opportunities? No to temptation? No to a child? No to your spouse? No to good things? No to bad things? As a leader your “no’s” are probably more important than your “yes’s”. When you muster the courage to resist an idea that is off mission and instill the discipline in your team to stay focused on the task at hand, you lead with courage. The power of saying “no” makes your “yes’s” more believable.
How can a man or woman’s leadership be effective if they say yes to everything? Is a spontaneous “yes” nearly as useful as a measured “no”? Instead of making a rash promise you later regret, why not wait and prayerfully think through the resources required to deliver on your commitment? Short-term appeasement dilutes long-term sustainability.
Yes, you do risk rejection when you say no, but overtime the wisdom of your decision will become more evident. For example, resist taking on debt for a major purchase like a wedding, a car, a vacation or an appliance. Instead, save up your cash, and look for deals and creative alternatives in the meantime. Why saddle yourself with the stress of paying for something you can’t afford now, so that you can peacefully enjoy it credit free in the future?
Moreover, you may not have a peace about a particular career opportunity. There are too many unknowns and those who know you best are tentative. Perhaps you prayerfully say no now and trust the Lord to provide an open door that aligns with His will later. Do not decide out of frustration or in the middle of fatigue. Instead, rest, gather a clear head and see what your heart has to say. Default to “no” until you “know”.
“Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name” (Psalm 86:11).
As a leader at home and at work, be more focused on saying no than yes. Tough love often defines reality by saying no. But make sure to express your denial with grace. When you communicate bad news in the spirit of Jesus it can become good news to the recipient.
This is how His enemies described Him, “"Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth” (Luke 20:11).
Do I have the courage to trust Christ and say no even when it is offensive? How can I learn to say no more often with patience and grace?
Related Readings: Proverbs 3:5-6; Proverbs 16:13; Romans 9:1; Ephesians 4:15
Yes Be Yes, No Be No
I remember the days where a contract was a hand shake. When a person said they were going to do something, and they did it. Wisdom Hunters has a great devotional on this subject, so enjoy!
Just Say No… “Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” Matthew 5:37
Is it hard for you to say “no”? No to opportunities? No to temptation? No to a child? No to your spouse? No to good things? No to bad things? As a leader your “no’s” are probably more important than your “yes’s”. When you muster the courage to resist an idea that is off mission and instill the discipline in your team to stay focused on the task at hand, you lead with courage. The power of saying “no” makes your “yes’s” more believable.
How can a man or woman’s leadership be effective if they say yes to everything? Is a spontaneous “yes” nearly as useful as a measured “no”? Instead of making a rash promise you later regret, why not wait and prayerfully think through the resources required to deliver on your commitment? Short-term appeasement dilutes long-term sustainability.
Yes, you do risk rejection when you say no, but overtime the wisdom of your decision will become more evident. For example, resist taking on debt for a major purchase like a wedding, a car, a vacation or an appliance. Instead, save up your cash, and look for deals and creative alternatives in the meantime. Why saddle yourself with the stress of paying for something you can’t afford now, so that you can peacefully enjoy it credit free in the future?
Moreover, you may not have a peace about a particular career opportunity. There are too many unknowns and those who know you best are tentative. Perhaps you prayerfully say no now and trust the Lord to provide an open door that aligns with His will later. Do not decide out of frustration or in the middle of fatigue. Instead, rest, gather a clear head and see what your heart has to say. Default to “no” until you “know”.
“Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name” (Psalm 86:11).
As a leader at home and at work, be more focused on saying no than yes. Tough love often defines reality by saying no. But make sure to express your denial with grace. When you communicate bad news in the spirit of Jesus it can become good news to the recipient.
This is how His enemies described Him, “"Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth” (Luke 20:11).
Do I have the courage to trust Christ and say no even when it is offensive? How can I learn to say no more often with patience and grace?
Related Readings: Proverbs 3:5-6; Proverbs 16:13; Romans 9:1; Ephesians 4:15
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Lust
1-21-2009
Lust
What we expose ourselves to visually certainly leaves in imprint on what we think. In this regard, Wisdom Hunters wrote a great message titled “Visual Accountability.” When we understand the importance of what we see, we will learn to filter our actions.
Visual Accountability… "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Matthew 5:27-28
I fight to keep my eyes engaged in images that lead to pure thoughts. Men as a whole struggle around sight with sexual sensations, though women have their own visual challenges related to seeing things they don’t have and wanting them. So Jesus speaks of the allure of lust that comes from obsessing over a woman that is not a man’s wife.
Adultery does not start in the bedroom, but in the heart. If a man’s eye is prone to wander, his heart will follow. It’s an innocent lunch that leads to lust and draws a man or woman into emotional entanglement. Indeed, temptation progresses until it conceives sin. “Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death” (James 1:15). Thus you can stop sin’s encroachment with proactive protection.
David’s lust began when he privately gazed upon a beautiful woman in seclusion. He abused his power by persuading another to compromise her convictions. The more power you have the more you are in need of visual accountability. Who keeps you accountable to keep the portal of your perceptions pure? Like Job, have you made a covenant with your eyes to not look lustfully on another? "I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a girl” (Job 31:1). A covenant requires a commitment to Christ’s standards.
Sometimes it does take extreme measures to not continue down a destructive path. Maybe it means no television for a season, or limited internet access. Give others permission to ask you what magazines or web sites you have been viewing. Mostly make it your passion to love your spouse as God has created them. Accept their love and emotional support, and you will see them as beautiful and appealing. The healthiest marriages never stop romancing and wooing one other. Yes, passionate love precludes alluring lust!
“How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful! Your eyes are doves. How handsome you are, my lover! Oh, how charming! (Song of Solomon 1:15-16a).
Are my eyes an instrument of love or lust? How can I keep in tact visual accountability?
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 11:1-5; Song of Solomon 2:1-17; Matthew 6:22-23
Lust
What we expose ourselves to visually certainly leaves in imprint on what we think. In this regard, Wisdom Hunters wrote a great message titled “Visual Accountability.” When we understand the importance of what we see, we will learn to filter our actions.
Visual Accountability… "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Matthew 5:27-28
I fight to keep my eyes engaged in images that lead to pure thoughts. Men as a whole struggle around sight with sexual sensations, though women have their own visual challenges related to seeing things they don’t have and wanting them. So Jesus speaks of the allure of lust that comes from obsessing over a woman that is not a man’s wife.
Adultery does not start in the bedroom, but in the heart. If a man’s eye is prone to wander, his heart will follow. It’s an innocent lunch that leads to lust and draws a man or woman into emotional entanglement. Indeed, temptation progresses until it conceives sin. “Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death” (James 1:15). Thus you can stop sin’s encroachment with proactive protection.
David’s lust began when he privately gazed upon a beautiful woman in seclusion. He abused his power by persuading another to compromise her convictions. The more power you have the more you are in need of visual accountability. Who keeps you accountable to keep the portal of your perceptions pure? Like Job, have you made a covenant with your eyes to not look lustfully on another? "I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a girl” (Job 31:1). A covenant requires a commitment to Christ’s standards.
Sometimes it does take extreme measures to not continue down a destructive path. Maybe it means no television for a season, or limited internet access. Give others permission to ask you what magazines or web sites you have been viewing. Mostly make it your passion to love your spouse as God has created them. Accept their love and emotional support, and you will see them as beautiful and appealing. The healthiest marriages never stop romancing and wooing one other. Yes, passionate love precludes alluring lust!
“How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful! Your eyes are doves. How handsome you are, my lover! Oh, how charming! (Song of Solomon 1:15-16a).
Are my eyes an instrument of love or lust? How can I keep in tact visual accountability?
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 11:1-5; Song of Solomon 2:1-17; Matthew 6:22-23
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Beside Himself
1-20-2009
Beside Himself
We use the term. “I’m beside myself right now,” we are basically saying we aren’t whole. We are lost. The apostle Paul had the same experience in Romans 7:14-20:
“14We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.”
We read of Paul’s struggle and fight for sanctification (to be Christ like). He knows what he should do, but the sin living in him prevails at times. The fight to live as Christ lived and calls us to live is a lifelong journey. Consider it a marathon sprint if you will.
To surrender your life to Christ involves a simple moment in time in which you begin the transformation process. You profess your sins, ask for forgiveness, and understand it’s by grace you have been saved and nothing you deserve or did to achieve salvation. It’s a decision.
Once that moment in time takes place, the process of removing sin from your life takes time and commitment. You will struggle against sin, and by yourself you will lose the battle. With Christ, you can overcome the odds. Do not allow evil to get a stronghold in your life. Understand your weaknesses, and stay as far away from temptation as possible, or you too will end up beside yourself!
Application:
1. Read Romans 7
2. Do you call on Christ during good and bad? Do you do so regularly or only when it’s too late?
Beside Himself
We use the term. “I’m beside myself right now,” we are basically saying we aren’t whole. We are lost. The apostle Paul had the same experience in Romans 7:14-20:
“14We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.”
We read of Paul’s struggle and fight for sanctification (to be Christ like). He knows what he should do, but the sin living in him prevails at times. The fight to live as Christ lived and calls us to live is a lifelong journey. Consider it a marathon sprint if you will.
To surrender your life to Christ involves a simple moment in time in which you begin the transformation process. You profess your sins, ask for forgiveness, and understand it’s by grace you have been saved and nothing you deserve or did to achieve salvation. It’s a decision.
Once that moment in time takes place, the process of removing sin from your life takes time and commitment. You will struggle against sin, and by yourself you will lose the battle. With Christ, you can overcome the odds. Do not allow evil to get a stronghold in your life. Understand your weaknesses, and stay as far away from temptation as possible, or you too will end up beside yourself!
Application:
1. Read Romans 7
2. Do you call on Christ during good and bad? Do you do so regularly or only when it’s too late?
Monday, January 18, 2010
The Samaritan Women
1-19-200
The Samaritan Women
John 4:1-26 says the following:
“1The Pharisees heard that Jesus was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John, 2although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. 3When the Lord learned of this, he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee.
4Now he had to go through Samaria. 5So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour.
7When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 8(His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)
9The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
10Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
11"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?"
13Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
15The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water."
16He told her, "Go, call your husband and come back."
17"I have no husband," she replied.
Jesus said to her, "You are right when you say you have no husband. 18The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true."
19"Sir," the woman said, "I can see that you are a prophet. 20Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem."
21Jesus declared, "Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."
25The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
26Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."
Just as our bodies long for water and food, our soul longs for spiritual nourishment. We are excellent at thinking in the temporal sense, when God desires for us to focus on the eternal. The Samaritan women couldn’t seem to grasp what Jesus was telling her. All she could think about was water, while Jesus informed her how to feed her soul.
What’s your spiritual diet? Is your soul being fed what it needs?
The Samaritan Women
John 4:1-26 says the following:
“1The Pharisees heard that Jesus was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John, 2although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. 3When the Lord learned of this, he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee.
4Now he had to go through Samaria. 5So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour.
7When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 8(His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)
9The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
10Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
11"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?"
13Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
15The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water."
16He told her, "Go, call your husband and come back."
17"I have no husband," she replied.
Jesus said to her, "You are right when you say you have no husband. 18The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true."
19"Sir," the woman said, "I can see that you are a prophet. 20Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem."
21Jesus declared, "Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."
25The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
26Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."
Just as our bodies long for water and food, our soul longs for spiritual nourishment. We are excellent at thinking in the temporal sense, when God desires for us to focus on the eternal. The Samaritan women couldn’t seem to grasp what Jesus was telling her. All she could think about was water, while Jesus informed her how to feed her soul.
What’s your spiritual diet? Is your soul being fed what it needs?
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Bring All You Have
1-18-2009
Bring All You Have
We’ve often read in the gospels or heard about Jesus feeding five thousand, so let’s take a look at how this event started in John 6:1-15.
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
“ 1Some time after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias), 2and a great crowd of people followed him because they saw the miraculous signs he had performed on the sick. 3Then Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down with his disciples. 4The Jewish Passover Feast was near.
5When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, "Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?" 6He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do.
7Philip answered him, "Eight months' wages would not buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!"
8Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up, 9"Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?"
10Jesus said, "Have the people sit down." There was plenty of grass in that place, and the men sat down, about five thousand of them. 11Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.
12When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, "Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted." 13So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.
14After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, "Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world." 15Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.”
If you notice the underlined portion in verse 9, a little boy brought all he had and allowed Jesus to do the rest! As human beings our resources are limited, and there’s only so much we can bring to the table. It’s important we remember this passage of scripture when we get down about the results of our activity. Our job is to bring all we have and to allow God to do what he does best. God has unlimited resources!
Application:
1. Read John 6:1-15
2. Do you bring all you have?
3. Do you trust God to provide what you can’t?
Bring All You Have
We’ve often read in the gospels or heard about Jesus feeding five thousand, so let’s take a look at how this event started in John 6:1-15.
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
“ 1Some time after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias), 2and a great crowd of people followed him because they saw the miraculous signs he had performed on the sick. 3Then Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down with his disciples. 4The Jewish Passover Feast was near.
5When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, "Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?" 6He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do.
7Philip answered him, "Eight months' wages would not buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!"
8Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up, 9"Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?"
10Jesus said, "Have the people sit down." There was plenty of grass in that place, and the men sat down, about five thousand of them. 11Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.
12When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, "Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted." 13So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.
14After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, "Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world." 15Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.”
If you notice the underlined portion in verse 9, a little boy brought all he had and allowed Jesus to do the rest! As human beings our resources are limited, and there’s only so much we can bring to the table. It’s important we remember this passage of scripture when we get down about the results of our activity. Our job is to bring all we have and to allow God to do what he does best. God has unlimited resources!
Application:
1. Read John 6:1-15
2. Do you bring all you have?
3. Do you trust God to provide what you can’t?
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Life Purpose
1-15-2009
Life Purpose
Here’s a great devotional from Wisdom Hunters. Enjoy!
Life Purpose… “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16, NKJV
What is your life purpose? What is the Lord’s life purpose for you? Perhaps a good starting point is to glorify God. Glory to God keeps the glory from going to a person, team or institution. It is built-in accountability against pride and envy. Glory to God gives Him the credit due His name and it shows the world who is responsible for your success.
I like what one friend said, “I want to glorify God by loving Him completely, loving myself correctly and loving others compassionately” (Ken Boa). The object of our affections receives our attention and energy. And when our motivation behind our efforts is to glorify God, it causes curiosity around those affected. Who is this Lord you love? Why do you have such confidence that Christ cares? How can I experience God like you?
Good works, attached to God’s glory, gives a greater purpose to the recipient of grace. “If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:11). As you humbly serve you are able to show others what Jesus is like.
So consider crafting a purpose statement that reflects the Lord’s plan for your life. Use it as a compass to keep you aligned around the Almighty’s priorities for this season of life. Perhaps you write it out and develop its meaning for your children to understand and embrace. Search the Scriptures and find a verse or verses that define your purpose. My purpose is to “Glorify God by being a faithful husband, available father, loyal friend and loving leader.” What’s yours? God brings success when you fulfill His purpose.
“For a long time now—to this very day—you have not deserted your brothers but have carried out the mission the LORD your God gave you” (Joshua 22:3).
What is God’s purpose for my life? How can I best bring Him glory in fulfilling His purpose?
Related Readings: Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 60:19; John 11:4; Romans 4:20
Life Purpose
Here’s a great devotional from Wisdom Hunters. Enjoy!
Life Purpose… “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16, NKJV
What is your life purpose? What is the Lord’s life purpose for you? Perhaps a good starting point is to glorify God. Glory to God keeps the glory from going to a person, team or institution. It is built-in accountability against pride and envy. Glory to God gives Him the credit due His name and it shows the world who is responsible for your success.
I like what one friend said, “I want to glorify God by loving Him completely, loving myself correctly and loving others compassionately” (Ken Boa). The object of our affections receives our attention and energy. And when our motivation behind our efforts is to glorify God, it causes curiosity around those affected. Who is this Lord you love? Why do you have such confidence that Christ cares? How can I experience God like you?
Good works, attached to God’s glory, gives a greater purpose to the recipient of grace. “If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:11). As you humbly serve you are able to show others what Jesus is like.
So consider crafting a purpose statement that reflects the Lord’s plan for your life. Use it as a compass to keep you aligned around the Almighty’s priorities for this season of life. Perhaps you write it out and develop its meaning for your children to understand and embrace. Search the Scriptures and find a verse or verses that define your purpose. My purpose is to “Glorify God by being a faithful husband, available father, loyal friend and loving leader.” What’s yours? God brings success when you fulfill His purpose.
“For a long time now—to this very day—you have not deserted your brothers but have carried out the mission the LORD your God gave you” (Joshua 22:3).
What is God’s purpose for my life? How can I best bring Him glory in fulfilling His purpose?
Related Readings: Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 60:19; John 11:4; Romans 4:20
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Undeniable Divinity
1-14-2009
Undeniable Divinity
In John 8:48-59 we hear one of the most powerful statements ever made by Jesus Christ. Focus in on verse 58 especially.
“48The Jews answered him, "Aren't we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?"
49"I am not possessed by a demon," said Jesus, "but I honor my Father and you dishonor me. 50I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge. 51I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death."
52At this the Jews exclaimed, "Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that if anyone keeps your word, he will never taste death. 53Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?"
54Jesus replied, "If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. 55Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word. 56Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad."
57"You are not yet fifty years old," the Jews said to him, "and you have seen Abraham!"
58"I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!" 59At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.”
Think about the significance of this moment in time. They call Jesus a demon possessed man, and try to stone him for claiming to be God. For Jesus to say, “I AM” indicates He is God, thus fully divine. I’m sure we can imagine the difficulty the audience had in hearing Jesus say these powerful statements, but it’s important we understand the significance of this passage of scripture. Jesus isn’t just some great guy. He is GOD! The irony of this situation is the Jewish leaders were going to stone Jesus for claiming to be God. In other words, they held God as the ultimate, and no one should ever put themselves on that pedestal. Therefore, they know God is the supreme leader of the world, but they didn’t realize He was standing right in front of them!
How often do we forget the accessibility of God? Just like the Jewish leaders that held God as the highest, we too forget to stop and listen to the words of our Savior. We get so caught up in the day to day, we lose track of the most important aspects of life. Let’s not be like the Jewish leaders and get so caught up in religious/legalistic matters, and let’s stay focused on Christ.
Undeniable Divinity
In John 8:48-59 we hear one of the most powerful statements ever made by Jesus Christ. Focus in on verse 58 especially.
“48The Jews answered him, "Aren't we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?"
49"I am not possessed by a demon," said Jesus, "but I honor my Father and you dishonor me. 50I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge. 51I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death."
52At this the Jews exclaimed, "Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that if anyone keeps your word, he will never taste death. 53Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?"
54Jesus replied, "If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. 55Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word. 56Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad."
57"You are not yet fifty years old," the Jews said to him, "and you have seen Abraham!"
58"I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!" 59At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.”
Think about the significance of this moment in time. They call Jesus a demon possessed man, and try to stone him for claiming to be God. For Jesus to say, “I AM” indicates He is God, thus fully divine. I’m sure we can imagine the difficulty the audience had in hearing Jesus say these powerful statements, but it’s important we understand the significance of this passage of scripture. Jesus isn’t just some great guy. He is GOD! The irony of this situation is the Jewish leaders were going to stone Jesus for claiming to be God. In other words, they held God as the ultimate, and no one should ever put themselves on that pedestal. Therefore, they know God is the supreme leader of the world, but they didn’t realize He was standing right in front of them!
How often do we forget the accessibility of God? Just like the Jewish leaders that held God as the highest, we too forget to stop and listen to the words of our Savior. We get so caught up in the day to day, we lose track of the most important aspects of life. Let’s not be like the Jewish leaders and get so caught up in religious/legalistic matters, and let’s stay focused on Christ.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Origin of Life
1-13-2009
Origin of Life
I’m reading a devotional with a group of buddies of mine, and one of the study questions asked seemed so simple, yet revealed so much. The question was as follows: Read John 1:1-14. Based on this passage of scripture, what role did Jesus have in the origin of life? After I pondered the question for a couple of minutes, I then turned to John 1:1-14 and it reads:
The Word Became Flesh
1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was with God in the beginning.
3Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4In him was life, and that life was the light of men. 5The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
6There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. 7He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. 8He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. 9The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.
10He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.
14The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
The answer to the question is simple; we exist because we were made by God. God created everything. When we stop and think about all of the forces this world has seen from armies, navies, political parties, etc. nothing and no one has ever come close to the impact that Jesus Christ has had on this world. No one else defines the time gap our world speaks of when we say “B.C. and A.D.” The Word of God, the Bible, is the #1 selling book in the world, and it’s also the #1 stolen book in the world. People crave God’s word. I truly think every human being knows of God, just very few are willing to take the time to dig into who God truly is.
I pray each and every one of us will seek to understand both the origin of life and how that relates to everything in the world. We have been rescued from an eternity in Hell as a result of the resurrection of Jesus Christ!
Origin of Life
I’m reading a devotional with a group of buddies of mine, and one of the study questions asked seemed so simple, yet revealed so much. The question was as follows: Read John 1:1-14. Based on this passage of scripture, what role did Jesus have in the origin of life? After I pondered the question for a couple of minutes, I then turned to John 1:1-14 and it reads:
The Word Became Flesh
1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was with God in the beginning.
3Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4In him was life, and that life was the light of men. 5The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
6There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. 7He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. 8He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. 9The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.
10He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.
14The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
The answer to the question is simple; we exist because we were made by God. God created everything. When we stop and think about all of the forces this world has seen from armies, navies, political parties, etc. nothing and no one has ever come close to the impact that Jesus Christ has had on this world. No one else defines the time gap our world speaks of when we say “B.C. and A.D.” The Word of God, the Bible, is the #1 selling book in the world, and it’s also the #1 stolen book in the world. People crave God’s word. I truly think every human being knows of God, just very few are willing to take the time to dig into who God truly is.
I pray each and every one of us will seek to understand both the origin of life and how that relates to everything in the world. We have been rescued from an eternity in Hell as a result of the resurrection of Jesus Christ!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Mark Johnson
1-12-2009
Mark Johnson
Our coaching staff with the Dallas Patriots attended the ABCA (American Baseball Coaches Association) coaches convention this past weekend. Throughout the weekend we were able to hear from great speakers such as Nolan Ryan, Tommy John, and more. One of the speakers was Mark Johnson, the head baseball coach at Sam Houston State University. Prior to Sam Houston State, Coach Johnson was the head baseball coach at Texas A&M. He is known as a legend in the game of baseball, and ranks No. 16 among active NCAA Division I baseball head coaches in career victories with a 24-year record of 989 wins, 504 losses and three ties. Johnson was Sporting News National Coach of the Year in 1993 and United States Olympic Committee Coach of the Year in 1999. He is a member of both the ABCA and Texas Baseball Hall of Fames. Most importantly, he is a man of God that lives to serve his maker.
There were thousands of baseball coaches in the audience listening to Coach Johnson speak, and to hear him speak about Jesus Christ was amazing! The audience goes to the convention to hear about baseball, but the key to success was very clear in the message. Our destiny is extremely important and whom we live our life for will certainly decide where we ultimately end up. To that end, Coach Johnson read the following quote:
Thoughts to Destiny
Be careful of your thoughts, because they become your body language.
Be careful of your body language, because it becomes your attitude.
Be careful about your attitude, because it becomes words.
Be careful what you say, because it becomes actions.
Be careful of your actions, because they become your habits.
Be careful of your habits, because they become your character.
And be careful of your character, because it will become your destiny.
Coach Johnson has impacted thousands of lives in his coaching career, and its fitting he would read such a powerful quote during his message. May we all live a life of destiny!
Mark Johnson
Our coaching staff with the Dallas Patriots attended the ABCA (American Baseball Coaches Association) coaches convention this past weekend. Throughout the weekend we were able to hear from great speakers such as Nolan Ryan, Tommy John, and more. One of the speakers was Mark Johnson, the head baseball coach at Sam Houston State University. Prior to Sam Houston State, Coach Johnson was the head baseball coach at Texas A&M. He is known as a legend in the game of baseball, and ranks No. 16 among active NCAA Division I baseball head coaches in career victories with a 24-year record of 989 wins, 504 losses and three ties. Johnson was Sporting News National Coach of the Year in 1993 and United States Olympic Committee Coach of the Year in 1999. He is a member of both the ABCA and Texas Baseball Hall of Fames. Most importantly, he is a man of God that lives to serve his maker.
There were thousands of baseball coaches in the audience listening to Coach Johnson speak, and to hear him speak about Jesus Christ was amazing! The audience goes to the convention to hear about baseball, but the key to success was very clear in the message. Our destiny is extremely important and whom we live our life for will certainly decide where we ultimately end up. To that end, Coach Johnson read the following quote:
Thoughts to Destiny
Be careful of your thoughts, because they become your body language.
Be careful of your body language, because it becomes your attitude.
Be careful about your attitude, because it becomes words.
Be careful what you say, because it becomes actions.
Be careful of your actions, because they become your habits.
Be careful of your habits, because they become your character.
And be careful of your character, because it will become your destiny.
Coach Johnson has impacted thousands of lives in his coaching career, and its fitting he would read such a powerful quote during his message. May we all live a life of destiny!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Do What Brings You Peace
1-11-2010
Do What Brings You Peace
One of my best friends, his wife, and four kids (all under the age of 6) stayed at our house over the Christmas break, and it was awesome! I’ve never seen so much energy in a home in all my life. My buddy kept telling his kids, “this is not a play house; you can’t throw things off their balcony onto the floor!” I love innocence and peace of a child. They do what brings them peace. If they want to play cars, they play cars. If they want to fall asleep in their parent’s lap, they do so. They don’t stress about things, they simply want to play.
While the kids and dad were playing hide and go seek in the house, his wife and I had a wonderful conversation about life. She explained things that were on her mind, and I did the same. One of the conversations involved the many “hats” I wear. When I say “hats” I’m referring to the various companies, responsibilities, commitments, etc. that I have going on, and the difficulty in prioritizing each. As we spoke back and forth, it was as if God planted the wisdom in her to say the exact words I needed to hear. She said, “Logan, just do what brings you peace. “ WOW!!! I was immediately silenced as I reflected on the simple, yet powerful sentence that God spoke through her.
It’s easy for us to run from thing to thing, event to event, responsibility to responsibility, and when we are doing what God wants us to do, we are filled with peace. That doesn’t mean it’s always going to be just the way we like it, but the mission itself will bring you peace. As I thought about the “hats” in my life, the one that brings me absolute peace is the time I have helping people be all they can be. I don’t have peace reading through business deals, analyzing profit and loss statements, or closing big deals. I have peace when I’m coaching kids, and helping adults reach their God given potential in life through motivational speaking. The question for you is what brings you peace? What is it in life that you can’t wait to do, and don’t want to stop doing? How far away are you from that peaceful place, and what steps are you going to take to get there? When you are struggling with a decision just remember, what brings you peace!!!
Do What Brings You Peace
One of my best friends, his wife, and four kids (all under the age of 6) stayed at our house over the Christmas break, and it was awesome! I’ve never seen so much energy in a home in all my life. My buddy kept telling his kids, “this is not a play house; you can’t throw things off their balcony onto the floor!” I love innocence and peace of a child. They do what brings them peace. If they want to play cars, they play cars. If they want to fall asleep in their parent’s lap, they do so. They don’t stress about things, they simply want to play.
While the kids and dad were playing hide and go seek in the house, his wife and I had a wonderful conversation about life. She explained things that were on her mind, and I did the same. One of the conversations involved the many “hats” I wear. When I say “hats” I’m referring to the various companies, responsibilities, commitments, etc. that I have going on, and the difficulty in prioritizing each. As we spoke back and forth, it was as if God planted the wisdom in her to say the exact words I needed to hear. She said, “Logan, just do what brings you peace. “ WOW!!! I was immediately silenced as I reflected on the simple, yet powerful sentence that God spoke through her.
It’s easy for us to run from thing to thing, event to event, responsibility to responsibility, and when we are doing what God wants us to do, we are filled with peace. That doesn’t mean it’s always going to be just the way we like it, but the mission itself will bring you peace. As I thought about the “hats” in my life, the one that brings me absolute peace is the time I have helping people be all they can be. I don’t have peace reading through business deals, analyzing profit and loss statements, or closing big deals. I have peace when I’m coaching kids, and helping adults reach their God given potential in life through motivational speaking. The question for you is what brings you peace? What is it in life that you can’t wait to do, and don’t want to stop doing? How far away are you from that peaceful place, and what steps are you going to take to get there? When you are struggling with a decision just remember, what brings you peace!!!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
He's Not A Genie in a Bottle
1-7-2010
He’s not a Genie in a Bottle
Matthew 21:18-22 can certainly be a little optimistic, so it’s important we understand the context of what’s being said as it pertains to Biblical truth. It reads:
“18Early in the morning, as he was on his way back to the city, he was hungry. 19Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, "May you never bear fruit again!" Immediately the tree withered.
20When the disciples saw this, they were amazed. "How did the fig tree wither so quickly?" they asked.
21Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done. 22If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
I’m sure many read verse 21-22 and get incredibly excited, so here’s the downer; God isn’t to be used as a genie in a bottle! While God can do all things and is all knowing, He grants us free will. God’s perfect will doesn’t come into play as a result of human sin. We have the free will to do right or do wrong. We aren’t a bunch of puppets walking around the earth. Rather, God allows us to make choices and we have good and bad consequences as a result. Here’s the good news, when our will is God’s will, all things can happen and do! In other words, we should earnestly pray that God gives us clarity and vision as to what He wants us to do. It’s not about what we want to do; rather it’s about what HE wants for our lives. Let’s pray that our will be His will, and His will be our will. It’s not about what we want; it’s what God wants for and through us!
He’s not a Genie in a Bottle
Matthew 21:18-22 can certainly be a little optimistic, so it’s important we understand the context of what’s being said as it pertains to Biblical truth. It reads:
“18Early in the morning, as he was on his way back to the city, he was hungry. 19Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, "May you never bear fruit again!" Immediately the tree withered.
20When the disciples saw this, they were amazed. "How did the fig tree wither so quickly?" they asked.
21Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done. 22If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
I’m sure many read verse 21-22 and get incredibly excited, so here’s the downer; God isn’t to be used as a genie in a bottle! While God can do all things and is all knowing, He grants us free will. God’s perfect will doesn’t come into play as a result of human sin. We have the free will to do right or do wrong. We aren’t a bunch of puppets walking around the earth. Rather, God allows us to make choices and we have good and bad consequences as a result. Here’s the good news, when our will is God’s will, all things can happen and do! In other words, we should earnestly pray that God gives us clarity and vision as to what He wants us to do. It’s not about what we want to do; rather it’s about what HE wants for our lives. Let’s pray that our will be His will, and His will be our will. It’s not about what we want; it’s what God wants for and through us!
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Jesus Clears the Temple
1-6-2010
Jesus Clears the Temple
The world has done a pretty good job of painting Jesus out to be about as weak as can be. People picture Jesus to be a pushover that walks around being a peace maker, when in fact Jesus Christ was about as blunt and transparent as could be. Yes He desired peace, but when someone or some group acted in an Ungodly manner, He took action!
Matthew 21:12-17 says the following:
“12Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. 13"It is written," he said to them, " 'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it a 'den of robbers."
14The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them. 15But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple area, "Hosanna to the Son of David," they were indignant.
16"Do you hear what these children are saying?" they asked him.
"Yes," replied Jesus, "have you never read,
" 'From the lips of children and infants
you have ordained praise'?"
17And he left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night.”
Very rarely do we hear about Jesus clearing out a Temple and overturning tables! Jesus is a bold man of passion that only stands for what’s right. He was and is the toughest person to ever walk the earth, and there’s a lot to be learned from this lesson. As Christ followers, we should learn to be bold in what’s right, and do the hard right thing all the time. Jesus overturned the tables for many reasons, but the primary reason is the money changers were interfering with people’s ability to worship God. What do you need to “overturn” that prevents you from worshiping God to the fullest? Is your schedule too crammed with meetings to make time for the most important things such as faith and family? Let’s live each day with a focus on what’s true and right, keeping things in perspective at all times!
Jesus Clears the Temple
The world has done a pretty good job of painting Jesus out to be about as weak as can be. People picture Jesus to be a pushover that walks around being a peace maker, when in fact Jesus Christ was about as blunt and transparent as could be. Yes He desired peace, but when someone or some group acted in an Ungodly manner, He took action!
Matthew 21:12-17 says the following:
“12Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. 13"It is written," he said to them, " 'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it a 'den of robbers."
14The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them. 15But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple area, "Hosanna to the Son of David," they were indignant.
16"Do you hear what these children are saying?" they asked him.
"Yes," replied Jesus, "have you never read,
" 'From the lips of children and infants
you have ordained praise'?"
17And he left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night.”
Very rarely do we hear about Jesus clearing out a Temple and overturning tables! Jesus is a bold man of passion that only stands for what’s right. He was and is the toughest person to ever walk the earth, and there’s a lot to be learned from this lesson. As Christ followers, we should learn to be bold in what’s right, and do the hard right thing all the time. Jesus overturned the tables for many reasons, but the primary reason is the money changers were interfering with people’s ability to worship God. What do you need to “overturn” that prevents you from worshiping God to the fullest? Is your schedule too crammed with meetings to make time for the most important things such as faith and family? Let’s live each day with a focus on what’s true and right, keeping things in perspective at all times!
Direction
1-5-2010
Direction
Here's another great devotional from Wisdom Hunters!
How do you know where the Holy Spirit is leading your life? What direction are you to take in your career, with a relationship, with a school, where to live or attend church? You may feel trapped and unable to change your circumstances, and it seems there is no solution in sight. The truth is the Holy Spirit may be leading you through a desert experience. So don’t miss what He is teaching you, by wishing you were not here. Listen and learn.
Sometimes the Spirit leads us into places of faith that are not fun or friendly. On the contrary, this unknown terrain of life requires intentional trust in the Lord because of the intensity of temptations we encounter. Motivations are made right under the pressure of feeling wronged or being tempted to take short cuts. God and His word become very real in the middle of spiritual warfare, so make sure you are immersed in the truth of Scripture. The Bible is your GPS (God’s Prayer Strategy) when discerning where to go.
It is ironic that in one moment Jesus was enjoying the favor of His Heavenly Father, and in an instant He is doing battle with the devil’s deception. Disciples of Christ experience this also, as one day you celebrate an answered prayer, and the next day you are desperately petitioning Christ for wisdom, healing or direction. The Christian life is not a continuous mountaintop. Instead it is full of ups and downs, plateaus and valleys of death.
Therefore, stay true to the Holy Spirit’s leading in your life. Go where He says to go. Especially when it requires sacrifice, devotion and obedience. Listen to the Spirit’s prompting in prayer and look for His leadership in Holy Scripture. Make it your simple prayer, like Philip “Where He leads I will follow”. He obeyed the Holy Spirit’s leading.
“The Spirit told Philip, "Go to that chariot and stay near it." When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing” (Acts 8:29, 39).
Will I be obedient regardless of where the Holy Spirit is leading? Am I on my way into the desert, am I in the desert, or am I on my way out of the desert?
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 28:12; Psalm 143:10; Acts 16:6-7; Romans 8:1-28
Direction
Here's another great devotional from Wisdom Hunters!
How do you know where the Holy Spirit is leading your life? What direction are you to take in your career, with a relationship, with a school, where to live or attend church? You may feel trapped and unable to change your circumstances, and it seems there is no solution in sight. The truth is the Holy Spirit may be leading you through a desert experience. So don’t miss what He is teaching you, by wishing you were not here. Listen and learn.
Sometimes the Spirit leads us into places of faith that are not fun or friendly. On the contrary, this unknown terrain of life requires intentional trust in the Lord because of the intensity of temptations we encounter. Motivations are made right under the pressure of feeling wronged or being tempted to take short cuts. God and His word become very real in the middle of spiritual warfare, so make sure you are immersed in the truth of Scripture. The Bible is your GPS (God’s Prayer Strategy) when discerning where to go.
It is ironic that in one moment Jesus was enjoying the favor of His Heavenly Father, and in an instant He is doing battle with the devil’s deception. Disciples of Christ experience this also, as one day you celebrate an answered prayer, and the next day you are desperately petitioning Christ for wisdom, healing or direction. The Christian life is not a continuous mountaintop. Instead it is full of ups and downs, plateaus and valleys of death.
Therefore, stay true to the Holy Spirit’s leading in your life. Go where He says to go. Especially when it requires sacrifice, devotion and obedience. Listen to the Spirit’s prompting in prayer and look for His leadership in Holy Scripture. Make it your simple prayer, like Philip “Where He leads I will follow”. He obeyed the Holy Spirit’s leading.
“The Spirit told Philip, "Go to that chariot and stay near it." When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing” (Acts 8:29, 39).
Will I be obedient regardless of where the Holy Spirit is leading? Am I on my way into the desert, am I in the desert, or am I on my way out of the desert?
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 28:12; Psalm 143:10; Acts 16:6-7; Romans 8:1-28
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Parable of the Workers Paid Equally
1-4-2010
The Parables of the Workers Paid Equally
Matthew 20:1-16 says the following:
1"For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire men to work in his vineyard. 2He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day and sent them into his vineyard.
3"About the third hour he went out and saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. 4He told them, 'You also go and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.' 5So they went.
"He went out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour and did the same thing. 6About the eleventh hour he went out and found still others standing around. He asked them, 'Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?'
7" 'Because no one has hired us,' they answered.
"He said to them, 'You also go and work in my vineyard.'
8"When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, 'Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.'
9"The workers who were hired about the eleventh hour came and each received a denarius. 10So when those came who were hired first, they expected to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. 11When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. 12'These men who were hired last worked only one hour,' they said, 'and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.'
13"But he answered one of them, 'Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn't you agree to work for a denarius? 14Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. 15Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?'
16"So the last will be first, and the first will be last."
We live in a world where prosperity is preached. We crave what others have, and are envious when we don’t have what others do. We aren’t just trained to want; we are trained to WANT MORE! This parable gives us an amazing illustration of God’s grace. Bottom line, we should focus on the gifts God gives us. It’s easy to look at what we don’t have, but when we really get down to it, we’ve received a lot more than we can ever earn or deserve.
As we start 2010, let’s stay focused and in tune with the many blessings God’s put in all of our lives. Continue to pursue your dreams and goals, while at the same time count your blessings!
The Parables of the Workers Paid Equally
Matthew 20:1-16 says the following:
1"For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire men to work in his vineyard. 2He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day and sent them into his vineyard.
3"About the third hour he went out and saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. 4He told them, 'You also go and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.' 5So they went.
"He went out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour and did the same thing. 6About the eleventh hour he went out and found still others standing around. He asked them, 'Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?'
7" 'Because no one has hired us,' they answered.
"He said to them, 'You also go and work in my vineyard.'
8"When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, 'Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.'
9"The workers who were hired about the eleventh hour came and each received a denarius. 10So when those came who were hired first, they expected to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. 11When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. 12'These men who were hired last worked only one hour,' they said, 'and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.'
13"But he answered one of them, 'Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn't you agree to work for a denarius? 14Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. 15Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?'
16"So the last will be first, and the first will be last."
We live in a world where prosperity is preached. We crave what others have, and are envious when we don’t have what others do. We aren’t just trained to want; we are trained to WANT MORE! This parable gives us an amazing illustration of God’s grace. Bottom line, we should focus on the gifts God gives us. It’s easy to look at what we don’t have, but when we really get down to it, we’ve received a lot more than we can ever earn or deserve.
As we start 2010, let’s stay focused and in tune with the many blessings God’s put in all of our lives. Continue to pursue your dreams and goals, while at the same time count your blessings!
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