3-1-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Lord Help Me
“The woman came and knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said.” Matthew 15:25
A life lived well requires help from the Lord. Life is like a ship on an open sea: we navigate through calm waters, rough waters, uncertain waters and beautiful waters—but all the time trusting its Creator. The source of our strength must be Christ, or we grow chronically tired. Faith in the Lord triumphs over fear and frustration—this is especially true when someone we love suffers severely and all we can do is lift them up to Jesus.
Indeed, His help happens to those who kneel in humble dependency and cry out to Jesus, “Lord help me!” When the body writhes in pain, we cry for help. When a critical word crushes our spirit, we cry for help. When unanswered questions stalk our mind, we cry for help. When relational conflict emaciates our emotions, we cry for help. Help from heaven gives hope, healing and the energy to push through tough times and trust Him.
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him” (Psalm 28:7).
His help gives joy where laughter has left. His help gives confidence in the middle of crisis. His help gives forgiveness when hurt has severed another’s trust. His help harnesses grace and bridles a toxic tongue. His help reaches to the poorest of the poor, the richest of the rich and everyone in between—with His saving grace in Jesus Christ. His help helps.
How can Jesus help you? Do you need wisdom? Ask Him with a humble heart and He will hear and answer your request. His response may come in the form of godly friends who give you wise advice—so look around and listen intently—for the Lord speaks through those who truly love you. Jesus helps those who humbly seek out and trust wise counsel.
“When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; by paying attention to the wise they get knowledge” (Proverbs 21:11).
Furthermore, who do you know that needs the Lord’s help? Have you on bended knee petitioned Jesus on their behalf? Be bold for their sakes and for the glory of God. Go to Jesus, so someone can get to Jesus' needed healing and forgiveness. Be an advocate for others, as some don’t know what they don’t know—ignorance requires our bold belief on its behalf.
“May the Lord grant that he will find mercy from the Lord on that day” (2 Timothy 1:18a).
What help do I need from the Lord? For whom can I seek help from the Lord on their behalf?
Related Readings: Psalm 30:2, 10; 33:20; Isaiah 41:13-14; Acts 20:35; Hebrews 13:6
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Clear Conscience
2-28-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Clear Conscience
“So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.” Acts 24:16
A clear conscience contributes to a good night’s rest. It is necessary to live at peace with God and man. A clear conscience is not final; rather it is an ongoing work. Therefore, make a conscious effort to keep a clear conscience. It is a test of honesty between God and yourself. Are you being truthful with respect to how you act in comparison to what you say you believe?
If not, there will be a conflict that holds you back from experiencing God and life to its fullest. It is the fruit of a murky conscience. If not cleared up, there may very well be relational, spiritual, emotional, financial, and even physical consequences. There is a high price to pay for an unclear conscience.
What exactly is a clear conscience? A clear conscience means there is nothing between you and God or between you and another person. As best as you know, you have updated your relational account both with God or another person. There are no sins of commission that need to be dealt with, and there are no sins of omission that are outstanding.
Another contributor to conscience clutter can be money. For example, you may be unable to pay your bills. Therefore, you may need to sell your home and use the equity in the house to come clean with your creditors. Rather than drown in debt, sell the house God has given you and thus receive His lifesaver of a clear conscience. Do not fight your own pride and ego. Trust God. Your obedience to what is right will pave the way for something better over the long run.
Moreover, what value can you place on a clear conscience? It is one of the most valued assets you can own next to your salvation and your relational equity with others. So, how can you cultivate a clear conscience? One key contributor to a clear conscience is the confession of and repentance from sin. You are prayed up, confessed up and cleaned up. In other words, no sin is dominating or controlling your life.
This is why accountability is critical. You may be harboring sin and not know it. You may be living in a state of denial. Anger, resentment and bitterness can be masked very well. Left unattended you can spiral down into the depths of depression. This is where a community of caring friends can help you through this time of conscience conflict.
Your wounded heart has never quite been healed by the grace of God. Your forgiveness toward one another is not complete and continual. But, when you slow down enough to be honest with yourself, this unforgiveness eats away at your conscience. Though you were the victim, you have remained a victim. And, even worse, you have become a victimizer.
You will make victims of others unless you break this chain of wounded living. Victims need not stay there in perpetuity. A person with a victim mentality always has something gnawing at their psyche. Their conscience cannot rest because they have not forgiven. Jesus taught profoundly, “Unless you forgive others your father in heaven will not forgive you.”
Forgiveness is the linchpin of a clear conscience. Your own forgiveness and your forgiveness of others are necessary to enjoy a clear conscience. Also, be aware of false guilt. This is a trick of the enemy to bog you down in the mire of self-imposed standards that are either unrealistic or unnecessary. Let your Holy Spirit-controlled conscience be your guide. A conscience that “marinates” in the Spirit’s influence will be free and clear.
Clear Conscience
“So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.” Acts 24:16
A clear conscience contributes to a good night’s rest. It is necessary to live at peace with God and man. A clear conscience is not final; rather it is an ongoing work. Therefore, make a conscious effort to keep a clear conscience. It is a test of honesty between God and yourself. Are you being truthful with respect to how you act in comparison to what you say you believe?
If not, there will be a conflict that holds you back from experiencing God and life to its fullest. It is the fruit of a murky conscience. If not cleared up, there may very well be relational, spiritual, emotional, financial, and even physical consequences. There is a high price to pay for an unclear conscience.
What exactly is a clear conscience? A clear conscience means there is nothing between you and God or between you and another person. As best as you know, you have updated your relational account both with God or another person. There are no sins of commission that need to be dealt with, and there are no sins of omission that are outstanding.
Another contributor to conscience clutter can be money. For example, you may be unable to pay your bills. Therefore, you may need to sell your home and use the equity in the house to come clean with your creditors. Rather than drown in debt, sell the house God has given you and thus receive His lifesaver of a clear conscience. Do not fight your own pride and ego. Trust God. Your obedience to what is right will pave the way for something better over the long run.
Moreover, what value can you place on a clear conscience? It is one of the most valued assets you can own next to your salvation and your relational equity with others. So, how can you cultivate a clear conscience? One key contributor to a clear conscience is the confession of and repentance from sin. You are prayed up, confessed up and cleaned up. In other words, no sin is dominating or controlling your life.
This is why accountability is critical. You may be harboring sin and not know it. You may be living in a state of denial. Anger, resentment and bitterness can be masked very well. Left unattended you can spiral down into the depths of depression. This is where a community of caring friends can help you through this time of conscience conflict.
Your wounded heart has never quite been healed by the grace of God. Your forgiveness toward one another is not complete and continual. But, when you slow down enough to be honest with yourself, this unforgiveness eats away at your conscience. Though you were the victim, you have remained a victim. And, even worse, you have become a victimizer.
You will make victims of others unless you break this chain of wounded living. Victims need not stay there in perpetuity. A person with a victim mentality always has something gnawing at their psyche. Their conscience cannot rest because they have not forgiven. Jesus taught profoundly, “Unless you forgive others your father in heaven will not forgive you.”
Forgiveness is the linchpin of a clear conscience. Your own forgiveness and your forgiveness of others are necessary to enjoy a clear conscience. Also, be aware of false guilt. This is a trick of the enemy to bog you down in the mire of self-imposed standards that are either unrealistic or unnecessary. Let your Holy Spirit-controlled conscience be your guide. A conscience that “marinates” in the Spirit’s influence will be free and clear.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Priority Living
2-25-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Priority Living
“Now this is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘Give careful thought to your ways.’ Haggai 1:5
Priority living is based on what God deems is necessary and important. He deserves our very best. Followers of Christ are honored to not give the Lord leftovers, but the first fruits. First fruit giving and living means Jesus receives the best of everything about us. We give Him the best of our time and money. Priority living is defining priorities as God defines them and then planning our actions, goals and living around these priorities.
Without intentionally living out God’s priorities, we default to reactionary living. Whatever comes our way then becomes our default for living. This may take less thinking and praying, but it is no way to honor the Lord. Priority living asks the question, “Am I defining priorities as God defines priorities and am I living these out for His glory?” Once His priorities are defined the goal is to execute His priorities for His glory.
Priority living is prayerful living. It is aligning with God’s heart the best you know how and then trusting Him with your time and money. Priority living is giving God first and foremost what He deserves and expects from His children. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).
Kingdom living is priority living. The priorities of God’s Kingdom are clearly stated. The greatest commands are to love Him and to love people (Matthew 22:38-39). Loving God is priority. You spend time with whom you love. It is seeking God’s face daily to love and to be loved. It is sending up quick prayers throughout the day as a reminder to ourselves that He is in control and we are not. Indeed, loving God is obeying God. He says, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). Obedience is God’s love language.
Loving God also requires listening to God. You listen to whom you love and respect. God has a lot to say. He is all knowing and all wise. Thus, it is of course very, very worthwhile to listen to your heavenly Father. What is He saying to you through a specific Scripture passage? A soiled Bible facilitates a clean heart, so harvest His priorities from His word. Priorities for you may vary from the priorities for someone else. Your age and stage of life demand a different focus. Be adaptable and nimble to reprioritize as needed.
Priority living not only involves loving God, it involves loving people. Our motive is to love them to Jesus. Like Andrew with Peter (John 1:40-42), if we can get them to Jesus He can handle their needs and wants. Therefore, love takes time. It is an investment. People do not change overnight. We are called to make disciples and disciple making is best implemented in an environment of loving patience. People are a priority. What a privilege and compelling calling it is to love God and to love people. This is priority living!
What are the Lord’s top priorities for my life?
Related Readings: Psalm 86:12; Matthew 7:12: Philippians 4:8; 1 Peter 2:12
Priority Living
“Now this is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘Give careful thought to your ways.’ Haggai 1:5
Priority living is based on what God deems is necessary and important. He deserves our very best. Followers of Christ are honored to not give the Lord leftovers, but the first fruits. First fruit giving and living means Jesus receives the best of everything about us. We give Him the best of our time and money. Priority living is defining priorities as God defines them and then planning our actions, goals and living around these priorities.
Without intentionally living out God’s priorities, we default to reactionary living. Whatever comes our way then becomes our default for living. This may take less thinking and praying, but it is no way to honor the Lord. Priority living asks the question, “Am I defining priorities as God defines priorities and am I living these out for His glory?” Once His priorities are defined the goal is to execute His priorities for His glory.
Priority living is prayerful living. It is aligning with God’s heart the best you know how and then trusting Him with your time and money. Priority living is giving God first and foremost what He deserves and expects from His children. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).
Kingdom living is priority living. The priorities of God’s Kingdom are clearly stated. The greatest commands are to love Him and to love people (Matthew 22:38-39). Loving God is priority. You spend time with whom you love. It is seeking God’s face daily to love and to be loved. It is sending up quick prayers throughout the day as a reminder to ourselves that He is in control and we are not. Indeed, loving God is obeying God. He says, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). Obedience is God’s love language.
Loving God also requires listening to God. You listen to whom you love and respect. God has a lot to say. He is all knowing and all wise. Thus, it is of course very, very worthwhile to listen to your heavenly Father. What is He saying to you through a specific Scripture passage? A soiled Bible facilitates a clean heart, so harvest His priorities from His word. Priorities for you may vary from the priorities for someone else. Your age and stage of life demand a different focus. Be adaptable and nimble to reprioritize as needed.
Priority living not only involves loving God, it involves loving people. Our motive is to love them to Jesus. Like Andrew with Peter (John 1:40-42), if we can get them to Jesus He can handle their needs and wants. Therefore, love takes time. It is an investment. People do not change overnight. We are called to make disciples and disciple making is best implemented in an environment of loving patience. People are a priority. What a privilege and compelling calling it is to love God and to love people. This is priority living!
What are the Lord’s top priorities for my life?
Related Readings: Psalm 86:12; Matthew 7:12: Philippians 4:8; 1 Peter 2:12
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Inspect What's Expected
2-24-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Inspect What’s Expected
“Moses inspected the work and saw that they had done it just as the LORD had commanded. So Moses blessed them.” Exodus 39:43
Excellent work requires regular inspection. We all do better when others are watching, especially when it’s the Lord and those we respect. Work is an expression of the worker, so it’s imperative the work is intentional and with integrity. If we resist someone looking over our shoulder to verify our efforts then we miss out on our much needed accountability.
Do you have clarity in what’s expected of you in your role at work? If not, seek out your supervisor and confirm his or her expectations and make sure they align with your understanding. Like a team sport, you want to make sure you are both playing the same game and executing the same plays. Excellent execution requires alignment of expectations. Be grateful you have a boss who cares to look closely at what you do.
“Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds” (Proverbs 27:23).
Do you serve in a position of authority at work or home? Perhaps you supervise a small team at work, maybe you are a sole proprietor with only an assistant or you are responsible at home to oversee the domestic duties. If you are a supervisor—do you lovingly supervise? A responsible manager takes time to instruct the team members in expected outcomes, define the process and then oversees the systematic implementation.
Organizations undisciplined in follow-up and follow through find themselves missing deadlines with inferior results. Wise are the men and women who up front understand and embrace the plan and who regularly give a status report in their area of expertise. These are the conscientious ones who steward well their responsibilities at work.
Is your home in disarray or is there a well-defined structure around who is responsible for what chores? Maybe you start with the husband proactively caring for the outside needs and for all of the house maintenance, while the wife manages the inside tasks. Engage the children to keep their room clean and organized, while helping dad and mom. Review regularly who is responsible for what and reward good results done with a good attitude.
Above all ask, “What are the Lord’s expectations?” It’s an attractive attitude at work and home that flows from a faith that first seeks to follow Christ’s instructions. Make sure you lay your work before the Lord at His altar of excellence. Is He pleased with your productivity? Are you supervising His resources and relationships as His wise steward?
“The Lord answered, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns” (Luke 12:42-43).
Related Readings: Genesis 43:16; Luke 16: 1-14; Hebrews 2:1; 1 Peter 4:10
Inspect What’s Expected
“Moses inspected the work and saw that they had done it just as the LORD had commanded. So Moses blessed them.” Exodus 39:43
Excellent work requires regular inspection. We all do better when others are watching, especially when it’s the Lord and those we respect. Work is an expression of the worker, so it’s imperative the work is intentional and with integrity. If we resist someone looking over our shoulder to verify our efforts then we miss out on our much needed accountability.
Do you have clarity in what’s expected of you in your role at work? If not, seek out your supervisor and confirm his or her expectations and make sure they align with your understanding. Like a team sport, you want to make sure you are both playing the same game and executing the same plays. Excellent execution requires alignment of expectations. Be grateful you have a boss who cares to look closely at what you do.
“Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds” (Proverbs 27:23).
Do you serve in a position of authority at work or home? Perhaps you supervise a small team at work, maybe you are a sole proprietor with only an assistant or you are responsible at home to oversee the domestic duties. If you are a supervisor—do you lovingly supervise? A responsible manager takes time to instruct the team members in expected outcomes, define the process and then oversees the systematic implementation.
Organizations undisciplined in follow-up and follow through find themselves missing deadlines with inferior results. Wise are the men and women who up front understand and embrace the plan and who regularly give a status report in their area of expertise. These are the conscientious ones who steward well their responsibilities at work.
Is your home in disarray or is there a well-defined structure around who is responsible for what chores? Maybe you start with the husband proactively caring for the outside needs and for all of the house maintenance, while the wife manages the inside tasks. Engage the children to keep their room clean and organized, while helping dad and mom. Review regularly who is responsible for what and reward good results done with a good attitude.
Above all ask, “What are the Lord’s expectations?” It’s an attractive attitude at work and home that flows from a faith that first seeks to follow Christ’s instructions. Make sure you lay your work before the Lord at His altar of excellence. Is He pleased with your productivity? Are you supervising His resources and relationships as His wise steward?
“The Lord answered, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns” (Luke 12:42-43).
Related Readings: Genesis 43:16; Luke 16: 1-14; Hebrews 2:1; 1 Peter 4:10
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Support Weary Servants
2-23-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Support Weary Servants
“When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset.” Exodus 17:12
When people grow tired they need the support of sensitive friends. Their fatigue may flow from trials and tribulations that are out of their control. They may be worn down over ongoing financial challenges. A rebellious child finds them spent emotionally or a newborn keeps them in a chronic state of physical exhaustion. Who do you know that is overwhelmingly tired? Who needs your hands on support? Indeed, fatigue weakens faith.
When we extend a little bit of encouragement, it may be a lifeline that leads someone to the Lord. Well-timed encouragement is eternal medicine for a suffering soul. Each day life extracts courage from a hurting heart, so we need to be present to give courage with a kind word, a little cash or a faith-filled prayer. Few complain of too much loving support.
“He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:10-11).
A fatigued faith especially needs spiritual encouragement. Maybe a friend or family member is fighting doubt in God, or they have accumulated the world’s wealth, but find their soul bankrupted in unbelief. When life circumstances converge to crush worldly illusions, people become open to heavenly solutions. Your prayers strengthen a tired soul’s fragile faith. Your support gives hope for another to hold out for heaven’s help.
How do we support someone who resists assistance? First, don’t give up on them. A stubborn heart does not easily accept help, but pain incubates a humble heart. Stay close by and the wounded one will eventually reach out for help. If you are the one in need of help, be honest with yourself and others—humbly and gratefully accept acceptance.
Brilliant billboards of belief are saints who unselfishly support one another. A caring Christian community mutes a cynic’s sneer. A church that binds up the brokenhearted, cares for orphans and widows, and provides for the poor and needy compels others to Christ. When did you last call your Pastor and thank him for his labor of love for the Lord? A tired warrior of Jesus need not burn out for lack of grateful praying friends.
Support one another as Christ’s disciples and lost sinners will long for salvation from Jesus. Generous support is evidence of God at work. So, discern where the Holy Spirit is at work and joyfully join Him. Be a support and receive support all for God’s glory. For some—life support for them, will lead to eternal life in heaven. Support brings salvation.
“These women were helping to support them out of their own means” (Luke 8:3b).
Who needs my support? How can I best support them with the goal of glorifying Jesus?
Related Readings: Romans 11:18; 2 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:18; Hebrews 3:13
Support Weary Servants
“When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset.” Exodus 17:12
When people grow tired they need the support of sensitive friends. Their fatigue may flow from trials and tribulations that are out of their control. They may be worn down over ongoing financial challenges. A rebellious child finds them spent emotionally or a newborn keeps them in a chronic state of physical exhaustion. Who do you know that is overwhelmingly tired? Who needs your hands on support? Indeed, fatigue weakens faith.
When we extend a little bit of encouragement, it may be a lifeline that leads someone to the Lord. Well-timed encouragement is eternal medicine for a suffering soul. Each day life extracts courage from a hurting heart, so we need to be present to give courage with a kind word, a little cash or a faith-filled prayer. Few complain of too much loving support.
“He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:10-11).
A fatigued faith especially needs spiritual encouragement. Maybe a friend or family member is fighting doubt in God, or they have accumulated the world’s wealth, but find their soul bankrupted in unbelief. When life circumstances converge to crush worldly illusions, people become open to heavenly solutions. Your prayers strengthen a tired soul’s fragile faith. Your support gives hope for another to hold out for heaven’s help.
How do we support someone who resists assistance? First, don’t give up on them. A stubborn heart does not easily accept help, but pain incubates a humble heart. Stay close by and the wounded one will eventually reach out for help. If you are the one in need of help, be honest with yourself and others—humbly and gratefully accept acceptance.
Brilliant billboards of belief are saints who unselfishly support one another. A caring Christian community mutes a cynic’s sneer. A church that binds up the brokenhearted, cares for orphans and widows, and provides for the poor and needy compels others to Christ. When did you last call your Pastor and thank him for his labor of love for the Lord? A tired warrior of Jesus need not burn out for lack of grateful praying friends.
Support one another as Christ’s disciples and lost sinners will long for salvation from Jesus. Generous support is evidence of God at work. So, discern where the Holy Spirit is at work and joyfully join Him. Be a support and receive support all for God’s glory. For some—life support for them, will lead to eternal life in heaven. Support brings salvation.
“These women were helping to support them out of their own means” (Luke 8:3b).
Who needs my support? How can I best support them with the goal of glorifying Jesus?
Related Readings: Romans 11:18; 2 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:18; Hebrews 3:13
Monday, February 21, 2011
Source of Presidential Power
2-22-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Source of Presidential Power
“Do you refuse to speak to me?” Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?” Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Luke 19:10-11a
A God blessed nation is built around leaders who understand their roles as wise stewards of God’s resources. Our country rose in global influence because of this, and will decline without it. Leadership cannot dismiss its responsibility to lead by the rules of God’s laws, and knowing they are all accountable to Almighty God. The Lord gives leaders power to fulfill His agenda.
Leadership is a stewardship given by God. This is true on a micro level in the home, and on the macro level in government. A Councilman, Mayor, State Legislator, Governor, Congressman, Supreme Court Justice, and President all eventually answer to Almighty God. It is the fear of the Lord, and respect for His commands that lead leaders to become great. Humility, honesty, and submission to holy God allows governments to govern well.
“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
However it is a two-way street, as accountability to the Almighty also means His people pray for and elect leaders of integrity, who see their leadership as a stewardship to God. Accountability means irresponsible actions have consequences that either facilitate improvement, or a transition out. Therefore, pray for leaders who themselves pray, and who lead by principles and conviction, not convenience or expedience.
Elect leaders, who will steward well today, and plan for and build a better tomorrow. It is a foundation of faith that furthers the influence of homes, governments and nations. The Bible says, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Proverbs 14:34).
How can I better serve my country with prayer, participation and understanding the issues that affect my community and country?
Related Readings: Exodus 3:19-20; Psalm 21:1-7; Acts 13:21-22; 1 Peter 2:13-17
Source of Presidential Power
“Do you refuse to speak to me?” Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?” Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Luke 19:10-11a
A God blessed nation is built around leaders who understand their roles as wise stewards of God’s resources. Our country rose in global influence because of this, and will decline without it. Leadership cannot dismiss its responsibility to lead by the rules of God’s laws, and knowing they are all accountable to Almighty God. The Lord gives leaders power to fulfill His agenda.
Leadership is a stewardship given by God. This is true on a micro level in the home, and on the macro level in government. A Councilman, Mayor, State Legislator, Governor, Congressman, Supreme Court Justice, and President all eventually answer to Almighty God. It is the fear of the Lord, and respect for His commands that lead leaders to become great. Humility, honesty, and submission to holy God allows governments to govern well.
“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
However it is a two-way street, as accountability to the Almighty also means His people pray for and elect leaders of integrity, who see their leadership as a stewardship to God. Accountability means irresponsible actions have consequences that either facilitate improvement, or a transition out. Therefore, pray for leaders who themselves pray, and who lead by principles and conviction, not convenience or expedience.
Elect leaders, who will steward well today, and plan for and build a better tomorrow. It is a foundation of faith that furthers the influence of homes, governments and nations. The Bible says, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Proverbs 14:34).
How can I better serve my country with prayer, participation and understanding the issues that affect my community and country?
Related Readings: Exodus 3:19-20; Psalm 21:1-7; Acts 13:21-22; 1 Peter 2:13-17
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Love Always Protects
2-21-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Love Always Protects
“It always protects... “ 1 Corinthians 13:7
Love always protects. It protects because it loves, and it loves because it protects. Love protects physically; if you love someone, you do not want him or her to suffer bodily harm. You provide for them an environment that protects them from the elements. You shield them from harmful substances that might damage their bodies. You keep them safe by obeying the speed limit and not driving recklessly. You protect them by not endangering their lives with unnecessary risks. If you love someone, you protect them.
Wives love to be protected; it makes them feel valued and cherished. They yearn for physical, financial, and emotional protection. Husbands, when you keep your wife safe and sound, you speak their love language. Your provision of a dependable automobile and a secure home screams love. Because you love your family, you protect them from unwise financial exposure.
For example, you don’t “bet the farm” and place your house at risk. Your temperament might be able to handle high risk, and even thrive on it, but, because you love your family, you do not personally expose them to on-the-edge endeavors. You do not want them to fear being unprotected within an unstable home environment.
Love protects emotionally because it understands the sensitive nature of others. Emotional protection allows children to grow up well-adjusted and loved. Adolescents are vulnerable and tender; they still need the loving protection of their parents. Love prays for the protection of the ones it loves. Pray for their hearts to be protected from the evil one (2 Thessalonians 3:3) and from unwise influences.
Pray for the testimony of those you love to remain unsoiled and fresh in their walk with Christ. Pray for the Holy Spirit to protect well-meaning loved ones from straying away from God’s best in relationships. Furthermore, pray for protection from yourself. If not careful, you can talk yourself into almost anything. Sometimes, you can become your own worst enemy, so pray for protection for yourself, and be accountable.
Lastly, think of ways to protect your friends and work associates. Your wisdom and counsel provides loving protection (Proverbs 4:6). A small, encouraging word may protect peers from over-commitment. Your colleagues may need your permission to say no, just so they can let go. Do not underestimate your actions, for what you do provides protection.
Your model of appropriate behavior with the opposite sex protects you and provides an example of discretion for those you influence (Proverbs 2:11). You love others by creating an environment of protection. Therefore, pray for God’s protection and provide protection. Love always, always protects.
Love Always Protects
“It always protects... “ 1 Corinthians 13:7
Love always protects. It protects because it loves, and it loves because it protects. Love protects physically; if you love someone, you do not want him or her to suffer bodily harm. You provide for them an environment that protects them from the elements. You shield them from harmful substances that might damage their bodies. You keep them safe by obeying the speed limit and not driving recklessly. You protect them by not endangering their lives with unnecessary risks. If you love someone, you protect them.
Wives love to be protected; it makes them feel valued and cherished. They yearn for physical, financial, and emotional protection. Husbands, when you keep your wife safe and sound, you speak their love language. Your provision of a dependable automobile and a secure home screams love. Because you love your family, you protect them from unwise financial exposure.
For example, you don’t “bet the farm” and place your house at risk. Your temperament might be able to handle high risk, and even thrive on it, but, because you love your family, you do not personally expose them to on-the-edge endeavors. You do not want them to fear being unprotected within an unstable home environment.
Love protects emotionally because it understands the sensitive nature of others. Emotional protection allows children to grow up well-adjusted and loved. Adolescents are vulnerable and tender; they still need the loving protection of their parents. Love prays for the protection of the ones it loves. Pray for their hearts to be protected from the evil one (2 Thessalonians 3:3) and from unwise influences.
Pray for the testimony of those you love to remain unsoiled and fresh in their walk with Christ. Pray for the Holy Spirit to protect well-meaning loved ones from straying away from God’s best in relationships. Furthermore, pray for protection from yourself. If not careful, you can talk yourself into almost anything. Sometimes, you can become your own worst enemy, so pray for protection for yourself, and be accountable.
Lastly, think of ways to protect your friends and work associates. Your wisdom and counsel provides loving protection (Proverbs 4:6). A small, encouraging word may protect peers from over-commitment. Your colleagues may need your permission to say no, just so they can let go. Do not underestimate your actions, for what you do provides protection.
Your model of appropriate behavior with the opposite sex protects you and provides an example of discretion for those you influence (Proverbs 2:11). You love others by creating an environment of protection. Therefore, pray for God’s protection and provide protection. Love always, always protects.
Friday, February 18, 2011
God's Favor
2-18-2011 by Boyd Bailey
God’s Favor
“When his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned.” Genesis 39:3-4
The Lord’s favor rests on His followers who remain faithful to Him. It is humbling to know that God extends wisdom and grace to those who go hard after Him. Though someone is separated from loved ones by a long distance, the Lord is near by to impart His calming presence. Rest assured Jesus brings success to souls who submit to His will.
Moreover, favor with God leads to favor with man. A heart connection on earth takes place when there has been a heart connection in heaven. People of influence are on the look out for those whom they can trust. It is not a small thing to delegate management and leadership responsibilities—hence those with character are entrusted with more.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much” (Luke 16:10).
Therefore, stay faithful in your responsibilities as a servant leader at work and at home. It’s a joyful attitude in the middle of junk that Jesus blesses. Your boss may be unreasonable, your spouse insensitive, or your child disrespectful, but the Lord and discerning people see your humble heart—and will reward you with respect, rest and responsibility.
What are you to do when God prospers you and your family? What are His eternal expectations? Certainly the Lord looks for His glory to be revealed through a life that reflects praise and thanksgiving. When we smash the idols of materialism, sex and power—and replace them with modest living, love and service—people want to know why. Questions about our “peculiar” lifestyle are meant to point people to Jesus.
“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (1 Peter 2:11-12).
So, instead of seeking the world’s favor—submit to God’s authority—and His favor will follow. Blessings become bountiful in a life that longs to love the Lord and people. Like the moon is a reflection of the sun’s light, be a reflection of the Son’s light—you will illuminate the Lord’s ways to worldly wisdom and to wayward souls. The Lord is on the lookout to extend His blessings on those who fear Him. Trust Jesus and love people.
“The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord” (Acts 11:21).
Am I in a position of humble obedience and trust, so that I can experience the favor of God?
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 28:19; Isaiah 62:3; Luke 1:66; 1 John 2:8-10
God’s Favor
“When his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned.” Genesis 39:3-4
The Lord’s favor rests on His followers who remain faithful to Him. It is humbling to know that God extends wisdom and grace to those who go hard after Him. Though someone is separated from loved ones by a long distance, the Lord is near by to impart His calming presence. Rest assured Jesus brings success to souls who submit to His will.
Moreover, favor with God leads to favor with man. A heart connection on earth takes place when there has been a heart connection in heaven. People of influence are on the look out for those whom they can trust. It is not a small thing to delegate management and leadership responsibilities—hence those with character are entrusted with more.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much” (Luke 16:10).
Therefore, stay faithful in your responsibilities as a servant leader at work and at home. It’s a joyful attitude in the middle of junk that Jesus blesses. Your boss may be unreasonable, your spouse insensitive, or your child disrespectful, but the Lord and discerning people see your humble heart—and will reward you with respect, rest and responsibility.
What are you to do when God prospers you and your family? What are His eternal expectations? Certainly the Lord looks for His glory to be revealed through a life that reflects praise and thanksgiving. When we smash the idols of materialism, sex and power—and replace them with modest living, love and service—people want to know why. Questions about our “peculiar” lifestyle are meant to point people to Jesus.
“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (1 Peter 2:11-12).
So, instead of seeking the world’s favor—submit to God’s authority—and His favor will follow. Blessings become bountiful in a life that longs to love the Lord and people. Like the moon is a reflection of the sun’s light, be a reflection of the Son’s light—you will illuminate the Lord’s ways to worldly wisdom and to wayward souls. The Lord is on the lookout to extend His blessings on those who fear Him. Trust Jesus and love people.
“The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord” (Acts 11:21).
Am I in a position of humble obedience and trust, so that I can experience the favor of God?
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 28:19; Isaiah 62:3; Luke 1:66; 1 John 2:8-10
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Direction From God
2-17-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Direction From God
“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt ready for battle.” Exodus 13:17-18
The Lord’s path for His people is not always a straight line from point A to point B. In His wisdom He may allow us to go through the wilderness, before we arrive at the promise land. He knows preparation precedes the blessing of the destination. He desires that we learn to trust in Him—along the way to where He wants us to go.
It’s when the Lord’s will is a non-linear route that we begin to doubt and wonder why He has led us through a desert experience. However, if life were that easy we could easily take credit for our successes and begin to grow demanding and proud, instead of grateful and humble. Thank the Lord that He has you in a process that requires intense prayer and faith. He knows what’s best to grow your faith, so that you are able to handle His blessings.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Do you find yourself in a wilderness, unsure of your next steps? Are you overcome with doubt and uncertainty? If so, do the next right thing and trust God with the future. Remind yourself of His history of faithfulness to lead you into the very best plan. The timing may not be to your liking, but you can trust the Lord that His timetable is for your best.
If it’s a job transition—let go and let God be in charge—because He is your pilot to navigate your next steps. If it’s relational upheaval—figure God in—and He will figure it out. If you still wallow in anger from past hurt—get over it by God’s grace and forgiveness—and get on with your life. Above all, follow, by faith, your heavenly Father’s gentle leading. Remain in the palm of His protective hand, as you traverse up and down His trusted pathway.
“Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long” (Psalm 25:4-5).
Lastly, make the Bible your roadmap for righteous living. It is in His holy writ that the Lord lays out clear boundaries as you travel through life. The route of His will involves exit ramps to rest, driving at night with limited vision and occasional car wrecks. But throughout your travels in this life keep an eye on eternity’s prize in the person of Jesus Christ. Keep your faith in Jesus for He will never let you down. Get directions from Him.
“Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations” (Revelation 15:3b).
How can I better let go and let God lead me along His best path for my life?
Related Readings: Proverbs 12:28; Isaiah 55:8-9; 64:5; Jeremiah 32:19; Hebrews 3:8
Direction From God
“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt ready for battle.” Exodus 13:17-18
The Lord’s path for His people is not always a straight line from point A to point B. In His wisdom He may allow us to go through the wilderness, before we arrive at the promise land. He knows preparation precedes the blessing of the destination. He desires that we learn to trust in Him—along the way to where He wants us to go.
It’s when the Lord’s will is a non-linear route that we begin to doubt and wonder why He has led us through a desert experience. However, if life were that easy we could easily take credit for our successes and begin to grow demanding and proud, instead of grateful and humble. Thank the Lord that He has you in a process that requires intense prayer and faith. He knows what’s best to grow your faith, so that you are able to handle His blessings.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Do you find yourself in a wilderness, unsure of your next steps? Are you overcome with doubt and uncertainty? If so, do the next right thing and trust God with the future. Remind yourself of His history of faithfulness to lead you into the very best plan. The timing may not be to your liking, but you can trust the Lord that His timetable is for your best.
If it’s a job transition—let go and let God be in charge—because He is your pilot to navigate your next steps. If it’s relational upheaval—figure God in—and He will figure it out. If you still wallow in anger from past hurt—get over it by God’s grace and forgiveness—and get on with your life. Above all, follow, by faith, your heavenly Father’s gentle leading. Remain in the palm of His protective hand, as you traverse up and down His trusted pathway.
“Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long” (Psalm 25:4-5).
Lastly, make the Bible your roadmap for righteous living. It is in His holy writ that the Lord lays out clear boundaries as you travel through life. The route of His will involves exit ramps to rest, driving at night with limited vision and occasional car wrecks. But throughout your travels in this life keep an eye on eternity’s prize in the person of Jesus Christ. Keep your faith in Jesus for He will never let you down. Get directions from Him.
“Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations” (Revelation 15:3b).
How can I better let go and let God lead me along His best path for my life?
Related Readings: Proverbs 12:28; Isaiah 55:8-9; 64:5; Jeremiah 32:19; Hebrews 3:8
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Disconnect To Connect
2-16-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Disconnect to Connect
“After leaving them, he [Jesus] went up on a mountainside to pray.” Mark 6:46
Is your life hurried and full of busyness? If so, consider coming away with Christ in quiet communion. A neglected soul needs the nurturing of a still spot. Like the body needs food, water and sleep—so the soul needs Scripture, prayer and rest. Disconnection from distractions allows for connection with Christ. Be still and know God in deep intimacy.
“He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10).
Stillness positions us to see the Lord with eyes of faith. He longs to love His children with unlimited and unconditional love. A heart loved by heaven, cannot help but love others on earth. When your heavenly Father holds you in His warm embrace, you are able to serve others with care and compassion. God’s grace infuses a hungyr heart for Him.
Indeed, loving relationships happen in the margin of life. It requires trust to disconnect from important activities and then meaningfully connect with Christ and people. Faith facilitates intimacy. For example, let go of uncertainties at work or home and let God bear that burden. Thus, you avoid burn out and have the emotional energy to give at home. Your family needs your full attention, so that they feel like you understand their needs.
“Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you” (Psalm 9:10).
One real temptation is to substitute sitting at the feet of Jesus in silent contemplation with overly active service for Jesus. What is your motivation for doing good deeds? If it is to stroke your ego or relieve past guilt then this self-focused service sets you up to be seen instead of God’s glory. Seek selfless service—then Jesus gets the attention He deserves.
Its service for the Lord that flows out of intimacy with the Lord that gains great rewards in heaven and is the most effective on earth. This grace pace of putting prayer before potential opportunities protects us from running ahead of God in sincere, but unsustainable activity. Slow down, let you soul catch up and then serve with grace filled faith. Jesus is looking for disciples determined to love out of the overflow of His love.
“She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:39, 41-42).
How can I make sure my service for the Lord is motivated by my love for the Lord?
Related Readings: Psalm 28:7; 37:4-6; Matthew 4:1-17; Acts 14:23
Disconnect to Connect
“After leaving them, he [Jesus] went up on a mountainside to pray.” Mark 6:46
Is your life hurried and full of busyness? If so, consider coming away with Christ in quiet communion. A neglected soul needs the nurturing of a still spot. Like the body needs food, water and sleep—so the soul needs Scripture, prayer and rest. Disconnection from distractions allows for connection with Christ. Be still and know God in deep intimacy.
“He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10).
Stillness positions us to see the Lord with eyes of faith. He longs to love His children with unlimited and unconditional love. A heart loved by heaven, cannot help but love others on earth. When your heavenly Father holds you in His warm embrace, you are able to serve others with care and compassion. God’s grace infuses a hungyr heart for Him.
Indeed, loving relationships happen in the margin of life. It requires trust to disconnect from important activities and then meaningfully connect with Christ and people. Faith facilitates intimacy. For example, let go of uncertainties at work or home and let God bear that burden. Thus, you avoid burn out and have the emotional energy to give at home. Your family needs your full attention, so that they feel like you understand their needs.
“Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you” (Psalm 9:10).
One real temptation is to substitute sitting at the feet of Jesus in silent contemplation with overly active service for Jesus. What is your motivation for doing good deeds? If it is to stroke your ego or relieve past guilt then this self-focused service sets you up to be seen instead of God’s glory. Seek selfless service—then Jesus gets the attention He deserves.
Its service for the Lord that flows out of intimacy with the Lord that gains great rewards in heaven and is the most effective on earth. This grace pace of putting prayer before potential opportunities protects us from running ahead of God in sincere, but unsustainable activity. Slow down, let you soul catch up and then serve with grace filled faith. Jesus is looking for disciples determined to love out of the overflow of His love.
“She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:39, 41-42).
How can I make sure my service for the Lord is motivated by my love for the Lord?
Related Readings: Psalm 28:7; 37:4-6; Matthew 4:1-17; Acts 14:23
Monday, February 14, 2011
Appointments For Love
2-15-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Appointments for Love
“Let us go early to the vineyards to see if the vines have budded, if their blossoms have opened, and if the pomegranates are in bloom—there I will give you my love.” Song of Songs 7:12
Many things compete with our marriages. Work competes with our marriages. Children compete with our marriages. Parents compete with our marriages. Money competes with our marriages. Hobbies compete with our marriages. Friends compete with our marriages. Volunteerism competes with our marriages. Our own selfish desires compete with our marriages. Life in general competes with our marriages.
So, it is wise to transform this competition to our marriages, into a compliment to our marriages. When we make marriage a priority, the other important things that clamor for our attention, become secondary and supportive. Marriage is not meant to get the leftovers of our lives. Its vitality will melt in the face of neglect. Yet, if we are intentional with our marriage appointments, it will flourish with freshness and energy.
Indeed, something in our life becomes a priority when it is recognized and embraced by our calendar. A marriage void of calendared appointments is a candidate for indifference with intimacy. Husbands and wives need focused and quantity time with each other. Quality time flows out of quantity time, and is a consequence of a distraction-less environment. Cell phones are silenced, and there is a cease-fire from interruptions. There is a 'fast' from e-mail, so there can be focus on friendship. Co-existing does not create intimacy in marriage, but intentionality toward intimacy does.
Therefore, make an appointment to love your spouse. Pull out your calendars and create a time for just the two of you. The best gift you give to your children, next to faith in God, is a healthy marriage. Make an appointment for emotional love. Make an appointment for physical love. And make an appointment for relational love. Emotional love may be unfiltered listening and learning about the fears and fantasies of the other. Make your spouse feel secure by being trustworthy and respectful. Listen intently to their struggles and disappointments. Emotional love thrives on unconditional care and concern.
Secondly, facilitate physical love. Fatigue and busyness are twin tyrants looming over physical love. However, you can dethrone these tyrants with focused time. Romance one another with a date night. Dress up and smell good, as if it were a grand occasion. Woo each other with the fire and excitement of youth. Yes, physical intimacy needs to be planned and prepared, and any spontaneous rendezvous become dessert to your dates.
Lastly, regularly rejuvenate relational love, as your spouse’s best friend. Enjoy a hobby together. Read a book together. Watch a movie together. Love on each other with written notes and acts of service. It may even be working on a project around the house or planning the finances. Make relational deposits in your marriage and your bank account of intimacy will increase. Above all else, make an appointment to love God, and be loved by God. Your spouse will love you better, if they love Jesus more than they love you.
How can I create a romantic environment my spouse would love and appreciate?
Related Readings: Song of Solomon 1:1-17; 2:14-17; 1 Corinthians 7:3-5
Appointments for Love
“Let us go early to the vineyards to see if the vines have budded, if their blossoms have opened, and if the pomegranates are in bloom—there I will give you my love.” Song of Songs 7:12
Many things compete with our marriages. Work competes with our marriages. Children compete with our marriages. Parents compete with our marriages. Money competes with our marriages. Hobbies compete with our marriages. Friends compete with our marriages. Volunteerism competes with our marriages. Our own selfish desires compete with our marriages. Life in general competes with our marriages.
So, it is wise to transform this competition to our marriages, into a compliment to our marriages. When we make marriage a priority, the other important things that clamor for our attention, become secondary and supportive. Marriage is not meant to get the leftovers of our lives. Its vitality will melt in the face of neglect. Yet, if we are intentional with our marriage appointments, it will flourish with freshness and energy.
Indeed, something in our life becomes a priority when it is recognized and embraced by our calendar. A marriage void of calendared appointments is a candidate for indifference with intimacy. Husbands and wives need focused and quantity time with each other. Quality time flows out of quantity time, and is a consequence of a distraction-less environment. Cell phones are silenced, and there is a cease-fire from interruptions. There is a 'fast' from e-mail, so there can be focus on friendship. Co-existing does not create intimacy in marriage, but intentionality toward intimacy does.
Therefore, make an appointment to love your spouse. Pull out your calendars and create a time for just the two of you. The best gift you give to your children, next to faith in God, is a healthy marriage. Make an appointment for emotional love. Make an appointment for physical love. And make an appointment for relational love. Emotional love may be unfiltered listening and learning about the fears and fantasies of the other. Make your spouse feel secure by being trustworthy and respectful. Listen intently to their struggles and disappointments. Emotional love thrives on unconditional care and concern.
Secondly, facilitate physical love. Fatigue and busyness are twin tyrants looming over physical love. However, you can dethrone these tyrants with focused time. Romance one another with a date night. Dress up and smell good, as if it were a grand occasion. Woo each other with the fire and excitement of youth. Yes, physical intimacy needs to be planned and prepared, and any spontaneous rendezvous become dessert to your dates.
Lastly, regularly rejuvenate relational love, as your spouse’s best friend. Enjoy a hobby together. Read a book together. Watch a movie together. Love on each other with written notes and acts of service. It may even be working on a project around the house or planning the finances. Make relational deposits in your marriage and your bank account of intimacy will increase. Above all else, make an appointment to love God, and be loved by God. Your spouse will love you better, if they love Jesus more than they love you.
How can I create a romantic environment my spouse would love and appreciate?
Related Readings: Song of Solomon 1:1-17; 2:14-17; 1 Corinthians 7:3-5
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Love Is Not Proud
2-14-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Love Is Not Proud
it is not proud… 1 Corinthians 13:4
Love is not proud. Indeed, there is no room for pride in a heart of love. Pride is an anchor to love that restrains its rich offering. It prolongs the inability to love by short-circuiting the effect of agape love. Pride is a precursor to loveless living; it struggles with love because it requires a focus off itself and onto others. Pride is deceptive, as it always negotiates for its own benefit.
There is a driving force behind pride that is unhealthy and unnecessary. Moreover, it is indiscriminate in its seduction of either gender. Men may be the most susceptible to pride’s illusion, but women can be deceived just as well. Eve fell into this trap in her encounter with the devil (1 Timothy 2:14).
Pride’s feeling of superiority slices into the soul like a surgeon’s scalpel. It inserts its influence deep and wide. You can be controlled and wired by pride and not even know it. Love longs to have the same status as power-hungry pride. Love seeks to defuse pride’s time bomb of terror and intimidation. Love outlasts pride if applied humbly and heavily. Love drives pride from a controlling heart and frees it to become trusting.
Instead of demanding its own way, love seeks to make those around it successful. Love listens; pride talks. Love forgives; pride resents. Love gives; pride takes. Love apologizes; pride blames. Love understands; pride assumes. Love accepts; pride rejects. Love trusts; pride doubts. Love asks; pride tells.
Love leads; pride drives. Love frees up; pride binds up. Love builds up; pride tears down. Love encourages; pride discourages. Love confronts; pride is passive-aggressive. Love is peaceful; pride is fearful. Love clarifies with truth; pride confuses with lies. Love and pride are mutually exclusive. Love dies with pride but comes alive with humility.
Most important, humility is a hotbed of love. It has the opposite effect on love than does pride. Humility invites love to take up permanent residence in the human heart. Love covers a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8), and humility understands that love is reserved for everyone. Love forgives even the worst of sinners, as pride struggles in a life of bitterness and resentment, thinking somehow it is paying back the offender.
This state of unresolved anger only eats up the one unable to love and forgive. Furthermore, humility positions you to love and be loved. Humility knows it needs help in the arena of receiving agape love. Your humble heart yearns for love from your Lord Jesus Christ. Once you receive the love of your heavenly Father, you can’t help but dispense it to others hungry for a hug.
As you receive love, you are capable of giving love. Therefore, let the Lord love on you and allow others to love you, so you can, in turn, love. Proud hearts melt under the influence of intense and unconditional love. The calling of Christians is perpetual love; so be guilty of love. Your love is healing and inviting. Pride exits when humility enters, and then you are in a position to love.
Love Is Not Proud
it is not proud… 1 Corinthians 13:4
Love is not proud. Indeed, there is no room for pride in a heart of love. Pride is an anchor to love that restrains its rich offering. It prolongs the inability to love by short-circuiting the effect of agape love. Pride is a precursor to loveless living; it struggles with love because it requires a focus off itself and onto others. Pride is deceptive, as it always negotiates for its own benefit.
There is a driving force behind pride that is unhealthy and unnecessary. Moreover, it is indiscriminate in its seduction of either gender. Men may be the most susceptible to pride’s illusion, but women can be deceived just as well. Eve fell into this trap in her encounter with the devil (1 Timothy 2:14).
Pride’s feeling of superiority slices into the soul like a surgeon’s scalpel. It inserts its influence deep and wide. You can be controlled and wired by pride and not even know it. Love longs to have the same status as power-hungry pride. Love seeks to defuse pride’s time bomb of terror and intimidation. Love outlasts pride if applied humbly and heavily. Love drives pride from a controlling heart and frees it to become trusting.
Instead of demanding its own way, love seeks to make those around it successful. Love listens; pride talks. Love forgives; pride resents. Love gives; pride takes. Love apologizes; pride blames. Love understands; pride assumes. Love accepts; pride rejects. Love trusts; pride doubts. Love asks; pride tells.
Love leads; pride drives. Love frees up; pride binds up. Love builds up; pride tears down. Love encourages; pride discourages. Love confronts; pride is passive-aggressive. Love is peaceful; pride is fearful. Love clarifies with truth; pride confuses with lies. Love and pride are mutually exclusive. Love dies with pride but comes alive with humility.
Most important, humility is a hotbed of love. It has the opposite effect on love than does pride. Humility invites love to take up permanent residence in the human heart. Love covers a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8), and humility understands that love is reserved for everyone. Love forgives even the worst of sinners, as pride struggles in a life of bitterness and resentment, thinking somehow it is paying back the offender.
This state of unresolved anger only eats up the one unable to love and forgive. Furthermore, humility positions you to love and be loved. Humility knows it needs help in the arena of receiving agape love. Your humble heart yearns for love from your Lord Jesus Christ. Once you receive the love of your heavenly Father, you can’t help but dispense it to others hungry for a hug.
As you receive love, you are capable of giving love. Therefore, let the Lord love on you and allow others to love you, so you can, in turn, love. Proud hearts melt under the influence of intense and unconditional love. The calling of Christians is perpetual love; so be guilty of love. Your love is healing and inviting. Pride exits when humility enters, and then you are in a position to love.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Friend of God
2-11-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Friend of God
"And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend." James 2:23
What does it mean to be a friend of God? It's like a child who becomes an adult and begins to relate to their dad or mom like a friend, but they still treat them with honor and respect. So it is with your heavenly Father. In the infant stages of faith you cannot fathom friendship until you mature through the elementary applications of: submission to God, trust in God, obedience to God, fear of God and love of God and people.
Once we relate to our heavenly Father in holy surrender, dependence and belief we are in a position to appreciate engaging Him as a friend. But this friend relationship cannot bypass His Lordship in our lives. Candidates for friendship with God have to first travel down the path of perseverance, brokenness and character development. Friendship comes with a history of faithful service to Jesus; it's not with a flippant attitude but one of awe.
"I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you" (John 15:15). Jesus extends His friendship to His faithful disciples.
Do you enjoy this level of intimacy with Jesus? Is your friendship with Him a healthy mixture of laughter and joy, weeping and grief, encouragement and accountability and confession and forgiveness? Friendship with Jesus means access to grace and truth that's revealed in His word. Your qualification for friendship has the benefits of His blessings.
When you are known as a friend of God-you can be assured you will labeled as an enemy of evil. FOG's cannot be friends with both the world and heaven. There is a fidelity to faith and following the Lord that comes with this friendship. It is an honor and a privilege not to be taken lightly-indeed; it gives us credibility in our Christian life.
"You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God" (James 4:4).
Happy and content are those who can genuinely say they are a friend of God.
Has your faith grown to this level of intimacy and friendship? Your heavenly friendship is best nurtured by humble submission to God. It grows as you relax in His presence and really learn to enjoy being with Him, listening to His heart and learning what it means to be a loving friend. Friends of God look forward to being with and blessed by their best friend.
"Oh, for the days when I was in my prime, when God's intimate friendship blessed my house." (Job 29:4).
Am I intentional in pursing a friendship with my heavenly Father?
Related Readings: Exodus 33:11; 2 Chronicles 20:7; Luke 5:20, 34; 12:4-5
Friend of God
"And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend." James 2:23
What does it mean to be a friend of God? It's like a child who becomes an adult and begins to relate to their dad or mom like a friend, but they still treat them with honor and respect. So it is with your heavenly Father. In the infant stages of faith you cannot fathom friendship until you mature through the elementary applications of: submission to God, trust in God, obedience to God, fear of God and love of God and people.
Once we relate to our heavenly Father in holy surrender, dependence and belief we are in a position to appreciate engaging Him as a friend. But this friend relationship cannot bypass His Lordship in our lives. Candidates for friendship with God have to first travel down the path of perseverance, brokenness and character development. Friendship comes with a history of faithful service to Jesus; it's not with a flippant attitude but one of awe.
"I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you" (John 15:15). Jesus extends His friendship to His faithful disciples.
Do you enjoy this level of intimacy with Jesus? Is your friendship with Him a healthy mixture of laughter and joy, weeping and grief, encouragement and accountability and confession and forgiveness? Friendship with Jesus means access to grace and truth that's revealed in His word. Your qualification for friendship has the benefits of His blessings.
When you are known as a friend of God-you can be assured you will labeled as an enemy of evil. FOG's cannot be friends with both the world and heaven. There is a fidelity to faith and following the Lord that comes with this friendship. It is an honor and a privilege not to be taken lightly-indeed; it gives us credibility in our Christian life.
"You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God" (James 4:4).
Happy and content are those who can genuinely say they are a friend of God.
Has your faith grown to this level of intimacy and friendship? Your heavenly friendship is best nurtured by humble submission to God. It grows as you relax in His presence and really learn to enjoy being with Him, listening to His heart and learning what it means to be a loving friend. Friends of God look forward to being with and blessed by their best friend.
"Oh, for the days when I was in my prime, when God's intimate friendship blessed my house." (Job 29:4).
Am I intentional in pursing a friendship with my heavenly Father?
Related Readings: Exodus 33:11; 2 Chronicles 20:7; Luke 5:20, 34; 12:4-5
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Faith Living
2-10-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Faith Living.
"For we live by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7
Faith living is focused on God living. It is the road less traveled. Even for believers in Jesus Christ, faith living is not always predominant. Why settle for anything less? If we limit ourselves to our efforts, our logic, and what we can see, then we only tip God with our faith. He is calling us beyond the honeymoon stage of our faith to mature faith. A faith that only thinks of the past is anemic and stunted. Faith alive is focused on God's vision for the future. It is caught up in the possibilities of today with no fear of tomorrow.
"By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." (Hebrews 11:8)
Faith living enjoys God's ability to create. For example, He can create resourceful relational opportunities, as He is the connector par excellent. By faith He can be trusted to lead you to just the right people. People whom you can serve and people who can join you to accomplish God's will. Determine ways to bring value to the other person. It is not about what you can get from them. It is all about how you can serve them.
Moreover, faith living is not irresponsible living. This is not some blind excursion that ignores the needs of your spouse and children. It is wrought with prayer and godly advice. This implies that faith living is not lived in a vacuum. It is living in concert with those around you. Abraham went by faith to a new country and cared for his family.
"By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise" (Hebrews 11:9).
Yes, it requires sacrifice and service, but not in the guise of unwise decision-making. Faith living trusts God's timing. It does not rush into battle without weapons or a plan. You trust God to prepare you and provide for you the needed resources to carry out his will. You are no match for Satan without the weapons of spiritual warfare.
Furthermore, trust the Lord with how He has gifted you. Your part is to become more self aware of your strengths and weaknesses. Allow God and others to leverage your strengths and shore up your weaknesses. Be who God created you to be and come alive in Christ. Pursue Him, live by faith and execute His will. Live by faith and not by sight. Faith living is the only way to live for God. You are not really alive until you live by faith in Jesus!
How can I better position my life to live by faith and not by sight?
Related Readings: Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 1:17; Galatians 2:20; 3:11; Hebrews
10:38
Faith Living.
"For we live by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7
Faith living is focused on God living. It is the road less traveled. Even for believers in Jesus Christ, faith living is not always predominant. Why settle for anything less? If we limit ourselves to our efforts, our logic, and what we can see, then we only tip God with our faith. He is calling us beyond the honeymoon stage of our faith to mature faith. A faith that only thinks of the past is anemic and stunted. Faith alive is focused on God's vision for the future. It is caught up in the possibilities of today with no fear of tomorrow.
"By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." (Hebrews 11:8)
Faith living enjoys God's ability to create. For example, He can create resourceful relational opportunities, as He is the connector par excellent. By faith He can be trusted to lead you to just the right people. People whom you can serve and people who can join you to accomplish God's will. Determine ways to bring value to the other person. It is not about what you can get from them. It is all about how you can serve them.
Moreover, faith living is not irresponsible living. This is not some blind excursion that ignores the needs of your spouse and children. It is wrought with prayer and godly advice. This implies that faith living is not lived in a vacuum. It is living in concert with those around you. Abraham went by faith to a new country and cared for his family.
"By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise" (Hebrews 11:9).
Yes, it requires sacrifice and service, but not in the guise of unwise decision-making. Faith living trusts God's timing. It does not rush into battle without weapons or a plan. You trust God to prepare you and provide for you the needed resources to carry out his will. You are no match for Satan without the weapons of spiritual warfare.
Furthermore, trust the Lord with how He has gifted you. Your part is to become more self aware of your strengths and weaknesses. Allow God and others to leverage your strengths and shore up your weaknesses. Be who God created you to be and come alive in Christ. Pursue Him, live by faith and execute His will. Live by faith and not by sight. Faith living is the only way to live for God. You are not really alive until you live by faith in Jesus!
How can I better position my life to live by faith and not by sight?
Related Readings: Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 1:17; Galatians 2:20; 3:11; Hebrews
10:38
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Share God Stories
2-9-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Share God Stories
“When they [Paul and Barnabas] came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and elders, to whom they reported everything God had done through them.” Acts 15:4
Can a follower of Jesus contain the great works God does in and through them? Or, are they compelled to communicate Christ’s faithfulness, forgiveness, healing, answered prayers and salvation stories? Joy and gratitude to God cannot be contained in a life surrendered to the Lord. God waits for His works to be openly shared for His glory.
The grace of God causes a man or woman to glow under its influence. Discerning Christians look a soul captivated by Christ and they know they have been with Jesus. So, we humbly tell of how the Lord is meeting financial needs, delivering a friend from addiction, growing disciples and how He healed a fractured family relationship.
“Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds” (Psalm 71:17). A soul might explode, unless it shares about God’s faithfulness.
We are too sophisticated in our faith when we are shy and silent about God’s great work. We celebrate and communicate earthly accomplishments, why not do the same over highlights from heaven? Even man’s endeavors have been bountiful blessed by the Lord. Everything good you experience finds its roots in the righteous acts of the Almighty.
Therefore—give your friends and when appropriate acquaintances and strangers—the gift of a God story, but be careful to keep Christ the central character. After all, it’s all about Him and not you. Godly people celebrate His work in your life and seekers are curious to hear what Christ can do for them. God stories fill hearts with faith and thankful praise.
Lastly, do not limit the atonement of Christ to a select people group. God’s grace transcends all tribes, nations and cultures. Shortsighted is the soul that only sees people like themselves come to know the Lord. We share God stories globally, because our Lord longs for all nations to hear of His faithfulness. His story brings glory and honor to Him.
“Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods” (1 Chronicles 16:23-25).
What story of the Lord’s faithfulness can I share today for His glory?
Related Readings: Job 37:5; Psalm 86:10; Matthew 21:42; Acts 15:12
Share God Stories
“When they [Paul and Barnabas] came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and elders, to whom they reported everything God had done through them.” Acts 15:4
Can a follower of Jesus contain the great works God does in and through them? Or, are they compelled to communicate Christ’s faithfulness, forgiveness, healing, answered prayers and salvation stories? Joy and gratitude to God cannot be contained in a life surrendered to the Lord. God waits for His works to be openly shared for His glory.
The grace of God causes a man or woman to glow under its influence. Discerning Christians look a soul captivated by Christ and they know they have been with Jesus. So, we humbly tell of how the Lord is meeting financial needs, delivering a friend from addiction, growing disciples and how He healed a fractured family relationship.
“Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds” (Psalm 71:17). A soul might explode, unless it shares about God’s faithfulness.
We are too sophisticated in our faith when we are shy and silent about God’s great work. We celebrate and communicate earthly accomplishments, why not do the same over highlights from heaven? Even man’s endeavors have been bountiful blessed by the Lord. Everything good you experience finds its roots in the righteous acts of the Almighty.
Therefore—give your friends and when appropriate acquaintances and strangers—the gift of a God story, but be careful to keep Christ the central character. After all, it’s all about Him and not you. Godly people celebrate His work in your life and seekers are curious to hear what Christ can do for them. God stories fill hearts with faith and thankful praise.
Lastly, do not limit the atonement of Christ to a select people group. God’s grace transcends all tribes, nations and cultures. Shortsighted is the soul that only sees people like themselves come to know the Lord. We share God stories globally, because our Lord longs for all nations to hear of His faithfulness. His story brings glory and honor to Him.
“Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods” (1 Chronicles 16:23-25).
What story of the Lord’s faithfulness can I share today for His glory?
Related Readings: Job 37:5; Psalm 86:10; Matthew 21:42; Acts 15:12
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
God Is Good
2-8-2011 by Boyd Bailey
God is Good
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him…” Nahum 1:7
God is good. He is good when times are bad. He is good all the time. Do not relegate God to the bad side of the ledger, just because you are experiencing bad events. Focus on the goodness of God, for He is good. His goodness is a refuge for you in times of trouble. Your security is in the safe environment His goodness provides.
God’s goodness is the standard by which people act good. No person’s goodness exceeds God’s goodness. Your goodness is but a reflection of His, because apart from the Lord there resides in us no good thing. “I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing” (Psalm 16:2). His goodness is foundational for all goodness.
Thus, Christ's dwelling in you, by faith, allows the goodness of God to flourish. It is one of the wonders of grace. Indeed, faith in Jesus unleashes the goodness of God in your life. Good works without the goodness of God are just good works for the temporal. But, good works, motivated by the goodness of God, reap eternal benefits. The Lord is good.
People receive food, shelter, clothing, a job and forgiveness. This is the beauty of God’s goodness. He cares for those who trust in Him. Earthly goodness is fleeting. It is here today and gone tomorrow, but heavenly goodness is eternal. You can always depend on the goodness of God. Your trust in Him guarantees His care—His godly goodness.
However, God’s goodness does not preclude His judgment. Rather it demands it—because God is good—He must judge that which is bad. In Christ—its all good—but when sin enters the equation, bad inflicts its evil influence. Evil inebriates people with bad behavior. Corrupt men and women are not conscious of the goodness of God. An insomnia of righteousness drives them to sin, as demons sear the conscience of the ungodly.
“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron” (1 Timothy 4:1-2).
Furthermore, do not be stunned or disillusioned when bad things happen to good people. God rains on the just and the unjust. His judgment does not always discriminate between the good and the bad. He wants our attention. He wants a loving and growing relationship with His creation for His glory and goodness sake. His people are good because He is good. Rejoice for He can be trusted and the goodness of God cares for His children!
“May your priests, LORD God, be clothed with salvation, may your faithful people rejoice in your goodness” (2 Chronicles 6:41b).
Do I exhibit joy, trust and gratitude for the goodness of God?
Related Readings: Luke 16:25; Hebrews 6:4-6; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; Titus 1:1
God is Good
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him…” Nahum 1:7
God is good. He is good when times are bad. He is good all the time. Do not relegate God to the bad side of the ledger, just because you are experiencing bad events. Focus on the goodness of God, for He is good. His goodness is a refuge for you in times of trouble. Your security is in the safe environment His goodness provides.
God’s goodness is the standard by which people act good. No person’s goodness exceeds God’s goodness. Your goodness is but a reflection of His, because apart from the Lord there resides in us no good thing. “I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing” (Psalm 16:2). His goodness is foundational for all goodness.
Thus, Christ's dwelling in you, by faith, allows the goodness of God to flourish. It is one of the wonders of grace. Indeed, faith in Jesus unleashes the goodness of God in your life. Good works without the goodness of God are just good works for the temporal. But, good works, motivated by the goodness of God, reap eternal benefits. The Lord is good.
People receive food, shelter, clothing, a job and forgiveness. This is the beauty of God’s goodness. He cares for those who trust in Him. Earthly goodness is fleeting. It is here today and gone tomorrow, but heavenly goodness is eternal. You can always depend on the goodness of God. Your trust in Him guarantees His care—His godly goodness.
However, God’s goodness does not preclude His judgment. Rather it demands it—because God is good—He must judge that which is bad. In Christ—its all good—but when sin enters the equation, bad inflicts its evil influence. Evil inebriates people with bad behavior. Corrupt men and women are not conscious of the goodness of God. An insomnia of righteousness drives them to sin, as demons sear the conscience of the ungodly.
“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron” (1 Timothy 4:1-2).
Furthermore, do not be stunned or disillusioned when bad things happen to good people. God rains on the just and the unjust. His judgment does not always discriminate between the good and the bad. He wants our attention. He wants a loving and growing relationship with His creation for His glory and goodness sake. His people are good because He is good. Rejoice for He can be trusted and the goodness of God cares for His children!
“May your priests, LORD God, be clothed with salvation, may your faithful people rejoice in your goodness” (2 Chronicles 6:41b).
Do I exhibit joy, trust and gratitude for the goodness of God?
Related Readings: Luke 16:25; Hebrews 6:4-6; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; Titus 1:1
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Faith Versus Fear
2-7-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Faith Versus Fear
“When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me? Psalm 56:3-4
Fear is a formidable foe of faith. It lurks about, looking for ways to lead us into distrust of our Lord. Fear is subtle with its sneak attacks on our attitudes and is bold in its frontal barrage on our beliefs. Fear always fights back, even when we extinguish it for a time with our total trust in God. And it doesn’t let up until we get to heaven.
Fear is like fire ants. You can eliminate their unholy mound with a baby powder-like deterrent, but they regroup and rebuild nearby. Trust in the Lord is the terminator of fear, but fear seems to recreate itself with whatever appendage of doubt is left. It grows within the next uncertain circumstance that comes our way.
Fear thinks it has us in check on the chessboard of our life, but the truth is that Jesus has checkmated fear on the cross. Now it is up to us to appropriate His triumph by trusting in God. There are many times when we are in transition from fear to faith. It’s in the transition of trust in God that our cares co-mingle with Christ’s care.
There is a holy tension that transpires in our transition to trust in our Lord. It is in this dawn of trust that light gradually overcomes darkness. Faith dissolves doubts as the sun drives away the mist. Your mind may be a little murky, but you renew your thinking (Romans 12:2) with the truth that God is ever present. Your confidence may be crumbling, but you keep your eyes on your Savior. Your prayers may be clumsy, but you still cling to Christ.
Your relationships may be wavering, but you rely on the Lord. Use this transition from fear to faith to grow your mercy and compassion for others. Indeed, doubting can drive us to God, and it grows us into more patient and humble human beings. It strengthens our trust and makes us hold faster to heaven. Our hope trusts in Him in this transition from fear to faith.
Moreover, mortal man has not made a permanent impression on the saints of God. Immortal and Almighty God is your new insignia. Embedded on the coins of your character is the faith-filled inscription, “In God I Trust.” Followers of Jesus have the eternal seal of their Savior on their newfound identity (Ephesians 4:30).
Do not allow the patterns of your old life to feed any fading fears in your new one (Romans 6:6). The fears of your proud past have been replaced with faith, love, and hope in your humble here and now. Faith has banished fear. Therefore, you can continually celebrate. Praise points you to Providence. After all, it’s all about Him.
This is why faith brings forth praise. When you trust, you can’t help but sing from your soul. Indeed, faith in the Lord facilitates praise and is a product of praise. It is in our praise of God that our fears fade and our faith flourishes. So praise Him, trust Him, and fear no one. No one can take from you what you have already given to Him. Faith is a fear-killer; it overcomes.
Faith Versus Fear
“When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me? Psalm 56:3-4
Fear is a formidable foe of faith. It lurks about, looking for ways to lead us into distrust of our Lord. Fear is subtle with its sneak attacks on our attitudes and is bold in its frontal barrage on our beliefs. Fear always fights back, even when we extinguish it for a time with our total trust in God. And it doesn’t let up until we get to heaven.
Fear is like fire ants. You can eliminate their unholy mound with a baby powder-like deterrent, but they regroup and rebuild nearby. Trust in the Lord is the terminator of fear, but fear seems to recreate itself with whatever appendage of doubt is left. It grows within the next uncertain circumstance that comes our way.
Fear thinks it has us in check on the chessboard of our life, but the truth is that Jesus has checkmated fear on the cross. Now it is up to us to appropriate His triumph by trusting in God. There are many times when we are in transition from fear to faith. It’s in the transition of trust in God that our cares co-mingle with Christ’s care.
There is a holy tension that transpires in our transition to trust in our Lord. It is in this dawn of trust that light gradually overcomes darkness. Faith dissolves doubts as the sun drives away the mist. Your mind may be a little murky, but you renew your thinking (Romans 12:2) with the truth that God is ever present. Your confidence may be crumbling, but you keep your eyes on your Savior. Your prayers may be clumsy, but you still cling to Christ.
Your relationships may be wavering, but you rely on the Lord. Use this transition from fear to faith to grow your mercy and compassion for others. Indeed, doubting can drive us to God, and it grows us into more patient and humble human beings. It strengthens our trust and makes us hold faster to heaven. Our hope trusts in Him in this transition from fear to faith.
Moreover, mortal man has not made a permanent impression on the saints of God. Immortal and Almighty God is your new insignia. Embedded on the coins of your character is the faith-filled inscription, “In God I Trust.” Followers of Jesus have the eternal seal of their Savior on their newfound identity (Ephesians 4:30).
Do not allow the patterns of your old life to feed any fading fears in your new one (Romans 6:6). The fears of your proud past have been replaced with faith, love, and hope in your humble here and now. Faith has banished fear. Therefore, you can continually celebrate. Praise points you to Providence. After all, it’s all about Him.
This is why faith brings forth praise. When you trust, you can’t help but sing from your soul. Indeed, faith in the Lord facilitates praise and is a product of praise. It is in our praise of God that our fears fade and our faith flourishes. So praise Him, trust Him, and fear no one. No one can take from you what you have already given to Him. Faith is a fear-killer; it overcomes.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Unholy Accolades
2-4-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Unholy Accolades
“Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.” Luke 6:26
Authentic teachers and preachers of the Bible will have some who disagree with, or even dismiss their proclamations of truth. If a spokes person for the Lord is not criticized by some, there is a need to worry that they are watering down God’s word. Churches are not created to make everyone feel good, but to lead them to faith in Christ and holy living.
Furthermore, it is important how the messenger delivers the message, not with a holier-than-thou disposition, but in a spirit of compassion and humble boldness. Followers of Jesus are not out to intentionally offend and attack those who embrace untruth or a worldly way of living. Instead, we are to speak the truth in love and trust God with how the people respond. Do not be shy about your convictions, but do so with godly grace.
Has a vocal minority unfairly criticized your stand on marriage? Do some of your family members think you are strange because of the way you raise your children in Christ? Have some labeled you at work as a narrow minded Christian? If so, do not be ashamed that some do not speak well of you, sometimes we are best known by our enemies.
“So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God” (2 Timothy 1:8).
Enemies of the cross are enemies of those who daily bear their cross for Christ’s sake. But we must engage the enemy in prayer and through spiritual warfare. The war is not won in the headline of a newspaper or in a debate on national television—the war is won as followers of Jesus flood heaven with faithful petitions and engage people with loving truth. The goal is not to win an argument, but to live a life worthy of the gospel.
“For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ” (Philippians 3:18).
Have you compromised the Lord’s standards because of pressure from someone you want to please? If so, dismiss the praise and applause of people and seek accolades from Almighty God. It is easy to stand on principle when everyone is happy, but the true test of your convictions in Christ come when people are not happy with your righteous acts.
Do not go looking for trouble—but when it arrives—look it firmly in the face by faith and speak the truth. Some will sneer, some will seethe in anger, some will slander, but Jesus will smile. Followers of Jesus who are different—make the most difference. An attractive life full of Christ’s character is counter-cultural, but points people to Him.
“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God” (2 Corinthians 2:14-17).
Am I timid to tell the truth? How can I turn my shyness about Jesus into a bold display?
Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 6:34-35; Jeremiah 14:14; Matthew 7:15; 1 Peter 4:2-4
Unholy Accolades
“Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.” Luke 6:26
Authentic teachers and preachers of the Bible will have some who disagree with, or even dismiss their proclamations of truth. If a spokes person for the Lord is not criticized by some, there is a need to worry that they are watering down God’s word. Churches are not created to make everyone feel good, but to lead them to faith in Christ and holy living.
Furthermore, it is important how the messenger delivers the message, not with a holier-than-thou disposition, but in a spirit of compassion and humble boldness. Followers of Jesus are not out to intentionally offend and attack those who embrace untruth or a worldly way of living. Instead, we are to speak the truth in love and trust God with how the people respond. Do not be shy about your convictions, but do so with godly grace.
Has a vocal minority unfairly criticized your stand on marriage? Do some of your family members think you are strange because of the way you raise your children in Christ? Have some labeled you at work as a narrow minded Christian? If so, do not be ashamed that some do not speak well of you, sometimes we are best known by our enemies.
“So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God” (2 Timothy 1:8).
Enemies of the cross are enemies of those who daily bear their cross for Christ’s sake. But we must engage the enemy in prayer and through spiritual warfare. The war is not won in the headline of a newspaper or in a debate on national television—the war is won as followers of Jesus flood heaven with faithful petitions and engage people with loving truth. The goal is not to win an argument, but to live a life worthy of the gospel.
“For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ” (Philippians 3:18).
Have you compromised the Lord’s standards because of pressure from someone you want to please? If so, dismiss the praise and applause of people and seek accolades from Almighty God. It is easy to stand on principle when everyone is happy, but the true test of your convictions in Christ come when people are not happy with your righteous acts.
Do not go looking for trouble—but when it arrives—look it firmly in the face by faith and speak the truth. Some will sneer, some will seethe in anger, some will slander, but Jesus will smile. Followers of Jesus who are different—make the most difference. An attractive life full of Christ’s character is counter-cultural, but points people to Him.
“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God” (2 Corinthians 2:14-17).
Am I timid to tell the truth? How can I turn my shyness about Jesus into a bold display?
Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 6:34-35; Jeremiah 14:14; Matthew 7:15; 1 Peter 4:2-4
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Stay in Process
2-3-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Stay in Process
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:6-7
Are you struggling to stay in the process? It may be the engagement process—he or she cannot make up their mind on a date, time and location for the wedding. Perhaps you feel trapped in the process of a job search—a promising door opens and then just as quickly closes. The process at work is a challenge, because the project never seems to be completed on time and not up to your standards.
Or, for years you have prayed for the salvation of a loved one and they seem further away from the Lord than when you first started petitioning for their soul. It’s in the process that God purifies our heart and gets our attention to go deeper with Him. The process may not seem perfect, but it is necessary to draw us near to Jesus in utter dependence.
“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:9-10). We all are a work in process that requires a prayerful process.
It’s through a prayerful process that relationships are strengthened, lessons are learned and patience is produced. We may not like the process, but later on we will appreciate the wisdom we gained from God. Indeed, treat the process as a friend and not a foe—see it as Jesus molding your mind and heart into His image of integrity.
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11).
Be careful not to bypass the process, because you may miss God’s best. The flesh faints along the way of His will, but the spirit is energized by faithfulness to Christ’s course. Success comes as you see the destination with eyes of faith and stay focused in prayer. Your patient endurance is momentary but it makes a difference to those who watch you.
“If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer” (2 Corinthians 1:6).
In what process do I need to persevere and trust that the Lord is in control?
Related Readings: Jeremiah 29:4-6; Proverbs 25:4-5; Matthew 13:23; James 1:2-4
Stay in Process
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:6-7
Are you struggling to stay in the process? It may be the engagement process—he or she cannot make up their mind on a date, time and location for the wedding. Perhaps you feel trapped in the process of a job search—a promising door opens and then just as quickly closes. The process at work is a challenge, because the project never seems to be completed on time and not up to your standards.
Or, for years you have prayed for the salvation of a loved one and they seem further away from the Lord than when you first started petitioning for their soul. It’s in the process that God purifies our heart and gets our attention to go deeper with Him. The process may not seem perfect, but it is necessary to draw us near to Jesus in utter dependence.
“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:9-10). We all are a work in process that requires a prayerful process.
It’s through a prayerful process that relationships are strengthened, lessons are learned and patience is produced. We may not like the process, but later on we will appreciate the wisdom we gained from God. Indeed, treat the process as a friend and not a foe—see it as Jesus molding your mind and heart into His image of integrity.
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11).
Be careful not to bypass the process, because you may miss God’s best. The flesh faints along the way of His will, but the spirit is energized by faithfulness to Christ’s course. Success comes as you see the destination with eyes of faith and stay focused in prayer. Your patient endurance is momentary but it makes a difference to those who watch you.
“If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer” (2 Corinthians 1:6).
In what process do I need to persevere and trust that the Lord is in control?
Related Readings: Jeremiah 29:4-6; Proverbs 25:4-5; Matthew 13:23; James 1:2-4
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