Sound Doctrine

4-30-2012 by Boyd Bailey “He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.” Titus 1:9 Doctrine is a belief system that is accepted as authoritative. For followers of Jesus Christ, the Bible contains Christian doctrine that is believed, understood, and lived. Doctrine is critical because what you believe can be the difference between heaven and hell; it is critical because it determines your behavior. Doctrine is valuable because it provides structure around faith, bolstering and encouraging you toward a lifetime of growth and learning. Doctrine is not to be feared but accepted as a support for abundant living. Doctrine helps you understand what you believe in a logical fashion, so you in turn, can explain it to others inside and outside of the faith. Yes, doctrine can be abused, used as a club to knock others into line. But doctrine is not designed to discourage, but to encourage. Doctrine is not meant to be an intimidator. Rather, it is designed to lovingly lead disciples toward the ways of God. Your motive for understanding and learning doctrine is that you can know God more deeply and intimately. Doctrine is not an end in itself. If your desire is to simply gain more knowledge then doctrine will work against your Christian maturity. Sound teaching also helps you discern false teachers. The Bible says, “Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming” (Ephesians 4:14). Indoctrinate your children at an early age with God’s belief system so that they can begin lifelong learning. What better way to mold their tender and teachable hearts than with the doctrine of the Christian faith? Some of the doctrines of the Christian faith are the Deity of Christ, His death and resurrection for man’s redemption, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers. God is your loving heavenly Father who judges fairly. Traditional tenets of the faith are the inerrancy of the Bible, the second coming of Christ, salvation by grace through faith in Christ, and the reality of heaven and hell. Other compelling truths are eternal rewards, God’s ownership of everything, and the power of prayer. Allow your mind and heart to marinate in these and other doctrines. Let them become the foundation of your belief and behavior. Read about them, learn about them, and let them give you confidence that God has laid out a logical and inviting explanation for living and dying. This applies equally to His followers and those who still need Christ. Be sure doctrine has been distilled into a life change for you. This is evidence of authenticity in disciples. Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples” (John 8:31b). The major teachings of the Christian faith are clear; camp out there and do not be confused over other distracting issues. Make sure your doctrine leads you to evangelism and discipleship as it exists for your encouragement and defense of the faith. Above all, keep doctrine from feeding your pride and boring others. Use it wisely and do not abuse it.

Strangers

4-27-2012 by Boyd Bailey “He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing. Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.” Deuteronomy 10:18,19, NKJV Strangers can seem strange and distant, but they are still human beings created in the image of God. They may smell different, look odd, be eccentric, and speak unclearly, nevertheless their heart longs for encouragement and acceptance. It is out of a strange place that a person can find their heavenly Father and begin their journey of knowing Him. The Holy Spirit daily directs His disciples to be a conduit for a stranger’s salvation. Therefore, we have an opportunity every day to expose unfamiliar people to a picture of God’s grace. If they know Jesus, our act of kindness emboldens their belief. If faith living is foreign to the new acquaintance, our generous gratuity may solicit their soul to ask why. We love strangers, because we were all once strangers to Christ’s intimate love. Love goes to strange places, for strange people, so they are no longer strangers to God. “I was a father to the needy; I took up the case of the needy.” Job 29:16 Do you rush across the path to an unfamiliar face, or do you look for divine encounters? Is your momentary prayer kept just for yourself, or do your prayers seek unknown souls? Hospitality and generosity for those who are without is your bridge to invite them into a relationship with you. Maybe a single adult just moved into your apartment complex or a new family visited your church for the first time; if so, see them as a candidate for your care. Your initiative to invade another’s aloneness illustrates Christ’s caring community. Remember the strange and uncomfortable feeling of being a stranger in a new place? Then look for those lost in their unfamiliar surroundings. A new mom may need your mentoring. A new employee may need your apprenticeship. A new Christian may need your discipleship. A new father may need your wisdom. Strangers will not remain strangers after you invest in their lives. Love welcomes guests as new friends. “For I [Jesus] was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.” Matthew 25:35 Prayer: Lord, who can I reach out to that is lost in their strange circumstance? Related Readings: Leviticus 25:35; Job 31:32; Psalm 119:19; Hebrews 11:9 God Bless! Logan Stout

4-26-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.” Genesis 32:28 God does not let go of His children; in fact there are times that a faith exercise feels like a wrestling match. Life can be good and uneventful, then all of a sudden change ambushes a Christian with a surprise attack. It could be the mental gymnastics of doubting God when a very committed Christian friend seems to be trapped in an unfair circumstance. Or, out of the blue, the deep depression blues can assault the most ardent saints. Indeed, when we wrestle with the Lord there is a blessed outcome. It is not a contentious engagement but one of comprehending Who is really in control. If we fight against God conducting the course of our life, His loving pressure increases—even to the point of intense pain. If, however, we recognize His loving face during these pressure points, we patiently rest in this close proximity to Christ. He energizes our exhausted, feeble soul. “From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the LORD his God. He said: “In my distress I called to the LORD, and he answered me. From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help, and you listened to my cry.” Jonah 2:1-2 Has the Holy Spirit surprised you with a detour in what you thought was God’s will? Have you asked Jesus what blessing He wants to bestow on you and your family? Your spiritual struggle is not without spiritual significance. Blessings are birthed from friction and a feeling of resistance in your faith. Thus, embrace your confrontation with Christ and others as a prayerful process to build your character. His love will not let go of you! Stay engaged with the Almighty and experience His relentless favor. His desire for you is a partnership of prayer that produces a fulfilling life. Change is inevitable as you grow in your intimacy with the Lord. Like the secure sensation of a roaring fire in a fireplace, the closer you get to the heat of the Holy Spirit’s heart, the more He will warm you to His ways. When you feel ambushed by God, see it as your “burning bush” blessing of glory! “So Moses thought, “I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.” When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, “Moses! Moses!” And Moses said, “Here I am.” “Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” Exodus 3:3-5 Prayer: Lord, thanks for not letting go of me and for giving me your blessing of glory. Related Readings: Genesis 32:27-29; Mark 1:13; 2 Corinthians 11:16-33

4-25-2012 by Boyd Bailey “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.” 1 Timothy 1:15 Humility is modest and respectful; hubris is proud and arrogant. Humility practices an egoless attitude; hubris exhibits an egocentric persona. Humility has a proper perspective of its capabilities; hubris is overconfident. Humility depends on God and others; hubris thinks it is self-contained. Humility is an aspiring virtue; hubris is a venomous vice. We cultivate humility in our hearts when we remember how far the Lord has brought us by His grace. We are sinners saved by God’s grace, kept by God’s grace, and empowered to live the Christian life, by God’s grace. Our humble living sacrifice to Christ is all of grace or none at all. We need not forget where we came from, less we lose our fiery faith. “Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5b Do you daily dress yourself in the clothes of humility? Consider a hat of submission to authority, a t-shirt of trust, a blouse of belief, a collared shirt of care, pants of prayer, a dress of dependence, a belt of boldness, socks of service, and shoes of gratitude. Humility lived out for the Lord requires intentionality in your body, soul, and spirit. Hubris hopes you dismiss humility as a strategy for the weak, but humility gives you access to grace. Perhaps you take the lead in doing chores around your house, or schedule a 24-hour silent retreat to get quiet before the Lord and listen to His gentle voice. Your humility checkmates hubris when you are intentional in your behavior and instructional in your beliefs. Jesus emptied Himself of self so His heavenly Father could fill Him with grace. Hubris says quiet times are electives, humility says they are required. Hubris says prayer is passé, humility says there is nothing more relevant. Hubris says personal achievement is the ultimate goal, humility says it’s for the glory of God. Your position of power and influence at home and work is a platform for humble service. See your role in life as a conduit for Christ and His kingdom. Your humility is heaven’s leverage in other’s lives. “Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Philippians 2:5b-8, NASB Prayer: Lord, teach me to walk in the humble steps of Your son Jesus. Related Readings: Exodus 10:3; 2 Kings 22:19; Daniel 5:22; Romans 12:3

4-24-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest”. Proverbs 6:6-8 Wisdom works hard now, but is wise about planning for the future. Planners have an innate discipline that prevents immediate urgent matters from distracting them as they stay focused on important issues. Their discipline determines what choices they make during the day; always keenly aware that their actions affect their future. The best planners take the time to process through assumptions and the implications of best and worst case scenarios. Self motivated and disciplined planners do not require rigid management and control. They thrive in autonomy, but still submit to the accountability of authority. Wise planners save time and money because there is a decision making filter in place that results in more no’s than yes’s to good opportunities. The Holy Spirit works through a prayerfully crafted plan to guide you into God’s best, so stay aligned with the plan. “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21 Ants are small in stature but, with the unified effort of many, are large in results. A clearly defined, well-executed plan brings your team together producing outstanding outcomes. A plan creates credability giving courage to those who carry it out. So be sensitive to your season of strategic service. If you are in the preparation phase, be patient and focused on the plan. If you are in the execution phase, remain diligent and focused on the task at hand. As you harvest success make sure to save for the future. Abundance is not meant to be spent all at once, but to be saved for the down times. Use your church, business, or home as a platform of provision for others in need. You plan ahead so that you can be an ambassador for Almighty God. “Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous, and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.” I Timothy 6:18-19 Prayer: What opportunities do I need to put on hold so that I stay focused on implementing the current strategic plan with excellence? Related Readings: Genesis 41:28-43; Job 12:7-8; Luke 14:28; Hebrews 6:12

4-23-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22:31-32 Satan is always on the prowl to discredit the faith of sincere disciples. He asks the Almighty if he can flush out the mercenaries who only see Jesus as a means to their own end. The Lord does give the devil permission at times (like with Job) to strain His children with temptation and trials. However, the enemy learns quickly that Jesus increases the intensity of His intercession for those being badgered by Satan’s schemes. A tested faith is an opportunity to grow from inspiration to transformation. We may deny Christ at times, but He does not deny us. We may lose faith, but He remains faithful. In our weakness, He is strong. Stumbling in our faith provides an opportunity for faith building. Emotional expression converts to willful commitment—post our predicament. Out of our tests of faith He brings success, so that we can help other followers of Jesus. "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied. "Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face." (Job 1:9-11 NIV) Are you ready for God's next step? Have you prayerfully prepared? Indeed, God may have a small step of suffering for you before your next significant step of faith. See a temporary delay as a divine detour to build your faith before your next move. As you spiritually spar with Satan, be brave, since your Savior prays for you. Your inner strength forged in spiritual fights becomes energy to effectively engage your external challenges. Like a trusted trainer who cares for and instructs a boxer who collapses on a stool in his corner, so Christ soothes your emotional cuts and bruises with His loving grace, He teaches you with wisdom. However, the Lord strengthens you so you can strengthen those whose faith is sputtering. There is a tear in every church pew—a dear saint who is waiting for a Christ follower like you to share from caring eyes your own liquid love. Your tested faith transformed by the Holy Spirit welds heaven's salvation to save souls! “And with many other words he [Peter] testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles.” Acts 2:40-43, NKJV Prayer: Lord, whom can I strengthen in the faith by the strength You have given me? Related Readings: 2 Corinthians 13:5; Hebrews 11:17; James 1:3; Revelation 2:10

4-20-2012 Spirit Filled Leaders Lead, by Boyd Bailey “Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them.” Acts 6:3 Leaders, full of the Spirit of God, represent the Lord well in how they serve others. A leader led by the Lord loves well. They look beyond what a person can do for them, and seek to understand what they can do for their colleagues. Love asks what motivates others to feel appreciated. Is it time off, a kind word, an unexpected bonus, or just knowing they are cared about? A spirit-filled servant of the Lord loves well, as a boss under God’s authority. Furthermore, we may find ourselves in a position of responsibility to choose leaders at our church, in our community or for civic duties. This process of wisely qualifying a leader cannot become a popularity contest concerning charisma, charm, and who communicates the best. We are wise to prayerfully select those who serve for the pleasure of the customers or the constituents. Look for leaders who lovingly look out for others first. “If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.” James 2:8-9 How are you doing as a leader who loves well? Yes, creating job opportunities is a good first step, but what about creating a culture of love? Not a workplace of mediocrity, but one of loving accountability. Team members are not made to believe in Jesus, but everyone is expected to behave like Jesus. As a leader do you model treating everyone with dignity? Janitors and Junior Associates alike receive your same respectful response. So, how do you remain consistent in leading a Spirit-filled life? It is a daily surrender to your Savior Jesus and death to self. You are a leaky vessel that needs the Lord’s infusion of grace to fill you back up to the brim. Yesterday’s filling cannot compensate for today’s empty feeling. Engage your faith in humble confession for the Spirit’s fullness and He will fill you to overflowing. Like a sprinkler refreshes grass, the Spirit waters your soul, so seek His fullness. Spirit-filled leaders love in the power of the Lord’s love. “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.” John 6:63 Prayer: Lord whom are you calling me to love and serve in Your name? Related Readings: Job 32:18; Ezekiel 37:1; Luke 10:21; Acts 11:24 Be Blessed! Logan Stout

Eternal Examination

4-19-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Eternal Examination

“For a man’s ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all his paths.” Proverbs 5:21

There is an eternal eye that watches our every move. Almighty God is not exhausted from examination, because He knows we need the accountability of His watchful eye. We do better when we know Deity is watching. This is why you train your children to be accountable to God, so when they move out and move on, they fear God, and they are motivated to love and obey Him. You can’t follow your teenagers and young adult children around but the Lord does.

This is how the Holy Spirit is able to check a woman’s conscience, or prick a man’s pride. Every good or bad deed is in full view of your Heavenly Father for your benefit. He sees what a situation will bring, and seeks to guide you in the right direction. This is why prayer is imperative to gain God’s perspective. An eternally examined life is a gateway to knowing God. Live your life ever mindful you are under your Master’s microscope of concern, and you are freed by faith in Him.

“For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:14).

God’s accountability is not bondage, but freedom. You live within God’s guidelines, but with tremendous freedom and creativity on the playing field of Providence. It’s those who stray into sin who are snared by its seduction. There are no secrets with your Savior. Every action will be weighed and brought into judgment.

Therefore, come clean with Christ in confession, and claim a clear conscious. Do not let pride keep you from pronouncing your blind spots to friends who will lovingly yet boldly bring them to your attention. There is no such thing as an unexamined life, as the Lord is looking. Behave in a way that makes Him smile, as He gazes on your life with humble holiness. Indeed, the Lord looks on for your blessing and benefit.

“And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews 4:13, NASB

Prayer: Which of my blind spots do I need to invite a friend to ask me about with regularity?

Related Readings: 2 Samuel 22:25; Job 31:4-9; Psalm 139:1-12; Revelation 2:18-23

Spiritual Labor

4-16-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Spiritual Labor


"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58

What is spiritual labor? It is work done with the Lord and for the Lord. It is a new mother rocking her baby, while she prays God's blessing over her little one. It is a blue-collar laborer, who, in Jesus name, is diligent in his or her duties. They are punctual when others are late and they are eager to work more, when others look for ways to work less. Spiritual labor sets high standards of service for the Lord.

Spiritual labor is an executive, a manager or administrative assistant who will not compromise their character to make more cash. Their word is their bond and their behavior points other people to Jesus. We are spiritual laborers when we do our work first and foremost for our heavenly Father. We stand firm in faith-motivated work and when we wake up every day grateful to represent Jesus in our job.

"We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Thessalonians 1:3

This describes your public spiritual labor, but you are also called to be consistent in your private spiritual labor. Your personal empowerment by the Holy Spirit gives you courage for Christ and gumption for God. Your quieted soul quietly influences your noisy world. You go deep with Jesus in prayer and He expands your influence at home, in your community, and at your workplace.

Indeed, your spiritual labor is laborious. Thus, as you perspire for the Lord, pray to persevere through rejection and do not be surprised if your integrity irritates others. You continue to toil in trust, even when results are not immediately evident. Your higher calling from Christ fuels your service for Him. Let nothing move you from moving forward with God. Your spiritual labor in the Lord is not in vain, as it brings joy and satisfaction to you, Him, and friends!

"This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things." 1 Timothy 4:9-11

Prayer: Lord, by Your grace, I pray I will stand firm in my spiritual service for You and others.

Related Readings: 1 Corinthians 3:8; Philippians 1:21-23; 2:15-17; Revelation 14:13

Peace of Mind

4-15-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Peace of Mind


I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me. I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side. Psalm 3:5-6

Peace of mind comes from our Master, Jesus. He is the master of putting our mind at ease with His eternal perspective. It is trust in Him that gives us tranquil thoughts. Without His peace we worry and fret. A peace-less mind is paralyzed by the thought of everything going awry. What can go wrong will go wrong because the odds are stacked against us. Without the peace of Christ we find ourselves with an overwhelming sense of dread, even despair. However, His peace transcends our tentative trust. It bolsters our belief in God. Our Savior extends a sweet sense of peace. In Christ we have peace of mind like a bee in a hive or a dove in the ark. His helmet of salvation protects our peaceful thoughts.

Jesus is not stingy with His peace. He gives it liberally and lovingly (John 14:27). Beware of the fleeting peace the world offers. It is a very cheap substitute. The world’s peace is circumstantial; His peace transcends circumstances. The world’s peace is temporal; His peace is eternal. The world’s peace leads you to escape from God and reality; His peace leads you to engage with both. The world’s peace produces a limited perspective; His peace results in a robust and real view of life. The world’s peace leaves a residue of guilt and bondage; His peace leaves you forgiven and free. The world’s
peace cannot remove fear; His peace overcomes fear with hope. The world’s peace is based on feelings; His peace is grounded in faith. Therefore, the man or woman of wisdom receives His peace.

Once you apply the peace of Christ, you have peace of mind. Peace of mind gives you a platform for living purposively. Because you live purposively and peacefully you garner influence with others. People are attracted to the peaceful. They want to learn how to find and apply peace to their life circumstances. Your friends or family may not acknowledge it, but your peace is proof of God’s existence. Peace is a powerful apologetic for the Almighty. Only Christ can explain your calm during a crisis. Because you lean on Him, others want to lean on you. You are a lean-to for your Lord. So use prayerfully this platform of peace for ministry. People will line up for peace of mind.

Lastly, use your peace of mind as a gauge for God’s will. If you have peace, proceed. But if you lack peace, heed. God’s peace is a green light to go forward. The absence of His peace is a red light to refrain. Therefore be sensitive to the Spirit’s peaceful prodding to go or stay. Either way, you are OK as long as the Lord’s peace is preeminent. Peace gives you a state of mind that thinks clearly and wisely. Peace positions you for right thinking. Do not impulsively barrel ahead without peace of mind. Emotions can play tricks on our trust and good sense.

Therefore, check your feelings with faith. Slow down and make sure you have a peace about moving forward. Stand up to the pressure of people. They do not have to live with your decision; you do. Peace is God’s protection from unwise choices. His peace is a prescription for success. So slow down and pray. Pray for the peace of God, which transcends all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Peace reveals His will. Peace of mind does not fear, but hopes in Him.

Pure Joy

4-14-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Pure Joy


“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” James 1:2-3

Pure joy is the position and privilege of the person who follows Jesus Christ. Ironically, Jesus-generated joy is discovered and developed in the face of trials. Trials are designed to bring out God’s best and, consequently, your best as well. You’re going through your current trial by fire so that your faith can become more sincere and real during adversity’s affliction. This is your time to experience God’s faithfulness, for His joy and contentment are calming. The presence of Christ gives you reassurance and peace. He is the joy-giver, while Satan is the joy-killer.

Therefore, you can smile, because your smile, while enduring a trial, is the result of pure joy. It’s pure joy because God can be trusted. It’s pure joy because your faith is real and robust and Christ is faithful. It’s pure joy because you will persevere by faith. Indeed, untested faith is a naïve faith. Until your faith has been refined through various trials, it will remain immature and judgmental. You can understand others’ perspectives and respect them more when you have been broken over your own inadequacies and sins. Trials slow you down enough to allow you to look into the mirror and ask what needs to change. How can you lead and serve your family and friends during this time of unprecedented turmoil and tentativeness? Pure joy comes as a result of your faith changing and growing.

God is your agent of change. The work of God in and through your life produces pure joy. Change can be painful, but God administers pure joy at the point of your pain. It is the result of the Holy Spirit’s fullness: “And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 13:52). Therefore, learn how to accept the pure joy of the Lord. It is available for you to receive. Do not see your present predicament as a setback. Instead, see your current condition as an opportunity—an opportunity to engage more deeply and more fully with your heavenly Father. Sometimes, it takes trials and tests to slow you down enough to look into the joyful face of Jesus. He is the personification of pure joy.

Jesus understood pure joy because He was focused on following the will of His Father (John 17:4). His heart was full of joy because He knew He was about His Father’s business. Yes, His heart broke at times but He suffered out of joyful obedience (Hebrews 12:2). In the middle of His most adverse circumstance, Jesus still cried out to His heavenly Father. His intimacy with the Father was strengthened during difficulty. No person or circumstance, not even the devil, kept Him from pure joy.

Invite the pure joy of God to reign over your anxious heart as well. You can smile and place your refined faith in Him. He is building your faith capacity for the long run. The Bible says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13). Pure joy does not depend on good circumstances; it thrives during trials and tribulations. Unleash the pure joy that already lives within, for He is faithful. Above all, promote pure joy and persevere in its promise.

We Not Me

4-13-2012 by Boyd Bailey

We Not Me

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:27

There is a larger context to life than just living for self. A self-focused life is chronically frustrated and is unable to reach its full potential. Its demanding demur marginalizes wise counsel and only attracts insecure individuals. However, those who pray for what’s best for the whole, become whole. Everyone is honored in an environment where individual contributions are valued. “We not me” is the vocabulary of those who honor each other.

Every disciple is stronger when they are connected to other Christ followers. Isolation contributes to spiritual impotence, but community gives spiritual life. Encouragement and accountability are exalted in relationships that serve what’s best for the group. A leader who serves the team, sees other team members serve well. A man who serves his family, experiences a family that serves each other. “We overcomes me” with unselfish service.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10

Our spiritual birth engrafted us as a member of Christ’s body. We cannot detach an appendage of the Lord’s, anymore than a member of our physical body can be disassociated from the other body parts. So, we pray for those around us who know Christ and we get to know each other. Oh the joy of being known and knowing others who love Him! Life that is truly life is lived in the margins with those submitted to our Savior Jesus.

Are you motivated first by “He”, second by “we” and lastly by “me”? If so, you are set up for relational fulfillment. The sequence for successful thinking is Him, them and you. “Me” will try to squeeze in and monopolize relationships, cannibalize conversations and hijack heaven’s agenda. Thus, by God’s grace, put to death the “me monster” and replace it with love for the Lord and people. “We not me” is the motto of mature Jesus followers.

“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.” Romans 13:8

Prayer: Lord, whose needs can I put ahead of mine through my prayers and service?

Related Readings: Romans 12:10-16; 14:13; 15:7; 2 Corinthians 13:11; Galatians 5:13

Never Leaves You

4-12-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Never Leaves You

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

God the Father never lets go of His child—God the Son saves a lost soul once and for all—God the Spirit seals a believer with eternal security. There is a completeness that accompanies faith in Christ. He is stable in the middle of instability. He is a rock in the center of swirling circumstances. He is a light that disturbs the darkest darkness. The Lord does not let go of what’s His. Yes, once a child of God, always a child of God!

But we may ask, “What about past indiscretions that brought shame and embarrassment?” “Can’t foolish living disqualify me from being a Christian?” Eternal salvation and acceptance is not based on our fickle behavior, but on Christ’s unchanging character. We can stray, but He is there. We can doubt, but He is there. We can mess up, but He is there. The Lord is always there to lift us up, give us hope, offer us wisdom and fully restore us.

“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5

Fulfillment, contentment, and rest do not come from striving to gain God’s acceptance or somehow earn His good graces—peace of mind and a courageous heart come from accepting the fact that you are already accepted by His beloved son Jesus. The idol of money is cruel and causes consternation when your net worth becomes the measure of your worth. Lasting security comes from abiding in the faith fortress of your Savior Jesus.

Fear takes a back seat when your faith in Christ travels in the front seat of your life. Like an impatient and immature child yells from the back of the car, “How long before we get there”, so fear screams doubts and worries about the Lord’s timing in your transition. But by faith, you dismiss those distracting voices and you look forward, as the co-pilot with Christ. Jesus already has the wheel of your life, so you can confidently trust His will. You have no fear, because He is already here to steer you clear of confusion. He never leaves you!

“No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Joshua 1:5

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your all-consuming presence, teach me to abide in You.

Related Readings: Deuteronomy 31:8; Matthew 28:19-20; John 10:28-30; 1 John 5:11-15

Strength and Peace

4-9-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Strength and Peace


“The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.” Psalm 29:11

God gives strength and peace to those surrendered to Him. The benefits of being a dedicated believer in Jesus Christ include heaven’s infinite resources. Sin sucks life from the soul and replaces it with fear, while faith compounds calm and offers energy. Man’s methods may manipulate a false feeling of security, but God gives eternal security. Strength in the Lord replaces worry with hope—it’s what gets us through demanding days.

How can we access Christ’s calm and mighty power? What is the wisest route to experience the Almighty’s assets on an ongoing process? When we daily die to self and come alive to Christ we position ourselves to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. So, strength and peace come from giving in to God, not giving up on God. As we surrender to our Savior Jesus, we win—indeed it's where we confess our weaknesses that we become strong.

"I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief." 1 Timothy 1:12-13

For example, unresolved anger loses its control when you admit its influence and exile its occupation of your heart. Shame from past experiences dissolves in the face of your heavenly Father's love and forgiveness. You are freed up to flourish in faithful living when you embrace God's ownership of your life. The Lord provides for His own. He stewards well His servants. Because God possesses you, He gives you exactly what you need.

Your ongoing strength and peace is a by-product of belonging to Christ. Resilience grows as your mind marinates on your Master Jesus' principles for living. Resolve is a rock of refuge when heaven is your hope. Peace is a significant allocation in your portfolio of faith that is generously given by your heavenly Father. Thus, thank Him for His help. And prayerfully look around you for others you can help find strength and peace in God.

“And Saul’s son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God.” I Samuel 23:16

Prayer: Lord I surrender to your ownership of my life, I trust you for strength and peace.

Related Readings: 2 Samuel 22:30; 1 Chronicles 12:18; Luke 7:16; Hebrews 6:10

Alive and Well

4-8-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Alive and Well


“Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen”. Mark 16:14

Jesus Christ is alive and well. His earlier followers, taken aback by His death, initially denied His resurrection. They rejected reliable testimonies and refused to receive the truth of Christ’s rising from the dead. However, when they encountered the risen Lord He rebuked them and then loved them. Unbelievers can loathe the Lord. Deists can deny Christ’s deity. Agnostics can be apathetic over His resurrection, but He is alive and well.

Contemporary Christ-less cultures could care less about Christ’s resurrection, but it does not lessen His Lordship over them. Everyone will one day confront Christ, “…at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:10-11a). Easter is an excuse for Jesus followers to celebrate His resurrection, and His relevance.

The Lord is alive and well in your heart. His resurrection resulted in Christ taking up residence in your soul and transforming your life. By faith you believed and God gave you grace upon grace. Because He has risen from the grave, He has given all who confess Him as Lord, abundant grace on earth and the promise of heaven with Him. “For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ” Romans 5:7. He is all you need.

Lastly you can live large for the Lord, because He has triumphed over sin, sorrow, death, and hell. Easter is your eternal encouragement that He is alive and well. There will always be doubters, but don’t dwell there. Focus on the undeniable force of faith that has captured you and millions before you. Because He has risen, you can rise above your circumstances, your hurt, and your fears.

“With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all” (Acts 4:33).

Am I a disciple that ignores His power, or one that proclaims His power?

Related Readings: Numbers 14:11; Matthew 28:17; Acts 10:41; 1 Corinthians 15:1-58

Death's Fruit

4-6-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Death’s Fruit

“And Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” John 12:23-24 (NASB)

There must be a death before there can be fruit. A seed is buried in the ground before it returns to life and bears fruit. This is why Jesus Christ is still fruitful after nearly 2,000 years. His death was meant to bear fruit, and it has. The fruit of His life-change is represented in billions of lives that have been altered for eternity. Transformation took place because of death, for it is the soil for life.

The death of Jesus Christ advanced God’s plan. No one close to Jesus wanted Him to leave. How could anything come from losing the One who had given life, healed the sick, and taught with riveting truth? It didn’t make sense that He had to die. He was just getting started. Why put the brakes on the momentum that was occurring in that part of the world? Yet still today, there are those who mock the death of Jesus and say that He was just another prophet martyred for His faith. However, death was God’s plan to give life.

But Jesus was much, much more than just a martyr. He was the Son of Man, but He was also the Son of God, who died as the payment for all past, present, and future sins of mankind. This is where the fruit of faith begins. When you believe that the death of Jesus was predestined by God as a good thing, then you have a foundation for fruit-bearing. Yes, all things do work together for good (Romans 8:28).

The cross of Christ is one of God’s good things, so make sure you thank Him for the sacrifice of His only Son. He gave life so we could receive life. When you believe in His death for your sins, you receive His life. Christ in you has put to death your old life, so now that you have been crucified with Him, you are positioned to bear much fruit.

This is why you die daily. You die to yourself so you and others can live for God. Fruit results when you deny yourself and remain in Him. Jesus said, “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me” (John 15:4). What is something to which you have not died that may be holding back your fruitful living?

If you do not die, you remain alone. To not die to self and sin is to separate yourself from fruit, friends, and faith. But you do not have to remain alone. On the contrary, daily death by faith frees you to experience fruitful living. The fruit of your other-centered living becomes abundant and ubiquitous. You pollinate other lives that, in turn, bear fruit. However, death is not always easy. The road to crucifixion with Christ may be wrought with criticism from those who think you are too religious or a little weird.

However, the fruit from your life will speak for itself. Your children’s love for God will resonate for eternity. Your generosity will silence even the most outspoken critics. Your teaching will transform lives in the here and now. Fruit is God’s eternal evidence that motivates you to remain faithful with Christ. Therefore, stay dead to yourself, and watch Him live through fruit-bearing. Death’s fruit is rooted in the cross.

Faith Living

4-4-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Faith Living

“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

Living a life of faith often times means we may not know exactly where we are being led, but we know Who we are following. God protects a trusting heart as He perfects it through His faith-building process. It is a great adventure to align with the Almighty’s agenda. Like an experienced and trusted guide, He is always a step ahead down the path of His will. So, we seek to know Him, because He knows where He is going.

Faith living is not always fun, but it is fulfilling. It is not always exciting, but it is engaging. It is not always easy, but it is honorable. It is not always safe, but it is secure. It is not always clear, but it is rewarding. It is not always instant gratification, but it is satisfying. Faith living is looking intently into the gracious face of our heavenly Father. Christ’s countenance cares. He laughs when we laugh, and He weeps when we weep.

“And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise.” Hebrews 11:11

Faith living is not for the faint of heart. When you sign up to follow your Savior Jesus, you declare abandonment to His desires over any clamoring of competing voices. For example, an unscrupulous acquaintance may lead you into a foolish financial decision or a sincere friend could recommend unwise career advice. Listen and obey the Lord first.

In most cases, faith living is not a straight line from point A to point B. The progression in God’s will involves starts and stops, relational dead-ends, financial forays, ups and downs and finally meaningful milestones to be celebrated. Therefore, keep on your prayerful path with Jesus. Keep showing up by faith and He will direct you in His best direction. Faith living lives wisely while waiting—and moves forward when called by Christ. Keep your eye on the prize of pleasing your heavenly Father—win His reward.

“By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict. By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.” Hebrews 11:23-24

Prayer: Lord where are you calling me that requires me to trust You?

Related Readings: Habakkuk 2:4; Acts 3:16; 2 Corinthians 5:7; James 2:17-18

Pay Attention

4-3-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Pay Attention


“My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen well to my words of insight…” Proverbs 5:1

Pay attention to the wise and discerning around you. They have perspective that penetrates through your bias and blind spots. If you ignore their admonishments you may miss God’s best, or at worst spend a long time recovering from a raw deal. Wisdom is a watchman that keeps us from entering into unfit relationships. Beware of those who want you for what they need only, with no regard for the needs of others.

Pay attention, so you don’t get sucked into a situation that requires prolonged effort down an unproductive path. Cut your losses quickly, and leave the consequences in Christ’s hands. For example, tell someone ‘no’ to an opportunity that does not seem right, even if the promised results are positive. Pay attention to wise counsel, so you don’t later worry if you did the right thing. You maintain discretion and preserve knowledge, as you take time to listen and learn.

“He said, “If you listen carefully to the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you.” Exodus 15:26

Above all else, pay attention to the promptings of the Holy Spirit who is at home in your heart and mind. He is the Almighty’s ambassador, in charge of leading you into the ways of wisdom. Therefore, watch for His confirmation of right, and His conviction of wrong. Pay attention, because the Holy Spirit waters wisdom with insight and understanding. Wisdom grows in a life submitted to the guidance of God’s spirit.

Finally, pay attention to the teaching of your pastor or priest, for they are messengers of the Lord. Their role is to relay to you the truth of God, so make sure to attend church where Christ is worshipped, and you are clearly and practically instructed from the Bible. Pastors who are gifted teachers, and who prayerfully prepare each Sunday, present a spiritual smorgasbord, so starving souls are satisfied by the wisdom of God. Pay attention to a Pastor you respect, who teaches wisdom well, and who God uses to transform your thinking and behavior.

“For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge, and men should seek instruction from his mouth; for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts” (Malachi 2:7, NASB).

Prayer: Who currently has my attention that shouldn’t, and who do I need to listen to more intently, with a goal to change?

Related Readings: Genesis 49:2; Mark 4:23; James 1:19; Revelation 2:7-11

Affirmed by God

4-2-2012

Affirmed by God by Boyd Bailey


“ And I know that this man—whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows—was caught up to paradise and heard inexpressible things, things that no one is permitted to tell. I will boast about a man like that, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses.” 2 Corinthians 12:3-5

Can we still be caught up in the paradise of God’s heavenly presence? Or, are these eternal encounters only reserved for the exceptionally righteous saints of the past? Holy Scripture validates that there are still opportunities for anyone to be accepted by God and have access to the glorious riches of His grace. It is at the Lord’s discretion who He allows to hear those heavenly tones which are unable to be translated into man’s words.

On occasion the Lord graces His loved ones with special affirmations that create a most meaningful moment of intimacy. It is an experience of encouragement covered over with fingerprints of faith. This heavenly hug connects eternal reassurance to earthly insecurity. Almighty God’s affirmation has no rival in heaven or on earth, as His presence brings down bold belief and gratitude. It is in this secret place that He reveals the unspeakable.

“Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.” Revelation 2:7

This third heavenly encounter eclipses where birds fly and astronauts explore, it is the spiritual stratosphere of the Lord’s paradise. A transcendent vortex of faith allows you to hold the tension of joy and grief simultaneously. Fear becomes the servant of faith and an incredible peace melts over your being, like hot liquid chocolate on an ice cream Sunday.

However, these special moments with your Master Jesus are a call to humility and discretion. When He honors you with heaven’s delectable delights, it is not an opportunity to glory in being selected; rather it’s with humble deflection, as you enjoy the indescribable. Like Paul, you may brag about someone else—though it’s you who has been holy affirmed. You can’t put into words the glory of God, so you gratefully glorify Him.

Most of all do not be surprised that suffering is a criteria for seeing the unseen. It is from your “thorn in the flesh” that your pride is checked and you desperately cling to Christ. Wisely support your spiritual experiences with the written word of God. Feelings fueled by your heavenly Father align with His truth. The Bible validates your authentic experiences. So, rest and rejoice in the Lord’s affirmation of your life—He has much more in store.

“Because of that experience, we have even greater confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. You must pay close attention to what they wrote, for their words are like a lamp shining in a dark place—until the Day dawns, and Christ the Morning Star shines in your hearts.” 2 Peter 1:19

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your holy affirmation and my desire to steward it with humble discretion.

Related Readings: Genesis 32:22-32; Isaiah 6:1-6; 2 Peter 3:16; Revelation 1:9-11

4-1-2012

Refuge in Him by Boyd Bailey


Blessed are all who take refuge in Him. Psalm 2:12b

Outside of Christ, we are refugees in need of a refuge. Our soul seeks asylum in Almighty God. Our spirit is on a search for security and peace. It is refuge in God that we want deep down within our innermost desires. Otherwise, we wander around earth un-tethered to truth. We are induced into thinking things are OK outside of our Savior’s care. But there is something more significant that comes by slowing down and investigating our own authenticity. Refugees need a place of safety and trust. It is in refuge with Him that we can believe Him. There is an intimacy with Jesus that invites us into His refuge.

Even if your faith is as slender as a spider’s thread, you can still trust in Jesus. It is the object of your faith that matters more than the amount of your faith. His refuge is not just reserved for the robust of faith. It is especially available to those of us who are flailing away in faithless fear. We have lost our way and we need to get to a wise weigh station to evaluate our faith. It is in refuge with Him that we are blessed with clarity and conviction. God is our refuge and God is our strength. He is a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, but will believe that the very best is found by faith in Him. Hope exists.

He is our refuge when hope seems extinct. He is our refuge when financial requirements are ravishing our resources. He is our refuge when people we depend on are nowhere to be found. He is our refuge when health issues hound our heart. He is our refuge when fear knocks at the door and questions our courage. He is our refuge when our marriage hangs in the balance. He is our refuge when work pressures pulsate in our mind and awaken us at night. He is our refuge when all seems to be going wrong. He is our refuge when all seems to be going right. His refuge is required regardless of our circumstances. During the good and bad times, we need to rest and refuel under the shadow and wisdom of His almighty wings. It is in refuge and relationship with God that His blessings abound.

We are blessed when we find refuge with our Creator. The Almighty aids us with wisdom and understanding when we take the time to listen to His instruction. Our prayer over His Word provides a ton of illuminating insight. The place of refuge holds up truth and casts out lies. It is a place of clarity and conviction. This is a blessing. Stability is another blessing from resting in His refuge. Our world rocks around us. Instability is the only insulation infidels care to offer. But we have a rock in our Lord.

He is solid and dependable. There is nothing about our Savior that is shaky. He is not a suspension bridge that sways with the winds of the world’s unpredictability. He is a concrete crossover to the calm and peaceful shore. He cannot be shaken by strife or sin because He is Holy God. He is our rock when relationships are rocky. This is a blessing. We are blessed in our refuge with Him by reassurance. He whispers lovingly, “It’s OK. I am with you. I will never leave you. You are mine. I am yours. Therefore, hold me tight and we will walk together through thick and thin.” It’s in refuge with Him that we are refreshed and rejuvenated. Go there often. He bestows blessings in refuge with Him.