3-10-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Strength in the Lord
“I will strengthen them in the Lord and in his name they will walk,’ declares the Lord.” Zechariah 10:12
The Lord is our strength for the journey of life. Fatigue and discouragement can assault us like a bandit on a deserted dirt road. Life is constantly swinging its bruising punches. Before long we can become beat down with no energy to continue. We know in our head we are a child of the King, but our heart feels no royal resilience. Fatigue requires faith.
Weariness is an opportunity for the Lord to strengthen you. He uses His people to energize and encourage one another. We are all needy and it is just a matter of time before we all have to learn how to receive our strength from Him. The Lord wraps His strength around the gift of a prayer warrior—someone who storms heaven on your behalf.
Do not let divorce, death or disappointment exclude you from the Lord’s strength. Work will get you down. People will let you down. Failure will knock you down. Your greatest fears may cause you to wake up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat. Fight fear with fear. Let the fear of God strengthen you, as it fortifies your faith in Him.
“Teach me your way, LORD, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name” (Psalm 86:11).
The greatest energy drainer may be serving God in our own strength. This is one of Satan’s most effective schemes. He wants to occupy us in good activity void of eternal energy. Serving God and others in our own strength means we are driven by what we can do for God, rather than what He can do through us. It’s the difference in being energized in our service or being drained by our service. Christ’s strength comes from being still.
He strengthens your soul in daily quietness before Him. His whisper of affirmation motivates you to walk with Him. It is learning to trust in Him and not strive for Him. This total trust replenishes your soul like an ice-cold sports drink to a cyclist ascending the tallest mountain in the blazing hot Tour de France. His spirit gives life and endurance.
When you received Christ you received His strength. Strength already resides within you. He is available to you. Your Savior has no fuel crisis to reckon with, as His supernatural resources are infinite. You cannot go for encouragement too many times. Walk in His name and be energized by Him. His Holy Spirit infuses strength, so be strong in the Lord!
“Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers” (Acts 9:31).
Does my strength reside in my righteous Savior or in my own exhausting efforts?
Related Readings: Psalm 105:4; Isaiah 12:2; Luke 10:27; 1 Thessalonians 3:13
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Pure Motives
3-9-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Pure Motives
“Ask all the people of the land and the priests, ‘When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months for the past seventy years, was it really for me you fasted?” Zechariah 7:5b
Pure motives are sometimes hard to distinguish. Especially difficult are motives related to religion. Why do we serve God? If gratitude and love are the reasons for our service then our motives are right, but it is not always that easy or clear. Sometimes as committed Christians the lines of pure hearted motivation are blurred. Service for Christ is not to make us feel better about ourselves, rather our service is to glorify our Savior Jesus.
Indeed, service for God with wrong motives can easily lead to burnout, disappointment and disillusionment. An act of service—on behalf of Christ—is not conditional. You hold it with an open hand and with a pure heart you offer your time and money. Your expectations are at peace knowing you have followed the example of Jesus. Your motive is to please and obey Him—it is not for your fame, but for your heavenly Father’s name.
Hence our contentment comes from Christ, not our achievements and the accolades of men. Men may see our righteous acts and want to give us more credit than is deserved. This is the time to publicly reflect the glory back to the Lord. Praise offers the opportunity to privately and humbly thank God for His unmerited favor, mercy and blessing.
It is important to do a motive check of your life. It is a moment-by-moment, day-by-day, and year-by-year process. We are all experts at rationalizing and justifying good results that emerge from shady motives. The methods may even be acceptable, but the reasons are wrong. However, pure motives can be found, as they come from a pure heart. Seek to align your motives with love. Great works can be accomplished, but without the foundation of love we gain nothing in the eyes of God.
“If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing” (I Corinthians 13:3).
Just being in God’s presence tends to purify our motives. So, do all things for Him and His glory. Moreover, let your reward be unseen rather than seen. Then the pure motives represented by gold, silver and precious stones will one day survive God’s revealing fire. It’s all for His needs and their needs. Stay motivated with pure motives for Jesus’ sake!
“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work (I Corinthians 3:11-13).
Why do I do what I do in the name of the Lord? Has Christ cleansed my motives?
Related Readings: Proverbs 30:12; 1 John 3:3; Revelation 19:8, 14
Pure Motives
“Ask all the people of the land and the priests, ‘When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months for the past seventy years, was it really for me you fasted?” Zechariah 7:5b
Pure motives are sometimes hard to distinguish. Especially difficult are motives related to religion. Why do we serve God? If gratitude and love are the reasons for our service then our motives are right, but it is not always that easy or clear. Sometimes as committed Christians the lines of pure hearted motivation are blurred. Service for Christ is not to make us feel better about ourselves, rather our service is to glorify our Savior Jesus.
Indeed, service for God with wrong motives can easily lead to burnout, disappointment and disillusionment. An act of service—on behalf of Christ—is not conditional. You hold it with an open hand and with a pure heart you offer your time and money. Your expectations are at peace knowing you have followed the example of Jesus. Your motive is to please and obey Him—it is not for your fame, but for your heavenly Father’s name.
Hence our contentment comes from Christ, not our achievements and the accolades of men. Men may see our righteous acts and want to give us more credit than is deserved. This is the time to publicly reflect the glory back to the Lord. Praise offers the opportunity to privately and humbly thank God for His unmerited favor, mercy and blessing.
It is important to do a motive check of your life. It is a moment-by-moment, day-by-day, and year-by-year process. We are all experts at rationalizing and justifying good results that emerge from shady motives. The methods may even be acceptable, but the reasons are wrong. However, pure motives can be found, as they come from a pure heart. Seek to align your motives with love. Great works can be accomplished, but without the foundation of love we gain nothing in the eyes of God.
“If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing” (I Corinthians 13:3).
Just being in God’s presence tends to purify our motives. So, do all things for Him and His glory. Moreover, let your reward be unseen rather than seen. Then the pure motives represented by gold, silver and precious stones will one day survive God’s revealing fire. It’s all for His needs and their needs. Stay motivated with pure motives for Jesus’ sake!
“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work (I Corinthians 3:11-13).
Why do I do what I do in the name of the Lord? Has Christ cleansed my motives?
Related Readings: Proverbs 30:12; 1 John 3:3; Revelation 19:8, 14
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Diligently Obey
3-8-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Diligently Obey
“… This will happen if you diligently obey the Lord your God.” Zechariah 6:15 b
Diligent obedience to the Lord is a command for the follower of Jesus Christ. We have the responsibility, the opportunity and the obligation to obey. What a joy to receive marching orders from Jesus. He is the Commander in Chief. What He says and expects matters dearly, as obedience can be the difference between joy or despair and life or death.
Our obedience facilitates God’s will for our life and for the lives of those around us. We cannot handle the blessings of God, if we are not obedient to the commands of God. He blesses our hard work when we apply our skills and gifts well. However, what keeps us successful and creditable is our character. When we sow obedience we reap character. When we sow disobedience we become a character. Thus, diligently obey the Lord.
Obedience matters to your family. Your example of obedience propels them to do the same. It may mean a job change or a change of churches, but explain to your family the Lord’s leading. Share your fears with your family. Then pray together and ask God to empower you to obey. Diligent obedience also matters to your work associates. They follow what you do, not what you say. Obedience pays dividends now and for eternity.
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life” (Galatians 6:6-8).
How do you know if you are obeying God? His word is your first indicator. Ask Him to reveal His truth and ways to you. He is looking for a hungry heart of obedience. It delights God to instruct His teachable child in His will. Let the word of God seep into your soul through prayer and meditation. Memorize it, learn it, and, most importantly, apply it. Be volitional in your obedience. Obey even when you don’t feel like it.
If you feel a certain way, your emotions may betray you and tell you its ok to not obey. Flee from this faulty thinking. God’s word is living and active. He will speak into the deepest recesses of your heart. Listen intently and diligently; then do what He is says. Do not hold back or be distracted. He may be saying to meet with the ones you have offended or those who have offended you. You need to take the first step in reconciliation. There is a purpose much greater than your hurt feelings. By God’s grace, forgive and let Him heal your hurting heart.
Do not jeopardize the bigger vision for your own selfish needs. It may take a wise mediator to listen to both sides and make a recommendation. Do whatever the mediator suggests. This is a way of diligently obeying God. Yes, it is humbling. Yes, it is a little humiliating, but this is God’s plan. Do not allow the severed relationship with family or friends to fester. You may win the short-term battle of wills, but there is a good chance you will lose the long-term relational war. Diligent obedience requires a humble faith.
“I call with all my heart; answer me, LORD, and I will obey your decrees. I call out to you; save me and I will keep your statutes” (Psalm 119-145-146).
Where is the Lord calling me to diligently obey with humble faith?
Related Readings: 2 Kings 22:13; Jeremiah 11:4-7; Matthew 8:27; Hebrews 4:2
Diligently Obey
“… This will happen if you diligently obey the Lord your God.” Zechariah 6:15 b
Diligent obedience to the Lord is a command for the follower of Jesus Christ. We have the responsibility, the opportunity and the obligation to obey. What a joy to receive marching orders from Jesus. He is the Commander in Chief. What He says and expects matters dearly, as obedience can be the difference between joy or despair and life or death.
Our obedience facilitates God’s will for our life and for the lives of those around us. We cannot handle the blessings of God, if we are not obedient to the commands of God. He blesses our hard work when we apply our skills and gifts well. However, what keeps us successful and creditable is our character. When we sow obedience we reap character. When we sow disobedience we become a character. Thus, diligently obey the Lord.
Obedience matters to your family. Your example of obedience propels them to do the same. It may mean a job change or a change of churches, but explain to your family the Lord’s leading. Share your fears with your family. Then pray together and ask God to empower you to obey. Diligent obedience also matters to your work associates. They follow what you do, not what you say. Obedience pays dividends now and for eternity.
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life” (Galatians 6:6-8).
How do you know if you are obeying God? His word is your first indicator. Ask Him to reveal His truth and ways to you. He is looking for a hungry heart of obedience. It delights God to instruct His teachable child in His will. Let the word of God seep into your soul through prayer and meditation. Memorize it, learn it, and, most importantly, apply it. Be volitional in your obedience. Obey even when you don’t feel like it.
If you feel a certain way, your emotions may betray you and tell you its ok to not obey. Flee from this faulty thinking. God’s word is living and active. He will speak into the deepest recesses of your heart. Listen intently and diligently; then do what He is says. Do not hold back or be distracted. He may be saying to meet with the ones you have offended or those who have offended you. You need to take the first step in reconciliation. There is a purpose much greater than your hurt feelings. By God’s grace, forgive and let Him heal your hurting heart.
Do not jeopardize the bigger vision for your own selfish needs. It may take a wise mediator to listen to both sides and make a recommendation. Do whatever the mediator suggests. This is a way of diligently obeying God. Yes, it is humbling. Yes, it is a little humiliating, but this is God’s plan. Do not allow the severed relationship with family or friends to fester. You may win the short-term battle of wills, but there is a good chance you will lose the long-term relational war. Diligent obedience requires a humble faith.
“I call with all my heart; answer me, LORD, and I will obey your decrees. I call out to you; save me and I will keep your statutes” (Psalm 119-145-146).
Where is the Lord calling me to diligently obey with humble faith?
Related Readings: 2 Kings 22:13; Jeremiah 11:4-7; Matthew 8:27; Hebrews 4:2
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Excessive Talk
3-6-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Excessive Talk
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.” Proverbs 20:19
Not only is talk cheap, but too much of it can be lethal. Excessive talk can maroon a marriage, derail a deal, alienate close friends and offend acquaintances. Measured words are always the most meaningful. These wise nuggets are to be spent purposefully. Words are not designed to impress; rather, they are to encourage and instruct.
We all fall into this trap from time to time. We want others to believe we are significant, so we use words to prove our point. Our words describe how much knowledge we have acquired, who we know, what we do, where we live, what we drive, where we have traveled and, of course, how great a family we have been blessed with.
If we are not careful, we can subtly (and sometimes not so subtly) hijack words for our own promotion and validation—especially as you dive into your relational portfolio. This requires as much discretion as if you were discussing your personal finances. Most people are forgiving until you disclose personal information.
It doesn’t matter if your disclosure is intentional or inadvertent. The results are the same—hurt and embarrassment. This personal trust is much more valuable than money.
Discretion needs to be in control of any discussion about anyone. Otherwise, you are flirting with gossip and the betrayal of a confidence. I struggle with this. My flesh wants recognition for the important people I know.
After all, if you are impressed with my contacts and credentials, I will feel more valued and important. Or, in another scenario, you unwisely reveal confidential information in the form of a prayer request. You cannot wrap wrong actions around spiritual activities and language. This is doubly bad. This prayer should be for my discretion rather than my disclosure of juicy gossip. By God’s grace, correct this in your own life and avoid others who commit these same errors of indiscriminate living.
Conversational etiquette can be learned. Even a silent fool is considered wise at times. Many times wisdom is found in what you don’t say instead of what you do say. Word restraint is a sign of maturity. Yes, by all means be transparent but with a governor. Trust and confidentiality grow through experiences of faithfulness between parties. As discretion is demonstrated, more trust and information is given.
When you find a confidant, you have found a good thing. Their lips are sealed. Your stored information resides in the airtight vault of their heart and mind. They are there for you, not for themselves. They are secure in Christ and have no reason to prove anything to anyone. Not only do these treasured friends not gossip, they despise it in others. In fact, they are so bold as to interrupt a gossip in mid-sentence and ask them to cease before they make a fool of themselves.
Yes, we need to pray for others snared by sin or who are in a career free fall. And prayer for others means we talk with God. We posture ourselves humbly before God in heart and mind, crying out as their advocate. We ask for mercy, forgiveness, healing, restoration and reconciliation. It is an attitude of compassion and grace.
We are willing to put our good name on the line for our hurting brother or sister in Christ. We talk to God on their behalf rather than to others for our benefit. This is one remedy for excessive talking: throttle back our words to people and increase our words to God. In essence, to avoid gossip and gossipers, talk more to God and less to people. Increase Jesus’ words and decrease people’s words. This is a word to the wise!
Excessive Talk
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.” Proverbs 20:19
Not only is talk cheap, but too much of it can be lethal. Excessive talk can maroon a marriage, derail a deal, alienate close friends and offend acquaintances. Measured words are always the most meaningful. These wise nuggets are to be spent purposefully. Words are not designed to impress; rather, they are to encourage and instruct.
We all fall into this trap from time to time. We want others to believe we are significant, so we use words to prove our point. Our words describe how much knowledge we have acquired, who we know, what we do, where we live, what we drive, where we have traveled and, of course, how great a family we have been blessed with.
If we are not careful, we can subtly (and sometimes not so subtly) hijack words for our own promotion and validation—especially as you dive into your relational portfolio. This requires as much discretion as if you were discussing your personal finances. Most people are forgiving until you disclose personal information.
It doesn’t matter if your disclosure is intentional or inadvertent. The results are the same—hurt and embarrassment. This personal trust is much more valuable than money.
Discretion needs to be in control of any discussion about anyone. Otherwise, you are flirting with gossip and the betrayal of a confidence. I struggle with this. My flesh wants recognition for the important people I know.
After all, if you are impressed with my contacts and credentials, I will feel more valued and important. Or, in another scenario, you unwisely reveal confidential information in the form of a prayer request. You cannot wrap wrong actions around spiritual activities and language. This is doubly bad. This prayer should be for my discretion rather than my disclosure of juicy gossip. By God’s grace, correct this in your own life and avoid others who commit these same errors of indiscriminate living.
Conversational etiquette can be learned. Even a silent fool is considered wise at times. Many times wisdom is found in what you don’t say instead of what you do say. Word restraint is a sign of maturity. Yes, by all means be transparent but with a governor. Trust and confidentiality grow through experiences of faithfulness between parties. As discretion is demonstrated, more trust and information is given.
When you find a confidant, you have found a good thing. Their lips are sealed. Your stored information resides in the airtight vault of their heart and mind. They are there for you, not for themselves. They are secure in Christ and have no reason to prove anything to anyone. Not only do these treasured friends not gossip, they despise it in others. In fact, they are so bold as to interrupt a gossip in mid-sentence and ask them to cease before they make a fool of themselves.
Yes, we need to pray for others snared by sin or who are in a career free fall. And prayer for others means we talk with God. We posture ourselves humbly before God in heart and mind, crying out as their advocate. We ask for mercy, forgiveness, healing, restoration and reconciliation. It is an attitude of compassion and grace.
We are willing to put our good name on the line for our hurting brother or sister in Christ. We talk to God on their behalf rather than to others for our benefit. This is one remedy for excessive talking: throttle back our words to people and increase our words to God. In essence, to avoid gossip and gossipers, talk more to God and less to people. Increase Jesus’ words and decrease people’s words. This is a word to the wise!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Unlearn Untruths
3-4-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Unlearn Untruths
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2
God calls His children to think anew-not like they did in the past with old prejudices and skewed perspectives-but with renewed thoughts captured by Christ. Like medical science that discovers new remedies for old illnesses, the Christian mind changes and grows under God's influence. We love the Lord with our mind when we humbly unlearn untruths.
The mature follower of Christ learns to unlearn beliefs that are untrue. For example, the Bible does not teach: "God helps those who help themselves." Yet, because we hear it repeated multiple times without rebuttal, it begins to blend into our belief system. Truthfully, God helps those who die to themselves, and who come alive by faith in Jesus Christ. Yes, the Lord wants us to work hard, but not as a substitute for our utter dependence on Him.
"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).
Another untruth that needs to be unlearned says, "If you have enough faith you will be physically healed or you will prosper materially." Jesus can of course do either of these, but your faith does not guarantee that He will heal you (though the ultimate healing is to be in heaven) or that He will bless you financially. Some with great faith, die of disease and some, filthy rich in faith, live a life of poverty on earth. True faith-trusts God-to do His will.
Often repeated, but is wrong: "bad people go to hell and good people go to heaven." It's saved people who go to heaven and lost people who go to hell. Only our belief in the blood of Jesus Christ, as the payment for our sin, can we gain eternal life with God. There is no amount of moral acts that can justify a life before Him; it requires grace not goodness.
"All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away" (Isaiah 64:6). "But the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23b).
Therefore, rid your mind of old thinking that assumes something that is not true, and replace it with Scripture's timeless truth. A mentor or teacher may have meant well, but a sincere heart that delivers half-truths can confuse your mind and emotions. Read the Bible to validate what you believe-and have the courage and faith to unlearn untruths.
"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ" (Colossians 2:8).
What belief do I currently embrace as true that does not align with Scriptural principles?
Related Readings: Job 6:24; Psalm 119:15; 2 Corinthians 10:5; 2 Timothy
2:25-26
Unlearn Untruths
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2
God calls His children to think anew-not like they did in the past with old prejudices and skewed perspectives-but with renewed thoughts captured by Christ. Like medical science that discovers new remedies for old illnesses, the Christian mind changes and grows under God's influence. We love the Lord with our mind when we humbly unlearn untruths.
The mature follower of Christ learns to unlearn beliefs that are untrue. For example, the Bible does not teach: "God helps those who help themselves." Yet, because we hear it repeated multiple times without rebuttal, it begins to blend into our belief system. Truthfully, God helps those who die to themselves, and who come alive by faith in Jesus Christ. Yes, the Lord wants us to work hard, but not as a substitute for our utter dependence on Him.
"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).
Another untruth that needs to be unlearned says, "If you have enough faith you will be physically healed or you will prosper materially." Jesus can of course do either of these, but your faith does not guarantee that He will heal you (though the ultimate healing is to be in heaven) or that He will bless you financially. Some with great faith, die of disease and some, filthy rich in faith, live a life of poverty on earth. True faith-trusts God-to do His will.
Often repeated, but is wrong: "bad people go to hell and good people go to heaven." It's saved people who go to heaven and lost people who go to hell. Only our belief in the blood of Jesus Christ, as the payment for our sin, can we gain eternal life with God. There is no amount of moral acts that can justify a life before Him; it requires grace not goodness.
"All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away" (Isaiah 64:6). "But the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23b).
Therefore, rid your mind of old thinking that assumes something that is not true, and replace it with Scripture's timeless truth. A mentor or teacher may have meant well, but a sincere heart that delivers half-truths can confuse your mind and emotions. Read the Bible to validate what you believe-and have the courage and faith to unlearn untruths.
"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ" (Colossians 2:8).
What belief do I currently embrace as true that does not align with Scriptural principles?
Related Readings: Job 6:24; Psalm 119:15; 2 Corinthians 10:5; 2 Timothy
2:25-26
Value Others More
3-3-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Value Others More
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Philippians 2:3-4
The value of something or someone determines its importance. For example, if a hobby is highly valued it gets attention, even to the exclusion of relational investments in a needy child. It’s easier to get lost in leisure than to face the reality of a broken relationship. But by predetermining a high appraisal of someone keeps them a high priority in hard times.
Indeed, there is a tension between our own interests and the interests of others. After all, doesn’t the Lord want us to take care of ourselves? Of course He does—but it is not by hiding behind our own issues and ambitions to the exclusion of placing others above ourselves. Humility esteems the good in others, while recognizing its own struggles.
“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you” (Romans 12:3).
Pride places a lower priority on others and a higher priority of itself. Pride does its due diligence and ranks the issues of others much lower in value than its own needs and wants. It’s only from the assumption of a humble heart that we are capable to value others as Christ values them. Jesus humbles us, so we in turn can humbly serve others.
Therefore, what interests the people in your life? What are your spouse’s interests? What do your children value? What are the personal goals of your work associates? Perhaps you do a relational audit around their interests and become intentional in helping them fulfill their needs and desires. It takes faith to first fulfill another’s agenda over yours.
Paradoxically, when we place the needs of others above ourselves, God fills in the gaps. His favor shines on servants of Jesus—who without guile—go the extra mile on behalf of those who don’t deserve extra attention. God’s favor flourishes on your life when by faith you keep your faith, family and friend’s interests in high esteem above your own. Jesus is very clear that those who place others above themselves are greatest in His kingdom.
“Within minutes they were bickering over who of them would end up the greatest. But Jesus intervened: "Kings like to throw their weight around and people in authority like to give themselves fancy titles. It's not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become like the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant” (Luke 22:24-26, The Message).
Who in my life do I need to understand their interests, and value them above myself?
Related Readings: Ruth 1:16-18; Matthew 23:11; Luke 9:46-48; 22:27-30
Value Others More
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Philippians 2:3-4
The value of something or someone determines its importance. For example, if a hobby is highly valued it gets attention, even to the exclusion of relational investments in a needy child. It’s easier to get lost in leisure than to face the reality of a broken relationship. But by predetermining a high appraisal of someone keeps them a high priority in hard times.
Indeed, there is a tension between our own interests and the interests of others. After all, doesn’t the Lord want us to take care of ourselves? Of course He does—but it is not by hiding behind our own issues and ambitions to the exclusion of placing others above ourselves. Humility esteems the good in others, while recognizing its own struggles.
“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you” (Romans 12:3).
Pride places a lower priority on others and a higher priority of itself. Pride does its due diligence and ranks the issues of others much lower in value than its own needs and wants. It’s only from the assumption of a humble heart that we are capable to value others as Christ values them. Jesus humbles us, so we in turn can humbly serve others.
Therefore, what interests the people in your life? What are your spouse’s interests? What do your children value? What are the personal goals of your work associates? Perhaps you do a relational audit around their interests and become intentional in helping them fulfill their needs and desires. It takes faith to first fulfill another’s agenda over yours.
Paradoxically, when we place the needs of others above ourselves, God fills in the gaps. His favor shines on servants of Jesus—who without guile—go the extra mile on behalf of those who don’t deserve extra attention. God’s favor flourishes on your life when by faith you keep your faith, family and friend’s interests in high esteem above your own. Jesus is very clear that those who place others above themselves are greatest in His kingdom.
“Within minutes they were bickering over who of them would end up the greatest. But Jesus intervened: "Kings like to throw their weight around and people in authority like to give themselves fancy titles. It's not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become like the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant” (Luke 22:24-26, The Message).
Who in my life do I need to understand their interests, and value them above myself?
Related Readings: Ruth 1:16-18; Matthew 23:11; Luke 9:46-48; 22:27-30
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Spirit Led Living
3-2-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Spirit Led Living
“So he said to me, ‘This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel.’ Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” Zechariah 4:6
The Holy Spirit is God’s fuel for living. He leads, convicts, comforts and gives courage. On the other hand the world promotes power and might. The world’s approach is forceful: If the door is closed, knock it down; if you have the power and authority, use it to make things happen. Lack of faith can lead to panic and prematurely force unrighteous results.
These temporal fortresses are fleeting. When all is said and done, they are undependable. Money, control, and your title can be here today and gone tomorrow. They are cheap imitations of having dependence on God.
On the contrary, Spirit led living is about dependence. It is dependence on God rather than any other form of reliance. But the Spirit of God wants you to grow in His awareness and follow His lead. Like a hurricane that gains strength as time passes, so does God’s Spirit. You cannot accomplish His best without the leadership and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. He may even lead you to places of discomfort, as His desire is to place you in positions of dependence.
The Holy Spirit led Jesus to the wilderness to be tempted by Satan. But the Word of God became Christ’s defense. He deflected the darts of the devil with the truth of God. It was an exercise of faith and obedience that drew Him closer to His heavenly Father. Instead of driving Him from God, it drew Him to God. The Holy Spirit’s goal is to get us to God.
“Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him” (Matthew 4:10-11).
Submission to God revives the Spirit of God. Come under the authority of God and you have a source of strength that is limitless and energizing. God’s Spirit also produces fruit and creates character. This is another benefit of Sprit led living. It is not about techniques and tactics. It is first and foremost about the character of Christ transforming your life.
Power explodes from within your heart rather than exploiting others with threats. There is quiet confidence that comes from a deep abiding in Christ. Spirit led moms pray more than they worry. They train and teach their children and all the while trust them with God. Anxiety is replaced with abiding. They do their part and trust God to do His part.
Spirit led living is all about engrafting the Word of God into your life. The Holy Spirit ignites the fuel of God’s Word into a blaze of obedience. This is the power that changes lives and communities for the greater good of God. This exhibition of power may only make the headlines of heaven. Wait on God—Be Spirit led—Watch His power prevail!
“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).
Where is the Holy Spirit leading me that requires uncommon faith and obedience?
Related Readings: Exodus 31:3; John 3:34; Acts 4:25-31; 2 Timothy 1:7
Spirit Led Living
“So he said to me, ‘This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel.’ Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” Zechariah 4:6
The Holy Spirit is God’s fuel for living. He leads, convicts, comforts and gives courage. On the other hand the world promotes power and might. The world’s approach is forceful: If the door is closed, knock it down; if you have the power and authority, use it to make things happen. Lack of faith can lead to panic and prematurely force unrighteous results.
These temporal fortresses are fleeting. When all is said and done, they are undependable. Money, control, and your title can be here today and gone tomorrow. They are cheap imitations of having dependence on God.
On the contrary, Spirit led living is about dependence. It is dependence on God rather than any other form of reliance. But the Spirit of God wants you to grow in His awareness and follow His lead. Like a hurricane that gains strength as time passes, so does God’s Spirit. You cannot accomplish His best without the leadership and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. He may even lead you to places of discomfort, as His desire is to place you in positions of dependence.
The Holy Spirit led Jesus to the wilderness to be tempted by Satan. But the Word of God became Christ’s defense. He deflected the darts of the devil with the truth of God. It was an exercise of faith and obedience that drew Him closer to His heavenly Father. Instead of driving Him from God, it drew Him to God. The Holy Spirit’s goal is to get us to God.
“Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him” (Matthew 4:10-11).
Submission to God revives the Spirit of God. Come under the authority of God and you have a source of strength that is limitless and energizing. God’s Spirit also produces fruit and creates character. This is another benefit of Sprit led living. It is not about techniques and tactics. It is first and foremost about the character of Christ transforming your life.
Power explodes from within your heart rather than exploiting others with threats. There is quiet confidence that comes from a deep abiding in Christ. Spirit led moms pray more than they worry. They train and teach their children and all the while trust them with God. Anxiety is replaced with abiding. They do their part and trust God to do His part.
Spirit led living is all about engrafting the Word of God into your life. The Holy Spirit ignites the fuel of God’s Word into a blaze of obedience. This is the power that changes lives and communities for the greater good of God. This exhibition of power may only make the headlines of heaven. Wait on God—Be Spirit led—Watch His power prevail!
“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).
Where is the Holy Spirit leading me that requires uncommon faith and obedience?
Related Readings: Exodus 31:3; John 3:34; Acts 4:25-31; 2 Timothy 1:7
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