Romans 14:19
19 Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
Notice how today's scripture says "make every effort." That stands out the most to me because that in itself is always a challenge: to put forth effort in everything. On certain days, sometimes it feels like we have to exert more effort than normal because we're extra tired or unmotivated.
In this scripture reading, it then stresses peace and mutual edification. Much like our relationship with God, this is a two-way deal. In order to have peace, for example, you have to exhibit that characteristic toward others. The same goes for edification. Be open to it because God calls for cooperation within his family. As spiritual brothers and sisters, it is our responsibility to work out the kinks in our relationships and resolve them through methods such as communication.
That's what takes great effort. Getting along with your brothers and sisters in Christ, especially those who you spend the most time with. It's a necessity to do that in every relationship. No matter who you love, you have to sacrifice your time for them and be compassionate; get rid all of your selfishness. Openly share your love with one another and I'm sure you'll see the benefits bounce back to you.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
God's Lullaby.
Zephaniah 3:17
17 The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing."
This is the only verse I've used from the book of Zephaniah in the past couple years, and I'm using it again because it's encouraging.
Have you ever heard a lullaby? Have you ever sung one to a crying baby? I don't know what it is, but a soft hum seems to be soothing. It calms them I think partially because it makes us peaceful ourselves. Somehow, I believe that babies sense our mood and emotion. That's why yelling at a baby who's crying doesn't really work; they can sense any anger and frustration.
Similarly, I imagine God singing this verse from the Bible as a lullaby to us reminding us that he's always here even when life doesn't make sense and it's hard to go from day to day. It's certainly a joyful and hopeful message that Zephaniah conveys to the people of God when they feel defeated.
God is mighty to save. He loves us unconditionally. He takes great delight in us. He wipes away any storm that is in our heart just with his touch. God wants to be close to you and invites you now to step up your commitment. Are you ready to respond proactively?
Lord, let us see your presence clearly so that our soul can be quieted. Strengthen us to forbid evil and seek you in everything we know. Thank you for always being a prayer and a blessing away.
Please take the next 5-10 minutes and worship God in this song by Hillsong United: "Mighty To Save."
17 The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing."
This is the only verse I've used from the book of Zephaniah in the past couple years, and I'm using it again because it's encouraging.
Have you ever heard a lullaby? Have you ever sung one to a crying baby? I don't know what it is, but a soft hum seems to be soothing. It calms them I think partially because it makes us peaceful ourselves. Somehow, I believe that babies sense our mood and emotion. That's why yelling at a baby who's crying doesn't really work; they can sense any anger and frustration.
Similarly, I imagine God singing this verse from the Bible as a lullaby to us reminding us that he's always here even when life doesn't make sense and it's hard to go from day to day. It's certainly a joyful and hopeful message that Zephaniah conveys to the people of God when they feel defeated.
God is mighty to save. He loves us unconditionally. He takes great delight in us. He wipes away any storm that is in our heart just with his touch. God wants to be close to you and invites you now to step up your commitment. Are you ready to respond proactively?
Lord, let us see your presence clearly so that our soul can be quieted. Strengthen us to forbid evil and seek you in everything we know. Thank you for always being a prayer and a blessing away.
Please take the next 5-10 minutes and worship God in this song by Hillsong United: "Mighty To Save."
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Unfair Judgment.
Romans 14:4
4 Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
Trying to get back on track...
As humans, most of us are fully capable of seeing and hearing the world around us. It is a melting pot. In other words, everyone is different. Some are small and some are large; some can walk and some can't; some have a high-pitched voice and some have a low-pitched voice; some are Christian and some aren't. The list could go on for miles!
Anyways, the point is that Paul is specifically discussing judgment about people's faith. As Christians, we tend to have this circle of hotheadedness, the idea that we're better than non-believers, that is. However, it is anything but our job to judge people with regard to faith or anything really. Whose responsibility is this? The Lord's. Thus, it is in our best interest to pass without judging.
So often it's easy for us to find the fault in others. Yet, we don't even look at our own selves and the obvious sin that exists there. Someone's sin is equally as bad as yours. Just remember that you will be asked to respond to God for everything you do just as much as someone else's wrongdoings. At least Jesus died to redeem us.
Unfair judgment is a hard thing to avoid, so pray about it if you're struggling with this authority issue. Finally, may God use as a source of encouragement for one trying to understand their purpose and plan in God's will.
4 Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
Trying to get back on track...
As humans, most of us are fully capable of seeing and hearing the world around us. It is a melting pot. In other words, everyone is different. Some are small and some are large; some can walk and some can't; some have a high-pitched voice and some have a low-pitched voice; some are Christian and some aren't. The list could go on for miles!
Anyways, the point is that Paul is specifically discussing judgment about people's faith. As Christians, we tend to have this circle of hotheadedness, the idea that we're better than non-believers, that is. However, it is anything but our job to judge people with regard to faith or anything really. Whose responsibility is this? The Lord's. Thus, it is in our best interest to pass without judging.
So often it's easy for us to find the fault in others. Yet, we don't even look at our own selves and the obvious sin that exists there. Someone's sin is equally as bad as yours. Just remember that you will be asked to respond to God for everything you do just as much as someone else's wrongdoings. At least Jesus died to redeem us.
Unfair judgment is a hard thing to avoid, so pray about it if you're struggling with this authority issue. Finally, may God use as a source of encouragement for one trying to understand their purpose and plan in God's will.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Justified in his Blood.
Romans 5:8-9
8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
9 Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him!
On the topic of eternal punishment, many people believe that hell is an unfair punishment of people's sins. However, the way I look at it, the part that's unfair, yet amazing, is the fact that Christ died for our sins and offers the precious gift of salvation to all with no cost! I'm not saying that I'm jealous that I didn't die like Christ did, but rather it is just unbelievable how we are so unworthy yet Jesus still died for us so that our sins don't have to take us to hell. Now, that's love!
All in all, Jesus' blood that was shed on the cross is a symbol of redemption for Christians. We are allowed to be born into a new life from our slavery as a sinner. We are forgiven; our sins from the past, present, and future are wiped away. Christ sees everyone in the image of God depicting a pure and holy picture. Everyone who trusts the Lord is no longer considered to be guilty as they are strengthened by a relationship with God. You can change your badge from a sinner to a saint just like that.
Thank you Lord for your sending your Son to die for us. I don't think any of us would be where we are today if it wasn't for you.
Accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior everyday can be challenge, but we have to remember all the benefits in the end.
8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
9 Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him!
On the topic of eternal punishment, many people believe that hell is an unfair punishment of people's sins. However, the way I look at it, the part that's unfair, yet amazing, is the fact that Christ died for our sins and offers the precious gift of salvation to all with no cost! I'm not saying that I'm jealous that I didn't die like Christ did, but rather it is just unbelievable how we are so unworthy yet Jesus still died for us so that our sins don't have to take us to hell. Now, that's love!
All in all, Jesus' blood that was shed on the cross is a symbol of redemption for Christians. We are allowed to be born into a new life from our slavery as a sinner. We are forgiven; our sins from the past, present, and future are wiped away. Christ sees everyone in the image of God depicting a pure and holy picture. Everyone who trusts the Lord is no longer considered to be guilty as they are strengthened by a relationship with God. You can change your badge from a sinner to a saint just like that.
Thank you Lord for your sending your Son to die for us. I don't think any of us would be where we are today if it wasn't for you.
Accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior everyday can be challenge, but we have to remember all the benefits in the end.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
In the Hand of God.
Hebrews 9:27-28
27 Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, 28 so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.
As humans, we are in the hand of God. However, somewhere in time since then, many have decided to believe just the opposite: God is in their hands. In other words, God's impact in one's life, is up to the person himself. "God only has a role in our life when I feel like he should."
That is not the way to think. The Bible says that we aren't to question the reality of God: he's the one, true, everlasting God and judge of creation. The two things that put this belief to rest are death and judgment.
Don't even begin to question death or judgment. Remove any doubts from your mind. God's Word tells us that God has appointed a moment when everyone, including you and I, will die. It's inevitable. He went on to say that after death, we will come before the very face of God and be judged. Even though you shouldn't question death and judgment, the reality is, they're still there. You may be able to steer clear of some potential obstacles in life, such as discontentment, however, death and judgment are unavoidable. These appointments have been made. The important thing to remember is that you're not alone! Assume and believe that God is right.
So while you may not want to believe these frightening words, remember they're coming from the one, true God. As far as hope is concerned, turn to Jesus Christ. He is the sure way to salvation. He will take your sin and keep you from eternal punishment. Finally, look at these two appointments without shame and fear. Just think, one day you will see the one who died for you because he loved you then, he loves you now, and he will love you forever.
27 Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, 28 so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.
As humans, we are in the hand of God. However, somewhere in time since then, many have decided to believe just the opposite: God is in their hands. In other words, God's impact in one's life, is up to the person himself. "God only has a role in our life when I feel like he should."
That is not the way to think. The Bible says that we aren't to question the reality of God: he's the one, true, everlasting God and judge of creation. The two things that put this belief to rest are death and judgment.
Don't even begin to question death or judgment. Remove any doubts from your mind. God's Word tells us that God has appointed a moment when everyone, including you and I, will die. It's inevitable. He went on to say that after death, we will come before the very face of God and be judged. Even though you shouldn't question death and judgment, the reality is, they're still there. You may be able to steer clear of some potential obstacles in life, such as discontentment, however, death and judgment are unavoidable. These appointments have been made. The important thing to remember is that you're not alone! Assume and believe that God is right.
So while you may not want to believe these frightening words, remember they're coming from the one, true God. As far as hope is concerned, turn to Jesus Christ. He is the sure way to salvation. He will take your sin and keep you from eternal punishment. Finally, look at these two appointments without shame and fear. Just think, one day you will see the one who died for you because he loved you then, he loves you now, and he will love you forever.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
The Fiery Lake.
Revelation 21:8
8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death."
What a scary image! I'm sure many of you are thinking, "How in the world can such a loving God do such a thing? Earth is bad enough. Hell isn't real."
The fact of the matter is, it doesn't matter what you think. What God says is more important, and as you know, he speaks through the Bible. Something is true because it's a reality, not because you believe in it.
So many people want to live without God. The sad part is that most claim they are Christians. However, in their everyday tasks, they are hypocrites and everything but Christian. They don't live according to the Holy Word. They don't want to believe that God will cast people into the lake of fire. Somehow, our reality has gone astray thinking he's too kind to do that.
To clarify, Hell did not originate from Satan, but rather God. If God only makes things that glorifies him, then why would he create Hell? Our God does not strive for chaos, but rather order. Moral laws are consistent with God's character and they teach us lessons.
In order to enter the Kingdom of God, we must be holy and without sin. We obviously fall short of that and God has promised to erase all of our sins. This is possible thanks to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Jesus accepted the beating we deserve and in turn, gave us eternal life.
All in all, we have to leave our sinful traits behind and separate them from God. You can't have eternal life with God and be independent from him.
8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death."
What a scary image! I'm sure many of you are thinking, "How in the world can such a loving God do such a thing? Earth is bad enough. Hell isn't real."
The fact of the matter is, it doesn't matter what you think. What God says is more important, and as you know, he speaks through the Bible. Something is true because it's a reality, not because you believe in it.
So many people want to live without God. The sad part is that most claim they are Christians. However, in their everyday tasks, they are hypocrites and everything but Christian. They don't live according to the Holy Word. They don't want to believe that God will cast people into the lake of fire. Somehow, our reality has gone astray thinking he's too kind to do that.
To clarify, Hell did not originate from Satan, but rather God. If God only makes things that glorifies him, then why would he create Hell? Our God does not strive for chaos, but rather order. Moral laws are consistent with God's character and they teach us lessons.
In order to enter the Kingdom of God, we must be holy and without sin. We obviously fall short of that and God has promised to erase all of our sins. This is possible thanks to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Jesus accepted the beating we deserve and in turn, gave us eternal life.
All in all, we have to leave our sinful traits behind and separate them from God. You can't have eternal life with God and be independent from him.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Treatment of Others and Eternal Life.
Matthew 25:41-46
41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
44 "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
45 "He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'
46 "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."
Welcome back!
What if we saw everyone in the image of Christ? What if we treated everyone as if they were Christ? I know things would be so much different. Compassion and kindness would certainly exist. Hospitality wouldn't be unheard of. The words that flow off our tongue and out of our mouth would completely change its pattern and 'not conform to the pattern of the world.' It would be easier to understand the suffering, pain, and trials of others. We could easily love every neighbor!
Jesus wants our kindness toward others to dominate. He says that if we exhibit cruelty and evilness toward people, then we WILL suffer the consequences. Everything may be hunky dory on earth, however, that won't be the case after our time here. Remember, we will be judged not on whether we go to church every Sunday, but rather how we serve the Lord, and thus his people.
Lord, thank you so much for everyone around us. Even when we're having a bad day or we're not treated fairly by someone, remind us how much you value everyone even if we slip. May the Holy Spirit work to reveal this power in strong ways.
The song I want to share with you today is "Won't You Be My Love" by MercyMe. It's a nice song for a Monday!
41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
44 "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
45 "He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'
46 "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."
Welcome back!
What if we saw everyone in the image of Christ? What if we treated everyone as if they were Christ? I know things would be so much different. Compassion and kindness would certainly exist. Hospitality wouldn't be unheard of. The words that flow off our tongue and out of our mouth would completely change its pattern and 'not conform to the pattern of the world.' It would be easier to understand the suffering, pain, and trials of others. We could easily love every neighbor!
Jesus wants our kindness toward others to dominate. He says that if we exhibit cruelty and evilness toward people, then we WILL suffer the consequences. Everything may be hunky dory on earth, however, that won't be the case after our time here. Remember, we will be judged not on whether we go to church every Sunday, but rather how we serve the Lord, and thus his people.
Lord, thank you so much for everyone around us. Even when we're having a bad day or we're not treated fairly by someone, remind us how much you value everyone even if we slip. May the Holy Spirit work to reveal this power in strong ways.
The song I want to share with you today is "Won't You Be My Love" by MercyMe. It's a nice song for a Monday!
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Model of Love.
1 Thessalonians 3:12
12 May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.
This is a scripture reading that I think we all can take to heart. We don't realize who we're affecting day to day when we go about tossing around love like it's nobody's business. In reality, however, remember that God is love. Thank goodness he pours his love into our hearts via the Holy Spirit or else I think at times it would run dry. The reason this happens is because we get so caught up in our selfish desires that we can't possibly be caring and compassionate toward others.
What can we do to make our families, churches, and small groups more loving and united in thought? Yep, you guessed it...pray! Don't be afraid to let the members of your small group, for example, know that you are praying for them. No matter what, communication is the most important element in keeping love strong and prayer is a form of communication!
God, help us be more loving toward one another imitating your unconditional love. May the same love that you pour into me, funnel out into the world. May our congregations grow more in your love and power, not just within, but to those outside who will encounter us as well. As one family, we ask this in your name.
P.S. I'm going to take a break from blogging for the next week (October 11-16). This year I've done pretty well keeping up and avoiding any real slack until now. Anyways, keep digging into the Word and I'll see you on Monday, October 18!
12 May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.
This is a scripture reading that I think we all can take to heart. We don't realize who we're affecting day to day when we go about tossing around love like it's nobody's business. In reality, however, remember that God is love. Thank goodness he pours his love into our hearts via the Holy Spirit or else I think at times it would run dry. The reason this happens is because we get so caught up in our selfish desires that we can't possibly be caring and compassionate toward others.
What can we do to make our families, churches, and small groups more loving and united in thought? Yep, you guessed it...pray! Don't be afraid to let the members of your small group, for example, know that you are praying for them. No matter what, communication is the most important element in keeping love strong and prayer is a form of communication!
God, help us be more loving toward one another imitating your unconditional love. May the same love that you pour into me, funnel out into the world. May our congregations grow more in your love and power, not just within, but to those outside who will encounter us as well. As one family, we ask this in your name.
P.S. I'm going to take a break from blogging for the next week (October 11-16). This year I've done pretty well keeping up and avoiding any real slack until now. Anyways, keep digging into the Word and I'll see you on Monday, October 18!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Open Arms.
Romans 14:1
1 Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters.
God is good and when he sent Christ to die for us, that is a blessing that I think we ignore too often. I know I mentioned it after my first week of summer semester up here at Florida State University, but at the Wesley Foundation, I felt very welcome to immediately call it my new church because of the church body. Between their offers to go to lunch, and their willingness to get to know me, Christian fellowship is such a blessing. Now, I still don't feel any different. Everyone there sees me in the image of God.
Similarly, I started pledging a Christian fraternity this semester, Kappa Upsilon Chi (KYX). Despite any thoughts to drop KYX earlier in the semester due to my lack of patience or understanding, God has always pulled through and showed me the importance of having brothers living and knowing Christ along with me. The brothers who have been involved in the organization were kind and welcoming to me as well. Clearly their emphasis is brotherhood in Christ. It's something I think is necessary to maintain my faith. I'm sure many other teens could use that too. (I'll likely write a little more KYX once the semester is over).
In both cases, past failures and sin are not meant to bring you down. They're only meant to help you grow. They're not meant to judge you, but rather, hold you accountable. Any struggles are meant to be brought to the table in these two atmospheres where God is clearly present.
It is my goal to show others (and bring them into) the love of God's family just as I have been led to and because God has welcomed me with his graciousness.
1 Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters.
God is good and when he sent Christ to die for us, that is a blessing that I think we ignore too often. I know I mentioned it after my first week of summer semester up here at Florida State University, but at the Wesley Foundation, I felt very welcome to immediately call it my new church because of the church body. Between their offers to go to lunch, and their willingness to get to know me, Christian fellowship is such a blessing. Now, I still don't feel any different. Everyone there sees me in the image of God.
Similarly, I started pledging a Christian fraternity this semester, Kappa Upsilon Chi (KYX). Despite any thoughts to drop KYX earlier in the semester due to my lack of patience or understanding, God has always pulled through and showed me the importance of having brothers living and knowing Christ along with me. The brothers who have been involved in the organization were kind and welcoming to me as well. Clearly their emphasis is brotherhood in Christ. It's something I think is necessary to maintain my faith. I'm sure many other teens could use that too. (I'll likely write a little more KYX once the semester is over).
In both cases, past failures and sin are not meant to bring you down. They're only meant to help you grow. They're not meant to judge you, but rather, hold you accountable. Any struggles are meant to be brought to the table in these two atmospheres where God is clearly present.
It is my goal to show others (and bring them into) the love of God's family just as I have been led to and because God has welcomed me with his graciousness.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Following Jesus.
Matthew 11:28-30
28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
I've been thinking about following Christ and an interesting perspective popped into my head. Usually when we follow the leader, it's only for a short time before we go back to normal; we might agree to their callings in order to get a project completed, for example. When all is said and done, we easily go back to leading our own lives.
However, when we follow Christ, it needs to be a long term reality. We follow him to be more like him, not just to say we did it for a few days only to return our self-reliance. The difference here is that we must give up everything in order to follow him. There's no "I'm kinda following Jesus" stepping stones.
As followers of Jesus, we understand that we constantly receive blessings even at the roughest times and that we have a reservation in eternal life with God. While it is difficult at times, that fact of life is never going to vanish into thin air. Just remember, when things aren't easy, God intends for that to happen to teach valuable lessons. Best of all, when our life here on earth is done, it's just the beginning of our eternal life with our Lord and Savior.
Thank you Lord for the things you bless us with each day. May we see Jesus as the only way to a real, genuine life.
28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
I've been thinking about following Christ and an interesting perspective popped into my head. Usually when we follow the leader, it's only for a short time before we go back to normal; we might agree to their callings in order to get a project completed, for example. When all is said and done, we easily go back to leading our own lives.
However, when we follow Christ, it needs to be a long term reality. We follow him to be more like him, not just to say we did it for a few days only to return our self-reliance. The difference here is that we must give up everything in order to follow him. There's no "I'm kinda following Jesus" stepping stones.
As followers of Jesus, we understand that we constantly receive blessings even at the roughest times and that we have a reservation in eternal life with God. While it is difficult at times, that fact of life is never going to vanish into thin air. Just remember, when things aren't easy, God intends for that to happen to teach valuable lessons. Best of all, when our life here on earth is done, it's just the beginning of our eternal life with our Lord and Savior.
Thank you Lord for the things you bless us with each day. May we see Jesus as the only way to a real, genuine life.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Drawing the Line.
1 Peter 3:9
9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
Since this is reminiscent of a piece of scripture found in the book of Romans, this is even more convincing as to why we should forgive others. I admit, this particular reason as to why we should forgive is hard to accept since as humans we typically want revenge. Our mindset is: we were hurt, so why not let them hurt? It's as if guilt and shame are the best forms of payback in the world. Maybe after they suffer as much as we desire, we can grant them with forgiveness.
Someone may call you name. Do you think it feels better to call them back a name? The problem is that it's going to be a continuous cycle. The idea is usually to get even with each other, but that's never going to happen; someone is going to always be one up on the other, so to speak. Where does the line get drawn? How do you prevent the situation from escalating even more out of control?
The fact of the matter is someone has to be the bigger person. They have to say: "Stop...enough!" Guess what? Jesus is calling you to be that someone. Enough is enough should be a reality now rather than later.
It's not always easy fighting to ignore our instincts to react negatively. That's why we're told to love and pray for our enemies. This is a distinguishable characteristic as a follower of Christ. Maybe you should write down today's Bible verse and carry it with you everywhere. Whenever you're questioning how to respond to betrayal and hurt feelings, turn to this Bible verse.
9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
Since this is reminiscent of a piece of scripture found in the book of Romans, this is even more convincing as to why we should forgive others. I admit, this particular reason as to why we should forgive is hard to accept since as humans we typically want revenge. Our mindset is: we were hurt, so why not let them hurt? It's as if guilt and shame are the best forms of payback in the world. Maybe after they suffer as much as we desire, we can grant them with forgiveness.
Someone may call you name. Do you think it feels better to call them back a name? The problem is that it's going to be a continuous cycle. The idea is usually to get even with each other, but that's never going to happen; someone is going to always be one up on the other, so to speak. Where does the line get drawn? How do you prevent the situation from escalating even more out of control?
The fact of the matter is someone has to be the bigger person. They have to say: "Stop...enough!" Guess what? Jesus is calling you to be that someone. Enough is enough should be a reality now rather than later.
It's not always easy fighting to ignore our instincts to react negatively. That's why we're told to love and pray for our enemies. This is a distinguishable characteristic as a follower of Christ. Maybe you should write down today's Bible verse and carry it with you everywhere. Whenever you're questioning how to respond to betrayal and hurt feelings, turn to this Bible verse.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Forgive So That You Will be Forgiven.
Mark 11:25
25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
The main idea in today's Bible verse is that you have to forgive others in order for God to forgive you. Notice that the operative phrase is "so that." This is critical when it comes to understanding consequences such as the following:
1. Put your dinner in the microwave, so that it won't be cold
2. Fold your clothes, so that there won't be any wrinkles.
3. Go to sleep early tonight, so that you will be well-rested by the morning.
"So that" almost indicates a cause and effect relationship. Additionally, the first part part of the sentence before "so that" must be true in order for the second part of the sentence to be true. This idiom is definitely a sentence structure element.
In context, we are told that we should "forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." The carefully placed phrase "so that" implies that if we fail to express a forgiving heart to one another, then what's to say we deserve God's forgiveness?
Think about it; when we say the Lord's prayer we're asking for forgiveness as we promise to forgive others: "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." Do you think you're doing a sufficient job forgiving others and thus you're able to receive God's total forgiveness?
If you're struggling with a certain situation, you may want to talk it out with someone. Certainly, go to the Lord and ask him to fill you with his wisdom. God, may we be wiling to forgive others so that we can experience your total forgiveness.
25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
The main idea in today's Bible verse is that you have to forgive others in order for God to forgive you. Notice that the operative phrase is "so that." This is critical when it comes to understanding consequences such as the following:
1. Put your dinner in the microwave, so that it won't be cold
2. Fold your clothes, so that there won't be any wrinkles.
3. Go to sleep early tonight, so that you will be well-rested by the morning.
"So that" almost indicates a cause and effect relationship. Additionally, the first part part of the sentence before "so that" must be true in order for the second part of the sentence to be true. This idiom is definitely a sentence structure element.
In context, we are told that we should "forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." The carefully placed phrase "so that" implies that if we fail to express a forgiving heart to one another, then what's to say we deserve God's forgiveness?
Think about it; when we say the Lord's prayer we're asking for forgiveness as we promise to forgive others: "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." Do you think you're doing a sufficient job forgiving others and thus you're able to receive God's total forgiveness?
If you're struggling with a certain situation, you may want to talk it out with someone. Certainly, go to the Lord and ask him to fill you with his wisdom. God, may we be wiling to forgive others so that we can experience your total forgiveness.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Forgive and Forget.
Proverbs 17:9
9 He who covers over an offense promotes love,
but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.
This is a wonderful example of how God tells us we should love. Perhaps, it's because you have someone right now who you're having a difficult time agreeing with or understanding. Just when you thought you could go your separate ways, the situation kept reappearing. While it may be possible to move on, it really hinders your relationship.
Have you ever heard of the phrase, "forgive and forget?" Well, it's true. The reality is if a particular situation is reoccurring, then it's affecting the relationship, and there hasn't been forgiveness whatsoever.
It's true that forgiveness is difficult, because it's natural for us to want to let someone know how much they've hurt us. We want to instill guilt on them and we want revenge.
What I've seen is that holding a grudge toward someone, doesn't make you feel better in the end, despite some short term positive feels. In fact, if you're anger in one situation, then you're quite likely many other situations in your relationships with others. What if God held grudges?
Whatever you're going through, pray about it. Take your time and pray. May God fill you with his love and lead you in the right direction.
Here's to a beautiful song from The Sidewalk Prophets: "The Words I Would Say."
9 He who covers over an offense promotes love,
but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.
This is a wonderful example of how God tells us we should love. Perhaps, it's because you have someone right now who you're having a difficult time agreeing with or understanding. Just when you thought you could go your separate ways, the situation kept reappearing. While it may be possible to move on, it really hinders your relationship.
Have you ever heard of the phrase, "forgive and forget?" Well, it's true. The reality is if a particular situation is reoccurring, then it's affecting the relationship, and there hasn't been forgiveness whatsoever.
It's true that forgiveness is difficult, because it's natural for us to want to let someone know how much they've hurt us. We want to instill guilt on them and we want revenge.
What I've seen is that holding a grudge toward someone, doesn't make you feel better in the end, despite some short term positive feels. In fact, if you're anger in one situation, then you're quite likely many other situations in your relationships with others. What if God held grudges?
Whatever you're going through, pray about it. Take your time and pray. May God fill you with his love and lead you in the right direction.
Here's to a beautiful song from The Sidewalk Prophets: "The Words I Would Say."
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Christian Persecution.
Matthew 5:11-12
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Today's message is going to be pretty short and sweet...
Many of you who read this may not even understand what this scripture from Matthew means, or at least can't even imagine it. It seems so unreal. However, when you look at the roots of Christianity, many believers in Christ have suffered persecution greatly all along.
Too often we take our faith and relationship with Christ for granted. Thank God we have the freedoms in our country to worship, praise, and pray to the Lord of Lords all the time whenever we want. We're so comfortable in it, that we have no idea what believers in other parts of the world are feeling at the same as our tranquility.
Do them a favor today and please pray for those who undergo torture, torment, and ridicule to live out their faith.
Lord, many call on your name all across the world you created. Yet, they face trials and hardship everyday just for something they believe. I pray that you can lead them out of this persecution and that their challenges can be a powerful witness to others so that they too can step up to the plate and accept you as their savior. In your name, Amen.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Today's message is going to be pretty short and sweet...
Many of you who read this may not even understand what this scripture from Matthew means, or at least can't even imagine it. It seems so unreal. However, when you look at the roots of Christianity, many believers in Christ have suffered persecution greatly all along.
Too often we take our faith and relationship with Christ for granted. Thank God we have the freedoms in our country to worship, praise, and pray to the Lord of Lords all the time whenever we want. We're so comfortable in it, that we have no idea what believers in other parts of the world are feeling at the same as our tranquility.
Do them a favor today and please pray for those who undergo torture, torment, and ridicule to live out their faith.
Lord, many call on your name all across the world you created. Yet, they face trials and hardship everyday just for something they believe. I pray that you can lead them out of this persecution and that their challenges can be a powerful witness to others so that they too can step up to the plate and accept you as their savior. In your name, Amen.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Clothe Yourself with Christ.
Colossians 3:12
12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
As humans, we're so set on our daily routine. Sure, sometimes when we follow a different routine during a given day, we may forget to make our sandwich for lunch or grab our cell phone off the counter. However, there are some things we just don't ever forget to do, such as getting dressed or putting our shoes on. You may have dreamed something like this did happen, but chances are, you've never forgotten to get dressed!
Much like it's not usual for us to get dressed everyday, Paul wants us to be naturally dressed everyday with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love (essentially, wear the fruits of the spirit...see Galatians 5:22-23) as well. Since we're Christians, if we're not dressed with these items, then we're naked.
Do you remember when Adam and Eve realized that they were naked back in the book of Genesis? They were embarrassed and they couldn't stand before the grace of God. We stand before God everyday in everything that we do. The last thing we should do is show a lack of compassion, kindness, and humility. This way, there's no reason to be ashamed.
Which of the aforementioned characteristics do you need to add any extra layers to in your daily attire? Make a list of all the characteristics and rank them based on how much work needs to be done on each. Finally, pray about your list!
12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
As humans, we're so set on our daily routine. Sure, sometimes when we follow a different routine during a given day, we may forget to make our sandwich for lunch or grab our cell phone off the counter. However, there are some things we just don't ever forget to do, such as getting dressed or putting our shoes on. You may have dreamed something like this did happen, but chances are, you've never forgotten to get dressed!
Much like it's not usual for us to get dressed everyday, Paul wants us to be naturally dressed everyday with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love (essentially, wear the fruits of the spirit...see Galatians 5:22-23) as well. Since we're Christians, if we're not dressed with these items, then we're naked.
Do you remember when Adam and Eve realized that they were naked back in the book of Genesis? They were embarrassed and they couldn't stand before the grace of God. We stand before God everyday in everything that we do. The last thing we should do is show a lack of compassion, kindness, and humility. This way, there's no reason to be ashamed.
Which of the aforementioned characteristics do you need to add any extra layers to in your daily attire? Make a list of all the characteristics and rank them based on how much work needs to be done on each. Finally, pray about your list!
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