Romans 6:5
5 Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was.
Jesus is the remedy for a brand new life. We touched on that yesterday, like when I said that we should put all of our trust in Jesus' death for salvation and accepting that our entire life is in his hands. God's grace covers us. We're spiritually taped to his grace.
This glue that bonds us with Christ carries us and sustains us from now until the time we die, including the death and the burial to the resurrection. What does that mean? Well, because we're Christians, our spirit doesn't die with our bodies. You are alive similarly to when Jesus was alive when he escaped from his tomb.
I realize that this sounds a bit morbid, but when we die, our body will be resurrected and transformed into a brand new, eternally perfect and ideal body like that of Jesus. That's because of Jesus. Because of your faith in Jesus. You are united with him until the end. As a result, you are free from the weight of sin and death.
Today, reflect on the resurrection and what value it has on your life.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Grace Toward Sin.
Romans 6:1-2
1 What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2 By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?
I read these first two verses of the sixth chapter of Romans a couple times to let the strength of the message sink into my mind. When Paul says, "Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase..." it strikes me as a remarkable statement. I immediately thought of God's grace being comparable to something you blow up or stretch. We've all blown up balloons to our fullest capability. Think about blowing it up infinitely. That's the equivalent of God's grace over our sin; it surrounds the uncomfortable bubble that sin causes us to live with. The more we sin, the greater God's grace is to cover our sin because of faith in Jesus' victory on the cross.
Day in and day out we sin. The good news is that no one can ever sin so much that God's grace isn't big enough to surround their bubble, so to speak. The more we sin, the greater his forgiveness and grace appears to be. Should we collect sins as if they're gold? "By no means!" We shouldn't do this because God's grace goes beyond eliminating sin. I'll talk more about this in the days to come.
What do you think? Is it strange that God's grace doesn't have limits? Or do we just take it for granted?
1 What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2 By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?
I read these first two verses of the sixth chapter of Romans a couple times to let the strength of the message sink into my mind. When Paul says, "Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase..." it strikes me as a remarkable statement. I immediately thought of God's grace being comparable to something you blow up or stretch. We've all blown up balloons to our fullest capability. Think about blowing it up infinitely. That's the equivalent of God's grace over our sin; it surrounds the uncomfortable bubble that sin causes us to live with. The more we sin, the greater God's grace is to cover our sin because of faith in Jesus' victory on the cross.
Day in and day out we sin. The good news is that no one can ever sin so much that God's grace isn't big enough to surround their bubble, so to speak. The more we sin, the greater his forgiveness and grace appears to be. Should we collect sins as if they're gold? "By no means!" We shouldn't do this because God's grace goes beyond eliminating sin. I'll talk more about this in the days to come.
What do you think? Is it strange that God's grace doesn't have limits? Or do we just take it for granted?
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Worthy of Gratitude.
Colossians 3:16
16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
Do you ever find yourself singing? Usually we sing when we're happy. Sometimes we sing a song to cheer us up when we're sad. Don't forget to sing out of gratitude though. All this week, we've talked about why you should appreciate God. There are so many reasons. The primary reason is that he sent his only son, Jesus, to die for us, which is a true, living sacrifice. Not only is God worthy of our praise, but he deserves our appreciation too.
Notice how the songs we sing are centered around Jesus, the good news that he has to offer, and the abundance of life he provides to us. With that said, we are to keep Christ and God's word close to our hearts as we make it a habit to share it with others.
Don't just tell non-believers what God puts on your heart. Talk to fellow Christians as well. Share your thoughts with one another so that together you can have infinite wisdom through Jesus Christ!
Remember, to thank the Lord for everything he gives you each day for free including: love, mercy, and forgiveness. We have life today and eternal life tomorrow.
16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
Do you ever find yourself singing? Usually we sing when we're happy. Sometimes we sing a song to cheer us up when we're sad. Don't forget to sing out of gratitude though. All this week, we've talked about why you should appreciate God. There are so many reasons. The primary reason is that he sent his only son, Jesus, to die for us, which is a true, living sacrifice. Not only is God worthy of our praise, but he deserves our appreciation too.
Notice how the songs we sing are centered around Jesus, the good news that he has to offer, and the abundance of life he provides to us. With that said, we are to keep Christ and God's word close to our hearts as we make it a habit to share it with others.
Don't just tell non-believers what God puts on your heart. Talk to fellow Christians as well. Share your thoughts with one another so that together you can have infinite wisdom through Jesus Christ!
Remember, to thank the Lord for everything he gives you each day for free including: love, mercy, and forgiveness. We have life today and eternal life tomorrow.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Thanks for the Victory.
Hebrews 12:28
28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe,
The greatest victory that we receive is God and his Kingdom. No matter what, no gift can surpass God's grace. Remember that as you stand in lines today.
We can experience the never ending joy by joining in with the angels and saints and live with God forever. It's not necessary to wait for the return of the King Jesus Christ. God's kingdom begins with you and your role in the Kingdom and church. Together, it is possible for believers to coexist and obey God's word. Thus, it is only appropriate that our worship to God is filled with reverence and awe. There's no other way.
Lord, we know that all things are yours. We appreciate your blessings, promises, grace, and triumphant victory: Jesus Christ. Continue to remind us of reasons to be thankful for Christ so that we may shed light toward the unbelievers.
28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe,
The greatest victory that we receive is God and his Kingdom. No matter what, no gift can surpass God's grace. Remember that as you stand in lines today.
We can experience the never ending joy by joining in with the angels and saints and live with God forever. It's not necessary to wait for the return of the King Jesus Christ. God's kingdom begins with you and your role in the Kingdom and church. Together, it is possible for believers to coexist and obey God's word. Thus, it is only appropriate that our worship to God is filled with reverence and awe. There's no other way.
Lord, we know that all things are yours. We appreciate your blessings, promises, grace, and triumphant victory: Jesus Christ. Continue to remind us of reasons to be thankful for Christ so that we may shed light toward the unbelievers.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving.
Colossians 3:17
17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
The key phrase is "whatever you do...do it all in the name of the Lord." That means everything! Everything we do, no matter what we say, who we are, or what we do, it needs to be offered as a gift of thanksgiving to God. Simultaneously, we should acknowledge Jesus Christ's power too.
In other words, our entire life is devoted to God! That's a good thing, too, because he deserves our greatest offerings. It's all an act of worship and thanksgiving to God. We don't just go to Sunday church service to worship. As living, talking human beings, it is all about worship, give thanks, and glorifying our Lord and Savior.
Prayer of Thanksgiving: May all of our life be devoted to you, God. It's the least we can do given your freedom in Jesus. It's not always easy in this world to give my life to you, but I ask that through my words and deeds, your will be done. Please, Holy Spirit, guide me. Thank You, Lord. Amen.
Happy Thanksgiving and be safe!
17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
The key phrase is "whatever you do...do it all in the name of the Lord." That means everything! Everything we do, no matter what we say, who we are, or what we do, it needs to be offered as a gift of thanksgiving to God. Simultaneously, we should acknowledge Jesus Christ's power too.
In other words, our entire life is devoted to God! That's a good thing, too, because he deserves our greatest offerings. It's all an act of worship and thanksgiving to God. We don't just go to Sunday church service to worship. As living, talking human beings, it is all about worship, give thanks, and glorifying our Lord and Savior.
Prayer of Thanksgiving: May all of our life be devoted to you, God. It's the least we can do given your freedom in Jesus. It's not always easy in this world to give my life to you, but I ask that through my words and deeds, your will be done. Please, Holy Spirit, guide me. Thank You, Lord. Amen.
Happy Thanksgiving and be safe!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Completeness in Christ.
Colossians 2:6-7
6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
There's certain things in life that just don't change. The problem is a lot of what we surround ourselves with, does change, which alters an otherwise logical perspective of this matter. Think about it: fashion is constantly evolving and technology is revolutionary. Even our day to day life brings about unexpected events, of which may be facebook status worthy. Software companies always release updated versions every 3-5 years. The next best phone and computer is something new just about every month. Now, we're a day away from Thanksgiving, and two days away from Black Friday. Surely, there's something appealing in those ads whether it's for you or for someone else! We're always ready for the new and improved version of everything.
Do you know what doesn't change though? Jesus Christ and the fact that he's the one, true way. No Facebook update is needed. However, it's always good to remind others about his everlasting nature, perhaps through Facebook. Jesus doesn't get any better than the way we know him today. Even though, he doesn't change, we can't become complacent and stagnant in our faith.
It is our job to dig ourselves further into the Word of God and grasp the basic truth of Jesus Christ. If this is a reality then our future is in Christ's hands. Be thankful that this truth exists!
Thank you so much Lord for the simple, yet vast truth of Jesus Christ. May we feed off it day and in day out!
6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
There's certain things in life that just don't change. The problem is a lot of what we surround ourselves with, does change, which alters an otherwise logical perspective of this matter. Think about it: fashion is constantly evolving and technology is revolutionary. Even our day to day life brings about unexpected events, of which may be facebook status worthy. Software companies always release updated versions every 3-5 years. The next best phone and computer is something new just about every month. Now, we're a day away from Thanksgiving, and two days away from Black Friday. Surely, there's something appealing in those ads whether it's for you or for someone else! We're always ready for the new and improved version of everything.
Do you know what doesn't change though? Jesus Christ and the fact that he's the one, true way. No Facebook update is needed. However, it's always good to remind others about his everlasting nature, perhaps through Facebook. Jesus doesn't get any better than the way we know him today. Even though, he doesn't change, we can't become complacent and stagnant in our faith.
It is our job to dig ourselves further into the Word of God and grasp the basic truth of Jesus Christ. If this is a reality then our future is in Christ's hands. Be thankful that this truth exists!
Thank you so much Lord for the simple, yet vast truth of Jesus Christ. May we feed off it day and in day out!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Value Those Who Fear God.
Proverbs 31:30
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
In our world, fear is usually given a negative connotation. It's usually thought of as a distressing emotion that is initiated by impending doom or danger. In the Bible, we are repeatedly commanded to "fear God." In this proverb, it says, "...but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." Does that make sense according to our definition? No, we aren't to be scared of God, per say. Instead we are to be consumed in reverential awe toward God. If you look up the word "fear" in the dictionary, this context likely won't be in the top three definitions given.
With that said, a really well-natured and faithful woman is one who honors the Lord with all her might and strength. We all (men and women) tend to go for the good looks, but we know our appearance, and even our personality can change. However, a woman whose heart is smothered in the presence of God will bring blessing upon blessing to others.
Once again, may we all take the time to value faithful and Godly women in a kind manner and in a way that honors and glorifies you.
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
In our world, fear is usually given a negative connotation. It's usually thought of as a distressing emotion that is initiated by impending doom or danger. In the Bible, we are repeatedly commanded to "fear God." In this proverb, it says, "...but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." Does that make sense according to our definition? No, we aren't to be scared of God, per say. Instead we are to be consumed in reverential awe toward God. If you look up the word "fear" in the dictionary, this context likely won't be in the top three definitions given.
With that said, a really well-natured and faithful woman is one who honors the Lord with all her might and strength. We all (men and women) tend to go for the good looks, but we know our appearance, and even our personality can change. However, a woman whose heart is smothered in the presence of God will bring blessing upon blessing to others.
Once again, may we all take the time to value faithful and Godly women in a kind manner and in a way that honors and glorifies you.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Faithful Women.
Proverbs 31:28-29
28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.”
Often times, we overlook so many things and people in our lives. It's what we have everyday. Yet, we utterly bog down our minds with what we want and what we don't have.
When was the last time you praised a woman of faith such as your mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, youth pastor, or even a complete stranger? They care for us, they love us, and they are a true representation of Christ.
Take some time to write a note of appreciation to at least one woman in your life. Think about where you would be without the faithfulness that Godly women portray. Wouldn't we be missing a huge chunk of our lives? It's hard to imagine. As we're nearing the Thanksgiving holiday, tell them how precious they are to our identity in Christ.
Thank you God for the women in my life who have molded me into the person I am today. Also, Lord, remind us of the great, faithful women in the Bible who accomplished so much. Help us show appreciation to those in our lives.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.”
Often times, we overlook so many things and people in our lives. It's what we have everyday. Yet, we utterly bog down our minds with what we want and what we don't have.
When was the last time you praised a woman of faith such as your mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, youth pastor, or even a complete stranger? They care for us, they love us, and they are a true representation of Christ.
Take some time to write a note of appreciation to at least one woman in your life. Think about where you would be without the faithfulness that Godly women portray. Wouldn't we be missing a huge chunk of our lives? It's hard to imagine. As we're nearing the Thanksgiving holiday, tell them how precious they are to our identity in Christ.
Thank you God for the women in my life who have molded me into the person I am today. Also, Lord, remind us of the great, faithful women in the Bible who accomplished so much. Help us show appreciation to those in our lives.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Water, Water, Water.
John 4:14
14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Have you ever been so anxious to get home and drink a nice, big glass of water after working or even running errands? Sometimes, cold water just tastes so good and is extremely satisfying. Even if water isn't always your preference compared to a soda, for example, when it's the right time, water is perfect and it probably wouldn't be traded for anything!
Jesus offers another source of water. It is already purified by him. It's the water that is brought to us in part by the Holy Spirit. Just a glass of drinking water can do the trick for a few hours, but the spiritual water is what gives us eternal life now and forever.
God, remind us that Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit to live in us. Sweep our stubbornness and sinful desires aside allowing the Spirit to take precedence. May our lives reflect the joy, delight, and refreshing nature that your presence and being provides.
Have a great weekend!
14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Have you ever been so anxious to get home and drink a nice, big glass of water after working or even running errands? Sometimes, cold water just tastes so good and is extremely satisfying. Even if water isn't always your preference compared to a soda, for example, when it's the right time, water is perfect and it probably wouldn't be traded for anything!
Jesus offers another source of water. It is already purified by him. It's the water that is brought to us in part by the Holy Spirit. Just a glass of drinking water can do the trick for a few hours, but the spiritual water is what gives us eternal life now and forever.
God, remind us that Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit to live in us. Sweep our stubbornness and sinful desires aside allowing the Spirit to take precedence. May our lives reflect the joy, delight, and refreshing nature that your presence and being provides.
Have a great weekend!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Suffering for Him.
Philippians 1:29
29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,
This is one of those hard concepts to wrap your mind around. Suffering. We see it everyday. We're either facing a fairly challenging time or we can see the pain of others on their faces. So then, how is it a privilege? It's not, unless it's for Jesus. Remember, how the other day I said that we need to do things for the glory of God. Sometimes, whatever we're called to do isn't going to be easy. It's going to take some effort and you may get "scraped up," so to speak.
Also, don't forget about the disciples. They were joyful only because they were willing to suffer for the name of Christ. The important thing here is that Jesus suffered for us so that we can be saved from destruction on earth.
When we suffer for the kingdom of God, it's definitely an inspiration for others to live faithfully. It provides a true revelation of character. Incredibly, because of Jesus Christ, we are worthy due to Jesus' victory on the cross.
29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,
This is one of those hard concepts to wrap your mind around. Suffering. We see it everyday. We're either facing a fairly challenging time or we can see the pain of others on their faces. So then, how is it a privilege? It's not, unless it's for Jesus. Remember, how the other day I said that we need to do things for the glory of God. Sometimes, whatever we're called to do isn't going to be easy. It's going to take some effort and you may get "scraped up," so to speak.
Also, don't forget about the disciples. They were joyful only because they were willing to suffer for the name of Christ. The important thing here is that Jesus suffered for us so that we can be saved from destruction on earth.
When we suffer for the kingdom of God, it's definitely an inspiration for others to live faithfully. It provides a true revelation of character. Incredibly, because of Jesus Christ, we are worthy due to Jesus' victory on the cross.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Live on the Gospel.
Philippians 1:27-28
27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.
It's time to glorify God in everything we do. Live like we have been redeemed. Sometimes I know I get so wrapped up in everything that I have to do that I forget to set aside some time for God. Try setting aside some time today and love the Lord.
Work together with your friends to spend time with God as well. That way you can come together and share the good news with those who are unaware of it. Many don't even know what the good things in God really are. When you come across opposition, don't plot revenge. Work together well so that you can bring out the best in the worst of times.
We count on you Lord to give us the purpose to be united and show love for one another even when it's hard to love. Remind us that we are responsible to go out into the world as disciples.
27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.
It's time to glorify God in everything we do. Live like we have been redeemed. Sometimes I know I get so wrapped up in everything that I have to do that I forget to set aside some time for God. Try setting aside some time today and love the Lord.
Work together with your friends to spend time with God as well. That way you can come together and share the good news with those who are unaware of it. Many don't even know what the good things in God really are. When you come across opposition, don't plot revenge. Work together well so that you can bring out the best in the worst of times.
We count on you Lord to give us the purpose to be united and show love for one another even when it's hard to love. Remind us that we are responsible to go out into the world as disciples.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not.
John 21:17
17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.
Does this question that Jesus asked sound familiar? Notice how it says "Jesus asked him the third time." Jesus is asking Peter if he really loves the Lord. Peter's response is a polar opposite to the way he answered just days before: (Matthew 26:35 - But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same).
So many times our own identity gets in our way and speaks out very bluntly. Our true love that exists within our spiritual well-being, however, is only discovered when we experience the pain Jesus felt when Peter answered this question.
You see, Peter just loved Jesus the way a typical man loves a good-natured individual. This is no extraordinary love; it's just emotional love that never affects the spirit of a person. True love isn't just a matter of declaration.
When the Lord asks us to respond to this question, it's definitely hard to respond as we should because we feel like we're in pain trying to make sure all of our life is in line with God's. Still, this painful moment is how God convicts us and reveals his truth.
17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.
Does this question that Jesus asked sound familiar? Notice how it says "Jesus asked him the third time." Jesus is asking Peter if he really loves the Lord. Peter's response is a polar opposite to the way he answered just days before: (Matthew 26:35 - But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same).
So many times our own identity gets in our way and speaks out very bluntly. Our true love that exists within our spiritual well-being, however, is only discovered when we experience the pain Jesus felt when Peter answered this question.
You see, Peter just loved Jesus the way a typical man loves a good-natured individual. This is no extraordinary love; it's just emotional love that never affects the spirit of a person. True love isn't just a matter of declaration.
When the Lord asks us to respond to this question, it's definitely hard to respond as we should because we feel like we're in pain trying to make sure all of our life is in line with God's. Still, this painful moment is how God convicts us and reveals his truth.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Assuming the Responsibilities.
1 When the LORD was about to take Elijah up to heaven in a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal. 2 Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here; the LORD has sent me to Bethel.”
But Elisha said, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So they went down to Bethel.
3 The company of the prophets at Bethel came out to Elisha and asked, “Do you know that the LORD is going to take your master from you today?”
“Yes, I know,” Elisha replied, “so be quiet.”
4 Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here, Elisha; the LORD has sent me to Jericho.”
And he replied, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So they went to Jericho.
5 The company of the prophets at Jericho went up to Elisha and asked him, “Do you know that the LORD is going to take your master from you today?”
“Yes, I know,” he replied, “so be quiet.”
6 Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here; the LORD has sent me to the Jordan.”
And he replied, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So the two of them walked on.
7 Fifty men from the company of the prophets went and stood at a distance, facing the place where Elijah and Elisha had stopped at the Jordan. 8 Elijah took his cloak, rolled it up and struck the water with it. The water divided to the right and to the left, and the two of them crossed over on dry ground.
9 When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?”
“Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied.
Have you ever looked up to someone because everything they did seemed perfect? It's always a compliment when you tell someone something positive, but it's also a great step of ambition for you to try to be more like them.
That's just something that I thought of as I was reading the story of Elijah and Elisha. Elisha was younger and was a novice. She looked up to the great prophet Elijah. Soon, it was time for Elijah to go to heaven. It's really neat to read that Elisha wants a "double portion" of his spirit. No, this doesn't mean that he wants to be twice as good as Elijah was or anything. However, he's referring to the tradition back in the time period of the firstborn son receiving a double inheritance when his father died. As the oldest son, Elisha would be the leader of the family and would take over Elijah's responsibilities. Elisha was ready when he says, something like "I am ready."
In New Testament times, this is similar to Jesus and his disciples. Jesus would teach his disciples based on his own personal choices. Before he went to heaven, he told them (from Acts 1:8), "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." He passed the torch to the Disciples and their greatest goal was to be as much like Jesus Christ as possible.
Jesus didn't just give the responsibilities to his disciples, but he gave us the responsibilities as well. Just like the Disciples stepped up to act like Jesus, we should do the same. Don't just do it to impress others, do it to glorify the Lord.
How do you want to be more like Jesus?
But Elisha said, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So they went down to Bethel.
3 The company of the prophets at Bethel came out to Elisha and asked, “Do you know that the LORD is going to take your master from you today?”
“Yes, I know,” Elisha replied, “so be quiet.”
4 Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here, Elisha; the LORD has sent me to Jericho.”
And he replied, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So they went to Jericho.
5 The company of the prophets at Jericho went up to Elisha and asked him, “Do you know that the LORD is going to take your master from you today?”
“Yes, I know,” he replied, “so be quiet.”
6 Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here; the LORD has sent me to the Jordan.”
And he replied, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So the two of them walked on.
7 Fifty men from the company of the prophets went and stood at a distance, facing the place where Elijah and Elisha had stopped at the Jordan. 8 Elijah took his cloak, rolled it up and struck the water with it. The water divided to the right and to the left, and the two of them crossed over on dry ground.
9 When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?”
“Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied.
Have you ever looked up to someone because everything they did seemed perfect? It's always a compliment when you tell someone something positive, but it's also a great step of ambition for you to try to be more like them.
That's just something that I thought of as I was reading the story of Elijah and Elisha. Elisha was younger and was a novice. She looked up to the great prophet Elijah. Soon, it was time for Elijah to go to heaven. It's really neat to read that Elisha wants a "double portion" of his spirit. No, this doesn't mean that he wants to be twice as good as Elijah was or anything. However, he's referring to the tradition back in the time period of the firstborn son receiving a double inheritance when his father died. As the oldest son, Elisha would be the leader of the family and would take over Elijah's responsibilities. Elisha was ready when he says, something like "I am ready."
In New Testament times, this is similar to Jesus and his disciples. Jesus would teach his disciples based on his own personal choices. Before he went to heaven, he told them (from Acts 1:8), "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." He passed the torch to the Disciples and their greatest goal was to be as much like Jesus Christ as possible.
Jesus didn't just give the responsibilities to his disciples, but he gave us the responsibilities as well. Just like the Disciples stepped up to act like Jesus, we should do the same. Don't just do it to impress others, do it to glorify the Lord.
How do you want to be more like Jesus?
Monday, November 15, 2010
Gideon's Cut.
Judges 7:2-7
2 The LORD said to Gideon, “You have too many men. I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against me, ‘My own strength has saved me.’ 3 Now announce to the army, ‘Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.’” So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained.
4 But the LORD said to Gideon, “There are still too many men. Take them down to the water, and I will thin them out for you there. If I say, ‘This one shall go with you,’ he shall go; but if I say, ‘This one shall not go with you,’ he shall not go.”
5 So Gideon took the men down to the water. There the LORD told him, “Separate those who lap the water with their tongues as a dog laps from those who kneel down to drink.” 6 Three hundred of them drank from cupped hands, lapping like dogs. All the rest got down on their knees to drink.
7 The LORD said to Gideon, “With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home.”
According the Bible, Midian was a very densely populated place, like a swarm of locusts. That didn't help Gideon and his army. They already thought that they were too small to be successful. Thus, they took advantage of an opportunity that was given for soldiers to leave; 22,000 of them left. Believe it or not, God told them to cut the army down even more. The Lord devised a creative plan. Those who lapped stayed and those knelt down to drink, were sent off. Not many people lap the water with their tongues, but the ones who did, they remained. This left only 300 men.
So, why was the army cut down significantly? It could have been a test of faith. After all, it didn't seem possible, but God always has sight of victory in the end. It may have been a lesson as well; to teach the men that success (as described in the remainder of Judges 7) was only possible because God was with them.
Do you think life is giving you unavoidable circumstances and impossible hurdles? Think about what you're dealing with now. Are you stressing or are you relying on God? Are you panicking or are you putting your faith in the Lord? Think about Gideon's victory and how you can apply it to what you're experiencing.
This summer I had a series about what God didn't promise. This is another reminder that God did NOT promise that life would be easy (See July 31 post). Contrast that with God's promise repeated throughout the Word: "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
Always take your issues to God and pray. Be honest. Open yourselves to be comforted by him. Wait for God to direct you. Finally, get prayers and support from your brothers and sisters in Christ.
2 The LORD said to Gideon, “You have too many men. I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against me, ‘My own strength has saved me.’ 3 Now announce to the army, ‘Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.’” So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained.
4 But the LORD said to Gideon, “There are still too many men. Take them down to the water, and I will thin them out for you there. If I say, ‘This one shall go with you,’ he shall go; but if I say, ‘This one shall not go with you,’ he shall not go.”
5 So Gideon took the men down to the water. There the LORD told him, “Separate those who lap the water with their tongues as a dog laps from those who kneel down to drink.” 6 Three hundred of them drank from cupped hands, lapping like dogs. All the rest got down on their knees to drink.
7 The LORD said to Gideon, “With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home.”
According the Bible, Midian was a very densely populated place, like a swarm of locusts. That didn't help Gideon and his army. They already thought that they were too small to be successful. Thus, they took advantage of an opportunity that was given for soldiers to leave; 22,000 of them left. Believe it or not, God told them to cut the army down even more. The Lord devised a creative plan. Those who lapped stayed and those knelt down to drink, were sent off. Not many people lap the water with their tongues, but the ones who did, they remained. This left only 300 men.
So, why was the army cut down significantly? It could have been a test of faith. After all, it didn't seem possible, but God always has sight of victory in the end. It may have been a lesson as well; to teach the men that success (as described in the remainder of Judges 7) was only possible because God was with them.
Do you think life is giving you unavoidable circumstances and impossible hurdles? Think about what you're dealing with now. Are you stressing or are you relying on God? Are you panicking or are you putting your faith in the Lord? Think about Gideon's victory and how you can apply it to what you're experiencing.
This summer I had a series about what God didn't promise. This is another reminder that God did NOT promise that life would be easy (See July 31 post). Contrast that with God's promise repeated throughout the Word: "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
Always take your issues to God and pray. Be honest. Open yourselves to be comforted by him. Wait for God to direct you. Finally, get prayers and support from your brothers and sisters in Christ.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Body Aches.
1 Corinthians 12:24-26
24 [...]while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.
Remember how yesterday I talked about dead fingers and such? Now, imagine that you cut your finger just most of the way off...not all the way off. I think that might even hurt longer than cutting it all the way off. Our fingers and toes aren't a huge portion of our body, but when those seemingly little pieces are in pain, our whole body is wailing and we can't turn our attention away from it.
This is how the church should operate. No one's spiritual gifts makes someone more important than the rest of the congregation. We should ache just as much for the injured person who sits next to us in the pews as we do for the injured pastor preaching at the pulpit. The same goes for celebratory circumstances!
Unfortunately, we're not perfect; as humans, we have favorites and tend to rank other people by their intelligence, popularity, and social/financial status. Under these judgmental conditions, the body can't heal if it pretends like a broken arm or leg is normal. The church can't survive if we pick and choose whose side we take.
God, grant us with an equal and appropriate amount of concern for all members in the church. How would you feel if you were in pain and some just left you on the wayside?
24 [...]while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.
Remember how yesterday I talked about dead fingers and such? Now, imagine that you cut your finger just most of the way off...not all the way off. I think that might even hurt longer than cutting it all the way off. Our fingers and toes aren't a huge portion of our body, but when those seemingly little pieces are in pain, our whole body is wailing and we can't turn our attention away from it.
This is how the church should operate. No one's spiritual gifts makes someone more important than the rest of the congregation. We should ache just as much for the injured person who sits next to us in the pews as we do for the injured pastor preaching at the pulpit. The same goes for celebratory circumstances!
Unfortunately, we're not perfect; as humans, we have favorites and tend to rank other people by their intelligence, popularity, and social/financial status. Under these judgmental conditions, the body can't heal if it pretends like a broken arm or leg is normal. The church can't survive if we pick and choose whose side we take.
God, grant us with an equal and appropriate amount of concern for all members in the church. How would you feel if you were in pain and some just left you on the wayside?
Friday, November 12, 2010
Dead Skin, Bones, and Faith.
1 Corinthians 12:21-24
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it,
Okay, so I'd give today's scripture a couple reads. I know I had to read this several times to make sense of it. Here's what I concluded...
First of all, to set this up a little, imagine that you or someone who know has lost a finger or two. It may have been due to malfunctioning equipment. One second, you have ten, then the next eight or nine. Whoever loses a finger would have to learn how to adapt. It was be difficult, but in time, the new feeling and look becomes permanently etched in their mind. The finger isn't so lucky of course. In fact, a finger without a body is dead skin and bones.
Paul said that Christians are meant to work together. That means, some are fingers, some are elbows, some are feet. No matter what we are, it is not accurate to say that we can live without the rest of the body. We thrive off one another to survive. As long as you're involved in a body of Christ, you will grow spiritually. If you're not, then you will just be dead in your faith.
So, never assume that you don't need to go to church "because I have God." It is crucial to be surrounded by other followers whenever possible. If you try to live for God alone, what do you think the consequences are?
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it,
Okay, so I'd give today's scripture a couple reads. I know I had to read this several times to make sense of it. Here's what I concluded...
First of all, to set this up a little, imagine that you or someone who know has lost a finger or two. It may have been due to malfunctioning equipment. One second, you have ten, then the next eight or nine. Whoever loses a finger would have to learn how to adapt. It was be difficult, but in time, the new feeling and look becomes permanently etched in their mind. The finger isn't so lucky of course. In fact, a finger without a body is dead skin and bones.
Paul said that Christians are meant to work together. That means, some are fingers, some are elbows, some are feet. No matter what we are, it is not accurate to say that we can live without the rest of the body. We thrive off one another to survive. As long as you're involved in a body of Christ, you will grow spiritually. If you're not, then you will just be dead in your faith.
So, never assume that you don't need to go to church "because I have God." It is crucial to be surrounded by other followers whenever possible. If you try to live for God alone, what do you think the consequences are?
Thursday, November 11, 2010
For a Reason.
1 Corinthians 12:17-20
17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? 18 But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19 If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body.
Have you ever been excited to get the newest piece of technology, but then when you own it, that wonderful feeling disappears? Better yet, have you ever wanted something specifically designed, but by a play of cards, you don't get it? Suppose, you want a specially designed license plate. You don't want to pay the extra money. You just hope that, with the luck of a draw, you'll get a neat acronym or your favorite numbers. Either way, it doesn't work out your way so much.
I want to say that God doesn't work that way. He doesn't hand out random license plates, so to speak. He provides you with spiritual gifts according to your design. After all, you were fearfully and wonderfully made! He gives people specific gifts based on specific situations in specific needs.
God made and placed the parts of the Body of Christ in accordance with his plan. You are not an accident; you are somebody! You have a part in the body and in God's kingdom for a very special reason.
Why do you think it's hard to believe that God made us and our spiritual gifts for a reason?
By the way, don't forget to spend some time appreciating those who died for our country. Happy Veterans Day!
17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? 18 But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19 If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body.
Have you ever been excited to get the newest piece of technology, but then when you own it, that wonderful feeling disappears? Better yet, have you ever wanted something specifically designed, but by a play of cards, you don't get it? Suppose, you want a specially designed license plate. You don't want to pay the extra money. You just hope that, with the luck of a draw, you'll get a neat acronym or your favorite numbers. Either way, it doesn't work out your way so much.
I want to say that God doesn't work that way. He doesn't hand out random license plates, so to speak. He provides you with spiritual gifts according to your design. After all, you were fearfully and wonderfully made! He gives people specific gifts based on specific situations in specific needs.
God made and placed the parts of the Body of Christ in accordance with his plan. You are not an accident; you are somebody! You have a part in the body and in God's kingdom for a very special reason.
Why do you think it's hard to believe that God made us and our spiritual gifts for a reason?
By the way, don't forget to spend some time appreciating those who died for our country. Happy Veterans Day!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
The Body's Various Functions.
1 Corinthians 12:14-16
14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.
15 Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body.
Hold it now, isn't this contradiction from yesterday? Didn't Paul just say that we're all one body brought together by the Spirit and given the same Spirit to drink?
Well, Christianity does involve unity, however, we're not all carbon copies of another. That would become monotonous. Sometimes I know I get the idea: "Man, why can't we all just be the same? Then, life would be so much simpler." While that may be somewhat true, how uneventful our lives would be! God devised a completely different plan. What is true is that we are brought together by the same everlasting Holy Spirit; we're just marked by different gifts and powers.
There's no doubt that our spiritual gifts define who we are and what our purpose is. This makes us all unique.
Make sure you're using your spiritual gifts as you should be. In fact, pray that God provides you with a clear picture of what your gifts are. May you have the full desire to use your gifts to serve the Lord and others.
You may think that you can live without a body part, but chances are, it was used for a specific reason at some point. The same goes for you as a member of the Body of Christ. If you find yourself questioning your role, pray as I said before, and be open to God's plan taking some time. Finally, I know that alone, "I'm No Superman" as the song from the television show "Scrubs" goes: "But I can't do this all on my own. No, I know...I'm no Superman."
14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.
15 Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body.
Hold it now, isn't this contradiction from yesterday? Didn't Paul just say that we're all one body brought together by the Spirit and given the same Spirit to drink?
Well, Christianity does involve unity, however, we're not all carbon copies of another. That would become monotonous. Sometimes I know I get the idea: "Man, why can't we all just be the same? Then, life would be so much simpler." While that may be somewhat true, how uneventful our lives would be! God devised a completely different plan. What is true is that we are brought together by the same everlasting Holy Spirit; we're just marked by different gifts and powers.
There's no doubt that our spiritual gifts define who we are and what our purpose is. This makes us all unique.
Make sure you're using your spiritual gifts as you should be. In fact, pray that God provides you with a clear picture of what your gifts are. May you have the full desire to use your gifts to serve the Lord and others.
You may think that you can live without a body part, but chances are, it was used for a specific reason at some point. The same goes for you as a member of the Body of Christ. If you find yourself questioning your role, pray as I said before, and be open to God's plan taking some time. Finally, I know that alone, "I'm No Superman" as the song from the television show "Scrubs" goes: "But I can't do this all on my own. No, I know...I'm no Superman."
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Drinking and Consuming the Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:13
3 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.
Do you ever find yourself eating or drinking something too fast because you're in a rush? Then, indigestion kicks in and maybe some hiccups as well. I know that happens to me frequently. I was so used to eating in a short time frame in middle and high school that now that I'm in college, when I technically have more time to sit down and eat, I still eat fairly quickly out of habit. Don't you think we get rushy when it comes to our spiritual lives as well? Try slowing it down over the next few days and open yourself up to what the Holy Spirit has to offer.
Meanwhile, Paul wants us to know in today's reading that everyone who is a follower of Christ is included in the Body of Christ via the Holy Spirit. It doesn't matter what we look like, how tall we are, or what our financial status is. God takes everything that might look different among others and throws it out of the picture.
As soon as a true believer of Christ trusts him, then they are immediately filled up with the Holy Spirit to guide them through everyday tasks. Now, relating the eating and drinking concept that I shared above, we can drink and consume the Holy Spirit by putting our faith in Jesus Christ.
Following Jesus would be much harder without the work of the Holy Spirit. Learn to appreciate it. Slow down, and remember that God's spirit lives in you and your brothers and sisters under Christ.
3 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.
Do you ever find yourself eating or drinking something too fast because you're in a rush? Then, indigestion kicks in and maybe some hiccups as well. I know that happens to me frequently. I was so used to eating in a short time frame in middle and high school that now that I'm in college, when I technically have more time to sit down and eat, I still eat fairly quickly out of habit. Don't you think we get rushy when it comes to our spiritual lives as well? Try slowing it down over the next few days and open yourself up to what the Holy Spirit has to offer.
Meanwhile, Paul wants us to know in today's reading that everyone who is a follower of Christ is included in the Body of Christ via the Holy Spirit. It doesn't matter what we look like, how tall we are, or what our financial status is. God takes everything that might look different among others and throws it out of the picture.
As soon as a true believer of Christ trusts him, then they are immediately filled up with the Holy Spirit to guide them through everyday tasks. Now, relating the eating and drinking concept that I shared above, we can drink and consume the Holy Spirit by putting our faith in Jesus Christ.
Following Jesus would be much harder without the work of the Holy Spirit. Learn to appreciate it. Slow down, and remember that God's spirit lives in you and your brothers and sisters under Christ.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Quit being Ignorant.
1 Corinthians 12:1-12
1 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. 3 Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.
4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
Last week we talked about leading and what happens if you strengthen yourself to trust God. Now, we're reading about the wonderful effects of putting our trust in Christ, focusing on our salvation, not our sin.
With that said, we can be way too ignorant about this. Paul called the aforementioned effects "spiritual gifts." This is the real deal because it mentions the idea that we all have a supernatural ability (remember we CAN do the impossible through God's power and Holy Spirit). It is through the Lord that we are designated a specific purpose.
There are various perspectives about these spiritual gifts among churches and fellow believers. Some teach that all spiritual gifts are still active today, while others say that some were only needed when the church was first founded. So, in previous posts, I've talked about the many different kinds of spiritual gifts there are. However, I think it's most important to understand why God hands over his power to his people.
It comes down to the metaphor that Paul uses: the (human) body. As a church, we say that Jesus is the Lord of all, and we are all the body of Christ. Just like our own body, there are numerous parts. In other words, we're all a part of his body...an eyeball, a foot, an arm, etc.
Pray that God shows you why he gave you specific spiritual gifts. It's time to lose all ignorance and get out of your "own little world." Feel free to listen to "My Own Little World" by Matthew West.
1 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. 3 Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.
4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
Last week we talked about leading and what happens if you strengthen yourself to trust God. Now, we're reading about the wonderful effects of putting our trust in Christ, focusing on our salvation, not our sin.
With that said, we can be way too ignorant about this. Paul called the aforementioned effects "spiritual gifts." This is the real deal because it mentions the idea that we all have a supernatural ability (remember we CAN do the impossible through God's power and Holy Spirit). It is through the Lord that we are designated a specific purpose.
There are various perspectives about these spiritual gifts among churches and fellow believers. Some teach that all spiritual gifts are still active today, while others say that some were only needed when the church was first founded. So, in previous posts, I've talked about the many different kinds of spiritual gifts there are. However, I think it's most important to understand why God hands over his power to his people.
It comes down to the metaphor that Paul uses: the (human) body. As a church, we say that Jesus is the Lord of all, and we are all the body of Christ. Just like our own body, there are numerous parts. In other words, we're all a part of his body...an eyeball, a foot, an arm, etc.
Pray that God shows you why he gave you specific spiritual gifts. It's time to lose all ignorance and get out of your "own little world." Feel free to listen to "My Own Little World" by Matthew West.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Speaking, Thinking, Acting.
Joshua 1:8
8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
All this week, we've seen God's instructions on how to become a successful leader who is able to tackle the impossible tasks successfully. God didn't tell Joshua, "If only you were Moses, you could do it." Instead, he worked with Joshua and provided the strength that was necessary.
God didn't advise Joshua to follow a human model for leadership, but he did say to follow his own voice. In today's reading, God told Joshua that he could find success by incorporating the Book of the Law into his heart and mind. Be involved in God's law. Live it out!
If you haven't already, ensure that the Bible is the primary source of the words, thoughts, and actions that stem from you. Think about God's Word morning and night so that you're ready for all circumstances.
May we all start speaking, thinking, and acting on your Word, Oh God.
8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
All this week, we've seen God's instructions on how to become a successful leader who is able to tackle the impossible tasks successfully. God didn't tell Joshua, "If only you were Moses, you could do it." Instead, he worked with Joshua and provided the strength that was necessary.
God didn't advise Joshua to follow a human model for leadership, but he did say to follow his own voice. In today's reading, God told Joshua that he could find success by incorporating the Book of the Law into his heart and mind. Be involved in God's law. Live it out!
If you haven't already, ensure that the Bible is the primary source of the words, thoughts, and actions that stem from you. Think about God's Word morning and night so that you're ready for all circumstances.
May we all start speaking, thinking, and acting on your Word, Oh God.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Success Through God.
Joshua 1:7
7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.
Repeatedly, the message is to "be strong and courageous." Yesterday, it was more about accomplishing the mission that God sets on your heart: his promise. Meanwhile, today, although the request is the same, the source of definitiveness is a little different: "obey all the law...that you may be successful."
When you obey God, you are given strength, courage, and confidence because it means that you're on track with him as he calls you to be. When you douse your life with sin and rebel against God, strength and courage is eliminated because trust isn't shown toward the Lord.
Additionally, our strength and courage is limited when we disobey God because it acts as a barrier that makes us want two different things. That is, part of us wants to abide by God's will for our lives and the the other half wants to dive into the sin.
Remember, that God has promised to bless us if we obey him, even if others run away. Reach for the heavenly blessings.
What choices in your life have you noticed to bring you strength and courage? Which ones didn't? Pay attention to God's mission that's he assigning you today.
7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.
Repeatedly, the message is to "be strong and courageous." Yesterday, it was more about accomplishing the mission that God sets on your heart: his promise. Meanwhile, today, although the request is the same, the source of definitiveness is a little different: "obey all the law...that you may be successful."
When you obey God, you are given strength, courage, and confidence because it means that you're on track with him as he calls you to be. When you douse your life with sin and rebel against God, strength and courage is eliminated because trust isn't shown toward the Lord.
Additionally, our strength and courage is limited when we disobey God because it acts as a barrier that makes us want two different things. That is, part of us wants to abide by God's will for our lives and the the other half wants to dive into the sin.
Remember, that God has promised to bless us if we obey him, even if others run away. Reach for the heavenly blessings.
What choices in your life have you noticed to bring you strength and courage? Which ones didn't? Pay attention to God's mission that's he assigning you today.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Step it Up.
Joshua 1:6
6 Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.
You've probably seen the skateboarding competitions. As someone skates up the ramp, they're getting ready to pivot around and then go down (excuse my poor sports jargon) when a spectator yells "gnarly it up!" The skateboarder was to go all out. Clearly, the spectator wasn't giving advice, but was looking for mighty power.
God tells Joshua the same thing in today's scripture reading. This isn't just an informal speech. These are commands coming from the one, true God, directed toward a human being doing an extraordinary task: "be strong and courageous."
How on earth is that possible? Because we have God's incredible power that he provides. It is still our responsibility to keep the board going and to get back up every time you fall. It doesn't matter if you are the strongest person in the world, you won't be strong if you don't have God and disobey his words; you will be strong if you respect God. There is nothing you can lose here. Step it up and God will reward you!
Are you strong and courageous enough to listen to God?
6 Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.
You've probably seen the skateboarding competitions. As someone skates up the ramp, they're getting ready to pivot around and then go down (excuse my poor sports jargon) when a spectator yells "gnarly it up!" The skateboarder was to go all out. Clearly, the spectator wasn't giving advice, but was looking for mighty power.
God tells Joshua the same thing in today's scripture reading. This isn't just an informal speech. These are commands coming from the one, true God, directed toward a human being doing an extraordinary task: "be strong and courageous."
How on earth is that possible? Because we have God's incredible power that he provides. It is still our responsibility to keep the board going and to get back up every time you fall. It doesn't matter if you are the strongest person in the world, you won't be strong if you don't have God and disobey his words; you will be strong if you respect God. There is nothing you can lose here. Step it up and God will reward you!
Are you strong and courageous enough to listen to God?
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
He Will Never Leave.
Joshua 1:5
5 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.
This Bible verse mentions that God gives Joshua the promise behind Moses' strength and confidence. Moses eventually grew on this promise; it gave him the might and power to make difficult choices, succeed, do incredible things, lead, and bring people to God.
God's promise, not just for Joshua, but for all of us is: "I will be with you; I will never leave nor forsake you." God's leading us, but he's still with us! Ironically, our definition of a leader is just the opposite. We grow up to lead our own lives independent from God's divine power; we take care of ourselves without feeling the necessity of relying on anyone or God.
Essentially, whenever we say that we're going to lead alone, we're just fooling and lying to ourselves. True growth and leadership requires leaning on God more than anything or anyone. Why should we rely on God? He is the ultimate provider of our strength and power. Even if you're at the top of a committee or group, all the attention shouldn't be focused there. Remember, God supplies us when we're in need.
5 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.
This Bible verse mentions that God gives Joshua the promise behind Moses' strength and confidence. Moses eventually grew on this promise; it gave him the might and power to make difficult choices, succeed, do incredible things, lead, and bring people to God.
God's promise, not just for Joshua, but for all of us is: "I will be with you; I will never leave nor forsake you." God's leading us, but he's still with us! Ironically, our definition of a leader is just the opposite. We grow up to lead our own lives independent from God's divine power; we take care of ourselves without feeling the necessity of relying on anyone or God.
Essentially, whenever we say that we're going to lead alone, we're just fooling and lying to ourselves. True growth and leadership requires leaning on God more than anything or anyone. Why should we rely on God? He is the ultimate provider of our strength and power. Even if you're at the top of a committee or group, all the attention shouldn't be focused there. Remember, God supplies us when we're in need.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
The Impossible.
Joshua 1:3-4
3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west.
Have you ever felt like something was impossible? You may have woken up one day, and felt that God was calling you to do something. Instead, you just say, "God, c'mon, that's impossible for me." The part we're missing is that it's only impossible when we're alone; that is, when we try to do it on our own.
A far fetched example is if God said to save 100 people trapped in the ravine uptown. God doesn't look for the strongest men and give them this job. Rather, God uses the people who stand ready to obey and trust him. Thus, God does the impossible through others.
Joshua had a very difficult mission himself. His responsibility was to lead a single nation into a chaotic region, conquer, and then occupy it. God gave Joshua promises...the same ones he gave to Moses. We have to realize that when God makes a promise, he's all business, and he won't let you down. Just believe in his promises!
As for your impossible goal, it is to live on the earth with the strength of God on your side leaving behind the world of temptations. God promises you success, so that should give you all the more reason to do your best to obey him.
Here's today's song: "My Savior, My God" by Aaron Shust. May you take him [God] at his word and deed.
3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west.
Have you ever felt like something was impossible? You may have woken up one day, and felt that God was calling you to do something. Instead, you just say, "God, c'mon, that's impossible for me." The part we're missing is that it's only impossible when we're alone; that is, when we try to do it on our own.
A far fetched example is if God said to save 100 people trapped in the ravine uptown. God doesn't look for the strongest men and give them this job. Rather, God uses the people who stand ready to obey and trust him. Thus, God does the impossible through others.
Joshua had a very difficult mission himself. His responsibility was to lead a single nation into a chaotic region, conquer, and then occupy it. God gave Joshua promises...the same ones he gave to Moses. We have to realize that when God makes a promise, he's all business, and he won't let you down. Just believe in his promises!
As for your impossible goal, it is to live on the earth with the strength of God on your side leaving behind the world of temptations. God promises you success, so that should give you all the more reason to do your best to obey him.
Here's today's song: "My Savior, My God" by Aaron Shust. May you take him [God] at his word and deed.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Readying Yourself to Obey.
Joshua 1:1-2
1 After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses' aide: 2 "Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites.
Okay, it's a new month and a new week...Hopefully my blog posts won't be as few and far between; sorry about that.
That brings me to a new series for the week: leading. We'll specifically be looking in the book of Joshua, which paints a good picture on this. Being a leader is fairly intimidating and scary. Joshua's task is certainly on the top of this scale. He had to step in for Moses!
Prior to this point, Moses was chosen by God to take his people out of captivity in Egypt. It was then that God was ever-present to Moses and gave the Ten Commandments. Moses was a primary leader in Israel for several decades.
Now, it was Joshua's turn to lead Israel into the Promised Land after the death of Moses. I don't know about you, but I would be terrified. The Israelites were waiting for this day for 40 years, and now their all important leader, Moses, was dead. How would it be possible for Joshua to succeed?
Imagine hearing the words "get ready to cross the Jordan River." This allows Joshua to comprehend God's power when he is controlling the strings, so to speak. Good leaders follow and do what God says to do. Not everything is going to fall into place right away, and make sense, thus, we can't wait for the details before we act (something I'm notorious for doing). Obeying God involves getting ourselves prepared (to obey him). Make sure you're ready NOW! What do you do to prepare for God's on-demand instructions?
Pray that God will let you learn from Joshua so that you can spiritually, mentally, and physically prepare for God's calling. Who, in your life, can you look up to as a good example of obeying God? Have you noticed anyone following your leadership? That's the ultimate goal.
1 After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses' aide: 2 "Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites.
Okay, it's a new month and a new week...Hopefully my blog posts won't be as few and far between; sorry about that.
That brings me to a new series for the week: leading. We'll specifically be looking in the book of Joshua, which paints a good picture on this. Being a leader is fairly intimidating and scary. Joshua's task is certainly on the top of this scale. He had to step in for Moses!
Prior to this point, Moses was chosen by God to take his people out of captivity in Egypt. It was then that God was ever-present to Moses and gave the Ten Commandments. Moses was a primary leader in Israel for several decades.
Now, it was Joshua's turn to lead Israel into the Promised Land after the death of Moses. I don't know about you, but I would be terrified. The Israelites were waiting for this day for 40 years, and now their all important leader, Moses, was dead. How would it be possible for Joshua to succeed?
Imagine hearing the words "get ready to cross the Jordan River." This allows Joshua to comprehend God's power when he is controlling the strings, so to speak. Good leaders follow and do what God says to do. Not everything is going to fall into place right away, and make sense, thus, we can't wait for the details before we act (something I'm notorious for doing). Obeying God involves getting ourselves prepared (to obey him). Make sure you're ready NOW! What do you do to prepare for God's on-demand instructions?
Pray that God will let you learn from Joshua so that you can spiritually, mentally, and physically prepare for God's calling. Who, in your life, can you look up to as a good example of obeying God? Have you noticed anyone following your leadership? That's the ultimate goal.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
