Wednesday, February 12, 2020
What about Love?
Valentines Day is quickly approaching... Most of us have heard the "love is patient, love is kind" spill before. But, how many of us have actually meditated on that passage, and really gone through an exercise of introspection, and asked ourselves how closely we line up with the ideas presented there? The passage is found in 1 Corinthians chapter 13 of the bible: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
Wow, as I consider how much my "love" for others, especially my immediate family, looks like this, I quickly realize that i just don't measure up very well. I have been married to my beautiful bride for almost 20 years, and I thank God often that she has exhibited some of these qualities over the last 20 years. She has been patient, and kind, and not too proud to say she's sorry, never boastful. Day in and day out, she gives of herself to make sure her family feels loved and accepted, and has their basic needs met. She cherishes truth, and despises evil. She has shown me and taught me through her own actions what love is. Love is not a feeling, nor is it something we just happen to fall into or out of. Love is a commitment... a promise to those who mean the most to us, a promise to put our own selfish ways aside, and seek to serve the one(s) we "LOVE". Be selfless today and throughout the year of 2020, sacrifice your own selfish wants and desires to make someone else's dreams come true. Love never fails, and makes others feel great! So, Love Intensely!
I love you Steph, and thank God for you!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Submit Yourselves.....
Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5:21
As Christian husbands, wives, children, cousins, or even friends; we are commanded to submit ourselves to each other. What does that mean? When you hear the word submit, you probably automatically think of allowing yourself to be dominated. However, I would submit that is not what is intended. We are commanded to exhort and encourage our fellow man. I believe that the word submit would imply that we are to support/edify our friends and especially our families. I wonder why it is so easy to be impatient, rude, and abrupt with the people we claim to love the most. For instance why can I be really rude to my wife in one instant, and in the next, answer a phone call with the most polite and caring attitude and voice that you could imagine. We are to submit to our spouses. We are to do our part in helping them reach their goals in life.
Be submissive!
As Christian husbands, wives, children, cousins, or even friends; we are commanded to submit ourselves to each other. What does that mean? When you hear the word submit, you probably automatically think of allowing yourself to be dominated. However, I would submit that is not what is intended. We are commanded to exhort and encourage our fellow man. I believe that the word submit would imply that we are to support/edify our friends and especially our families. I wonder why it is so easy to be impatient, rude, and abrupt with the people we claim to love the most. For instance why can I be really rude to my wife in one instant, and in the next, answer a phone call with the most polite and caring attitude and voice that you could imagine. We are to submit to our spouses. We are to do our part in helping them reach their goals in life.
Be submissive!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Who ya hanging with?
Do you believe in Divine Appointments? Sometimes..... no not sometimes, all times, God puts us in certain situations at certain times to use us, or speak to us...
I was reminded today, just how imperative it is to spend time in the word of God. Do you know that mored than 70% of Americans claim to be Christain. That is 7 out of every 10 people you know or see everyday. I want you to know that Christainity is not just a box to mark on a survey. We as Christains have a number of commands we are to obey. Do you know what they are? Start to the ten most famous ones...... don't steal, don't kill, don't be jealous, don't tell lies, honor your parents, etc. How about the greatest commandment, do you know that one?
My point is this... we all would like to see the benefits (blessings) that come with being a Christ follower. However, we seem to want the benefit without having to keep up our end of the deal. Christainity is not a socialist society! We have responsibilities as Christains, when asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus said we are to "love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength" he said the second is equally as important, "love your neighbor as yourself".
How are you doing keeping the greatest commandment? Who you hanging with? How much time have you spent with God this week, in His Word, in a church pew, in prayer, listening to praise and worship music, reading Christain literature, etc. You are influenced by the people you hang with. Allow God to be the one to influence you, build you up, become your "ever present help in your time of need". How can you allow this if you aren't spending time with you creator.
I like to say that I am an influencer, not the one to be influenced. However, when my spirit is weak, when I haven't been spending time with God, having my faith built up;what kind of influence can a possibly be? I encourage you today, spend time with your creator. He loves you, and cherishs every minute you spend with Him.
I was reminded today, just how imperative it is to spend time in the word of God. Do you know that mored than 70% of Americans claim to be Christain. That is 7 out of every 10 people you know or see everyday. I want you to know that Christainity is not just a box to mark on a survey. We as Christains have a number of commands we are to obey. Do you know what they are? Start to the ten most famous ones...... don't steal, don't kill, don't be jealous, don't tell lies, honor your parents, etc. How about the greatest commandment, do you know that one?
My point is this... we all would like to see the benefits (blessings) that come with being a Christ follower. However, we seem to want the benefit without having to keep up our end of the deal. Christainity is not a socialist society! We have responsibilities as Christains, when asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus said we are to "love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength" he said the second is equally as important, "love your neighbor as yourself".
How are you doing keeping the greatest commandment? Who you hanging with? How much time have you spent with God this week, in His Word, in a church pew, in prayer, listening to praise and worship music, reading Christain literature, etc. You are influenced by the people you hang with. Allow God to be the one to influence you, build you up, become your "ever present help in your time of need". How can you allow this if you aren't spending time with you creator.
I like to say that I am an influencer, not the one to be influenced. However, when my spirit is weak, when I haven't been spending time with God, having my faith built up;what kind of influence can a possibly be? I encourage you today, spend time with your creator. He loves you, and cherishs every minute you spend with Him.
Who are you?
Do you ever wonder why it is, no matter how hard we try, we always seem to think about, or do things that don't line up with our claim to Christianity? Maybe it's just me. It might be as simple as gossiping, or harboring unforgiveness, or being rude to a friend or loved one. Whatever the "sin" may be...... why do we fall into It?
I was reading in Romans 8 today, and was intrigued by the idea of our two natures. We have a "natural man", the flesh and blood, bien into a fallen sinful world, thus born into a sinful nature. This man thinks about the problems of life, the devastating news heard on major media outlets. He thinks of himself first, do I have enough money, do I have enough food, do I need new clothes, do I need my hair and nails done, who am I "mad" at today.
Then there's the spiritual man. This man is a new creation, not condemned, of the kingdom of light, a royal priesthood, the righteousness of God in Jesus Christ. This man considers others before himself. This man thinks on the noble, pure things of God. This man asks the Spirit of God to control and direct his thoughts. This man doesn't fear, nor does he become anxious for anything. This man is blessed beyond measure.
Which man are you allowing to control your thoughts, decisions, and ultimately your life? Have you thanked God for His free gift of salvation through His son Jesus today? Better yet, are you living a life worthy of the gift you have been offered?
I would encourage everyone today to be courageously committed to Creator God today. Be different.
I was reading in Romans 8 today, and was intrigued by the idea of our two natures. We have a "natural man", the flesh and blood, bien into a fallen sinful world, thus born into a sinful nature. This man thinks about the problems of life, the devastating news heard on major media outlets. He thinks of himself first, do I have enough money, do I have enough food, do I need new clothes, do I need my hair and nails done, who am I "mad" at today.
Then there's the spiritual man. This man is a new creation, not condemned, of the kingdom of light, a royal priesthood, the righteousness of God in Jesus Christ. This man considers others before himself. This man thinks on the noble, pure things of God. This man asks the Spirit of God to control and direct his thoughts. This man doesn't fear, nor does he become anxious for anything. This man is blessed beyond measure.
Which man are you allowing to control your thoughts, decisions, and ultimately your life? Have you thanked God for His free gift of salvation through His son Jesus today? Better yet, are you living a life worthy of the gift you have been offered?
I would encourage everyone today to be courageously committed to Creator God today. Be different.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
The fight of you life!
Have you ever wondered "Why can't I go one day without having sinful thoughts, words, actions, etc."? Well, I believe you can!
But, it will take effort on your part, and even more, SUBMISSION. Here's the deal... in Galations chapter 6, we are taught about sowing to please our flesh (worldly sinful nature) or sowing to the spirit.
7Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature[a]will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
There is the reward, do you want a harvest of destruction, or of eternal life. See, if we will keep our eyes on the goal (eternal life with the Lord), we will desire to sow to the spirit daily. However, if we choose to let our short term "wants" to get in the way of our long term "goal", we will please ourselves now, and eventually reap destruction.
Back up a chapter to Galations 5, and you will see the difference in the Spiritual Nature (fruits of the spirit) and the Sinful Nature.
16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other
So I encourage you today, spend time with God, ask Him to make His Spirit more prevelant in you today. Let's just see if we can do a day without the sinful thoughts, words, and actions. Let's try to replace thses things with thoughts, words, and actions that would yield a harvest of eternal life. Like it or not, you are a farmer, and every thought, word, and action you yield is a seed to be planted. Let's plant only worthwhile seeds.
But, it will take effort on your part, and even more, SUBMISSION. Here's the deal... in Galations chapter 6, we are taught about sowing to please our flesh (worldly sinful nature) or sowing to the spirit.
7Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature[a]will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
There is the reward, do you want a harvest of destruction, or of eternal life. See, if we will keep our eyes on the goal (eternal life with the Lord), we will desire to sow to the spirit daily. However, if we choose to let our short term "wants" to get in the way of our long term "goal", we will please ourselves now, and eventually reap destruction.
Back up a chapter to Galations 5, and you will see the difference in the Spiritual Nature (fruits of the spirit) and the Sinful Nature.
16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other
So I encourage you today, spend time with God, ask Him to make His Spirit more prevelant in you today. Let's just see if we can do a day without the sinful thoughts, words, and actions. Let's try to replace thses things with thoughts, words, and actions that would yield a harvest of eternal life. Like it or not, you are a farmer, and every thought, word, and action you yield is a seed to be planted. Let's plant only worthwhile seeds.
We all need somebody to lean on.....
This week, I have already been blessed by people in my life who care enough to call and check on me. It got me to thinking a lot about life.... So I decided to compile some thoughts by different people who have inspired me recently.
As Pastor Joe Jones noted in a recent blog, we can either say what we have, or have what we say. Our creator who created us in His image, spoke the world into existence. He has tried to encourage us to speak of what is not, as if it were. BUT, in our warpped little human minds, we think it is weird to "claim" things that aren't visible. Such as saying "I am blessed coming and going, I will borrow from none and lend to many". When we consider such speach in the natural, we think it is foolish. But, when we realize that we are "not of this world", but rather we are of a different economic system, it becomes supernaturally real!
So I say thank you to Matt Bills! You always call at just the right time to give me that pick me up that I need. And I say thank you to my wife Steph. No matter how bad of a day you may have, you always strive to make mine and our kids' days better. You guys are God sent, and I am blessed to have you in my life.
So I say to the others that may read this...... Be available to be used by God. You never know when one of your "friends" may need to lean on you!
As Pastor Joe Jones noted in a recent blog, we can either say what we have, or have what we say. Our creator who created us in His image, spoke the world into existence. He has tried to encourage us to speak of what is not, as if it were. BUT, in our warpped little human minds, we think it is weird to "claim" things that aren't visible. Such as saying "I am blessed coming and going, I will borrow from none and lend to many". When we consider such speach in the natural, we think it is foolish. But, when we realize that we are "not of this world", but rather we are of a different economic system, it becomes supernaturally real!
So I say thank you to Matt Bills! You always call at just the right time to give me that pick me up that I need. And I say thank you to my wife Steph. No matter how bad of a day you may have, you always strive to make mine and our kids' days better. You guys are God sent, and I am blessed to have you in my life.
So I say to the others that may read this...... Be available to be used by God. You never know when one of your "friends" may need to lean on you!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Have you ever seen a miracle?
To many people, miracles are uncommon, supernatural occurrences. However, I would suggest that miracles happen all around us, all too often. Think about the last breath you took, or the last time you forced your heart to pump. See the point, we have miracles happening all around us.
Remember what Jesus said when the pharises quite him about healing on the Sabbath? He asked, which would be the greater miracle? To heal this man, and tell him to get up and walk; or to say to him "your sins are forgiven".
You see, salvation is a miracle. I am so thankful that I won't get what I deserve on judgement day. Thank you Lord for paying the debt for the sin that I have committed. He stands ready to pardon yours too. He has already paid for it, now its up to you to accept the gift.
Remember what Jesus said when the pharises quite him about healing on the Sabbath? He asked, which would be the greater miracle? To heal this man, and tell him to get up and walk; or to say to him "your sins are forgiven".
You see, salvation is a miracle. I am so thankful that I won't get what I deserve on judgement day. Thank you Lord for paying the debt for the sin that I have committed. He stands ready to pardon yours too. He has already paid for it, now its up to you to accept the gift.
Please God
I was talking to a friend a while back about the things of the Lord. We were talking about how our prayers seem to always be "oh, please God, come help me....".
We both thought it to be interesting how we dint give God two thoughts until we are in a pickle. In Deutoronomy 30, we are told that it is up to us. We have q choice to obey, or not to. And if we obey, we are choosing prosperity, health, peace, and joy. If we choose to he disobedient, we are choosing destruction..... essentially the polar opposite of the rewards of obedience.
I encourage you today to make your walk with God a lifestyle, and jot just a ceremony for Sundays. You see people, if we would live our lives on purpose, trying to please God, we wouldn't be crying out "OH PLEASE GOD!"
We both thought it to be interesting how we dint give God two thoughts until we are in a pickle. In Deutoronomy 30, we are told that it is up to us. We have q choice to obey, or not to. And if we obey, we are choosing prosperity, health, peace, and joy. If we choose to he disobedient, we are choosing destruction..... essentially the polar opposite of the rewards of obedience.
I encourage you today to make your walk with God a lifestyle, and jot just a ceremony for Sundays. You see people, if we would live our lives on purpose, trying to please God, we wouldn't be crying out "OH PLEASE GOD!"
Where have all the Elijahs gone?
If these are the days of Elijah, where are all the Elijahs? Elijah was a prophet of God who had a showdown with the false prophets of Baal. He encouraged these false prophets of Baal to have their god to burn up an altar. But, needless to say it didn't happen. Elijah then soaked the altar with water, and prayed to the true God to accept the offering. God sent down fire that completely consumed the altar.
You see, we often ask, where is the God of Elijah. The better question may be where are the Elijahs of God. We have to take God at his word, stand on our faith, and expect mountains to move when we speak to them.
You see, we often ask, where is the God of Elijah. The better question may be where are the Elijahs of God. We have to take God at his word, stand on our faith, and expect mountains to move when we speak to them.
Sowing and Reaping
I've been thinking alot lately about this biblical principle. In genesis, God established that a seed would reproduce after its own kind. Why want I understand this? If I need a financial blessing, I shouldn't think that "i can't afford to give money, so ill just volunteer". That's not how God designed it. He said, "whoever sows sparingly, will reap sparingly".
Also, I've wondered.... why are certain things happening to me? Well, in case you have forgotten, every action has an equal or opposite reaction.... what goes around comes around. He said "sow to the flesh, you will reap destruction..... sow to the spirit reap eternal life. You may ask... "what's the flesh?". It is the worldly sinful nature that we as Christians have to die to daily. It's greed, lust, jealously, deviousness(lying), anger, and anything else that is contrary to the fruits of the spirit.
We have to give what we want to receive. Want friends? Be a friend. Want someone's time? Give of your own time. Want a financial blessing? Be a financial blessing. Do you realize that the only area that God encouraged us to test Him in, is in the area of finances (Malachi).
It doesn't make sense, but to get, we have to give!
Also, I've wondered.... why are certain things happening to me? Well, in case you have forgotten, every action has an equal or opposite reaction.... what goes around comes around. He said "sow to the flesh, you will reap destruction..... sow to the spirit reap eternal life. You may ask... "what's the flesh?". It is the worldly sinful nature that we as Christians have to die to daily. It's greed, lust, jealously, deviousness(lying), anger, and anything else that is contrary to the fruits of the spirit.
We have to give what we want to receive. Want friends? Be a friend. Want someone's time? Give of your own time. Want a financial blessing? Be a financial blessing. Do you realize that the only area that God encouraged us to test Him in, is in the area of finances (Malachi).
It doesn't make sense, but to get, we have to give!
The fight of your life!
Have you ever wondered "Why can't I go one day without having sinful thoughts, words, actions, etc."? Well, I believe you can!
But, it will take effort on your part, and even more, SUBMISSION. Here's the deal... in Galations chapter 6, we are taught about sowing to please our flesh (worldly sinful nature) or sowing to the spirit.
7Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature[a]will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
There is the reward, do you want a harvest of destruction, or of eternal life. See, if we will keep our eyes on the goal (eternal life with the Lord), we will desire to sow to the spirit daily. However, if we choose to let our short term "wants" to get in the way of our long term "goal", we will please ourselves now, and eventually reap destruction.
Back up a chapter to Galations 5, and you will see the difference in the Spiritual Nature (fruits of the spirit) and the Sinful Nature.
16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other
So I encourage you today, spend time with God, ask Him to make His Spirit more prevelant in you today. Let's just see if we can do a day without the sinful thoughts, words, and actions. Let's try to replace thses things with thoughts, words, and actions that would yield a harvest of eternal life. Like it or not, you are a farmer, and every thought, word, and action you yield is a seed to be planted. Let's plant only worthwhile seeds.
But, it will take effort on your part, and even more, SUBMISSION. Here's the deal... in Galations chapter 6, we are taught about sowing to please our flesh (worldly sinful nature) or sowing to the spirit.
7Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature[a]will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
There is the reward, do you want a harvest of destruction, or of eternal life. See, if we will keep our eyes on the goal (eternal life with the Lord), we will desire to sow to the spirit daily. However, if we choose to let our short term "wants" to get in the way of our long term "goal", we will please ourselves now, and eventually reap destruction.
Back up a chapter to Galations 5, and you will see the difference in the Spiritual Nature (fruits of the spirit) and the Sinful Nature.
16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other
So I encourage you today, spend time with God, ask Him to make His Spirit more prevelant in you today. Let's just see if we can do a day without the sinful thoughts, words, and actions. Let's try to replace thses things with thoughts, words, and actions that would yield a harvest of eternal life. Like it or not, you are a farmer, and every thought, word, and action you yield is a seed to be planted. Let's plant only worthwhile seeds.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Know your weapon.......
We are all at least familiar with the "Armor of God". This passage can be found in Ephesians 6. We are told to put on the whole armor of God. The author compares the armor of God to armor a warrior would use. He encourages the reader to cover all the vital portions of the body. We are to cover our heads with salvation this would mean that through all of our words and actions, we should remember the salvation that is offered through Jesus Christ. We are to cover our torso with the breastplate of righteousness. Not our own righteousness (which are compared to filthy rags), but the righteousness of Jesus Christ. We are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. We are to cover our feet the the Gosepel of Peace. We are to use our faith as a shield to not only deflect, but actually extinguish the devil's fiery darts. Equally important, we are to arm ourselves with an offensive weapon, the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. The Word of God can be applied to every aspect of our lives.
We all know that the words that we speak have the power of life and death.(Proverbs 18:21) That is important to realize when we are attempting to apply the Word of God. We have to get it into us enough that we can understand it within the context it was intended. We need to know who it was written to, and who it was written for! There is a difference, for instance, Paul wrote the majority of his letters to specific groups of people (churches) throughout the Roman Kingdom. However, the content was intended for us (believers) to learn or glean from his specific teachings addressed to them.
It encourages me to see people have a desire for God's Word. I just encourage you to make sure you understand what you are reading or being taught. The Sword is a powerful weapon, but if used incorrectly, it can cause great harm to the user.
MayGod Bless You!
Ephesians 6-
The Armor of God
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
We all know that the words that we speak have the power of life and death.(Proverbs 18:21) That is important to realize when we are attempting to apply the Word of God. We have to get it into us enough that we can understand it within the context it was intended. We need to know who it was written to, and who it was written for! There is a difference, for instance, Paul wrote the majority of his letters to specific groups of people (churches) throughout the Roman Kingdom. However, the content was intended for us (believers) to learn or glean from his specific teachings addressed to them.
It encourages me to see people have a desire for God's Word. I just encourage you to make sure you understand what you are reading or being taught. The Sword is a powerful weapon, but if used incorrectly, it can cause great harm to the user.
MayGod Bless You!
Ephesians 6-
The Armor of God
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Why is this the most wonderful time of year?????
Why is Christmas the most wonderful time of the year? Why are families re-united? Why are people happier around Christmas time than the rest of the year?
I just love the anticipation of the children for Christmas morning. I would submit that people are so cheerful because of the simple fact of the name of Christ being posted everywhere. We are told over and over in the bible that our words have power. This principle is not more evident any other time of the year. But, during the month of December, people and banners are continuously expressing "Merry Christmas". Even the un-saved are using the name of Christ. Christ means the annointed one, and when we include Him in the hustle and bustle of our everyday life, we too can live an annointed life.
I would love to see people everywhere have the same anticipation that little children have for Christmas morning. Instead, we should be anticipating the return of the Christ. What a joyous day that will be. I just pray that we can include Jesus in our speach, our actions, and our thoughts all throughout 2010.
Have a Merry Christmas, and remember..... without Christ, there can be no CHRISTmas.
I just love the anticipation of the children for Christmas morning. I would submit that people are so cheerful because of the simple fact of the name of Christ being posted everywhere. We are told over and over in the bible that our words have power. This principle is not more evident any other time of the year. But, during the month of December, people and banners are continuously expressing "Merry Christmas". Even the un-saved are using the name of Christ. Christ means the annointed one, and when we include Him in the hustle and bustle of our everyday life, we too can live an annointed life.
I would love to see people everywhere have the same anticipation that little children have for Christmas morning. Instead, we should be anticipating the return of the Christ. What a joyous day that will be. I just pray that we can include Jesus in our speach, our actions, and our thoughts all throughout 2010.
Have a Merry Christmas, and remember..... without Christ, there can be no CHRISTmas.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Follow at a distance????????
How often have we either said or heard, "we better keep our distance". We usually say that when we want to "know" what is happening, but not really be involved. Think about when you were in grade school. There were fights that would break out. Everyone wanted to be a witness to the fight, but not many people wanted to be close enough to get smacked. Think about an accident on the highway. People can't keep themselves from staring, but not many actually want to get out of their car and help.
When Jesus was betrayed in the garden, Peter attempted to cut off one of the soliders heads. Peter had just been told by Jesus that he would deny even knowing Christ 3 times before the end of the night. After Jesus had been arrested, and was being led away, we are told that Peter followed at a distance.
Those who had arrested Jesus took him to Caiaphas, the high priest, where the teachers of the law and the elders had assembled. 58But Peter followed him at a distance, right up to the courtyard of the high priest. He entered and sat down with the guards to see the outcome.
How many of us are more content just "following at a distance"? I mean think about it, wouldn't we rather just "be there" to witness and maybe even partake in all the greatness of God, without actually having to "get our hands dirty"? Jesus said that only if we are willing to "lose our life" will we actually find it. I challenge you today not to just follow at a distance, but rather jump in, both feet, and do the work of God.
We have all been blesed with talents, abilities, and gifts. Shouldn't we start using them for heaven's sake? We really need to give our best efforts to God. He tells us that in our weakness, He is able to show His strength. Turst Him today, and do you best.
When Jesus was betrayed in the garden, Peter attempted to cut off one of the soliders heads. Peter had just been told by Jesus that he would deny even knowing Christ 3 times before the end of the night. After Jesus had been arrested, and was being led away, we are told that Peter followed at a distance.
Those who had arrested Jesus took him to Caiaphas, the high priest, where the teachers of the law and the elders had assembled. 58But Peter followed him at a distance, right up to the courtyard of the high priest. He entered and sat down with the guards to see the outcome.
How many of us are more content just "following at a distance"? I mean think about it, wouldn't we rather just "be there" to witness and maybe even partake in all the greatness of God, without actually having to "get our hands dirty"? Jesus said that only if we are willing to "lose our life" will we actually find it. I challenge you today not to just follow at a distance, but rather jump in, both feet, and do the work of God.
We have all been blesed with talents, abilities, and gifts. Shouldn't we start using them for heaven's sake? We really need to give our best efforts to God. He tells us that in our weakness, He is able to show His strength. Turst Him today, and do you best.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Believing is not seeing.... it's saying
Many people believe that you can't believe something that you can't see. I agree, it is hard to believe something that you can't visualize. But, that is the point of faith. We are to walk by faith, and not by sight.
However, when we consider the passage in Mark 11, Jesus taught that what you say is just as important as what you believe.
22"Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23"I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
We have to get into the habit of making positive confessions about our lives, and the "obstacles" coming into them. It is just as important to speak to the obstacles in our lives, as it is to believe that things can change. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."
I can't stress to you how important the things we say about us, others, and our lives is. Our words have power. We are told to call things that are not, as though they are. That is how God formed the earth. He called out the things that He wanted to appear.
Believe it and speak it. If you believe something, and have dreams and desires, start speaking them. Your words have power, start using them wisely.
However, when we consider the passage in Mark 11, Jesus taught that what you say is just as important as what you believe.
22"Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23"I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
We have to get into the habit of making positive confessions about our lives, and the "obstacles" coming into them. It is just as important to speak to the obstacles in our lives, as it is to believe that things can change. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."
I can't stress to you how important the things we say about us, others, and our lives is. Our words have power. We are told to call things that are not, as though they are. That is how God formed the earth. He called out the things that He wanted to appear.
Believe it and speak it. If you believe something, and have dreams and desires, start speaking them. Your words have power, start using them wisely.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Are your prayers hitting the roof?
Do you ever feel like your prayers aren't heard or even answered? Do you ever feel like you are praying the same words everytime you hit your knees? I am sure we have all felt that way. The disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. Jesus told them how to pray in what we call the Lord's prayer.
Matthew 6:
9"This, then, is how you should pray:
" 'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
10your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
11Give us today our daily bread.
12Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.[a]' 14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
I see two really important parts of this prayer. One, we are to forgive others, if we expect to be forgiven. Secondly, how are we told to seek forgiveness? We are told to confess our sins and He is faithful and just to forgive us.
I think the point is that if we want our prayers to be heard and answered, we have to hold our end of the deal with sin. We have to forgive those who have sinned against us, and we have to confess our own sin.
Try praying with a new approach. Search yourself with the help of the Spirit, and see if there is any sin that hasn't been dealt with.
Seek the Lord, and you will find Him.
Matthew 6:
9"This, then, is how you should pray:
" 'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
10your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
11Give us today our daily bread.
12Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.[a]' 14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
I see two really important parts of this prayer. One, we are to forgive others, if we expect to be forgiven. Secondly, how are we told to seek forgiveness? We are told to confess our sins and He is faithful and just to forgive us.
I think the point is that if we want our prayers to be heard and answered, we have to hold our end of the deal with sin. We have to forgive those who have sinned against us, and we have to confess our own sin.
Try praying with a new approach. Search yourself with the help of the Spirit, and see if there is any sin that hasn't been dealt with.
Seek the Lord, and you will find Him.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Happy Pill.........
In today's society, many, many people have a "happy pill". Usually this is an anti depressant that is commonly prescribed by a doctor to assist a person with dealing with a traumatic event. In my opinion, and again this is my opinion, these meds are prescribed wayyyyy toooooo often. Even more, there are taken for way toooo longggg.
It seems to me that most people who consistently use these happy pills, are looking to fill a void in their life. There is an empty hole in every persons life that they are born with. We as humans, attempt to fill this hole with people (friends, spouses, children), stuff (cars, clothes, purses, houses, shoes, etc), or new hobbies and toys (the newest technology, a new sport, a boat, camping equipment, etc). This hole is not meant to be filled with any of this stuff.
God fashioned each and every one of us in His image with a void in our life that ONLY HE can fill. I encourage you today to examine your life, take inventory of the things that make you feel happy. If God is not in that inventory, I encourage you to pray for Him to give you a desire for His Love and Truth. His Word says that He is a "consuming fire".
Allow yourself to be consumed with Him today! Start a new Happy Pill. Allow the Spirit to fill you.
It seems to me that most people who consistently use these happy pills, are looking to fill a void in their life. There is an empty hole in every persons life that they are born with. We as humans, attempt to fill this hole with people (friends, spouses, children), stuff (cars, clothes, purses, houses, shoes, etc), or new hobbies and toys (the newest technology, a new sport, a boat, camping equipment, etc). This hole is not meant to be filled with any of this stuff.
God fashioned each and every one of us in His image with a void in our life that ONLY HE can fill. I encourage you today to examine your life, take inventory of the things that make you feel happy. If God is not in that inventory, I encourage you to pray for Him to give you a desire for His Love and Truth. His Word says that He is a "consuming fire".
Allow yourself to be consumed with Him today! Start a new Happy Pill. Allow the Spirit to fill you.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Are you a sponge???
I heard this great illustration a few days ago, and I just have to share it. Okay, picture a large bowl of orange juice. If you soak a sponge in the OJ, and the go to an empty bowl and ring it out, what comes out of the sponge? Orange Juice right? Okay the sponge is completely rung out now. Soak the same sponge in a bowl of water. Now ring out the same sponge, what comes out now? Water, that is correct.
Now consider yourself as the sponge. Whatever you saturate yourself with, is what comes out of your life when you get squeezed. When life stresses you, what do you say or think. I would bet that most of us allow non life giving words and thoughts to come out of our lives. The bible tells us that "out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. That means whatever you saturate yourself with, that is what is squeezed out of you when life starts stressing you.
I encourage you today to decide today to get VERY familiar with your bible. God has given us His amazing Word so we can get to know Him. If He is our heavenly father, shouldn't we spend as much time and energy forming a relationship with him as we do with an earthly father?
You are a sponge, make sure you are soaking up good stuff!
Now consider yourself as the sponge. Whatever you saturate yourself with, is what comes out of your life when you get squeezed. When life stresses you, what do you say or think. I would bet that most of us allow non life giving words and thoughts to come out of our lives. The bible tells us that "out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. That means whatever you saturate yourself with, that is what is squeezed out of you when life starts stressing you.
I encourage you today to decide today to get VERY familiar with your bible. God has given us His amazing Word so we can get to know Him. If He is our heavenly father, shouldn't we spend as much time and energy forming a relationship with him as we do with an earthly father?
You are a sponge, make sure you are soaking up good stuff!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Please God.....
We often times use these two little words while we are in the middle of a heap of whatever. We are usually begging God to change our circumstance. However, we are too proud to realize that it is actually us that He desires to change. So, when we get out of what it was that we were in to, we forget about the impact that God has in our lives.
I would like to encourage you today to take a different stance. Instead of asking "oh please God", why not try living a life that is pleasing to God. The bible tells us that blessed is the man that delights in the Lord. That means if we actually live out our faith, we are going to be different. We are going to act in a way that is pleasing to the Lord.
Please God today!
I would like to encourage you today to take a different stance. Instead of asking "oh please God", why not try living a life that is pleasing to God. The bible tells us that blessed is the man that delights in the Lord. That means if we actually live out our faith, we are going to be different. We are going to act in a way that is pleasing to the Lord.
Please God today!
Friday, July 31, 2009
Can You Sew????
Well, many people have taken FHA, or Home Economics in school. So, when I ask, "Can You Sew", most people might say "yeah, kinda". However, the sewing that I am talking about is actually spelled S-O-W. You know, the act of "planting" seeds. When you plant grass seed or many other types of seeds, it is called sowing. So, can you sow?
In the bible, we should have learned a principle that is found throughout the entire bible. It is the principle of sowing and reaping. Think about it, if you want tomatoes, you have to start by planting a seed. If you want grass, it also comes from a seed. Nearly all types of vegetation come from seeds.
Have you ever applied the principle of sowing and reaping to your everyday life? The bible tells us that if we want to have friends, we should show ourselves to be friendly. That means that you have to be a friend to have friends. The bible also tells us that we will be blessed with the same measure (that means amount) that we bless others.
This also applies to money. We often times forget that EVERYTHING belongs to God. We get greedy and arrogant, and believe that the money that He has blessed us with is actually ours. WRONG, it is His. In 2 Corinthians 10:9, we are told that
9As it is written:
"He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever."[a] 10Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
Have you ever said "Well, I will give more at church when I have more."? That is a wrong mentality about how we are blessed. We have to give cheerfully and faithfully, knowing that God WILL supply ALL of our needs according to His riches and glory in Christ Jesus.
Just like a pool of water, if you don't give your blessings, they will become stagnant, and unfruitful.
You see, you have to give first to get.
In the bible, we should have learned a principle that is found throughout the entire bible. It is the principle of sowing and reaping. Think about it, if you want tomatoes, you have to start by planting a seed. If you want grass, it also comes from a seed. Nearly all types of vegetation come from seeds.
Have you ever applied the principle of sowing and reaping to your everyday life? The bible tells us that if we want to have friends, we should show ourselves to be friendly. That means that you have to be a friend to have friends. The bible also tells us that we will be blessed with the same measure (that means amount) that we bless others.
This also applies to money. We often times forget that EVERYTHING belongs to God. We get greedy and arrogant, and believe that the money that He has blessed us with is actually ours. WRONG, it is His. In 2 Corinthians 10:9, we are told that
9As it is written:
"He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever."[a] 10Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
Have you ever said "Well, I will give more at church when I have more."? That is a wrong mentality about how we are blessed. We have to give cheerfully and faithfully, knowing that God WILL supply ALL of our needs according to His riches and glory in Christ Jesus.
Just like a pool of water, if you don't give your blessings, they will become stagnant, and unfruitful.
You see, you have to give first to get.
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