Read: 1 Corinthians 10
“Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved.” 1 Corinthians 10:6
Examine:
For the Church at Corinth the early days of the Church were very confusing. They came from a background that had no traditions or history with God and lived in a world that was full of false gods and idol worship. Paul reminds them that God’s expectations were not lowered and that His Character has not changed. Paul took the entire law of Moses and condensed it into four don’ts: don’t serve false gods, don’t take part in immorality, don’t tempt the Lord, and don’t discontentedly complain.
Apply:
A false god is anything I look to for provision, protection, or fulfillment. It is taking the glory that is due to God and giving it away to anything. Wealth, work, and stature are my false gods.
Immorality for me has to do with my eyes and my thoughts. It is hard to look anywhere today and not be bombarded by sensual images. The clothing styles of today, advertisements, and entertainment all center around sexual temptation. Nothing is sacred any more. Nothing is hidden. It is easy to play victim and blame the world but that is of no benefit to me. The bottom line is that there should not be a desire in me to look.
Tempting the Lord is trying His patience, being critical of Him, becoming a trial to Him or exploiting His goodness. When I look at this list they all come down to a lack of respect and awe for God. When I lose that I persist in things He has warned me against, I ignore His leading, I critique what He does, and I try to use Him to advance me. All of these are major issues in our relationship.
Discontentedly complaining is a major issue with God. He does not mind me expressing my pain to Him or being honest with my feelings. The issue becomes when I reject God as being good and define a lifestyle without Him as being better.
Pray:
I am honestly not sure how to pray this morning. I guess it is one of those days that feelings seem to allude words. The desires of a man’s heart are difficult to understand and impossible to control. Things inside of me seem to grip me and drive me without much premeditation. This is especially true when it comes to the four things listed above. The truth of my heart is that while there is a part of me that wants to be holy there is also very much a part of me that does not want to relinquish control of my life. It is counter intuitive to live my life subjected completely to Your leading. Your ways are not mine. Your logic does not follow my wisdom. Following You always carries me in the direction of my fears and shortcomings because it is in my weakness that I find Your strength.
I am not where I want to be, but thanks to You am nowhere near the man I once was. Regardless of the cost I have continued to pursue You. My pursuit has been imperfect. There have been many days that my following after You has been quite ugly. Be that as it may I have and continue to sacrifice what is comfortable and logical to follow You into something that painful and insane. I say this not to my credit but because I want to thank You for the transformation that continues to take place in my heart and the strengthening that I continue to experience in my soul and spirit. With all that is within me I remain Yours.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Friday, May 27, 2011
Deeper Still
Read: 1 Corinthians 9
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. “ 1 Corinthians 9:24
Examine:
Paul reminds the Church at Corinth that while grace and salvation come free of charge, reward and blessings come at a cost. Only discipline, endurance and effort will win the prize.
Apply:
I think for me the challenge is remembering that there is a prize. This should not be hard but honestly there are days that the things of heaven seem distant. I know they are there and will happen one day but the things I am sacrificing are tangible and sitting right in front of me. This makes setting them aside a challenge.
Pray:
I read this chapter from Paul and I find it challenging. He had such a strong view of heavenly rewards that he sacrificed everything to pursue them. He had such a deep sense of joy from his obedience that he considered it an obligation to share Christ. He was so desperate to see others come to faith in Christ that he was willing to endure anything to see them saved. Let’s be honest a moment, that is not what my faith looks like. I measure the cost and gripe about it. I walk through this life with others and do not carry a sense of desperation regarding their salvation. My faith is still very me centered and I acknowledge that to You this morning. Acknowledging this weakness excites me. I know that when You bring about conviction You also bring about the power to change.
I am in the deepest pursuit of You than I have ever been in my life, but I want to go deeper still. The pain of the past year has been more than worth the joy of seeing Your glory come to the poor, the widowed and the orphaned. The sacrifices made have paled in comparison to seeing You bring encouragement and strength to other saints who have sacrificed far more than I will ever know. I pray that You continue to break my heart for the things that break Yours and center my joy, my expectations, and my ambition on the prize that will ultimately be mine when I join You in the life to come.
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. “ 1 Corinthians 9:24
Examine:
Paul reminds the Church at Corinth that while grace and salvation come free of charge, reward and blessings come at a cost. Only discipline, endurance and effort will win the prize.
Apply:
I think for me the challenge is remembering that there is a prize. This should not be hard but honestly there are days that the things of heaven seem distant. I know they are there and will happen one day but the things I am sacrificing are tangible and sitting right in front of me. This makes setting them aside a challenge.
Pray:
I read this chapter from Paul and I find it challenging. He had such a strong view of heavenly rewards that he sacrificed everything to pursue them. He had such a deep sense of joy from his obedience that he considered it an obligation to share Christ. He was so desperate to see others come to faith in Christ that he was willing to endure anything to see them saved. Let’s be honest a moment, that is not what my faith looks like. I measure the cost and gripe about it. I walk through this life with others and do not carry a sense of desperation regarding their salvation. My faith is still very me centered and I acknowledge that to You this morning. Acknowledging this weakness excites me. I know that when You bring about conviction You also bring about the power to change.
I am in the deepest pursuit of You than I have ever been in my life, but I want to go deeper still. The pain of the past year has been more than worth the joy of seeing Your glory come to the poor, the widowed and the orphaned. The sacrifices made have paled in comparison to seeing You bring encouragement and strength to other saints who have sacrificed far more than I will ever know. I pray that You continue to break my heart for the things that break Yours and center my joy, my expectations, and my ambition on the prize that will ultimately be mine when I join You in the life to come.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Serve God Fully
Read: 1 Corinthians 7
“Only, as the Lord has assigned to each one, as God has called each, in this manner let him walk. And so I direct in all the churches.” 1 Corinthians 7:17
Examine:
In this chapter Paul unpacks following after God in the midst of everyday life. He addresses this for singles, marrieds and single agains. There is a lot of room for confusion in this Chapter and I have heard many conflicting messages on it. The bottom line truth of this chapter to me is found in this verse. Paul seems to be saying from where you are, just as you are, serve God fully.
Apply:
Living life and serving God fully is a difficult proposition. Paul clearly acknowledges this challenge in this chapter. As I try and keep all the balls in the air things can get confusing and I can feel stretched thin. In this chapter I see three things that will help. First, I can’t treat temporary things as being more important than eternal things. There are days when the temporary pressures of being a husband, dad, and laborer cause me to loose sight of what really matters. My joy always needs to be pointed toward the eternal and I should learn how to detach myself from things that are not.
Second, I need to be true to the me God desires me to be. It is tempting in life to look at how other people live their life, identify those who seem to have it all together, and then try and emulate their success. There is some truth in modeling best practices but at the end of the day the best practice is discovering what is right according to my calling, gifting, and circumstances and then pursuing that with all that is within me.
Finally, I have to keep serving God first. Sometimes it can get confusing when it comes to sorting out major decisions. What is right for me, what is right for my family, what is right for my team, and what is right by God can often times feel like they are in great conflict. The solution to this is simple. The only question that matters is what is right by God. If God asks me to walk into a situation that is risky for my family I am far better to be in a risky place with the presence of God than to be in a safe place without Him.
Prayer:
From where I am, just as I am, and with all I am I give myself to You. My life does not matter to me. The temporary pain, disappointment and confusion that often accompanies following after You is nothing when I put it into an eternal perspective. My deepest desire and consuming longing is to be centered on Your will, fully engaged in Your mission, and living my life like heaven is a reality to me now. I am weak and You know that. Strengthen me today to fulfill the true desire of my heart.
“Only, as the Lord has assigned to each one, as God has called each, in this manner let him walk. And so I direct in all the churches.” 1 Corinthians 7:17
Examine:
In this chapter Paul unpacks following after God in the midst of everyday life. He addresses this for singles, marrieds and single agains. There is a lot of room for confusion in this Chapter and I have heard many conflicting messages on it. The bottom line truth of this chapter to me is found in this verse. Paul seems to be saying from where you are, just as you are, serve God fully.
Apply:
Living life and serving God fully is a difficult proposition. Paul clearly acknowledges this challenge in this chapter. As I try and keep all the balls in the air things can get confusing and I can feel stretched thin. In this chapter I see three things that will help. First, I can’t treat temporary things as being more important than eternal things. There are days when the temporary pressures of being a husband, dad, and laborer cause me to loose sight of what really matters. My joy always needs to be pointed toward the eternal and I should learn how to detach myself from things that are not.
Second, I need to be true to the me God desires me to be. It is tempting in life to look at how other people live their life, identify those who seem to have it all together, and then try and emulate their success. There is some truth in modeling best practices but at the end of the day the best practice is discovering what is right according to my calling, gifting, and circumstances and then pursuing that with all that is within me.
Finally, I have to keep serving God first. Sometimes it can get confusing when it comes to sorting out major decisions. What is right for me, what is right for my family, what is right for my team, and what is right by God can often times feel like they are in great conflict. The solution to this is simple. The only question that matters is what is right by God. If God asks me to walk into a situation that is risky for my family I am far better to be in a risky place with the presence of God than to be in a safe place without Him.
Prayer:
From where I am, just as I am, and with all I am I give myself to You. My life does not matter to me. The temporary pain, disappointment and confusion that often accompanies following after You is nothing when I put it into an eternal perspective. My deepest desire and consuming longing is to be centered on Your will, fully engaged in Your mission, and living my life like heaven is a reality to me now. I am weak and You know that. Strengthen me today to fulfill the true desire of my heart.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
The Fog of My Past
Read: 1 Corinthians 6
“Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:11
Examine:
A believer’s past becomes irrelevant the moment they surrender their life to Christ. In this verse Paul says some really important things about what happens the instant salvation occurs. The person is purified by a complete atonement for sin and made free from the guilt of sin. They are set apart, hallowed, and pronounced righteous by trusting in Christ.
Apply:
Sometimes I wake up and my past lingers around me like a thick fog. There are memories in my mind and heart that I wish were not there. There are visual images stuck in my head the sometimes seem to be played at random. Sometimes a song triggers them, sometimes they are triggered in a dream, sometimes running into someone from my past triggers them, and sometimes they just seem to come from nowhere. Regardless of their source, these memories always take me back to the man I once was. In those moments I can choose to feel guilty, I can long for that former lifestyle, or I can celebrate the grace of God.
Pray:
There are days when I miss my former life. You can’t remember them because You have forgotten it, but I can. In all honesty debauchery was fun to my flesh. Fun it may have been, but I also know it was empty and useless. Above that it broke Your heart. I pray today that You help me walk according to Your Spirit and that I steer clear of the former choices I once made. Keep my theology solid, my choices pure, and my mission clear. I pray that the joy I get from obeying You far exceed any joy I get from following my flesh.
I am set apart. I am hallowed. I have been pronounced righteous. I have been bought with a price. My life matters and my choices count. You have a plan and purpose for all that You have done in my life; thank you. When I consider my past and the places from which You redeemed me it amazes me still. Your grace is crazy. I want to run the days of my life for Your glory and through Your power.
“Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:11
Examine:
A believer’s past becomes irrelevant the moment they surrender their life to Christ. In this verse Paul says some really important things about what happens the instant salvation occurs. The person is purified by a complete atonement for sin and made free from the guilt of sin. They are set apart, hallowed, and pronounced righteous by trusting in Christ.
Apply:
Sometimes I wake up and my past lingers around me like a thick fog. There are memories in my mind and heart that I wish were not there. There are visual images stuck in my head the sometimes seem to be played at random. Sometimes a song triggers them, sometimes they are triggered in a dream, sometimes running into someone from my past triggers them, and sometimes they just seem to come from nowhere. Regardless of their source, these memories always take me back to the man I once was. In those moments I can choose to feel guilty, I can long for that former lifestyle, or I can celebrate the grace of God.
Pray:
There are days when I miss my former life. You can’t remember them because You have forgotten it, but I can. In all honesty debauchery was fun to my flesh. Fun it may have been, but I also know it was empty and useless. Above that it broke Your heart. I pray today that You help me walk according to Your Spirit and that I steer clear of the former choices I once made. Keep my theology solid, my choices pure, and my mission clear. I pray that the joy I get from obeying You far exceed any joy I get from following my flesh.
I am set apart. I am hallowed. I have been pronounced righteous. I have been bought with a price. My life matters and my choices count. You have a plan and purpose for all that You have done in my life; thank you. When I consider my past and the places from which You redeemed me it amazes me still. Your grace is crazy. I want to run the days of my life for Your glory and through Your power.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Points of Navigation
Points of Navigation
Read: 1 Corinthians 5
“Therefore let us celebrate the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.” 1 Corinthians 5:8
Examine:
GPS devices are incredible in their ability to pinpoint their location on the earth. These devices basically work by measuring the distance between themselves and three satellites in the sky. These measurements allow the device to accurately locate itself on the map. Just as three points are critical to navigation on earth, they are also critical in spiritual navigation. Paul lists three such points of measurement in this verse: the celebration of Christ, separation from legalism, and separation from carnality.
Apply:
When Paul talks about celebrating the feast he is talking about celebrating the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus. He is talking about celebrating the presence of God, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal life. My salvation is not a burden to bear it is a privilege to celebrate. Joy should radiate inside of me and bring a deep sense of life and purpose. The degree to which genuine celebration is present in my life is good indicator of my distance from God’s will for my life.
Paul says not to celebrate the feast with old leaven. For me this means to stay away from the past traditions of legalism and empty religion. My salvation and good standing with God is not based on my adherence to a code. Christ set me free. I am no longer subject to judgment, condemnation, or regulations. Grace has been freely given to me by faith in Jesus Christ. The degree to which legalism controls my judgment helps further indicate my location in God’s will for my life.
Paul also says not to celebrate the feast by modeling the behavior of a heathen. The freedom afforded to me in Christ is not to be used to feed my carnal lusts. This freedom is not a license to sin or live a life that in any way could be mistaken as immoral or corrupt. My freedom should lovingly draw me near to Christ and release me to enjoy the fruit of the earth, fellowship with others, and God’s willingness to freely welcome us all into His kingdom.
Pray:
I want to celebrate salvation, be free of legalism and steer clear of immorality. If I had those three things unleashed in my life I cannot think of much else I could desire. This morning as I assess my life I recognize that I am not where I want to be in regards to Your will for my life. My faith in Christ is not a strong source of celebration. I am not sure why this is but I do not find my relationship with Jesus to be my complete source of joy. I want that to change. I have so many questions and my mind always races to figure things out. Salvation lies beyond logic. There is not a single aspect of it that makes one bit of logical sense. Salvation is understood and celebrated only in the Spirit. I ask that You help me deeply connect with the joy of my salvation today.
Read: 1 Corinthians 5
“Therefore let us celebrate the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.” 1 Corinthians 5:8
Examine:
GPS devices are incredible in their ability to pinpoint their location on the earth. These devices basically work by measuring the distance between themselves and three satellites in the sky. These measurements allow the device to accurately locate itself on the map. Just as three points are critical to navigation on earth, they are also critical in spiritual navigation. Paul lists three such points of measurement in this verse: the celebration of Christ, separation from legalism, and separation from carnality.
Apply:
When Paul talks about celebrating the feast he is talking about celebrating the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus. He is talking about celebrating the presence of God, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal life. My salvation is not a burden to bear it is a privilege to celebrate. Joy should radiate inside of me and bring a deep sense of life and purpose. The degree to which genuine celebration is present in my life is good indicator of my distance from God’s will for my life.
Paul says not to celebrate the feast with old leaven. For me this means to stay away from the past traditions of legalism and empty religion. My salvation and good standing with God is not based on my adherence to a code. Christ set me free. I am no longer subject to judgment, condemnation, or regulations. Grace has been freely given to me by faith in Jesus Christ. The degree to which legalism controls my judgment helps further indicate my location in God’s will for my life.
Paul also says not to celebrate the feast by modeling the behavior of a heathen. The freedom afforded to me in Christ is not to be used to feed my carnal lusts. This freedom is not a license to sin or live a life that in any way could be mistaken as immoral or corrupt. My freedom should lovingly draw me near to Christ and release me to enjoy the fruit of the earth, fellowship with others, and God’s willingness to freely welcome us all into His kingdom.
Pray:
I want to celebrate salvation, be free of legalism and steer clear of immorality. If I had those three things unleashed in my life I cannot think of much else I could desire. This morning as I assess my life I recognize that I am not where I want to be in regards to Your will for my life. My faith in Christ is not a strong source of celebration. I am not sure why this is but I do not find my relationship with Jesus to be my complete source of joy. I want that to change. I have so many questions and my mind always races to figure things out. Salvation lies beyond logic. There is not a single aspect of it that makes one bit of logical sense. Salvation is understood and celebrated only in the Spirit. I ask that You help me deeply connect with the joy of my salvation today.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Walking It Out
Read: 1 Corinthians 2
“But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 2:16
Examine:
The mind and heart of Christ have been planted inside of everyone who puts their faith in Christ. Though everyone has this gift it is not guaranteed that we all walk in the power of these gifts.
Apply:
If I am going to see the power of my faith released in my life there are three keys I see in this text. First, I have to let go of worldly logic and embrace spiritual logic. The knowledge of the world is being done away with and on top of that it rejects the things of God. I have to know that following after the Spirit will always lead me to live my life different from what is normal around me. The Spirit is progressive and forward moving. He is not going to call me to live in what is, but will always be pressing towards what soon will be.
I also have to be prepared to feel divided. I am part spirit but I am also part flesh. This passage teaches that things of the Spirit are contrary to things of the flesh. Part of me will always embrace the things the Spirit asks of me but part of me is going to war against it. As the battle intensifies it is easy to lose sight of which is which. As this happens deception becomes a very real threat. The end result of this fight is death. As I endure and allow the Spirit to have its way my flesh dies. Dying is painful but it is necessary.
The final thing I see this morning is a reminder that I have to walk in discernment. The Spirit is not going to lay out a 3 year, 200 step plan. In verse 15 of this chapter Paul says that the man walking by the Spirit examines, investigates, inquires into, questions, and discerns all things. Walking in the mind and Spirit of Christ is a daily challenge of waking up, falling on my face, and seeking the leading of God; moment by moment, step by step.
Pray:
Holy Spirit,
Today is that last day of what has been an incredible trip. I have felt Your presence and sensed Your leadership strongly this week. My sense is that there is a new revelation coming. I am not sure why but I get this strong stirring that the direction of this journey is shifting. I am aware enough to realize that this shift I feel could be nothing more than a last minute attempt from my enemy to deceive me and get me off track so I am calling out to You today for guidance.
I do not have a preferred outcome in this matter other than my deep desire to see salvation come and hope be restored to the children of Sweetwaters. I pray for a deep level of affirmation and direction not from man, but from You.
“But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 2:16
Examine:
The mind and heart of Christ have been planted inside of everyone who puts their faith in Christ. Though everyone has this gift it is not guaranteed that we all walk in the power of these gifts.
Apply:
If I am going to see the power of my faith released in my life there are three keys I see in this text. First, I have to let go of worldly logic and embrace spiritual logic. The knowledge of the world is being done away with and on top of that it rejects the things of God. I have to know that following after the Spirit will always lead me to live my life different from what is normal around me. The Spirit is progressive and forward moving. He is not going to call me to live in what is, but will always be pressing towards what soon will be.
I also have to be prepared to feel divided. I am part spirit but I am also part flesh. This passage teaches that things of the Spirit are contrary to things of the flesh. Part of me will always embrace the things the Spirit asks of me but part of me is going to war against it. As the battle intensifies it is easy to lose sight of which is which. As this happens deception becomes a very real threat. The end result of this fight is death. As I endure and allow the Spirit to have its way my flesh dies. Dying is painful but it is necessary.
The final thing I see this morning is a reminder that I have to walk in discernment. The Spirit is not going to lay out a 3 year, 200 step plan. In verse 15 of this chapter Paul says that the man walking by the Spirit examines, investigates, inquires into, questions, and discerns all things. Walking in the mind and Spirit of Christ is a daily challenge of waking up, falling on my face, and seeking the leading of God; moment by moment, step by step.
Pray:
Holy Spirit,
Today is that last day of what has been an incredible trip. I have felt Your presence and sensed Your leadership strongly this week. My sense is that there is a new revelation coming. I am not sure why but I get this strong stirring that the direction of this journey is shifting. I am aware enough to realize that this shift I feel could be nothing more than a last minute attempt from my enemy to deceive me and get me off track so I am calling out to You today for guidance.
I do not have a preferred outcome in this matter other than my deep desire to see salvation come and hope be restored to the children of Sweetwaters. I pray for a deep level of affirmation and direction not from man, but from You.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Choices of a Fool
Read: 1 Corinthians 1
“God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:9
Examine:
There are times in life when we must simply return to the basic tenants of our faith. It all starts with believing the truth about God’s faithfulness.
Apply:
In my life today, more so than ever before, my only hope is that God is faithful. If God is not then I am to be pitied among fools for my choices. In faith I accepted that God was preparing me for a new work. In faith I accepted what I thought to be his voice and announced my intentions to leave my staff position at the church. In faith I followed what I felt to be His leading to visit friends in South Africa. In faith I accepted what I understood to be His voice asking me to return to South Africa for a longer period of time. In faith I resigned from the church believing in God to provide for me. In faith I accepted the vision handed to me for Restoration Hope and started the work. In faith I am believing that God is stirring a new work here and will be active in redeeming the community of Sweetwaters for Himself. All of this hinges on the faithfulness of God. If none of this holds true then I am quite simply dead.
Pray:
It was funny to sit on the side of the mountain this morning and laugh with You. I can’t believe that I am sitting where I am sitting and planning the work that I am planning. This is so far beyond me. My only hope is Your faithfulness. I have lived boldly. I have walked openly. My life and all that it holds has been laid bare before all to see. I have claimed Your Word, stood firm in the face of adversity, and sacrificed every aspect of my earthly security to be an advocate for the widowed, orphaned, and poor here. I have done all of this because I believe it is what You call us to do. The saints serving South Africa are losing the battle. The situation becomes more dire with each passing day and the work load they carry continues to rise. I, as an adopted son and full heir with Christ, ask in the name of Jesus that the resources (spiritual, financial, and human) needed to accomplish this work be released and brought forth.
“God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:9
Examine:
There are times in life when we must simply return to the basic tenants of our faith. It all starts with believing the truth about God’s faithfulness.
Apply:
In my life today, more so than ever before, my only hope is that God is faithful. If God is not then I am to be pitied among fools for my choices. In faith I accepted that God was preparing me for a new work. In faith I accepted what I thought to be his voice and announced my intentions to leave my staff position at the church. In faith I followed what I felt to be His leading to visit friends in South Africa. In faith I accepted what I understood to be His voice asking me to return to South Africa for a longer period of time. In faith I resigned from the church believing in God to provide for me. In faith I accepted the vision handed to me for Restoration Hope and started the work. In faith I am believing that God is stirring a new work here and will be active in redeeming the community of Sweetwaters for Himself. All of this hinges on the faithfulness of God. If none of this holds true then I am quite simply dead.
Pray:
It was funny to sit on the side of the mountain this morning and laugh with You. I can’t believe that I am sitting where I am sitting and planning the work that I am planning. This is so far beyond me. My only hope is Your faithfulness. I have lived boldly. I have walked openly. My life and all that it holds has been laid bare before all to see. I have claimed Your Word, stood firm in the face of adversity, and sacrificed every aspect of my earthly security to be an advocate for the widowed, orphaned, and poor here. I have done all of this because I believe it is what You call us to do. The saints serving South Africa are losing the battle. The situation becomes more dire with each passing day and the work load they carry continues to rise. I, as an adopted son and full heir with Christ, ask in the name of Jesus that the resources (spiritual, financial, and human) needed to accomplish this work be released and brought forth.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Ugly but True
Read: James 4
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:8
Examine:
This passage of scripture can quite honestly cause confusion. Draw near to God, and He will draw near. This is a promise. Confusion sets in because often times the attempts we make at drawing near to God come up vain. James addresses that in this passage. Drawing near to God is more than approaching Him and asking Him to set things right.
Apply:
“Your passions are at war within you. You ask wrongly. You boast in your arrogance. Submit to God. Humble yourself. Do not speak evil against others.”
I look at these sentences and I can hardly stand the reflection I see in the mirror that they create for me. I want to be near to God, but I do not necessarily want to walk through the depths of change these words from James demand of me. There are passions I am not ready to release. There are motives for asking that I do not want to lose. There are aspects of success that I want to achieve on my own. Humility still feels like weakness and self-depreciation to me. My anger burns hot against some, and I want vindication more than I desire release.
Pray:
These statements about me are ugly, but true. I look at them and keep repeating them to myself. As I do this, I examine the thoughts I have and the actions I have taken, and I can see examples of them in my life that serve as positive proof of my guilt. Father, I am a sinful man. I do not have because You cannot yet trust me. You hold back not as a means of punishment, but as Your way of protecting me from myself. All I can do is say thank You.
Even as I sit here this morning under the weight of this conviction, I am still afraid to release these to You fully. It is really a mess to be a man full of so much stubborn pride. All that I know to do is admit to You my sin and my inability to overcome it on my own. I see my sin clearly, and I confess to You both my guilt and my stubborn heart that seems to refuse repentance. I would rather be honest with You than pretend I am something I am not in hopes of gaining something from You.
Help me help my ridiculous self. I do mourn and weep today over the hardness of my heart. My soul is truly in anguish over my obstinate will. Though I do not know how to really humble myself before You that is what I am attempting to do this morning. Speak clearly to me Father. Lead me on a better path. Help me find and lock on to the work that You are doing in my life and pursue You as my one, all consuming passion.
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:8
Examine:
This passage of scripture can quite honestly cause confusion. Draw near to God, and He will draw near. This is a promise. Confusion sets in because often times the attempts we make at drawing near to God come up vain. James addresses that in this passage. Drawing near to God is more than approaching Him and asking Him to set things right.
Apply:
“Your passions are at war within you. You ask wrongly. You boast in your arrogance. Submit to God. Humble yourself. Do not speak evil against others.”
I look at these sentences and I can hardly stand the reflection I see in the mirror that they create for me. I want to be near to God, but I do not necessarily want to walk through the depths of change these words from James demand of me. There are passions I am not ready to release. There are motives for asking that I do not want to lose. There are aspects of success that I want to achieve on my own. Humility still feels like weakness and self-depreciation to me. My anger burns hot against some, and I want vindication more than I desire release.
Pray:
These statements about me are ugly, but true. I look at them and keep repeating them to myself. As I do this, I examine the thoughts I have and the actions I have taken, and I can see examples of them in my life that serve as positive proof of my guilt. Father, I am a sinful man. I do not have because You cannot yet trust me. You hold back not as a means of punishment, but as Your way of protecting me from myself. All I can do is say thank You.
Even as I sit here this morning under the weight of this conviction, I am still afraid to release these to You fully. It is really a mess to be a man full of so much stubborn pride. All that I know to do is admit to You my sin and my inability to overcome it on my own. I see my sin clearly, and I confess to You both my guilt and my stubborn heart that seems to refuse repentance. I would rather be honest with You than pretend I am something I am not in hopes of gaining something from You.
Help me help my ridiculous self. I do mourn and weep today over the hardness of my heart. My soul is truly in anguish over my obstinate will. Though I do not know how to really humble myself before You that is what I am attempting to do this morning. Speak clearly to me Father. Lead me on a better path. Help me find and lock on to the work that You are doing in my life and pursue You as my one, all consuming passion.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Principals Regarding Hope
Read: Romans 15
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
Examine:
Paul states three really important principals in this passage regarding hope: 1) God is the God and Source of hope. 2) Connecting with God as the source of hope can only be done according to His truth. 3) The hope of God is given so that it can be shared with others.
Apply:
God alone is the only source of true hope. I look to many things for hope. I put my hope in outcomes, I put my hope in people, I put my hope in finances, and I put my hope in my performance. God can use all of those things as methods for Him to deliver His hope; but He is the source. My relationship with God has to become my main focus for my hope.
The scriptures are critical to finding true hope because they ground me in truth. Joy and peace from hope can only result from me having a proper belief in the character and purposes of God. I can hope all day long but if my hope is not grounded in truth it will fail.
The hope that God gives to me is not given for me to horde. He desires that His hope overflow for the benefit of others. As God strengthens and encourages me I must allow that hope to touch the lives of others.
Pray:
Hope is not something that is just given. Hope involves work. That is the model that I see in the scripture. It is rare to hear of You speak to hope and not speak to endurance, surrender, sacrifice, and obedience. I can’t sit on my hands and find hope. Hope is found in the journey. Hope draws near as I persevere in drawing near to Your will and purposes.
This presents to me a very tricky balance. The works of my hand cannot produce hope and yet I cannot find hope unless I put my hands to Your work. I ask that You lead me in this today. Help me to see You as the source of Hope in all that I do. Ground me in Your truth today so that my hope will not be in vain. As You pour Your hope into me I pray that I will be attentive to the needs of others to have their hope restored or strengthened.
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
Examine:
Paul states three really important principals in this passage regarding hope: 1) God is the God and Source of hope. 2) Connecting with God as the source of hope can only be done according to His truth. 3) The hope of God is given so that it can be shared with others.
Apply:
God alone is the only source of true hope. I look to many things for hope. I put my hope in outcomes, I put my hope in people, I put my hope in finances, and I put my hope in my performance. God can use all of those things as methods for Him to deliver His hope; but He is the source. My relationship with God has to become my main focus for my hope.
The scriptures are critical to finding true hope because they ground me in truth. Joy and peace from hope can only result from me having a proper belief in the character and purposes of God. I can hope all day long but if my hope is not grounded in truth it will fail.
The hope that God gives to me is not given for me to horde. He desires that His hope overflow for the benefit of others. As God strengthens and encourages me I must allow that hope to touch the lives of others.
Pray:
Hope is not something that is just given. Hope involves work. That is the model that I see in the scripture. It is rare to hear of You speak to hope and not speak to endurance, surrender, sacrifice, and obedience. I can’t sit on my hands and find hope. Hope is found in the journey. Hope draws near as I persevere in drawing near to Your will and purposes.
This presents to me a very tricky balance. The works of my hand cannot produce hope and yet I cannot find hope unless I put my hands to Your work. I ask that You lead me in this today. Help me to see You as the source of Hope in all that I do. Ground me in Your truth today so that my hope will not be in vain. As You pour Your hope into me I pray that I will be attentive to the needs of others to have their hope restored or strengthened.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Dealing With Others
Read: Romans 14
“Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.” Romans 14:13
Examine:
One of the more difficult aspects of Christianity is dealing with other Christians. This is especially the case for matters that are not forbidden in the scripture. These gray areas spur debates and cause strife. This passage in Romans outlines several things that are helpful in walking through these situations.
Apply:
The first thing that sticks out to me is that I should refrain from offering an opinion on such matters. It is senseless and stupid to offer an opinion on gray areas that denominations war over. These arguments cannot be won. The most likely outcomes of these discussions are splits and confusion. Don’t chime in on what does not matter.
The second thing that is clear is I am not to pass judgment nor should I allow myself to be judged; EVER. For me, I should never allow the words or actions of another to weaken my faith nor should I allow my words or actions to negatively impact the faith of another. Each believer will answer for his own actions before God.
Finally, I have to live in a way that honors my faith and conscience. Paul states it beautifully this way: “The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin”
Pray:
When I read this passage it becomes clear to me that the call of the scripture is for me to err on the side of caution when using my freedom, but to err on the side of liberality when observing the freedom used by others. I do not want to get caught dishonoring my personal convictions nor do I want to be found weakening the faith of others by making laws where non exist.
Strengthen my faith so that I may live this life free of guilt and help me not be envious of the freedoms used by others. I pray that my faith would be grounded in honoring You, Your name, and Your mission. I ask that my interactions with all people not leave them feeling splintered and confused but rather affirmed, loved, and hungry to know You more.
“Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.” Romans 14:13
Examine:
One of the more difficult aspects of Christianity is dealing with other Christians. This is especially the case for matters that are not forbidden in the scripture. These gray areas spur debates and cause strife. This passage in Romans outlines several things that are helpful in walking through these situations.
Apply:
The first thing that sticks out to me is that I should refrain from offering an opinion on such matters. It is senseless and stupid to offer an opinion on gray areas that denominations war over. These arguments cannot be won. The most likely outcomes of these discussions are splits and confusion. Don’t chime in on what does not matter.
The second thing that is clear is I am not to pass judgment nor should I allow myself to be judged; EVER. For me, I should never allow the words or actions of another to weaken my faith nor should I allow my words or actions to negatively impact the faith of another. Each believer will answer for his own actions before God.
Finally, I have to live in a way that honors my faith and conscience. Paul states it beautifully this way: “The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin”
Pray:
When I read this passage it becomes clear to me that the call of the scripture is for me to err on the side of caution when using my freedom, but to err on the side of liberality when observing the freedom used by others. I do not want to get caught dishonoring my personal convictions nor do I want to be found weakening the faith of others by making laws where non exist.
Strengthen my faith so that I may live this life free of guilt and help me not be envious of the freedoms used by others. I pray that my faith would be grounded in honoring You, Your name, and Your mission. I ask that my interactions with all people not leave them feeling splintered and confused but rather affirmed, loved, and hungry to know You more.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
The Struggle of the Ages
Examine:
The time that Paul was referring to is the time set aside for us to wait for Christ’s return. This time is often referred to as the night with the return of Christ being referred to as the day. The temptation and opportunity for evil are always greater during the darkness of night. Paul gives three challenges to us in the closing verses of chapter 13: stay awake, stay clean, and put on Jesus.
Apply:
To wake up means that I accept a hard reality; this life is not home for me nor is it my reward. One day Jesus will come back. One day everything this life holds will be done away with. One day the pain and suffering of earth will be no more. When that day comes, in the blink of an eye, everything created by man will be swept away and the only thing left mattering will be what was complete according to God’s will.
Staying clean is not about perfection. I am of the spirit but I am also of the flesh. Mistakes will happen. The issue is that I am not to live a lifestyle of sin. Paul says to cast it off which indicates that there is certainly some work involved on my part. I have to determine in my heart that I will not long for things that are of the flesh. I have to fight the good fight and put my desires into submission.
Putting on Jesus is the fun part. Jesus was the man. He walked the earth unlike any man before Him and unlike any other man ever will. He was bold, courageous, and fearless. He was kind, humble, and generous. He was indwelled by the Holy Spirit, consumed by His devotion to the Father, and broken by His love for all people. God does not ask that I sit in the corner and just be a good little boy until He comes back to get me. The scriptures say the same ministry given to Jesus has been given to me. It is as if God and Jesus continually call me to get in the game and get after it. Pretty cool…
Pray:
I am not sure how to pray this morning. I want to ask You to wake me up. I want to ask You to clean me up. I want to ask You to help me put on Jesus. My spirit desires those things deeply. But I am also afraid and locked up. There is temporary relief in sleeping. There is intense, momentary pleasure in sin. There is something soothing in just being religious. Walking away from those three things and fully following after You is the struggle of the ages and that struggle is raging in me right now.
My rest and hope today is in knowing the while I do not know how to pray the Holy Spirit intercedes for me and Jesus is advocating on my behalf right now. That is the promise of the scriptures and the peace to which I cling this morning. Help me to be strong during this season of shaping and give me the wisdom I need to stay on course.
The time that Paul was referring to is the time set aside for us to wait for Christ’s return. This time is often referred to as the night with the return of Christ being referred to as the day. The temptation and opportunity for evil are always greater during the darkness of night. Paul gives three challenges to us in the closing verses of chapter 13: stay awake, stay clean, and put on Jesus.
Apply:
To wake up means that I accept a hard reality; this life is not home for me nor is it my reward. One day Jesus will come back. One day everything this life holds will be done away with. One day the pain and suffering of earth will be no more. When that day comes, in the blink of an eye, everything created by man will be swept away and the only thing left mattering will be what was complete according to God’s will.
Staying clean is not about perfection. I am of the spirit but I am also of the flesh. Mistakes will happen. The issue is that I am not to live a lifestyle of sin. Paul says to cast it off which indicates that there is certainly some work involved on my part. I have to determine in my heart that I will not long for things that are of the flesh. I have to fight the good fight and put my desires into submission.
Putting on Jesus is the fun part. Jesus was the man. He walked the earth unlike any man before Him and unlike any other man ever will. He was bold, courageous, and fearless. He was kind, humble, and generous. He was indwelled by the Holy Spirit, consumed by His devotion to the Father, and broken by His love for all people. God does not ask that I sit in the corner and just be a good little boy until He comes back to get me. The scriptures say the same ministry given to Jesus has been given to me. It is as if God and Jesus continually call me to get in the game and get after it. Pretty cool…
Pray:
I am not sure how to pray this morning. I want to ask You to wake me up. I want to ask You to clean me up. I want to ask You to help me put on Jesus. My spirit desires those things deeply. But I am also afraid and locked up. There is temporary relief in sleeping. There is intense, momentary pleasure in sin. There is something soothing in just being religious. Walking away from those three things and fully following after You is the struggle of the ages and that struggle is raging in me right now.
My rest and hope today is in knowing the while I do not know how to pray the Holy Spirit intercedes for me and Jesus is advocating on my behalf right now. That is the promise of the scriptures and the peace to which I cling this morning. Help me to be strong during this season of shaping and give me the wisdom I need to stay on course.
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