"And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me." Matthew 21:1-2
Do you remember in the Old Testament when God told Abraham to Go up from the Chaldeans? God didn't even tell him where to go, just to go and that God would show him where later. Here we have a situation where Jesus tells disciples to go and clearly instructs them as to what to do as if He (Jesus) could see the future. Jesus can see the future. In this practically faith-ridden world, many Christians are not listening, nor do they believe that Jesus talks to them at all. Their faith is based on experiences of others and not their own. It's no wonder we have such a mixed up society.
If Jesus was to tell you to go and do this or that do you have the kind of faith that can recognize His voice?
Do you have the kind of faith that would do what God told you to do if you did hear God?
Are you rational and would have to figure out if what God told you was in your best interest?
I'll tell you what we could use today, just a few people willing to do what God has already told them to do.
Some people want to experience the miraculous, the supernatural; they want to hear the voice of God, they want spiritual power over darkness and they will not follow the simple instructions that God has already given them in the Word of God. God is not going to compromise His eternal truths to accommodate superficial faith. Anyway, superficial faith requires so much more effort than simple faith and with superficial faith the results are only what you can personally do in the natural. There will be a time if not already, when acting the part to look spiritual just won't do.
Wednesday, February 28, 2018
Tuesday, February 27, 2018
Daily Devotional February 16 - Make Up your Mind
"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;" Hebrews 1:1-2
No one should question that God has chosen many ways over many centuries to reach the hearts of men. We need not argue about who God spoke to or how that person received their inspiration. We would be guessing. But, "in these last days," those who are hearing from God are hearing from Christ, through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
If you are seeking a deeper walk and more knowledge and wisdom, simply heed the words of Jesus. The highest level of enlightenment is finding, listening to and following the Son of God. There is nothing even comes in a close second. Seeking and dabbling a little here and a little there will gain you worldly insight, but when you have a real need that needs a real
God, you won't be praying to Buddha or Vishnu or Mohammad or Allah. We need not find fault with these men or those who follow them. Every journey deserves respect. But for you, has God called you to follow men, spiritual leaders or figure heads, or has God called you to follow the Son of God?
It's time to make up your mind.
No one should question that God has chosen many ways over many centuries to reach the hearts of men. We need not argue about who God spoke to or how that person received their inspiration. We would be guessing. But, "in these last days," those who are hearing from God are hearing from Christ, through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
If you are seeking a deeper walk and more knowledge and wisdom, simply heed the words of Jesus. The highest level of enlightenment is finding, listening to and following the Son of God. There is nothing even comes in a close second. Seeking and dabbling a little here and a little there will gain you worldly insight, but when you have a real need that needs a real
God, you won't be praying to Buddha or Vishnu or Mohammad or Allah. We need not find fault with these men or those who follow them. Every journey deserves respect. But for you, has God called you to follow men, spiritual leaders or figure heads, or has God called you to follow the Son of God?
It's time to make up your mind.
Sunday, February 25, 2018
Daily Devotional February 15 - Be Still And Know...
"Be still, and know that I am God:..." Psalm 46:10
Of all the scripture, this verse best distills the essence of the message of God concerning the anxiety of man. You and I need to be reminded of the All-ness of God. We need to seek His provision for the day. We need to seek His peace for the hour. We need to seek His message for the moment. Open your spiritual ears and listen to the Word of God. The Holy Spirit indwells the believer and can be heard clearly.
If you were to hear what God was speaking to you for today, you might have to change your plans. I've found myself doing my own thing for weeks, even seasons and then I listen carefully and I have to start all over from where I left off. Oh that I could train myself to listen always, then I could be still and see what the mighty hand of God has drawn for me for the day, for the season, for a lifetime. I will practice this message and listen to the Holy Spirit right now.
Of all the scripture, this verse best distills the essence of the message of God concerning the anxiety of man. You and I need to be reminded of the All-ness of God. We need to seek His provision for the day. We need to seek His peace for the hour. We need to seek His message for the moment. Open your spiritual ears and listen to the Word of God. The Holy Spirit indwells the believer and can be heard clearly.
If you were to hear what God was speaking to you for today, you might have to change your plans. I've found myself doing my own thing for weeks, even seasons and then I listen carefully and I have to start all over from where I left off. Oh that I could train myself to listen always, then I could be still and see what the mighty hand of God has drawn for me for the day, for the season, for a lifetime. I will practice this message and listen to the Holy Spirit right now.
Daily Devotional February 14 - Joining Together For Power
"And when the seventh month was come, and the children of Israel were in the cities, the people gathered themselves together as one man to Jerusalem." Ezra 3:1
If you were to read Ezra 3 you would find that tens of thousands of people had been gathering themselves together with all their animals. They were gathering to build the Temple. They were being freed from captivity and heading to Jerusalem to help build the Temple and worship God. What makes this verse and the meaning of it so important is the phrase, "the people gathered themselves together as one man..."
I believe we should spend our time finding out what are the God attributes of others/other groups and build true Christianity on the common elements that bind us together. One group/denomination won't mingle with another because of so-called theological differences. I say those who make such a big deal bout it are babies in the faith. And those who nurture consistent separation surely won't be gathering together for the next big move of God as they did here in the Book of Ezra.
If you were to read Ezra 3 you would find that tens of thousands of people had been gathering themselves together with all their animals. They were gathering to build the Temple. They were being freed from captivity and heading to Jerusalem to help build the Temple and worship God. What makes this verse and the meaning of it so important is the phrase, "the people gathered themselves together as one man..."
- Were we to gather together as one man/woman we could accomplish the impossible.
- Were we to gather together as one man/woman we would have to let down our guard a while.
- Were we to gather together as one man/woman we would have to stop competing with one another, especially pastors.
- Were we to gather together as one man/woman we would have the influence of a mighty people.
I believe we should spend our time finding out what are the God attributes of others/other groups and build true Christianity on the common elements that bind us together. One group/denomination won't mingle with another because of so-called theological differences. I say those who make such a big deal bout it are babies in the faith. And those who nurture consistent separation surely won't be gathering together for the next big move of God as they did here in the Book of Ezra.
Daily Devotional February 13 - A Time To Cast Away
"A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;..." Ecclesiastes. 3:6
We like the getting time, but the losing time is not so much desired. Why is that? Just as the wind culls the weak limbs from the trees, so the natural schema of life culls away our possessions. No one likes losing things, but the precious things cannot be taken. That which lasts forever is not encased in sterling silver or rubies or insurance or skin. That which lasts and lasts are the things of God. Since there is "a time to lose" maybe you should get on board with it and let it go graciously. God is next to you and God can easily fill the void.
We like keeping things, but the Bible tells us there is "a time to cast away." Can you imagine the feeling that would be encountered if we were to cast away the dross before it was taken away or lost to some greedy, self-serving friend or enemy. Listen to God. Pray about your business, your relationships, your investments. Don't hold too long and lose them to natures poker. Listen to God and He will tell you clearly when to hold and when to fold.
We like the getting time, but the losing time is not so much desired. Why is that? Just as the wind culls the weak limbs from the trees, so the natural schema of life culls away our possessions. No one likes losing things, but the precious things cannot be taken. That which lasts forever is not encased in sterling silver or rubies or insurance or skin. That which lasts and lasts are the things of God. Since there is "a time to lose" maybe you should get on board with it and let it go graciously. God is next to you and God can easily fill the void.
We like keeping things, but the Bible tells us there is "a time to cast away." Can you imagine the feeling that would be encountered if we were to cast away the dross before it was taken away or lost to some greedy, self-serving friend or enemy. Listen to God. Pray about your business, your relationships, your investments. Don't hold too long and lose them to natures poker. Listen to God and He will tell you clearly when to hold and when to fold.
Daily Devotional February 12 - Are You Praying For Others?
"We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;" 1 Thessalonians 1:2
I wish I had friends like this. Are you waking up and praying for someone everyday? I want to be mentioned to God by others who talk to God. I want my name to come up with favor from those who have known me and understand my faith, my life, my struggles, my turmoils. I would that they were praying as if I was important and they wanted God to bring down from heaven His very best for me.
This might not be your experience, but as a pastor I have seen a lot of superficial praying; a lot of praying just to "get it out of the way and say they did" prayer; a lot of "if I have to" prayer; a lot of "why bother God doesn't listen anyway" prayer; a lot of "don't embarrass me" prayer; a lot of ten seconds or less prayer. Prayer is direct communication with God and deserves our deepest thought and full attention. God designed us to interact with Him and in that interaction, what we cannot do due with our human limitations is accomplished by God. Together with God we are a whole being. Together with God no thing is impossible. Together with God your prayers move mountains.
Praying as if you are praying to the wind brings about a faithless and powerless generation. If enough people see you pray pitifully and nothing happens, they will pray that way too and in just a short time, what should be prayer becomes nothing but confusion; There's no connection with Holy God and the next generation of young Christians pray because they have to and that's not prayer at all.
I wish I had friends like this. Are you waking up and praying for someone everyday? I want to be mentioned to God by others who talk to God. I want my name to come up with favor from those who have known me and understand my faith, my life, my struggles, my turmoils. I would that they were praying as if I was important and they wanted God to bring down from heaven His very best for me.
This might not be your experience, but as a pastor I have seen a lot of superficial praying; a lot of praying just to "get it out of the way and say they did" prayer; a lot of "if I have to" prayer; a lot of "why bother God doesn't listen anyway" prayer; a lot of "don't embarrass me" prayer; a lot of ten seconds or less prayer. Prayer is direct communication with God and deserves our deepest thought and full attention. God designed us to interact with Him and in that interaction, what we cannot do due with our human limitations is accomplished by God. Together with God we are a whole being. Together with God no thing is impossible. Together with God your prayers move mountains.
Praying as if you are praying to the wind brings about a faithless and powerless generation. If enough people see you pray pitifully and nothing happens, they will pray that way too and in just a short time, what should be prayer becomes nothing but confusion; There's no connection with Holy God and the next generation of young Christians pray because they have to and that's not prayer at all.
Daily Devotional February 11 - Can You Hear God Speaking?
"Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear a day before Saul came, saying, tomorrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin,..." 1 Samuel 9:15, 16a
Before I get started. This week our Vice President Pence was criticized for saying that he spoke to Jesus in prayer and Jesus speaks to him. On the VIEW TV show he was ridiculed and painted as weird, not in touch with reality, even not fit for office. If that is your view please don't bother reading my blog. Of course Jesus speaks to us in many ways; through an unction inside of our inner man, through the actions of others, through answered prayer, through inspiration, through intuition, through wisdom, through understanding, and yes through our spiritual ears. To think that you are not supposed to hear form Jesus would leave us all helpless and powerless, ignorant and vain. Did I say vain? Yes. Our Bible is full of instances where Jesus, God the Father and the Holy Spirit have spoken to people. And I can assure you Jesus has spoken to me many times. He did not always say what I wanted to hear, but I could hear the voice of God clearly.
God has been speaking to you, in your ear, since you were born and to mankind since the beginnings at the Garden. God is speaking to you, in your ear about the day, your life, your future, what's best for all who will come into contact with you; about your private plans, about your foolishness, about your ways and about everything. If you are thinking that that was in the olden days, you are right. It was in the olden days that God spoke to listening men and women, teens and youth. It's just that God does the same thing today.
I don't want to say this, but the truth is, if you have not heard the voice of God, it's not really God's fault or that God doesn't speak anymore. Your hearing has been hardened to the things of God. Your mind is filled with all else. Your thinking has been programmed to listen to the world and the channel that tunes in God has corroded.
You don't really want to continue to go through life winging it, do you? It doesn't matter how good you are or how much you do, if you are not tuned in with God, you cannot participate with what God is doing. I agree that you can be right on track with what God is doing occasionally by default, simply because you are a good person, but it is very different to follow the voice of God than the voice of reason. You do not need to wing it. Tune in to the God channel and listen carefully. Oh and by the way, you will have to turn off the TV, Internet, and mobile phone for a moment. They distort the signal.
Before I get started. This week our Vice President Pence was criticized for saying that he spoke to Jesus in prayer and Jesus speaks to him. On the VIEW TV show he was ridiculed and painted as weird, not in touch with reality, even not fit for office. If that is your view please don't bother reading my blog. Of course Jesus speaks to us in many ways; through an unction inside of our inner man, through the actions of others, through answered prayer, through inspiration, through intuition, through wisdom, through understanding, and yes through our spiritual ears. To think that you are not supposed to hear form Jesus would leave us all helpless and powerless, ignorant and vain. Did I say vain? Yes. Our Bible is full of instances where Jesus, God the Father and the Holy Spirit have spoken to people. And I can assure you Jesus has spoken to me many times. He did not always say what I wanted to hear, but I could hear the voice of God clearly.
God has been speaking to you, in your ear, since you were born and to mankind since the beginnings at the Garden. God is speaking to you, in your ear about the day, your life, your future, what's best for all who will come into contact with you; about your private plans, about your foolishness, about your ways and about everything. If you are thinking that that was in the olden days, you are right. It was in the olden days that God spoke to listening men and women, teens and youth. It's just that God does the same thing today.
I don't want to say this, but the truth is, if you have not heard the voice of God, it's not really God's fault or that God doesn't speak anymore. Your hearing has been hardened to the things of God. Your mind is filled with all else. Your thinking has been programmed to listen to the world and the channel that tunes in God has corroded.
You don't really want to continue to go through life winging it, do you? It doesn't matter how good you are or how much you do, if you are not tuned in with God, you cannot participate with what God is doing. I agree that you can be right on track with what God is doing occasionally by default, simply because you are a good person, but it is very different to follow the voice of God than the voice of reason. You do not need to wing it. Tune in to the God channel and listen carefully. Oh and by the way, you will have to turn off the TV, Internet, and mobile phone for a moment. They distort the signal.
Tuesday, February 20, 2018
Daily Devotional February 10 - Are You Just A Caller?
"And why call ye Me, Lord, and do not the things that I say?" Luke 6:46
Getting serious with God is the call to this generation. It does not mean you have to become a preacher or run a ministry. It's about who you are, who you have become.
There is coming a time when calling on the Lord while serving the world is not going to be as popular as it is today.
Getting serious with God is the call to this generation. It does not mean you have to become a preacher or run a ministry. It's about who you are, who you have become.
- Is who you are the reflection of the essence of God?
- Is who you are the person you would want your child to emulate?
- Is who you are the best you can be with the measure of faith you have?
- Are you living up to your own understanding of what it entails to be a child of God?
- Do you fell free inside?
- Are you at peace with God?
There is coming a time when calling on the Lord while serving the world is not going to be as popular as it is today.
Daily Devotional February 9 - Justified By Faith
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 5:1
If you have faith that Jesus is who He says He is and that He has paid the penalty for your sins, even the smallest morsel of faith, you have been justified; pardoned, reconciled to God. You are God's child and the recipient of all that was created for you. Even though what you inherit during your lifetime is not all that God has planned for you, what is available, now, is too big and too wonderful to measure. You have been justified; not you are going to if you do this or that. It is important to believe the WORD of God, for without faith you cannot see clearly what God has already done for you, nor what is ahead.
You are justified and you are at peace with God. So why don't you feel that way? It is in your thinking. If you don't know without a doubt that you are justified by God and at peace with God in every way, you have been conditioned by years of false teaching and some (self inflicted wrong thinking for your own so-called benefit). What a waste to live below your God given, God breathed potential. You need to believe what God says and not let anything that contradicts it even enter your ears. If you were to start believing God for all that He speaks to you, you would feel at peace with God. The only thing you would loose is the baggage you have been carrying.
If you have faith that Jesus is who He says He is and that He has paid the penalty for your sins, even the smallest morsel of faith, you have been justified; pardoned, reconciled to God. You are God's child and the recipient of all that was created for you. Even though what you inherit during your lifetime is not all that God has planned for you, what is available, now, is too big and too wonderful to measure. You have been justified; not you are going to if you do this or that. It is important to believe the WORD of God, for without faith you cannot see clearly what God has already done for you, nor what is ahead.
You are justified and you are at peace with God. So why don't you feel that way? It is in your thinking. If you don't know without a doubt that you are justified by God and at peace with God in every way, you have been conditioned by years of false teaching and some (self inflicted wrong thinking for your own so-called benefit). What a waste to live below your God given, God breathed potential. You need to believe what God says and not let anything that contradicts it even enter your ears. If you were to start believing God for all that He speaks to you, you would feel at peace with God. The only thing you would loose is the baggage you have been carrying.
Daily Devotional February 8 - Use Your Faith
"And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and He alone on the land. And He saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night He cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. But when they saw Him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid." Mark 6:47-50
I wish we could see Jesus every time he is walking on water; every time He is standing right in front of us and saying, "Be of good cheer, it is I." Did you notice that Jesus saw them toiling? Jesus sees you struggling and toiling against the winds and water of your life. He" would have passed by them." What kind of Saviour would just pass by when your bills aren't paid and a love one dies, and someone lies about you and your heart has just been broken? The kind that answers your call.
Jesus isn't testing you by allowing you to wallow in the despairs of life. Jesus didn't bring on your troubles to see what you're made of. You and I both know that mos of our troubles are self induced, either through sin, indiscretion or ignorance. But when you've had enough and the winds of life are blowing real hard and you have tried to bail out your own boat, lift your eyes upon heaven and call out to Jesus. He will speak to your situation just like he spoke to the winds and the waves. Did you notice that before he stopped the wind and the waves and before the boat was emptied of the water that was about to sink it, and while they were trembling with fear, He said, "Be of good cheer, it is I." I can tell you from experience you won't even see Jesus passing by, to call unto Him, if you don't have your faith eyes turned on.
Use your faith. Muster up a real prayer. Call out to Jesus. Don't look around to see if anyone is watching. If you have to do that, your boat isn't really sinking, you're just uncomfortable.
I wish we could see Jesus every time he is walking on water; every time He is standing right in front of us and saying, "Be of good cheer, it is I." Did you notice that Jesus saw them toiling? Jesus sees you struggling and toiling against the winds and water of your life. He" would have passed by them." What kind of Saviour would just pass by when your bills aren't paid and a love one dies, and someone lies about you and your heart has just been broken? The kind that answers your call.
Jesus isn't testing you by allowing you to wallow in the despairs of life. Jesus didn't bring on your troubles to see what you're made of. You and I both know that mos of our troubles are self induced, either through sin, indiscretion or ignorance. But when you've had enough and the winds of life are blowing real hard and you have tried to bail out your own boat, lift your eyes upon heaven and call out to Jesus. He will speak to your situation just like he spoke to the winds and the waves. Did you notice that before he stopped the wind and the waves and before the boat was emptied of the water that was about to sink it, and while they were trembling with fear, He said, "Be of good cheer, it is I." I can tell you from experience you won't even see Jesus passing by, to call unto Him, if you don't have your faith eyes turned on.
Use your faith. Muster up a real prayer. Call out to Jesus. Don't look around to see if anyone is watching. If you have to do that, your boat isn't really sinking, you're just uncomfortable.
Daily Devotional February 7 - God Leads The Way
"Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go." Isaiah 48:17
Don't get confused by those who have not found their way, trying to lead the way. God leads and God teaches as we permit. In this verse God says "by the way thou shouldest go" inferring that you can certainly go another way. It's not difficult at all to go another way; just don't be who God says you are and don't do things God's way. It's also not difficult to go the God way either; just be who God says you are and follow the leading of the Spirit of God.
Have you been taught to profit? Is God mistaken? Sometimes the truth of a matter is so simple we complicate right past it.
God gives us a simple straight path and we look for a labyrinth.
God gives us simple instruction and we call out for a king.
God leads the way by a small still voice and we listen for a loud clanking sound.
God provides for us all that we need and we search in vain through multiple credit cards and purchase what is not ours.
God gives us proof of Him and we look to the din of others to fill our minds with the science of doubt.
Be receptive to the teaching of God and see His mighty hand working out in three weeks what you have been striving at for years.
Don't get confused by those who have not found their way, trying to lead the way. God leads and God teaches as we permit. In this verse God says "by the way thou shouldest go" inferring that you can certainly go another way. It's not difficult at all to go another way; just don't be who God says you are and don't do things God's way. It's also not difficult to go the God way either; just be who God says you are and follow the leading of the Spirit of God.
Have you been taught to profit? Is God mistaken? Sometimes the truth of a matter is so simple we complicate right past it.
God gives us a simple straight path and we look for a labyrinth.
God gives us simple instruction and we call out for a king.
God leads the way by a small still voice and we listen for a loud clanking sound.
God provides for us all that we need and we search in vain through multiple credit cards and purchase what is not ours.
God gives us proof of Him and we look to the din of others to fill our minds with the science of doubt.
Be receptive to the teaching of God and see His mighty hand working out in three weeks what you have been striving at for years.
Daily Devotional February 6 - Wisdom
"Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established: And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches." Prov. 24:3-4
Wisdom, understanding and knowledge: How do you get these precious jewels? There is only one access to these heavenly gifts from God; Faith by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Faith isn't just something you obtain so that you can be saved. Faith is the the essence of a direct connect with God so that God can fill you with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. And by drawing close to God on all levels our chambers will be filled with the great treasure of gifts from God.
Is there a pre-requisite for obtaining wisdom, understanding and knowledge? Yes. Simple faith mingled with simple faithfulness. Nothing else will do. Do's and don'ts won't get you there. Being a member of a particular denomination would do it. Acting spiritual while prejudice, avarice and inconsistency are being nurtured won't get it. Acting spiritual while living worldly won't get it either, even if you have tons of faith. No, none of these are pre-requisites. Simple faith with simple faithfulness is the only way.
Wisdom, understanding and knowledge: How do you get these precious jewels? There is only one access to these heavenly gifts from God; Faith by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Faith isn't just something you obtain so that you can be saved. Faith is the the essence of a direct connect with God so that God can fill you with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. And by drawing close to God on all levels our chambers will be filled with the great treasure of gifts from God.
Is there a pre-requisite for obtaining wisdom, understanding and knowledge? Yes. Simple faith mingled with simple faithfulness. Nothing else will do. Do's and don'ts won't get you there. Being a member of a particular denomination would do it. Acting spiritual while prejudice, avarice and inconsistency are being nurtured won't get it. Acting spiritual while living worldly won't get it either, even if you have tons of faith. No, none of these are pre-requisites. Simple faith with simple faithfulness is the only way.
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Daily Devotional February 5 - Spiritual Gifts
"Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all." 1 Co. 12:4-6
I have watched as many Christians have split over their interpretation of the workings of the Holy Spirit. There is dissension, thoughtless remarks, sedition, even hatred from one group to another because of their interpretation of the workings of the Holy Spirit. If you cannot get beyond the differences and find enough common ground to stand on,its obvious you are in this for yourself. Don't be too surprised that I said for yourself. Many Christians never get past the second grade in their faith.
Mature Christians will go out of their way to see beyond their differences. I have seen people in both camps making outrageous claims against the other as if they were sure enemies. God is not the author of confusion and the way we personally interpret a verse does not make us more faithful than another. I have seen many Christians throwing stones at others who are serving God as if they were faultless and had within them perfect theology. That's proof alone that God is sovereign. Why we would have annihilated ourselves long ago had it not been for the Holy Spirit of God giving us good sense and keeping us from ourselves.
If you are at war with others Christians, you're in the fight alone. God is not taking up your cause. God is taking up His cause and you should be finding out what that is. It's possible that the very ones you are ostracizing have the very message from God for you. You are trying to get the answers, but not willing to go outside some very tiny and insignificant parameters.
I have watched as many Christians have split over their interpretation of the workings of the Holy Spirit. There is dissension, thoughtless remarks, sedition, even hatred from one group to another because of their interpretation of the workings of the Holy Spirit. If you cannot get beyond the differences and find enough common ground to stand on,its obvious you are in this for yourself. Don't be too surprised that I said for yourself. Many Christians never get past the second grade in their faith.
Mature Christians will go out of their way to see beyond their differences. I have seen people in both camps making outrageous claims against the other as if they were sure enemies. God is not the author of confusion and the way we personally interpret a verse does not make us more faithful than another. I have seen many Christians throwing stones at others who are serving God as if they were faultless and had within them perfect theology. That's proof alone that God is sovereign. Why we would have annihilated ourselves long ago had it not been for the Holy Spirit of God giving us good sense and keeping us from ourselves.
If you are at war with others Christians, you're in the fight alone. God is not taking up your cause. God is taking up His cause and you should be finding out what that is. It's possible that the very ones you are ostracizing have the very message from God for you. You are trying to get the answers, but not willing to go outside some very tiny and insignificant parameters.
Daily Devotional February 4 - God Is Right By Your Side
"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is long suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9
For just a moment try to comprehend your life with God not ever having done anything to or for you. Have you ever had the thought that God is just not on the job? Have you ever thought that all that you accomplished was of your own doing and that you really didn't need God's assistance? If you have I hope you have come to find out what I found out. I've had these same thoughts, but I know better now. Of all the doubt I've had over the years, it cannot begin to compare with what I know to be true about God.
Of course there are moments of doubt, but just one thought about our loving god and it can be washed away. I have seen how God intertwines His handiwork with our faith. I have seen the results when I choose to go the other way. It is empty and vain, futile and mundane. God is and has always been right by your side and then inside your being after you received Christ as your Savior. He is not slack concerning His promise or anything. God is holding you up right now. God is preparing a way for you right now. You have never been alone, nor will God let you go into this next thing alone. And if even the tiniest thought of unworthiness has entered your mind, shake it off. You and I were never worthy. God cannot help but to be God, in spite of ourselves.
For just a moment try to comprehend your life with God not ever having done anything to or for you. Have you ever had the thought that God is just not on the job? Have you ever thought that all that you accomplished was of your own doing and that you really didn't need God's assistance? If you have I hope you have come to find out what I found out. I've had these same thoughts, but I know better now. Of all the doubt I've had over the years, it cannot begin to compare with what I know to be true about God.
Of course there are moments of doubt, but just one thought about our loving god and it can be washed away. I have seen how God intertwines His handiwork with our faith. I have seen the results when I choose to go the other way. It is empty and vain, futile and mundane. God is and has always been right by your side and then inside your being after you received Christ as your Savior. He is not slack concerning His promise or anything. God is holding you up right now. God is preparing a way for you right now. You have never been alone, nor will God let you go into this next thing alone. And if even the tiniest thought of unworthiness has entered your mind, shake it off. You and I were never worthy. God cannot help but to be God, in spite of ourselves.
Daily Devotional February 3 - Spiritual Titles
"Now there were in the church that was in Antioch certain prophets and teachers;..." Acts 13:1
This was around AD 44 about twelve years after the resurrection of Jesus. Antioch was the first place where people stood out as Christ followers, i. e., Christians. The body of believers that was in Antioch probably wasn't any more faithful than Christ followers in other area, but they were beginning to become organized. I wish that I would hear , much less often, how the organized church is somehow less spiritual than the un-organized church. Or that those who meet in their home are somehow more spiritual than those who go to church on a regular basis at a particular facility.
The truth is that each of us are a part of this great organism, 'the Church,' and we shouldn't be thinking of ourselves more spiritual than others or talking badly about our brothers and sisters in the Lord. As you can see from the scripture, even 12 years after the resurrection of Jesus, some of those followers were called teachers and some prophets. Do we really need to get our back up just because someone wears a title that we might not approve of. I know people who have thrown stones at some of these 'titled' ministers, all the while living a life far less honorable.
It's not the title, but the faithfulness of the individual that really gives them title. I've found that when I can get past the title, sometimes I see a man or woman in love with the Lord, serving Him with depth and inspiring me to step up to the pump. Let's serve with gladness and not be too concerned with semantics.
This was around AD 44 about twelve years after the resurrection of Jesus. Antioch was the first place where people stood out as Christ followers, i. e., Christians. The body of believers that was in Antioch probably wasn't any more faithful than Christ followers in other area, but they were beginning to become organized. I wish that I would hear , much less often, how the organized church is somehow less spiritual than the un-organized church. Or that those who meet in their home are somehow more spiritual than those who go to church on a regular basis at a particular facility.
The truth is that each of us are a part of this great organism, 'the Church,' and we shouldn't be thinking of ourselves more spiritual than others or talking badly about our brothers and sisters in the Lord. As you can see from the scripture, even 12 years after the resurrection of Jesus, some of those followers were called teachers and some prophets. Do we really need to get our back up just because someone wears a title that we might not approve of. I know people who have thrown stones at some of these 'titled' ministers, all the while living a life far less honorable.
It's not the title, but the faithfulness of the individual that really gives them title. I've found that when I can get past the title, sometimes I see a man or woman in love with the Lord, serving Him with depth and inspiring me to step up to the pump. Let's serve with gladness and not be too concerned with semantics.
Tuesday, February 13, 2018
Daily Devotional February 2 - The Lord Is On Your Side
"Plead my cause , O Lord, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me." Psalm 35:1
Do you believe that God goes before us and interacts with others on our behalf? If not, you are missing out on one of God's wonderful gifts to you; the gift of assisting in the management of your affairs so that the results are not solely based upon your own actions. If life was life without the personal intervention of a personal God, there would be no life at all. Man would have annihilated themselves far before now. You are not the creator of your own destiny as so many proclaim. You are co-creator and be thankful for that.
Can you imagine what you are capable of if not for the check of the Holy Spirit?
Do you believe that God goes before us and interacts with others on our behalf? If not, you are missing out on one of God's wonderful gifts to you; the gift of assisting in the management of your affairs so that the results are not solely based upon your own actions. If life was life without the personal intervention of a personal God, there would be no life at all. Man would have annihilated themselves far before now. You are not the creator of your own destiny as so many proclaim. You are co-creator and be thankful for that.
Can you imagine what you are capable of if not for the check of the Holy Spirit?
Daily Devotional February 1 - God Has Made A Way
"And I saw in the right hand of Him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals." Rev. 5:1
God has not left you without understanding. Over and over again, God goes ahead of us and makes a way. God has made a way for you today. There has been a time of seasoning and maturing, but now God is about to breath into your situation and bring to pass the impossible. Did you notice in this verse that John (the writer) made copious notes about what he was seeing. John noticed that the book was written within and on the backside.
Are you ready to take copious notes as God unfolds the day?
God has not left you without understanding. Over and over again, God goes ahead of us and makes a way. God has made a way for you today. There has been a time of seasoning and maturing, but now God is about to breath into your situation and bring to pass the impossible. Did you notice in this verse that John (the writer) made copious notes about what he was seeing. John noticed that the book was written within and on the backside.
Are you ready to take copious notes as God unfolds the day?
Daily Devotional January 31 - The Apathy Of God's People - James 2:1-4
"My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?" James 2"1-4
Bottom line - Too many Christians judge others by their looks. There are countless stories where this kind of prejudice takes place. It's parishioners, pastors, priests, ministry leaders, deacons and lay leaders. They are still having a hard time getting past the skin, the dress, the hat, the beard. It makes me wonder if the Church really has the answers anymore.
I believe that the Church has fallen to an all time low as it pertains to true holiness and godliness. Oh, anybody can go through the motions and act like they love Jesus and "praise the Lord" and "come on in brother." But meaning it from their heart and practicing true Christianity is altogether a different thing. I admire those who have broken through the awful barrier of prejudice that our forefathers and in some cases our parents put into place. Most young people are not nearly as prejudice as the generation before us. But still stereotyping and profiling a man or a woman based on what they look like, that is not the Christian way.
If you are one of these people that claim Christ but have many rules and regulations about appearance, get over it. You are not following the protocols of Jesus.
You have become a judge instead of a brother or sister.
You have become a ruler, a pharisee of sorts and not an advocate.
You have taken the throne away from God and sit there comfortably as the all-knowing.
You have taken on a job title that doesn't exist in God's vocabulary.
When you look at someone and judge them, you lesson their ability to reach you. God may be using them to bring you a message and you turn them away before they even speak. What a travesty.
I know many people that have made sure judgements about so and so on TV, even though they have never met them, nor have they ever walked with them a mile or two or listened long enough to get past their own predjudices. Christians mocking Christians in the name of Christ. Is this what we have become?
In most cases it would be best if you kept your opinion to yourself, but if you have to pass judgement, I'de be careful to go easy. God is not pleased with such behavior. Why is there no fear in your heart that what you are doing doesn't please God? How can you run a family or a church with such a poor view of your children or parishioners. No wonder they rebel and/or move on. They are tired of being tormented by someone who thinks they are something they are not. Pride is an awful friend and relentless if there is even a notion that you will change the way you think. For most people of prejudiced opinions, this post will only fuel the fire. I am hoping for the few that believe Jesus. I didn't write the Bible.
Bottom line - Too many Christians judge others by their looks. There are countless stories where this kind of prejudice takes place. It's parishioners, pastors, priests, ministry leaders, deacons and lay leaders. They are still having a hard time getting past the skin, the dress, the hat, the beard. It makes me wonder if the Church really has the answers anymore.
I believe that the Church has fallen to an all time low as it pertains to true holiness and godliness. Oh, anybody can go through the motions and act like they love Jesus and "praise the Lord" and "come on in brother." But meaning it from their heart and practicing true Christianity is altogether a different thing. I admire those who have broken through the awful barrier of prejudice that our forefathers and in some cases our parents put into place. Most young people are not nearly as prejudice as the generation before us. But still stereotyping and profiling a man or a woman based on what they look like, that is not the Christian way.
If you are one of these people that claim Christ but have many rules and regulations about appearance, get over it. You are not following the protocols of Jesus.
You have become a judge instead of a brother or sister.
You have become a ruler, a pharisee of sorts and not an advocate.
You have taken the throne away from God and sit there comfortably as the all-knowing.
You have taken on a job title that doesn't exist in God's vocabulary.
When you look at someone and judge them, you lesson their ability to reach you. God may be using them to bring you a message and you turn them away before they even speak. What a travesty.
I know many people that have made sure judgements about so and so on TV, even though they have never met them, nor have they ever walked with them a mile or two or listened long enough to get past their own predjudices. Christians mocking Christians in the name of Christ. Is this what we have become?
In most cases it would be best if you kept your opinion to yourself, but if you have to pass judgement, I'de be careful to go easy. God is not pleased with such behavior. Why is there no fear in your heart that what you are doing doesn't please God? How can you run a family or a church with such a poor view of your children or parishioners. No wonder they rebel and/or move on. They are tired of being tormented by someone who thinks they are something they are not. Pride is an awful friend and relentless if there is even a notion that you will change the way you think. For most people of prejudiced opinions, this post will only fuel the fire. I am hoping for the few that believe Jesus. I didn't write the Bible.
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