"What You Do or Who You Are"
Judges 11:1-12:15
John 1:1-28
Psalm 101:1-8
Proverbs 14:13-14
There's one thing that really bugs unbelievers. They can't stand hypocrisy. That's a standard line: "I don't want to go to church. It's full of hypocrites." How accurate is their description? Sure, we could think about "others" who may be guilty of that, but what about me? Let's each of us to think about our self for a moment.
We gather together with hundreds of others on Sunday mornings. "I will sing about your lovingkindness and you justice, Lord. I will sing your praises!" (Ps. 101:1)
The next verse is a great challenge. "I will try to walk a blameless path, but how I need your help, especially in my own home, where I long to act as I should." (101:2)
What happens when the service is over? What happens at home? Do we live lives that glorify God for his lovingkindness and his justice? It's easy sometimes to "relax" spiritually when there aren't others around. Basically, we take off a religious mask and reveal who we really are. Because we live in a culture that is very concerned about the way we appear to others, there's a tendency to "work up" a spiritual image.
That only reveals one thing. Transformation is not happening. Scripture says that if we are in Christ, we are a new creature. It says that we are to be transformed with the renewing of the mind. Living for Christ is not something we "do", its all about who we become.
There are steps of discipline that must be taken to contribute to the transformation process. "Help me to refuse the low and vulgar things; help me to abhor all crooked deals of every kind, to have to part in them. I will reject all selfishness and stay away from every evil. I will not tolerate anyone who secretly slanders his neighbors; I will not permit conceit and pride. I will make the godly of the land my heroes, and invite them to my home. Only those who are truly good shall be my servants. But i will not allow those who deceive and lie to stand in my house. My daily task will be to ferret out criminals and free the city of God from their grip." (101:3-8)
These verses are not a license to go on a crusade of judgement of everyone around. They express the intensity there needs to be in protecting one's home from evil influence.
Too often we want to live for Christ, but we don't want to refuse the vulgar things. We don't want to get rid of selfishness. We take part in gossip. Pretty soon, the world is right. Christians are hypocrites.
The mission of our church states that we are: "Reaching our world for Christ as we lead individuals to discover and become who God has created them to be." Notice the last word "BE". We are not here to help people "look" like they serve Christ. We are here to help one another be transformed by the power of the Spirit into who God has created us to be.
We need to understand that our home is the preparation ground for what God wants to do in us and through us. When we BECOME who he has created us to be, our focus is not on the "doing". It becomes natural to walk in obedience. Life is exciting! Look at today's Proverb: "The backslider gets bored with himself; the godly man's life is exciting." (Prov. 14:14)
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
4.29.8 "Those Other gods"
"Those Other gods"
Judges 9:22-10:18
Luke 24:13-53
Psalm 100:1-5
Proverbs 14:11-12
In the book of Judges the real roller coaster begins for the Israelites. In the past under the leadership of Moses and Joshua there were seasons of rebellion and disobedience, but these grow to years of distance from God. The situation described in chapter 10 is not uncommon.
"Then the people of Israel turned away from the Lord again and worshipped the heathen gods... Not only this, but they no longer worshiped Jehovah at all." (Jud. 10:6)
As would often happen their sin separated them from God's blessing, and they would find themselves in oppression and captivity. Often they would live for long periods of time in misery before having the sense to cry out to God.
"This went on for eighteen years. Finally the Israelis turned to Jehovah again and begged him to save them. 'We have sinned against you and have forsaken you as our God and have worshipped idols,' they confessed." (vs.9-10)
I love the answer God gives them. "But the Lord replied, 'Didn't I save you from the Egyptians, the Amorites, the Ammonites, the Philistines, the Sidonians, the Amalekites, and the Maonites? Has there ever been a time when you cried out to me that I haven't rescued you? Yet you continue to abandon me and to worship other gods. So go away; I wont save you any more. Go and cry to the new gods you have chosen! Let them save you in your hour of distress!" (vs11-12)
As much as we love seeing God answer them that way, we have to remember that we are so much like them. We may not have little statues on altars in our homes, but we are surrounded by other gods we serve. We can be brought into captivity by pleasure, food, debt, laziness, entertainment, and many other things.
Too often we find the people of God living in a state of captivity. The thing that makes it ridiculous is the fact that we've placed ourselves there. It's almost as if we eat unhealthy food and then say, "pray that I lose weight". That's no different than the Israelites saying, "Lord set us free" when they have the shrines to foreign gods in their homes.
So what does it take to get free?
"But they pleaded with him again and said, 'We have sinned. Punish us in any way you think best, only save us once more from our enemies.' then they destroyed their foreign gods and worshiped only the Lord;" (15-16)
I was listening to a testimony of someone who became debt free. He was asked, "How did you do it?" His answer was "I decided to do it." To be free from the captivity of "those other gods" we need to GET RID OF THEM! We need to decide to make a change in lifestyle. For each one of us it's a different issue, a different god. But we must be sincere about making a change. We must worship the Lord only.
It takes discipline to make the change. Remember discipline is the principle of Empowered Through Biblical Training. We need to be in the Word. We need to be in discipling relationships with people who will keep us accountable to Godly principles and help us through our weak times. We should not be people who are under the bondage of addictions. We need to be free in Christ. Our turning to other gods only leads to bondage. We need a revelation of the greatness of God!
"Try to realize what this means - the Lord is God! He made us - we are the sheep of His pasture." (Ps 100:3)
What happens when we truly realize what that means. I am his. He made me, and He is God! That should change the way I live. There are no other gods that have the power to save or to change lives.
Thank you Lord for what you've done in my life!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Judges 9:22-10:18
Luke 24:13-53
Psalm 100:1-5
Proverbs 14:11-12
In the book of Judges the real roller coaster begins for the Israelites. In the past under the leadership of Moses and Joshua there were seasons of rebellion and disobedience, but these grow to years of distance from God. The situation described in chapter 10 is not uncommon.
"Then the people of Israel turned away from the Lord again and worshipped the heathen gods... Not only this, but they no longer worshiped Jehovah at all." (Jud. 10:6)
As would often happen their sin separated them from God's blessing, and they would find themselves in oppression and captivity. Often they would live for long periods of time in misery before having the sense to cry out to God.
"This went on for eighteen years. Finally the Israelis turned to Jehovah again and begged him to save them. 'We have sinned against you and have forsaken you as our God and have worshipped idols,' they confessed." (vs.9-10)
I love the answer God gives them. "But the Lord replied, 'Didn't I save you from the Egyptians, the Amorites, the Ammonites, the Philistines, the Sidonians, the Amalekites, and the Maonites? Has there ever been a time when you cried out to me that I haven't rescued you? Yet you continue to abandon me and to worship other gods. So go away; I wont save you any more. Go and cry to the new gods you have chosen! Let them save you in your hour of distress!" (vs11-12)
As much as we love seeing God answer them that way, we have to remember that we are so much like them. We may not have little statues on altars in our homes, but we are surrounded by other gods we serve. We can be brought into captivity by pleasure, food, debt, laziness, entertainment, and many other things.
Too often we find the people of God living in a state of captivity. The thing that makes it ridiculous is the fact that we've placed ourselves there. It's almost as if we eat unhealthy food and then say, "pray that I lose weight". That's no different than the Israelites saying, "Lord set us free" when they have the shrines to foreign gods in their homes.
So what does it take to get free?
"But they pleaded with him again and said, 'We have sinned. Punish us in any way you think best, only save us once more from our enemies.' then they destroyed their foreign gods and worshiped only the Lord;" (15-16)
I was listening to a testimony of someone who became debt free. He was asked, "How did you do it?" His answer was "I decided to do it." To be free from the captivity of "those other gods" we need to GET RID OF THEM! We need to decide to make a change in lifestyle. For each one of us it's a different issue, a different god. But we must be sincere about making a change. We must worship the Lord only.
It takes discipline to make the change. Remember discipline is the principle of Empowered Through Biblical Training. We need to be in the Word. We need to be in discipling relationships with people who will keep us accountable to Godly principles and help us through our weak times. We should not be people who are under the bondage of addictions. We need to be free in Christ. Our turning to other gods only leads to bondage. We need a revelation of the greatness of God!
"Try to realize what this means - the Lord is God! He made us - we are the sheep of His pasture." (Ps 100:3)
What happens when we truly realize what that means. I am his. He made me, and He is God! That should change the way I live. There are no other gods that have the power to save or to change lives.
Thank you Lord for what you've done in my life!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Monday, April 28, 2008
4.28.8 "Bloom Where You're Planted"
"Bloom Where You're Planted"
Judges 8:18-9:21
Luke 23:44-24:12
Psalm 99:1-9
Proverbs 14:9-10
Excuses are like belly buttons. Everybody has one. We often want to come up with a reason why we can't succeed where we are right now. There's usually an excuse for why we can't do a better job. We see all these obstacles. "If I had a bigger desk" "If I had a smaller desk" "If people would appreciate me more" "If I could work for a different boss" "If the people who work under me were more competent" "If I had a promotion, THEN I could do it right..." There's always something.
In today's reading there's an interesting story in Judges. After Gideon's successes, the people want to make him king. "But Gideon replied, 'I will not be your king, nor shall my son; the Lord is your King!'" (Jud 8:23)
Gideon has 70 sons, and one son from a concubine. His name is Abimilech. After Gideon dies, Abimilech decides he's going to be king. He gains some support and kills 69 of his half brothers. One of them, Jotham escapes and goes into hiding. When the people gather to make Abimilech king, Jotham comes out of hiding to tell this story.
"When Jotham heard about his, he... shouted across to the men of Shechem, "If you want God's blessing, listen to me! Once upon a time the trees decided to elect a king. First they asked the olive tree, but it refused.
"'Should I quit producing the olive oil that blesses God and man, just to wave to and fro over the other trees?' it asked.
"Then they said to the fig tree, 'You be our King!' But the fig tree also refused. 'Should I quit producing sweetness and fruit just to lift my head above all the other trees?' it asked. Then they said to the grapevine, 'You reign over us!' But the grapevine replied, 'Shall I quit producing the wine that cheers both God and man, just to be mightier than all the other trees?'
"Then all the trees finally turned to the thorn bush. 'You be our king!' they explained. And the thorn bush replied, 'If you really want me, come and humble yourselves beneath my shade! If you refuse, let fire flame forth from me and burn down the great cedars of Lebanon!'" (Jud 9:7-15)
The context of Jotham's story is a warning to them about appointing a king against God's plan.
Within this story, however, I found a different practical application. Notice the response of all the fruit bearing trees. They each knew their purpose. The pursuit of glory was not on their to-do list. The only one who wanted to "ascend" to greatness was the thorn bush.
We live in a society that promotes climbing the ladder of success. We're encouraged to promote self. This isn't God's way. He does however want us to be successful at whatever we put our hand to. There may be times when promotion comes, but it needs to come at the Lord's choosing, not our ambition.
We can be very distracted by "good" things. The only problem is that God has created us for "Great" things. These great things however, are not somewhere else. They are right where we are right now. Many opportunities are lost while people "wait" for the obstacle to get out of the way. They settle for mediocrity because their boss is difficult. "If I was in charge..." is the poison that corrupts the potential of the present.
You may feel you are in a holding pattern, but the truth is that you are in a proving ground. There is not an excuse or obstacle in your way to keep you from what God wants you to accomplish. Seek his face & his plan, and produce the fruit he has created you for. Don't look at the fruit others are producing and wish that was you.
Bloom where you're planted.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Judges 8:18-9:21
Luke 23:44-24:12
Psalm 99:1-9
Proverbs 14:9-10
Excuses are like belly buttons. Everybody has one. We often want to come up with a reason why we can't succeed where we are right now. There's usually an excuse for why we can't do a better job. We see all these obstacles. "If I had a bigger desk" "If I had a smaller desk" "If people would appreciate me more" "If I could work for a different boss" "If the people who work under me were more competent" "If I had a promotion, THEN I could do it right..." There's always something.
In today's reading there's an interesting story in Judges. After Gideon's successes, the people want to make him king. "But Gideon replied, 'I will not be your king, nor shall my son; the Lord is your King!'" (Jud 8:23)
Gideon has 70 sons, and one son from a concubine. His name is Abimilech. After Gideon dies, Abimilech decides he's going to be king. He gains some support and kills 69 of his half brothers. One of them, Jotham escapes and goes into hiding. When the people gather to make Abimilech king, Jotham comes out of hiding to tell this story.
"When Jotham heard about his, he... shouted across to the men of Shechem, "If you want God's blessing, listen to me! Once upon a time the trees decided to elect a king. First they asked the olive tree, but it refused.
"'Should I quit producing the olive oil that blesses God and man, just to wave to and fro over the other trees?' it asked.
"Then they said to the fig tree, 'You be our King!' But the fig tree also refused. 'Should I quit producing sweetness and fruit just to lift my head above all the other trees?' it asked. Then they said to the grapevine, 'You reign over us!' But the grapevine replied, 'Shall I quit producing the wine that cheers both God and man, just to be mightier than all the other trees?'
"Then all the trees finally turned to the thorn bush. 'You be our king!' they explained. And the thorn bush replied, 'If you really want me, come and humble yourselves beneath my shade! If you refuse, let fire flame forth from me and burn down the great cedars of Lebanon!'" (Jud 9:7-15)
The context of Jotham's story is a warning to them about appointing a king against God's plan.
Within this story, however, I found a different practical application. Notice the response of all the fruit bearing trees. They each knew their purpose. The pursuit of glory was not on their to-do list. The only one who wanted to "ascend" to greatness was the thorn bush.
We live in a society that promotes climbing the ladder of success. We're encouraged to promote self. This isn't God's way. He does however want us to be successful at whatever we put our hand to. There may be times when promotion comes, but it needs to come at the Lord's choosing, not our ambition.
We can be very distracted by "good" things. The only problem is that God has created us for "Great" things. These great things however, are not somewhere else. They are right where we are right now. Many opportunities are lost while people "wait" for the obstacle to get out of the way. They settle for mediocrity because their boss is difficult. "If I was in charge..." is the poison that corrupts the potential of the present.
You may feel you are in a holding pattern, but the truth is that you are in a proving ground. There is not an excuse or obstacle in your way to keep you from what God wants you to accomplish. Seek his face & his plan, and produce the fruit he has created you for. Don't look at the fruit others are producing and wish that was you.
Bloom where you're planted.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Sunday, April 27, 2008
4.27.8 "The Slow Descent to Greatness"
"The Slow Descent to Greatness"
Judges 7:1-8:17
Luke 23:13-43
Psalm 97:1-98:9
Proverbs 14:7-8
He was a man who didn't think much of himself. He was hiding. He was afraid. His people were in bondage to the Midianites. One day the Angel of the Lord came to him. "Mighty soldier, the Lord is with you!"
This must be a mistake. "If the Lord is with us, why has all this happened... where are all the miracles..." (6:13) "The Lord turned to him and said, 'I will make you strong! Go and save Israel from the Midianites! I am sending you!' But Gideon replied, 'Sir, how can I save Israel? My family is the poorest... and I am the least thought of in the entire family!" (vs14-15)
The descent began.
The first task was to begin in the home. Tearing down idols. It was done in the dark for fear of the family. Once that happened, the new orders came. These orders were impossible. There's no way I could be used for that.
There was the attempt to get out of it: two tests with fleece. Both confirmed the call. The army was formed.
Thirty two thousand men. We might have a chance.
"The Lord then said to Gideon, 'There are too many of you! I can't let all of you fight the Midianites, for then the people will boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength!'" (Jud 7:2)
Then the tests began. The 32,000 became 300. A deeper course of descent.
There were always doubts, there were fears. But always at the right time the Lord confirmed his word. Many times it came when it was so desperately needed. "When Gideon heard the dream and the interpretation, all he could do was just stand there worshiping God! Then he returned to his men and shouted, 'Get up! For the Lord is going to use you to conquer all the vast armies of Midian!'" (Jud 7:15)
So many think that victories are won through men who rise to greatness. That's not what happens. Greatness is not realized in the glorious ascent to the pinnacle. It is forged in the depths of adversity and refinement.
Take a look at another man.
The sign read, "This is the King of the Jews". He too was to save the people, yet there was no one to cheer him on. The ones he was sent to save were united in their cause. "But now a mighty roar rose from the crowd as with one voice they shouted. 'Kill him, and release Barabbas'... they shouted, 'Crucify him! Crucify him!'" (Luke 23:17-21)
I was thinking about the life of this man. What needed to be done could have been done in a few minutes because of the power at his disposal, yet that was not his path.
As a creator the greatest descent was to become a man. As a man, the descent to greatness of this one occurred over the course of 30+ years. It began as a helpless infant, and then continued as "the son of man came not to be served, but to serve".
The descent continued in the words, "Father, forgive these people, for they don't know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)
Of the crowds that were there, it was a thief who saw the greatness for what it was. "Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.' And Jesus replied, 'Today you will be with me in Paradise.'" (Luke 23:42-43)
Greatness.
What about you?
God has a plan for each one of us to change the world. The greatness he has for us is often a different picture than what we would imagine. Oh don't get me wrong. Many of us aspire to rise to greatness, but when the path is one of depth, we struggle against the process.
"Surely, God you wont reduce my army!" "I don't want to give that up!" "You want me to forgive THEM???"
At some point we will hopefully recognize the trial as God's plan to prepare us for greatness, and we will obey, and we will surrender. At some point we will allow the presence that we've sensed around us to pierce the shell we've placed around our inner self, and we will open up to His Spirit, and in vulnerability allow him to make us who he wants us to be.
Descend to Greatness.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Judges 7:1-8:17
Luke 23:13-43
Psalm 97:1-98:9
Proverbs 14:7-8
He was a man who didn't think much of himself. He was hiding. He was afraid. His people were in bondage to the Midianites. One day the Angel of the Lord came to him. "Mighty soldier, the Lord is with you!"
This must be a mistake. "If the Lord is with us, why has all this happened... where are all the miracles..." (6:13) "The Lord turned to him and said, 'I will make you strong! Go and save Israel from the Midianites! I am sending you!' But Gideon replied, 'Sir, how can I save Israel? My family is the poorest... and I am the least thought of in the entire family!" (vs14-15)
The descent began.
The first task was to begin in the home. Tearing down idols. It was done in the dark for fear of the family. Once that happened, the new orders came. These orders were impossible. There's no way I could be used for that.
There was the attempt to get out of it: two tests with fleece. Both confirmed the call. The army was formed.
Thirty two thousand men. We might have a chance.
"The Lord then said to Gideon, 'There are too many of you! I can't let all of you fight the Midianites, for then the people will boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength!'" (Jud 7:2)
Then the tests began. The 32,000 became 300. A deeper course of descent.
There were always doubts, there were fears. But always at the right time the Lord confirmed his word. Many times it came when it was so desperately needed. "When Gideon heard the dream and the interpretation, all he could do was just stand there worshiping God! Then he returned to his men and shouted, 'Get up! For the Lord is going to use you to conquer all the vast armies of Midian!'" (Jud 7:15)
So many think that victories are won through men who rise to greatness. That's not what happens. Greatness is not realized in the glorious ascent to the pinnacle. It is forged in the depths of adversity and refinement.
Take a look at another man.
The sign read, "This is the King of the Jews". He too was to save the people, yet there was no one to cheer him on. The ones he was sent to save were united in their cause. "But now a mighty roar rose from the crowd as with one voice they shouted. 'Kill him, and release Barabbas'... they shouted, 'Crucify him! Crucify him!'" (Luke 23:17-21)
I was thinking about the life of this man. What needed to be done could have been done in a few minutes because of the power at his disposal, yet that was not his path.
As a creator the greatest descent was to become a man. As a man, the descent to greatness of this one occurred over the course of 30+ years. It began as a helpless infant, and then continued as "the son of man came not to be served, but to serve".
The descent continued in the words, "Father, forgive these people, for they don't know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)
Of the crowds that were there, it was a thief who saw the greatness for what it was. "Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.' And Jesus replied, 'Today you will be with me in Paradise.'" (Luke 23:42-43)
Greatness.
What about you?
God has a plan for each one of us to change the world. The greatness he has for us is often a different picture than what we would imagine. Oh don't get me wrong. Many of us aspire to rise to greatness, but when the path is one of depth, we struggle against the process.
"Surely, God you wont reduce my army!" "I don't want to give that up!" "You want me to forgive THEM???"
At some point we will hopefully recognize the trial as God's plan to prepare us for greatness, and we will obey, and we will surrender. At some point we will allow the presence that we've sensed around us to pierce the shell we've placed around our inner self, and we will open up to His Spirit, and in vulnerability allow him to make us who he wants us to be.
Descend to Greatness.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Saturday, April 26, 2008
4.26.8 "When the Blood Flows..."
"When the Blood Flows..."
Judges 6:1-40
Luke 22:54-23:12
Psalm 95:1-96:13
Proverbs 14:5-6
"At that moment Jesus turned and looked at Peter..."
This short passage is from the account of the time soon after Jesus was arrested. Peter has just denied him three times. I can't imagine that moment... that look.
There's something happening in these passages that describe the arrest, trial, accusations, beatings, and crucifixion of Jesus. We know it as the story of the Passion. We've seen it on stage and on screen. We encounter the image of the cross numerous times throughout each day. It is history. At the same time, it is so much more than that.
This is not just a story. There is something that happens when the blood flows...
It was yesterday that the Lord placed these thoughts on my heart. I wish that I had time to fully develop what I felt him speaking to me.
What is the purpose of blood in the body? It's to bring oxygen to the rest of the body. It brings life.
For the past 2 years for today's devotional I recounted a story of how in 2006 I saw an incredible giving experience for the ministry of City on a Hill, a ministry in the heart of Milwaukee. As pastors from all sizes of churches and ministries were giving sacrificially, it was as if I heard a heartbeat.
During the same ministry report in 2008, City on a HIll reported of the lives that were changed through the ministry, including a young boy who came and sang. Also mentioned during this was a significant budget shortage. Once again, Individuals, pastors, and missionaries spontaneously came to the mic and began to commit to meet that shortage. In just a few minutes, over $150,000 was committed to this ministry. The heart was beating strong again.
When the Body of Christ is giving, the heart is beating strong. In spite of the fact that the local fitness center charges me each month, my body doesn't get healthier unless I go there and get on the machine. I like to use the eliptical. It has little sensors on the handle, that let me know where my heart rate is. For anything to be accomplished, I must raise my heart rate. The same is true for the Body of Christ. To get healthy, we must get the blood flowing.
When Jesus looked at Peter there was a heartbeat. The greatest gift of all was being GIVEN. The blood that would flow from Jesus' wounds would not merely be spilled on the ground. It would be bringing the oxygen of freedom from the bondage of sin and disease. It would be bringing new hope of abundant life.
When you think about your life, when do you feel most "fulfilled"? I would venture to say that we all find fulfillment when we are giving in one way or another. I almost hate to use the word "fulfill" because it has such a selfish connotation, as if it is "all about me." But I hope you know that feeling... You feel ALIVE!
When we give, the blood flows. When we present all we have to God and others are ministered to through it, there is something happening supernaturally. Often our mind looks to the checkbook to see what the balance is after we give. We "figure" out the "cost" of ministry. We wonder how we're going to get time for supper if we are involved in serving others. We're worrying about logistics, and losing sight of Life.
Sure, there are many needs out there, and we are to give to meet those needs. But the real reason to give isn't because THEY need the money. It's because I need to LIVE.
When Jesus gave, his blood flowed.
When we give the blood flows.
When the blood flows...
There is LIFE!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Judges 6:1-40
Luke 22:54-23:12
Psalm 95:1-96:13
Proverbs 14:5-6
"At that moment Jesus turned and looked at Peter..."
This short passage is from the account of the time soon after Jesus was arrested. Peter has just denied him three times. I can't imagine that moment... that look.
There's something happening in these passages that describe the arrest, trial, accusations, beatings, and crucifixion of Jesus. We know it as the story of the Passion. We've seen it on stage and on screen. We encounter the image of the cross numerous times throughout each day. It is history. At the same time, it is so much more than that.
This is not just a story. There is something that happens when the blood flows...
It was yesterday that the Lord placed these thoughts on my heart. I wish that I had time to fully develop what I felt him speaking to me.
What is the purpose of blood in the body? It's to bring oxygen to the rest of the body. It brings life.
For the past 2 years for today's devotional I recounted a story of how in 2006 I saw an incredible giving experience for the ministry of City on a Hill, a ministry in the heart of Milwaukee. As pastors from all sizes of churches and ministries were giving sacrificially, it was as if I heard a heartbeat.
During the same ministry report in 2008, City on a HIll reported of the lives that were changed through the ministry, including a young boy who came and sang. Also mentioned during this was a significant budget shortage. Once again, Individuals, pastors, and missionaries spontaneously came to the mic and began to commit to meet that shortage. In just a few minutes, over $150,000 was committed to this ministry. The heart was beating strong again.
When the Body of Christ is giving, the heart is beating strong. In spite of the fact that the local fitness center charges me each month, my body doesn't get healthier unless I go there and get on the machine. I like to use the eliptical. It has little sensors on the handle, that let me know where my heart rate is. For anything to be accomplished, I must raise my heart rate. The same is true for the Body of Christ. To get healthy, we must get the blood flowing.
When Jesus looked at Peter there was a heartbeat. The greatest gift of all was being GIVEN. The blood that would flow from Jesus' wounds would not merely be spilled on the ground. It would be bringing the oxygen of freedom from the bondage of sin and disease. It would be bringing new hope of abundant life.
When you think about your life, when do you feel most "fulfilled"? I would venture to say that we all find fulfillment when we are giving in one way or another. I almost hate to use the word "fulfill" because it has such a selfish connotation, as if it is "all about me." But I hope you know that feeling... You feel ALIVE!
When we give, the blood flows. When we present all we have to God and others are ministered to through it, there is something happening supernaturally. Often our mind looks to the checkbook to see what the balance is after we give. We "figure" out the "cost" of ministry. We wonder how we're going to get time for supper if we are involved in serving others. We're worrying about logistics, and losing sight of Life.
Sure, there are many needs out there, and we are to give to meet those needs. But the real reason to give isn't because THEY need the money. It's because I need to LIVE.
When Jesus gave, his blood flowed.
When we give the blood flows.
When the blood flows...
There is LIFE!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Friday, April 25, 2008
4.25.8 "It Might Get a Little Messy"
"It Might Get a Little Messy"
Judges 4:1-5:31
Luke 22:35-53
Psalm 94:1-23
Proverbs 14:3-4
Some people have a reputation for neatness. Me? not so much... A friend of mine, whom I choose not to implicate, has similar "organizational" skills to me. We've talked about collaborating to write a book on organizational systems. The premise is "none of it works". We've tried various types of organizers, daily planners, scented candles.... ok, not that far, but for some reason, no matter what, the desk gets messy. I've actually now brought in reinforcements, and am only able to keep neat with outside help.
With all of that in mind, I have a new favorite verse:
"An empty stable stays clean - but there is no income from an empty stable." (Prov. 14:4 TLB)
Of course, I'm joking about this being a verse to justify my mess, but I do feel there is a great truth in this short passage.
The NLT says, "Without oxen a stable stays clean, but you need a strong ox for a large harvest." Excuse the metaphor, but it is saying in essence, "if you want a harvest, you also need a shovel."
I often allude to the danger of this place called "Comfort Zone". It's lure can subtly paralyze the believer from living up to the potential that God has for them. It would be so great if life could be "neat & clean" all the time. It would be great if there were no unexpected turns, and no giants in the path... No "irritating" people. Imagine the thrill that would be...
I believe this verse shows a principle of "Active Ministry Involvement". When we take the risk to use the time, talent, and resources God has given us for his glory, we have to understand that sometimes there's residue on the stable floor. Serving God takes work. We have to make sure, however that the fact that there might be some mess, and maybe even a little smell, we can't think "this must not be God's will... this is supposed to be easy!" We have to constantly remind ourselves that we are doing what God has called us to do. Our faithfulness and responsibility shouldn't falter because of circumstances.
This verse also applies to "Relationships Devoted to Unity". As we mature in Christ and are in the process of discipling one another as well as being discipled, there will be times that interpersonal conflict arises. This can be with friends, leaders, and those you lead. We must understand that this is a necessary part of the process of harvest. The situations in life bring our character issues to the surface so they can be dealt with. That happens for others, too. We need to help one another through that.
Sometimes the conflict comes from "getting in trouble". Psalm 94:12 says, "Joyful are those you discipline, Lord, those you teach with your instructions." We need to always remember that discipline brings us into alignment. This is all a part of the great harvest to come!
Don't focus on the mess on the stable floor. Look to the fields at what God is doing through your labors. It can be tough to see when all you've got is rubber boots and a shovel, but know that God is completing his work in you and through you in ALL things.
Don't fear the smell! Live the DREAM!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Judges 4:1-5:31
Luke 22:35-53
Psalm 94:1-23
Proverbs 14:3-4
Some people have a reputation for neatness. Me? not so much... A friend of mine, whom I choose not to implicate, has similar "organizational" skills to me. We've talked about collaborating to write a book on organizational systems. The premise is "none of it works". We've tried various types of organizers, daily planners, scented candles.... ok, not that far, but for some reason, no matter what, the desk gets messy. I've actually now brought in reinforcements, and am only able to keep neat with outside help.
With all of that in mind, I have a new favorite verse:
"An empty stable stays clean - but there is no income from an empty stable." (Prov. 14:4 TLB)
Of course, I'm joking about this being a verse to justify my mess, but I do feel there is a great truth in this short passage.
The NLT says, "Without oxen a stable stays clean, but you need a strong ox for a large harvest." Excuse the metaphor, but it is saying in essence, "if you want a harvest, you also need a shovel."
I often allude to the danger of this place called "Comfort Zone". It's lure can subtly paralyze the believer from living up to the potential that God has for them. It would be so great if life could be "neat & clean" all the time. It would be great if there were no unexpected turns, and no giants in the path... No "irritating" people. Imagine the thrill that would be...
I believe this verse shows a principle of "Active Ministry Involvement". When we take the risk to use the time, talent, and resources God has given us for his glory, we have to understand that sometimes there's residue on the stable floor. Serving God takes work. We have to make sure, however that the fact that there might be some mess, and maybe even a little smell, we can't think "this must not be God's will... this is supposed to be easy!" We have to constantly remind ourselves that we are doing what God has called us to do. Our faithfulness and responsibility shouldn't falter because of circumstances.
This verse also applies to "Relationships Devoted to Unity". As we mature in Christ and are in the process of discipling one another as well as being discipled, there will be times that interpersonal conflict arises. This can be with friends, leaders, and those you lead. We must understand that this is a necessary part of the process of harvest. The situations in life bring our character issues to the surface so they can be dealt with. That happens for others, too. We need to help one another through that.
Sometimes the conflict comes from "getting in trouble". Psalm 94:12 says, "Joyful are those you discipline, Lord, those you teach with your instructions." We need to always remember that discipline brings us into alignment. This is all a part of the great harvest to come!
Don't focus on the mess on the stable floor. Look to the fields at what God is doing through your labors. It can be tough to see when all you've got is rubber boots and a shovel, but know that God is completing his work in you and through you in ALL things.
Don't fear the smell! Live the DREAM!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Thursday, April 24, 2008
4.24.8 "Time to Turn it Up!"
"Time to Turn it Up!"
Judges 2:10-3:31
Luke 22:14-34
Psalm 92:1-93:5
Proverbs 14:1-2
Reader's Digest contained an article about cheating in our society and how it has become a way of life. It said, "Education has become a commodity to help us gain the material wealth and status that is so prized and paraded in our culture. The larger message for adolescents is that it's much more important and valuable to be well-off financially than it is to be a moral person." What has happened to us?
Read today's portion in Judges:
"After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation grew up, who knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel. Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord and served the Baals. They forsook the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They provoked the Lord to anger because they forsook him and served Baal and the Ashtoreths. In his anger against Israel the Lord handed them over to raiders who plundered them. He sold them to their enemies all around, whom they were no longer able to resist. Whenever Israel went out to fight, the hand of the Lord was against them to defeat them, just as he had sworn to them. They were in great distress." (Jud. 2:10-15)
So where are we? are we the generation that knows God, or knows not God? Which direction are we heading?
Often we hear of people talking about how bad society's getting, and how terrible the sinners are, and how this activist group or that one is making such and influence. We see Christians talking about how bad it is, shaking their heads, and then going about their life. That's part of the problem.
If people "know not God", it's OUR FAULT! we have to understand that DARKNESS HAS NO POWER. DARKNESS CAN ONLY EXIST WHEN THERE IS LACK OF LIGHT!!!
It's time we turn the light up!
We need to be setting the temperature of our society. We need to be changing the culture of our neighborhood. Instead, we've gone along with the "flow" of how things are. We get in disputes like everyone else. Look at the disciples at the Last Supper: "... a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. Jesus said to them, 'The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves." (Luke 22:24-26)
Notice the key phrase: "... but you are not to be like that." Imagine if believers lived with the biblical mindset, instead of a watered-down version of it. There would be something different. The light could be seen. Instead, the Light is often hidden in the "comfort zone" of compromise in the life of many believers.
We need God's blessing on our land. We need his blessing on our homes & families. We need to be people who KNOW him. We need to walk in obedience. We need to know his Word. We have a Mission to Reach our World for Christ.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Judges 2:10-3:31
Luke 22:14-34
Psalm 92:1-93:5
Proverbs 14:1-2
Reader's Digest contained an article about cheating in our society and how it has become a way of life. It said, "Education has become a commodity to help us gain the material wealth and status that is so prized and paraded in our culture. The larger message for adolescents is that it's much more important and valuable to be well-off financially than it is to be a moral person." What has happened to us?
Read today's portion in Judges:
"After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation grew up, who knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel. Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord and served the Baals. They forsook the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They provoked the Lord to anger because they forsook him and served Baal and the Ashtoreths. In his anger against Israel the Lord handed them over to raiders who plundered them. He sold them to their enemies all around, whom they were no longer able to resist. Whenever Israel went out to fight, the hand of the Lord was against them to defeat them, just as he had sworn to them. They were in great distress." (Jud. 2:10-15)
So where are we? are we the generation that knows God, or knows not God? Which direction are we heading?
Often we hear of people talking about how bad society's getting, and how terrible the sinners are, and how this activist group or that one is making such and influence. We see Christians talking about how bad it is, shaking their heads, and then going about their life. That's part of the problem.
If people "know not God", it's OUR FAULT! we have to understand that DARKNESS HAS NO POWER. DARKNESS CAN ONLY EXIST WHEN THERE IS LACK OF LIGHT!!!
It's time we turn the light up!
We need to be setting the temperature of our society. We need to be changing the culture of our neighborhood. Instead, we've gone along with the "flow" of how things are. We get in disputes like everyone else. Look at the disciples at the Last Supper: "... a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. Jesus said to them, 'The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves." (Luke 22:24-26)
Notice the key phrase: "... but you are not to be like that." Imagine if believers lived with the biblical mindset, instead of a watered-down version of it. There would be something different. The light could be seen. Instead, the Light is often hidden in the "comfort zone" of compromise in the life of many believers.
We need God's blessing on our land. We need his blessing on our homes & families. We need to be people who KNOW him. We need to walk in obedience. We need to know his Word. We have a Mission to Reach our World for Christ.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
4.23.8 "The Deal is Off!"
"The Deal is Off!"
Judges 1:1-2:9
Luke 21:29-22:13
Psalm 90:1-91:16
Proverbs 13:24-25
"One day the Angel of the Lord arrived... and announced to the people of Israel, 'I brought you out of Egypt into this land which I promised to you ancestors, and I said that I would never break my covenant with you, if you, on your part, would make no peace treaties with the people living in this land; I told you to destroy their heathen altars. Why have you not obeyed? And now since you have broken the contract, it is no longer in effect, and I no longer promise to destroy the nations living in your land; rather, they shall be thorns in your sides, and their gods will be a constant temptation to you.'" (Jud 2:1-3)
What a sad portion of scripture. God gave such tremendous promise to the people. He delivered them from slavery. He performed awesome miracles. He equipped them to walk in obedience. He gave them all they needed.
Yet they didn't follow through.
It sounds ridiculous, doesn't it? Jesus warns us of the same thing.
"Watch out! Don't let my sudden coming catch you unawares; don't let me find you living in careless ease, carousing and drinking, and occupied with the problems of this life, like all the rest of the world. Keep a constant watch. And pray that if possible you may arrive in my presence without having to experience these horrors." (Luke 21:34-36)
We serve a God of promise. His faithfulness is unwavering. He will do what he has promised he will do. We have to remember, however, that we must fulfill our end of the deal!
So many times we flirt with partial obedience. We don't completely destroy the "Canaanites" of our old life. We don't get rid of the sin that's around us. We fall into the trap of delayed obedience.
God only asks one thing of us: Obey.
Why is that so hard? Why can't we stick to his word? Can you imagine what the Promised Land would have been like if the Israelites would have obeyed him fully? Can you imagine what life would be like if the people of God would walk in radical, unwavering obedience?
What is the one thing God is telling you right now to obey him in that you are delaying? We need to realize that God's commands are tied to promise. We need to live up to our end of the bargain. The amazing thing is that it's not even like we have to do any work. He gives the strength, He gives the victory. We just obey.
Where we get into trouble is when we pursue comfort. Comfort is a death trap in the life of a believer. Comfort leads to compromise & complacency. Those are deal breakers in the promise of God.
We need to stay the course & live in radical obedience. We need to Live the Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Judges 1:1-2:9
Luke 21:29-22:13
Psalm 90:1-91:16
Proverbs 13:24-25
"One day the Angel of the Lord arrived... and announced to the people of Israel, 'I brought you out of Egypt into this land which I promised to you ancestors, and I said that I would never break my covenant with you, if you, on your part, would make no peace treaties with the people living in this land; I told you to destroy their heathen altars. Why have you not obeyed? And now since you have broken the contract, it is no longer in effect, and I no longer promise to destroy the nations living in your land; rather, they shall be thorns in your sides, and their gods will be a constant temptation to you.'" (Jud 2:1-3)
What a sad portion of scripture. God gave such tremendous promise to the people. He delivered them from slavery. He performed awesome miracles. He equipped them to walk in obedience. He gave them all they needed.
Yet they didn't follow through.
It sounds ridiculous, doesn't it? Jesus warns us of the same thing.
"Watch out! Don't let my sudden coming catch you unawares; don't let me find you living in careless ease, carousing and drinking, and occupied with the problems of this life, like all the rest of the world. Keep a constant watch. And pray that if possible you may arrive in my presence without having to experience these horrors." (Luke 21:34-36)
We serve a God of promise. His faithfulness is unwavering. He will do what he has promised he will do. We have to remember, however, that we must fulfill our end of the deal!
So many times we flirt with partial obedience. We don't completely destroy the "Canaanites" of our old life. We don't get rid of the sin that's around us. We fall into the trap of delayed obedience.
God only asks one thing of us: Obey.
Why is that so hard? Why can't we stick to his word? Can you imagine what the Promised Land would have been like if the Israelites would have obeyed him fully? Can you imagine what life would be like if the people of God would walk in radical, unwavering obedience?
What is the one thing God is telling you right now to obey him in that you are delaying? We need to realize that God's commands are tied to promise. We need to live up to our end of the bargain. The amazing thing is that it's not even like we have to do any work. He gives the strength, He gives the victory. We just obey.
Where we get into trouble is when we pursue comfort. Comfort is a death trap in the life of a believer. Comfort leads to compromise & complacency. Those are deal breakers in the promise of God.
We need to stay the course & live in radical obedience. We need to Live the Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
4.22.8 "Don't Forget What Got You Here"
"Don't Forget What Got You Here"
Joshua 24:1-33
Luke 21:1-28
Psalm 89:38-52
Proverbs 13:20-23
This is the last chapter of Joshua. He was Moses' successor, and one of the last ones to have really experienced the great things God had done in the wilderness. He died at the age of 110.
I find it interesting what he did as his last major act before he dies. He called all the people together, and gave them a history lesson. He went back to Abraham & told the story of Jacob and Esau and then, of course, through the story of delivering them from Egypt. He told of the kings they had conquered and how God had done miracles in those victories.
He told them the Lord says, "It was not your swords or bows that brought you victory! I gave you land you had not worked for and cities you did not build - these cities where you are now living. I gave you vineyards and olive groves for food, though you did not plant them." (Jos. 24:12-13)
What is the point of all of this? To bring it to this: "So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols... Serve the Lord alone. but if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve... But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord." (Josh 24:14-15)
It is really important that we take the time on a regular basis to remember the great things God has done for us. We need to recount the miracles that he's done in our lives to save us and to free us. We can so often be caught up in our present situation, or concerned about the future that we've lost the wonder and awe of what God has brought us through.
When we take the time to remember and re-tell these things, it's almost as if we tether ourselves to obeying God. Verse 31 says, "Israel obeyed the Lord throughout the lifetimes of Joshua and the other old men who had personally witnessed the amazing deeds the Lord had done for Israel." Basically, it's saying, those who've seen God obeyed him, and those who heard the stories of those who had seen God also obeyed him.
No matter where you are at right now, God has done great things in your life. He saved you. He set you free. Praise him for the great things he has done. As you recall all of the victories he has given you, you are positioning yourself and those around you to obey God.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 24:1-33
Luke 21:1-28
Psalm 89:38-52
Proverbs 13:20-23
This is the last chapter of Joshua. He was Moses' successor, and one of the last ones to have really experienced the great things God had done in the wilderness. He died at the age of 110.
I find it interesting what he did as his last major act before he dies. He called all the people together, and gave them a history lesson. He went back to Abraham & told the story of Jacob and Esau and then, of course, through the story of delivering them from Egypt. He told of the kings they had conquered and how God had done miracles in those victories.
He told them the Lord says, "It was not your swords or bows that brought you victory! I gave you land you had not worked for and cities you did not build - these cities where you are now living. I gave you vineyards and olive groves for food, though you did not plant them." (Jos. 24:12-13)
What is the point of all of this? To bring it to this: "So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols... Serve the Lord alone. but if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve... But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord." (Josh 24:14-15)
It is really important that we take the time on a regular basis to remember the great things God has done for us. We need to recount the miracles that he's done in our lives to save us and to free us. We can so often be caught up in our present situation, or concerned about the future that we've lost the wonder and awe of what God has brought us through.
When we take the time to remember and re-tell these things, it's almost as if we tether ourselves to obeying God. Verse 31 says, "Israel obeyed the Lord throughout the lifetimes of Joshua and the other old men who had personally witnessed the amazing deeds the Lord had done for Israel." Basically, it's saying, those who've seen God obeyed him, and those who heard the stories of those who had seen God also obeyed him.
No matter where you are at right now, God has done great things in your life. He saved you. He set you free. Praise him for the great things he has done. As you recall all of the victories he has given you, you are positioning yourself and those around you to obey God.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Monday, April 21, 2008
4.21.8 "Suspicion is Not a Spiritual Gift"
"Suspicion is Not a Spiritual Gift"
Joshua 22:21-23:16
Luke 20:27-47
Psalm 89:14-37
Proverbs 13:17-19
I don't know if you've ever noticed this or not, but there is an interesting "quirk" to the human nature. I believe everyone should understand that my motives are pure, and that my heart is clean, and that I "mean well" in everything. However, it's in my nature when i look at the actions of others, I presume the worst. We have thoughts like, "They're out to get me", "their actions are sinful & selfish". We want people to assume the best about us, and yet we often presume the worst about them. We're certain that our motives are "pure", but we're suspicious of others. Sometimes we live like suspicion is a spiritual gift.
One of my favorite Bible stories is a somewhat obscure one. It's the story of the tribes of Reuben and Gad. These people have a couple of times in their journey when they are GREATLY misunderstood. The first part of the story is in Numbers 32 and the culmination is in Joshua 22. I'll give you a quick synopsis: The Israelites have entered the Promised Land from the east. There is great pasture land on the east side of the Jordan and tribes of Reuben & Gad have sheep. They ask Moses for that land for their tribes & their flocks. Moses, having recently had a bunch of people rise up against him in rebellion, goes off on them. He thinks they are lazy & trying to take the easy way out by not crossing over the Jordan and conquering all of the territory.
That's not the case. The tribes just want to leave their sheep & families there. They vow to fight ahead of all of the other tribes and go to the extra mile to conquer the land. Moses agrees, and they fight on. Years later, Joshua, like we read yesterday, thanks Reuben & Gad for all of their help, and blesses them and sends them back across the Jordan.
"Before they went across, while they were still in Canaan, they built a large monument for everyone to see, in the shape of an altar. But when the rest of Israel heard about what they had done, they mustered an army at Shiloh and prepared to go to war against their brother tribes." (Jos 22:10-11)
Before attacking, they send a delegation led by Phineas to speak to the tribes. "The whole congregation of the Lord demands to know why you are sinning against the God of Israel by turning away from him and building an altar of rebellion against the Lord." (22:16) They spend a few more verses giving Rueben and Gad a piece of their mind.
As it turns out, the motives of Reuben and Gad had been completely misread. "We have done it because we love the Lord... It is not for burnt offerings or sacrifices but is a symbol of the relationship with God that both of us have. Far be it from us to turn away from the Lord or to rebel against him by building our own altar.." (22:24,28-29)
Phineas is relieved. "Today we know that the Lord is among us because you have not sinned against the Lord as we thought; instead, you have saved us from destruction!" (22:30)
So how does this apply to us? First off, we have been commissioned to disciple one another, which really means that we need to be a friend to one another. As we have discussed in the past, the root word of discipleship is discipline, which means to bring into alignment. We need to bring one another into alignment with God's word. Sometimes, we get a little out of focus by over-reacting to the actions of others. We are offended when someone looks at us the wrong way, or maybe they say something that to us is totally out of whack.
When that happens, our flesh "because we care" musters the troops and is ready to go to war against someone because we are sure they are in the wrong. We want to talk to a few people, press charges, and bring someone to trial for this action.
Thankfully, the troops of Israel sent a delegation to talk to Reuben and Gad. As Phineas said, were they to have attacked and gone to battle with them, it would have been an ungodly war.
There are some in the body of Christ who live as if suspicion is a spiritual gift. They unwrap that gift at the slightest offense. They will often "muster the troops" under the disguise of a prayer request. "Please pray for Sally, She's really struggling in her spiritual walk. She was bossy to me at the bake sale!"
So many times the Lord allows these frustrations and conflicts to arise in the Body of Christ to bring us closer together. Look at the unity that was among all the tribes when all was said and done. "and all Israel rejoiced and praised God and spoke no more of war..." (22:33)
We need to stop looking at offenses through the eyes of suspicion and stop speaking of war. We need to understand our purpose is to build up the body of Christ and not to tear it down. We're not here to eradicate everyone who doesn't align with "my way" of doing things, we're here to work together so we can all walk in alignment with God's way of doing things.
This is what Relationships Devoted to Unity is all about!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 22:21-23:16
Luke 20:27-47
Psalm 89:14-37
Proverbs 13:17-19
I don't know if you've ever noticed this or not, but there is an interesting "quirk" to the human nature. I believe everyone should understand that my motives are pure, and that my heart is clean, and that I "mean well" in everything. However, it's in my nature when i look at the actions of others, I presume the worst. We have thoughts like, "They're out to get me", "their actions are sinful & selfish". We want people to assume the best about us, and yet we often presume the worst about them. We're certain that our motives are "pure", but we're suspicious of others. Sometimes we live like suspicion is a spiritual gift.
One of my favorite Bible stories is a somewhat obscure one. It's the story of the tribes of Reuben and Gad. These people have a couple of times in their journey when they are GREATLY misunderstood. The first part of the story is in Numbers 32 and the culmination is in Joshua 22. I'll give you a quick synopsis: The Israelites have entered the Promised Land from the east. There is great pasture land on the east side of the Jordan and tribes of Reuben & Gad have sheep. They ask Moses for that land for their tribes & their flocks. Moses, having recently had a bunch of people rise up against him in rebellion, goes off on them. He thinks they are lazy & trying to take the easy way out by not crossing over the Jordan and conquering all of the territory.
That's not the case. The tribes just want to leave their sheep & families there. They vow to fight ahead of all of the other tribes and go to the extra mile to conquer the land. Moses agrees, and they fight on. Years later, Joshua, like we read yesterday, thanks Reuben & Gad for all of their help, and blesses them and sends them back across the Jordan.
"Before they went across, while they were still in Canaan, they built a large monument for everyone to see, in the shape of an altar. But when the rest of Israel heard about what they had done, they mustered an army at Shiloh and prepared to go to war against their brother tribes." (Jos 22:10-11)
Before attacking, they send a delegation led by Phineas to speak to the tribes. "The whole congregation of the Lord demands to know why you are sinning against the God of Israel by turning away from him and building an altar of rebellion against the Lord." (22:16) They spend a few more verses giving Rueben and Gad a piece of their mind.
As it turns out, the motives of Reuben and Gad had been completely misread. "We have done it because we love the Lord... It is not for burnt offerings or sacrifices but is a symbol of the relationship with God that both of us have. Far be it from us to turn away from the Lord or to rebel against him by building our own altar.." (22:24,28-29)
Phineas is relieved. "Today we know that the Lord is among us because you have not sinned against the Lord as we thought; instead, you have saved us from destruction!" (22:30)
So how does this apply to us? First off, we have been commissioned to disciple one another, which really means that we need to be a friend to one another. As we have discussed in the past, the root word of discipleship is discipline, which means to bring into alignment. We need to bring one another into alignment with God's word. Sometimes, we get a little out of focus by over-reacting to the actions of others. We are offended when someone looks at us the wrong way, or maybe they say something that to us is totally out of whack.
When that happens, our flesh "because we care" musters the troops and is ready to go to war against someone because we are sure they are in the wrong. We want to talk to a few people, press charges, and bring someone to trial for this action.
Thankfully, the troops of Israel sent a delegation to talk to Reuben and Gad. As Phineas said, were they to have attacked and gone to battle with them, it would have been an ungodly war.
There are some in the body of Christ who live as if suspicion is a spiritual gift. They unwrap that gift at the slightest offense. They will often "muster the troops" under the disguise of a prayer request. "Please pray for Sally, She's really struggling in her spiritual walk. She was bossy to me at the bake sale!"
So many times the Lord allows these frustrations and conflicts to arise in the Body of Christ to bring us closer together. Look at the unity that was among all the tribes when all was said and done. "and all Israel rejoiced and praised God and spoke no more of war..." (22:33)
We need to stop looking at offenses through the eyes of suspicion and stop speaking of war. We need to understand our purpose is to build up the body of Christ and not to tear it down. We're not here to eradicate everyone who doesn't align with "my way" of doing things, we're here to work together so we can all walk in alignment with God's way of doing things.
This is what Relationships Devoted to Unity is all about!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Sunday, April 20, 2008
4.20.8 "All you Need to Know"
"All you Need to Know"
Joshua 21:1-22:20
Luke 20:1-16
Psalm 89:1-13
Proverbs 13:15-16
"Be sure to continue to obey all the commandments Moses gave you. Love the Lord and follow his plan for your lives. Cling to him and serve him enthusiastically." Joshua 22:5
These words of Joshua, are about all we need to know for life.
"Be sure to continue..." The context of this statement of Joshua is that the Promised Land has been conquered. He is speaking to the tribes of Reuben, Gad & Manasseh who have just spent years aiding the other tribes and are now crossing back over Jordan to return to their land. In this context, Joshua is reminding them that every blessing they have experienced is a result of their obedience. One of the dangers of blessing is that we can be tempted to relax. We get casual, and can begin to compromise. It's urgent that we always keep the intensity to walk in obedience.
"... obey all the commandments Moses gave you." It is so important that we know God's word. I don't know if you've ever played a board game w/o reading the directions, but it is frustrating. You make up the rules as you go. You often find out you missed the point. The same is true with life. We need to know God's plan and his path. This empowers us to live a victorious life.
"Love the Lord..." We know that Jesus says, "If you love me, keep my commandments", so we need to make sure to stay true to that. Also, to truly love him, he needs to be a part of our thought process constantly. I love my wife. I make my plans in accordance with her wishes. I try to be with her as much as I can. I love to be with her. If we love the Lord, we will keep our thoughts on him. We will arrange our lives in accordance with his desires and his plans.
"... follow his plan for your lives." God has a plan for us. Sometimes I fear that we let days slip away into the mundane, not realizing that there is a plan and there is purpose. When we live according to the plan, we constrain ourselves to excellence, and we fear compromise. We need to discover his plan and pursue it.
"Cling to him and serve him enthusiastically." We are not supposed to live the boring Christian life. God has great things in store for us. When we live in radical obedience, we cling to him with passion. There is excitement. There is life. Serve God with intensity.
Take this verse to heart today!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 21:1-22:20
Luke 20:1-16
Psalm 89:1-13
Proverbs 13:15-16
"Be sure to continue to obey all the commandments Moses gave you. Love the Lord and follow his plan for your lives. Cling to him and serve him enthusiastically." Joshua 22:5
These words of Joshua, are about all we need to know for life.
"Be sure to continue..." The context of this statement of Joshua is that the Promised Land has been conquered. He is speaking to the tribes of Reuben, Gad & Manasseh who have just spent years aiding the other tribes and are now crossing back over Jordan to return to their land. In this context, Joshua is reminding them that every blessing they have experienced is a result of their obedience. One of the dangers of blessing is that we can be tempted to relax. We get casual, and can begin to compromise. It's urgent that we always keep the intensity to walk in obedience.
"... obey all the commandments Moses gave you." It is so important that we know God's word. I don't know if you've ever played a board game w/o reading the directions, but it is frustrating. You make up the rules as you go. You often find out you missed the point. The same is true with life. We need to know God's plan and his path. This empowers us to live a victorious life.
"Love the Lord..." We know that Jesus says, "If you love me, keep my commandments", so we need to make sure to stay true to that. Also, to truly love him, he needs to be a part of our thought process constantly. I love my wife. I make my plans in accordance with her wishes. I try to be with her as much as I can. I love to be with her. If we love the Lord, we will keep our thoughts on him. We will arrange our lives in accordance with his desires and his plans.
"... follow his plan for your lives." God has a plan for us. Sometimes I fear that we let days slip away into the mundane, not realizing that there is a plan and there is purpose. When we live according to the plan, we constrain ourselves to excellence, and we fear compromise. We need to discover his plan and pursue it.
"Cling to him and serve him enthusiastically." We are not supposed to live the boring Christian life. God has great things in store for us. When we live in radical obedience, we cling to him with passion. There is excitement. There is life. Serve God with intensity.
Take this verse to heart today!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Saturday, April 19, 2008
4.19.8 "The DREAM and the Dream"
"The DREAM and the Dream"
Joshua 13:1-14:15
Luke 18:1-17
Psalm 85:1-13
Proverbs 13:7-8
We live in a world of zombies. I can't say i'm an expert in the definition of zombie, but I remember as a kid seeing a clip of "Night of the Living Dead" and all these people were walking down a street staring blankly ahead. Each and every day we encounter people who are staring blankly ahead as they walk through life. They travel from disillusionment to disappointment and back again. This can be true for those in the church as well.
Today's verse in Proverbs says, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when dreams come true at last, there is life and joy." Prov. 13:12
Every person has a Dream. For some it's a huge one and for others its simply a dream of peace in the home. Some may have a financial dream others may have an occupational Dream.
The Dream that an individual has is different than the DREAM, but not separate from it. It could be easy to misconceive the "Live the DREAM" phrase as "get rich quick" or "get your Dream Job!" The DREAM is not about self-gratification. It IS about pursuing balance which results if fulfillment.
God has placed passions and desires within each one of us. Those same passions and desires are what can lead us into sin and separate us from God. However even though sin can distort and misdirect desire, when these desires are placed in God's hands, he can do incredible things! That's the reason he gave them to us in the first place.
The DREAM is different than a Dream. For each one of us there is a unique Dream, but the DREAM applies to all of us. the DREAM gives us a track to run on as we grow in Christ. To accomplish the Dreams God has placed in our heart, we MUST live the DREAM.
The DREAM represents the Balanced Christian Life. Its principles can serve as a "self-check" of key ingredients in the life of a follower of Christ.
Are you living the DREAM?
Ask yourself these questions:
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship - How is my relationship with the Lord? Am I in a good place right now? Worship is my fellowship and communion with him. Is there anything that is "clogging" the communication lines? The "D" represents the principle of obedience. Obedience is the highest form of worship. Is there any thing in my life that I know I'm being disobedient about?
Relationships Devoted to Unity - How are my relationships with others? Am I building others up instead of tearing them down? Am I living as a part of the Body of Christ, or am I off doing things on my own? The "R" represents the principle of Submission. Do I model biblical submission to those around me? Do I take the time to meet the needs of others?
Empowered Through Biblical Training - Is biblical training a regular part of my life? Do I consistently get into the word and let it strengthen me, or do I just "dabble" in it? Am I consistent to the corporate teaching of the word in church services, sunday school, bible studies, or do I just go through the motions of convenient church attendance? The "E" represents the principle of Discipline. Discipline means to bring to alignment. Am I placing myself in alignment with God's word. Am I disciplined to study it?
Active Ministry Involvement - Am I being a good steward of the resources God has given me? This is not just a question of being involved in a ministry, it's putting what God has given me into his hands to serve others. The "A" represents the principle of Responsibility. Am I being responsible with my time, talent, finances and resources in a way that brings honor to God?
Mission to Reach our World for Christ - Do I understand that every part of my life is for this purpose? Am I living a life that points to Christ, or do I turn the "switch off" when I don't feel like acting Christ-like? The "M" represents the principle of Purpose. Am I living with this purpose in mind? Am I using every opportunity to draw others to Christ?
To fully accomplish the Dreams we have, we must live the DREAM. You can't get to the Dream without the DREAM! This is true for all the "zombies" around us. So many are pursuing their dream without the framework that God intended. There is no life there. Hope deferred makes the heart sick.
We need to fully understand the importance of applying the DREAM principles to our lives every day. We must all commit to helping others Live the DREAM as well.
"When dreams come true at last there is life and joy." We need to live in life and joy! there are exciting things ahead if we Live the DREAM!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 13:1-14:15
Luke 18:1-17
Psalm 85:1-13
Proverbs 13:7-8
We live in a world of zombies. I can't say i'm an expert in the definition of zombie, but I remember as a kid seeing a clip of "Night of the Living Dead" and all these people were walking down a street staring blankly ahead. Each and every day we encounter people who are staring blankly ahead as they walk through life. They travel from disillusionment to disappointment and back again. This can be true for those in the church as well.
Today's verse in Proverbs says, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when dreams come true at last, there is life and joy." Prov. 13:12
Every person has a Dream. For some it's a huge one and for others its simply a dream of peace in the home. Some may have a financial dream others may have an occupational Dream.
The Dream that an individual has is different than the DREAM, but not separate from it. It could be easy to misconceive the "Live the DREAM" phrase as "get rich quick" or "get your Dream Job!" The DREAM is not about self-gratification. It IS about pursuing balance which results if fulfillment.
God has placed passions and desires within each one of us. Those same passions and desires are what can lead us into sin and separate us from God. However even though sin can distort and misdirect desire, when these desires are placed in God's hands, he can do incredible things! That's the reason he gave them to us in the first place.
The DREAM is different than a Dream. For each one of us there is a unique Dream, but the DREAM applies to all of us. the DREAM gives us a track to run on as we grow in Christ. To accomplish the Dreams God has placed in our heart, we MUST live the DREAM.
The DREAM represents the Balanced Christian Life. Its principles can serve as a "self-check" of key ingredients in the life of a follower of Christ.
Are you living the DREAM?
Ask yourself these questions:
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship - How is my relationship with the Lord? Am I in a good place right now? Worship is my fellowship and communion with him. Is there anything that is "clogging" the communication lines? The "D" represents the principle of obedience. Obedience is the highest form of worship. Is there any thing in my life that I know I'm being disobedient about?
Relationships Devoted to Unity - How are my relationships with others? Am I building others up instead of tearing them down? Am I living as a part of the Body of Christ, or am I off doing things on my own? The "R" represents the principle of Submission. Do I model biblical submission to those around me? Do I take the time to meet the needs of others?
Empowered Through Biblical Training - Is biblical training a regular part of my life? Do I consistently get into the word and let it strengthen me, or do I just "dabble" in it? Am I consistent to the corporate teaching of the word in church services, sunday school, bible studies, or do I just go through the motions of convenient church attendance? The "E" represents the principle of Discipline. Discipline means to bring to alignment. Am I placing myself in alignment with God's word. Am I disciplined to study it?
Active Ministry Involvement - Am I being a good steward of the resources God has given me? This is not just a question of being involved in a ministry, it's putting what God has given me into his hands to serve others. The "A" represents the principle of Responsibility. Am I being responsible with my time, talent, finances and resources in a way that brings honor to God?
Mission to Reach our World for Christ - Do I understand that every part of my life is for this purpose? Am I living a life that points to Christ, or do I turn the "switch off" when I don't feel like acting Christ-like? The "M" represents the principle of Purpose. Am I living with this purpose in mind? Am I using every opportunity to draw others to Christ?
To fully accomplish the Dreams we have, we must live the DREAM. You can't get to the Dream without the DREAM! This is true for all the "zombies" around us. So many are pursuing their dream without the framework that God intended. There is no life there. Hope deferred makes the heart sick.
We need to fully understand the importance of applying the DREAM principles to our lives every day. We must all commit to helping others Live the DREAM as well.
"When dreams come true at last there is life and joy." We need to live in life and joy! there are exciting things ahead if we Live the DREAM!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Friday, April 18, 2008
4.18.8 "The Way it Works"
"The Way it Works"
Joshua 16:1-18:28
Luke 19:1-27
Psalm 87:1-7
Proverbs 13:11
Do you ever walk downstairs, and you forget why you were there or what you had gone to do? Or you find yourself in another room in the house, but you can't remember the reason you went there? It can be because old age is creeping up, but for some of us it's a way of life! It's a simple example, but when that happens, what has been forgotten is the mission. "What was the purpose I came downstairs?"
On a larger scale it's too easy to forget the purpose for our lives. It can bee too easy to forget God's plan for us and his desire for the way we live. "Purpose" is the principle of our Mission to Reach our World for Christ. Although it may seem I'm headed toward that discussion, I want to talk about "Responsibility" which is the principle of Active Ministry Involvement.
In Luke 19 Jesus tells a story that is familiar to many of us. What stood out to me today is verse 11 which tells WHY he told the story. "And because Jesus was nearing Jerusalem, he told a story to correct the impression that the Kingdom of God would begin right away." Jesus had come as the Messiah. In fact, in verse 10 he had just visited Zacchaeus and made the statement. "... and I, the Messiah, have come to search for and to save such souls as his."
Everyone began to see the that Jesus was the Messiah... the Promised one... the one who was to set up the kingdom. Everyone thought this would be a political overthrow, But Jesus knew that it was important to make sure that everyone knew the truth about how it works. This is the story he told:
"A nobleman living in a certain province was called away to the distant capital of the empire to be crowned king of his province. Before he left he called together ten assistants and gave them each $2000 to invest while he was gone. But some of his people hated him and sent him their declaration of independence, stating that they had rebelled and would not acknowledge him as their king. Upon his return he called in the men to whom he had given the money, to find out what they had done with it, and what their profits were." (vs. 12-15)
You probably remember the rest of the story. The first individual makes 10 times what he was given. The second makes 5 times as much, and the third just returns what he was given. Each one receives a reward based what they did with what they were given.
We need to apply this parable to our world today. Jesus returned to heaven after rising from the dead, and he's coming back soon. There are many of us who mistakingly are looking at his return in "political" terms. We're thinking, yeah, we'll show all those unbelievers! Yeah, we'll be free from this sinful world! That perspective isn't too far removed from the people of Jerusalem in Jesus' day. They were missing the point.
I think too often WE are missing the point. We stand at the bottom of the stairs of this life asking, "what was I here to do?" Jesus has given each of us resources. Each and every day we need to remember this. In worship we must develop a thankful heart, and realize that everything we have is from him.
THEN, we need to DO SOMETHING with what he has given us! God is going to ask you for the increase of what you have. It includes your finances, your time, your ministry, and the souls of the unbelievers he has placed in your life.
What's your answer going to be? What's mine?
We live in a society that has written God a "declaration of independence". We've thumbed our nose at God saying, "This is MY stuff!" "I don't have TIME to serve you!" "I'm going to do things MY way!" There will be a price to pay for that. In Jesus' parable, the master has the "independent" executed (vs. 27).
We have to remember the way this works. We are here with a purpose. God wants us to be responsible for everything he has put at our disposal. We MUST be good stewards! We must apply the principles of Active Ministry Involvement. We must live with the Mission To Reach our World for Christ. We Must Live the DREAM!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 16:1-18:28
Luke 19:1-27
Psalm 87:1-7
Proverbs 13:11
Do you ever walk downstairs, and you forget why you were there or what you had gone to do? Or you find yourself in another room in the house, but you can't remember the reason you went there? It can be because old age is creeping up, but for some of us it's a way of life! It's a simple example, but when that happens, what has been forgotten is the mission. "What was the purpose I came downstairs?"
On a larger scale it's too easy to forget the purpose for our lives. It can bee too easy to forget God's plan for us and his desire for the way we live. "Purpose" is the principle of our Mission to Reach our World for Christ. Although it may seem I'm headed toward that discussion, I want to talk about "Responsibility" which is the principle of Active Ministry Involvement.
In Luke 19 Jesus tells a story that is familiar to many of us. What stood out to me today is verse 11 which tells WHY he told the story. "And because Jesus was nearing Jerusalem, he told a story to correct the impression that the Kingdom of God would begin right away." Jesus had come as the Messiah. In fact, in verse 10 he had just visited Zacchaeus and made the statement. "... and I, the Messiah, have come to search for and to save such souls as his."
Everyone began to see the that Jesus was the Messiah... the Promised one... the one who was to set up the kingdom. Everyone thought this would be a political overthrow, But Jesus knew that it was important to make sure that everyone knew the truth about how it works. This is the story he told:
"A nobleman living in a certain province was called away to the distant capital of the empire to be crowned king of his province. Before he left he called together ten assistants and gave them each $2000 to invest while he was gone. But some of his people hated him and sent him their declaration of independence, stating that they had rebelled and would not acknowledge him as their king. Upon his return he called in the men to whom he had given the money, to find out what they had done with it, and what their profits were." (vs. 12-15)
You probably remember the rest of the story. The first individual makes 10 times what he was given. The second makes 5 times as much, and the third just returns what he was given. Each one receives a reward based what they did with what they were given.
We need to apply this parable to our world today. Jesus returned to heaven after rising from the dead, and he's coming back soon. There are many of us who mistakingly are looking at his return in "political" terms. We're thinking, yeah, we'll show all those unbelievers! Yeah, we'll be free from this sinful world! That perspective isn't too far removed from the people of Jerusalem in Jesus' day. They were missing the point.
I think too often WE are missing the point. We stand at the bottom of the stairs of this life asking, "what was I here to do?" Jesus has given each of us resources. Each and every day we need to remember this. In worship we must develop a thankful heart, and realize that everything we have is from him.
THEN, we need to DO SOMETHING with what he has given us! God is going to ask you for the increase of what you have. It includes your finances, your time, your ministry, and the souls of the unbelievers he has placed in your life.
What's your answer going to be? What's mine?
We live in a society that has written God a "declaration of independence". We've thumbed our nose at God saying, "This is MY stuff!" "I don't have TIME to serve you!" "I'm going to do things MY way!" There will be a price to pay for that. In Jesus' parable, the master has the "independent" executed (vs. 27).
We have to remember the way this works. We are here with a purpose. God wants us to be responsible for everything he has put at our disposal. We MUST be good stewards! We must apply the principles of Active Ministry Involvement. We must live with the Mission To Reach our World for Christ. We Must Live the DREAM!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Thursday, April 17, 2008
4.17.8 "Ain't No God Like Mine!"
"Ain't No God Like Mine!"
Joshua 15:1-63
Luke 18:18-43
Psalm 86:1-17
Proverbs 13:9-10
As kids there was always a "my dad's tougher than yours" conversation at some point or another. My dad was a hockey coach, so I had a lot of clout in that area. Of course those conversations are motivated by pride, and not the healthiest thing to get involved in as they usually lead to a fight in some form or another, which proves today's Proverb true: "Pride leads to conflict..." (Prov. 13:10)
Reading today's Psalm, we get that "my God's tougher than yours" feeling. "Where among the heathen gods is there a god like you? Where are their miracles?" (Ps 86:3) What a great line! Where are their miracles? There is no god like our God! He is awesome his power is unending. As much as we've experienced, we can only comprehend a portion of his greatness.
Everyone's going to know it, though. "All the nations - and you made each one - will come and bow before you, Lord, and praise your great and holy name. For you are great, and do great miracles. You alone are God." (Ps 86:9-10)
We serve an awesome God! We need to think about that. We need to acknowledge his greatness. We need to respond in worship. How do we worship? With our lives.
"Tell me where you want me to go and I will go there. May every fiber of my being unite in reverence to your name. With all my heart I will praise you. I will give glory to your name forever, for you love me so much! you are constantly so kind! You have rescued me from deepest hell." (Ps 86:11-13)
I love that line "May every fiber of my being unite in reverence to your name." What would our day be like if we lived like that? If every fiber of my being united in reverence to his name, I would obey his commands, I would walk in unity, I would study his Word, I would use the gifts he's given me for his glory.
I would Live the DREAM!
Today's reading from Joshua is one that you probably don't have memorized. It lays out the allotment for the tribe of Judah in the promised land. It lists the boundaries on all sides, and then goes on to list the hundreds of cities & surrounding villages that were conquered, and allotted to them.
Ok, be honest... did you read each name of each city? I caught myself skipping over a few verses because i caught the "gist" of what was going on. As I was doing that, I realized I was skipping over answered prayer. The cities that are listed are the result of the unbelievable trials and miracles that God's people went through. This was the promise.
It made me stop to think if I'm doing the same thing in my life. Do I skip over the "details" of the great things God has done for me. "yeah, yeah, yeah... my God is better than any other... I got the gist...." That's not how we should be! We should be listing the great things God has done!
In Luke 18:35-43 the blind man is crying out to Jesus, and Jesus asks him, "'What do you want me to do for you?' 'Lord,' he said, 'I want to see!'" Jesus healed him, and verse 43 says, "Instantly the man could see, and he followed jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too."
The healing of the blind man is a bit more exciting to us than the list of cities. Yet both are a sign of an awesome God. What do you have to praise God for today? I have health! I have provision.
God is GREAT! There ain't NO god like mine!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 15:1-63
Luke 18:18-43
Psalm 86:1-17
Proverbs 13:9-10
As kids there was always a "my dad's tougher than yours" conversation at some point or another. My dad was a hockey coach, so I had a lot of clout in that area. Of course those conversations are motivated by pride, and not the healthiest thing to get involved in as they usually lead to a fight in some form or another, which proves today's Proverb true: "Pride leads to conflict..." (Prov. 13:10)
Reading today's Psalm, we get that "my God's tougher than yours" feeling. "Where among the heathen gods is there a god like you? Where are their miracles?" (Ps 86:3) What a great line! Where are their miracles? There is no god like our God! He is awesome his power is unending. As much as we've experienced, we can only comprehend a portion of his greatness.
Everyone's going to know it, though. "All the nations - and you made each one - will come and bow before you, Lord, and praise your great and holy name. For you are great, and do great miracles. You alone are God." (Ps 86:9-10)
We serve an awesome God! We need to think about that. We need to acknowledge his greatness. We need to respond in worship. How do we worship? With our lives.
"Tell me where you want me to go and I will go there. May every fiber of my being unite in reverence to your name. With all my heart I will praise you. I will give glory to your name forever, for you love me so much! you are constantly so kind! You have rescued me from deepest hell." (Ps 86:11-13)
I love that line "May every fiber of my being unite in reverence to your name." What would our day be like if we lived like that? If every fiber of my being united in reverence to his name, I would obey his commands, I would walk in unity, I would study his Word, I would use the gifts he's given me for his glory.
I would Live the DREAM!
Today's reading from Joshua is one that you probably don't have memorized. It lays out the allotment for the tribe of Judah in the promised land. It lists the boundaries on all sides, and then goes on to list the hundreds of cities & surrounding villages that were conquered, and allotted to them.
Ok, be honest... did you read each name of each city? I caught myself skipping over a few verses because i caught the "gist" of what was going on. As I was doing that, I realized I was skipping over answered prayer. The cities that are listed are the result of the unbelievable trials and miracles that God's people went through. This was the promise.
It made me stop to think if I'm doing the same thing in my life. Do I skip over the "details" of the great things God has done for me. "yeah, yeah, yeah... my God is better than any other... I got the gist...." That's not how we should be! We should be listing the great things God has done!
In Luke 18:35-43 the blind man is crying out to Jesus, and Jesus asks him, "'What do you want me to do for you?' 'Lord,' he said, 'I want to see!'" Jesus healed him, and verse 43 says, "Instantly the man could see, and he followed jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too."
The healing of the blind man is a bit more exciting to us than the list of cities. Yet both are a sign of an awesome God. What do you have to praise God for today? I have health! I have provision.
God is GREAT! There ain't NO god like mine!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
4.16.8 "Forgiven"
"Forgiven"
Joshua 13:1-14:15
Luke 18:1-17
Psalm 85:1-13
Proverbs 13:7-8
"Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a proud, self-righteous Pharisee, and the other a cheating tax collector. The proud Pharisee 'prayed' this prayer: 'Thank God, I am not a sinner like everyone else, especially like that tax collector over there! For I never cheat, I don't commit adultery, I go without food twice a week, and I give to God a tenth of everything I earn.'
"But the corrupt tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed, but beat upon his chest in sorrow, exclaiming, 'God, be merciful to me, a sinner.' I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home forgiven! For the proud shall be humbled, but the humble shall be honored." (Luke 18:10-14)
What goes through our minds when we have conversations with unbelievers? I hate to say it, but as I look back on my thought process through some of those conversations, I fear that my motives may have been more of the Pharisee than the tax collector. No, I didn't necessarily look down at them, or roll my eyes and say, Thank God, I'm not like them," but yet i think it's in our human nature to look at "them and us". I inadvertently catch myself thinking of unbelievers as "outsiders."
How different would our relationships be with unbelievers, if the arrogance of our piety were gone? What if we approached our conversations with them in humility instead of hoping to get another star on our "witnessing chart". I know I'm sounding a bit harsh, but i hope you can catch the heart of what i'm saying.
Who am I to take pride in the fact that I'm forgiven. "God, be merciful to me, a sinner." Remember the sacrifices that please God are a broken spirit and a contrite heart.
When I spend time at my neighbor's house and I have a broken spirit, I'm not so much worried about getting a chance to fill them with my knowledge, I'm more interested in hearing their need. God will give the opportunity to reveal truth.
Thank you Lord for being merciful to me, a sinner!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 13:1-14:15
Luke 18:1-17
Psalm 85:1-13
Proverbs 13:7-8
"Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a proud, self-righteous Pharisee, and the other a cheating tax collector. The proud Pharisee 'prayed' this prayer: 'Thank God, I am not a sinner like everyone else, especially like that tax collector over there! For I never cheat, I don't commit adultery, I go without food twice a week, and I give to God a tenth of everything I earn.'
"But the corrupt tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed, but beat upon his chest in sorrow, exclaiming, 'God, be merciful to me, a sinner.' I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home forgiven! For the proud shall be humbled, but the humble shall be honored." (Luke 18:10-14)
What goes through our minds when we have conversations with unbelievers? I hate to say it, but as I look back on my thought process through some of those conversations, I fear that my motives may have been more of the Pharisee than the tax collector. No, I didn't necessarily look down at them, or roll my eyes and say, Thank God, I'm not like them," but yet i think it's in our human nature to look at "them and us". I inadvertently catch myself thinking of unbelievers as "outsiders."
How different would our relationships be with unbelievers, if the arrogance of our piety were gone? What if we approached our conversations with them in humility instead of hoping to get another star on our "witnessing chart". I know I'm sounding a bit harsh, but i hope you can catch the heart of what i'm saying.
Who am I to take pride in the fact that I'm forgiven. "God, be merciful to me, a sinner." Remember the sacrifices that please God are a broken spirit and a contrite heart.
When I spend time at my neighbor's house and I have a broken spirit, I'm not so much worried about getting a chance to fill them with my knowledge, I'm more interested in hearing their need. God will give the opportunity to reveal truth.
Thank you Lord for being merciful to me, a sinner!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
4.15.8 "Business as Usual"
"Business as Usual"
Joshua 11:1-12:24
Luke 17:11-37
Psalm 84:1-12
Proverbs 13:5-6
Jesus is coming soon.
We have a Mission to Reach our World for Christ.
When Jesus returns, it's not going to be like a movie where they see a comet coming and you've got 24 hrs. That's not the case. It could be this very moment. You might not even get this email.
"[When I return] the world will be [as indifferent to the things of God] as the people were in Noah's day. they ate and drank and married - everything just as usual right up to the day when Noah went into the ark and the flood came and destroyed them all. And the world will be as it was in the days of Lot: people went about their daily business - eating and drinking, buying and selling, farming and building - until the morning Lot left Sodom. Then fire and brimstone rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. Yes, it will be 'business as usual' right up to the hour of my return." (Luke 17:26-30)
We need to live with the urgency that it could be right now. Yesterday I spent some time visiting with a man who walks our neighborhood every day. He knows everyone in the whole subdivision. He said, "I never would have thought in my whole life you would see so many different walks of life in one subdivision. You've got, Muslims, Seikhs, Hindus, homosexuals, Black, white, Hmong, Mexican, Doctors, Lawyers, Teachers, all in one place." As he was talking I was thinking about how the Lord has brought the world to our door. While your neighborhood may not be as diverse as the one I'm in, there are people near you who need to know Christ.
To reach my community, I need to continually develop an intentional relationship with them. I should care for them when they need it. I should ask if I can pray for or with them when they're going through hard times.
I can't wait until the emergency broadcast beeps on my tv to tell people about the saving knowledge of Christ. I need to do it now. Because it could be any moment.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 11:1-12:24
Luke 17:11-37
Psalm 84:1-12
Proverbs 13:5-6
Jesus is coming soon.
We have a Mission to Reach our World for Christ.
When Jesus returns, it's not going to be like a movie where they see a comet coming and you've got 24 hrs. That's not the case. It could be this very moment. You might not even get this email.
"[When I return] the world will be [as indifferent to the things of God] as the people were in Noah's day. they ate and drank and married - everything just as usual right up to the day when Noah went into the ark and the flood came and destroyed them all. And the world will be as it was in the days of Lot: people went about their daily business - eating and drinking, buying and selling, farming and building - until the morning Lot left Sodom. Then fire and brimstone rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. Yes, it will be 'business as usual' right up to the hour of my return." (Luke 17:26-30)
We need to live with the urgency that it could be right now. Yesterday I spent some time visiting with a man who walks our neighborhood every day. He knows everyone in the whole subdivision. He said, "I never would have thought in my whole life you would see so many different walks of life in one subdivision. You've got, Muslims, Seikhs, Hindus, homosexuals, Black, white, Hmong, Mexican, Doctors, Lawyers, Teachers, all in one place." As he was talking I was thinking about how the Lord has brought the world to our door. While your neighborhood may not be as diverse as the one I'm in, there are people near you who need to know Christ.
To reach my community, I need to continually develop an intentional relationship with them. I should care for them when they need it. I should ask if I can pray for or with them when they're going through hard times.
I can't wait until the emergency broadcast beeps on my tv to tell people about the saving knowledge of Christ. I need to do it now. Because it could be any moment.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Monday, April 14, 2008
4.14.8 "Practicing Forgiveness"
"Practicing Forgiveness"
Joshua 9:3 - 10:43
Luke 16:19-17:10
Psalm 83:1-18
Proverb 13:4
Isn't it great to be forgiven? I have really done some stupid things in my life. I've sinned against God in ways that I'm so ashamed of. And yet, I went to him and he forgave me. That's an incredible thing... He forgave the debt of my sin. Have you been forgiven? How awesome is that? Think about that for a few moments.
Forgiveness is awesome. Let's look at it in another context:
"If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive." (Luke 17:3-4)
Now how awesome is forgiveness? We LOVE to be forgiven, but when it comes to forgiving others... yeah, that's another story. Forgiving is canceling debt. It's tough when we feel someone "owes" us to say the words, "you don't owe me any more." That is so tough because our emotions and self-worth are all tangled up in the process.
But forgiveness is not an emotion. It's a decision. If we waited for the "forgiveness emotion" to come, it never would. In the time that passes before we forgive, the pain of the debt grows deeper roots in our soul. We replay the offense in our mind. We add "interest" to the "debt". This is why we must get in the habit of forgiving early and often.
This is something that can be practiced. Since it is a decision, we must learn to discipline our hearts to forgive. As with other disciplines, it isn't an instant result thing. It takes time. It takes effort.
But when we go back and remember what it feels like to be forgiven, and when we consider the hypocrisy we are in if we do not forgive, how could we do any less than wipe the slate clean for those who "owe" us. What incredible freedom there is in practicing forgiveness.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 9:3 - 10:43
Luke 16:19-17:10
Psalm 83:1-18
Proverb 13:4
Isn't it great to be forgiven? I have really done some stupid things in my life. I've sinned against God in ways that I'm so ashamed of. And yet, I went to him and he forgave me. That's an incredible thing... He forgave the debt of my sin. Have you been forgiven? How awesome is that? Think about that for a few moments.
Forgiveness is awesome. Let's look at it in another context:
"If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive." (Luke 17:3-4)
Now how awesome is forgiveness? We LOVE to be forgiven, but when it comes to forgiving others... yeah, that's another story. Forgiving is canceling debt. It's tough when we feel someone "owes" us to say the words, "you don't owe me any more." That is so tough because our emotions and self-worth are all tangled up in the process.
But forgiveness is not an emotion. It's a decision. If we waited for the "forgiveness emotion" to come, it never would. In the time that passes before we forgive, the pain of the debt grows deeper roots in our soul. We replay the offense in our mind. We add "interest" to the "debt". This is why we must get in the habit of forgiving early and often.
This is something that can be practiced. Since it is a decision, we must learn to discipline our hearts to forgive. As with other disciplines, it isn't an instant result thing. It takes time. It takes effort.
But when we go back and remember what it feels like to be forgiven, and when we consider the hypocrisy we are in if we do not forgive, how could we do any less than wipe the slate clean for those who "owe" us. What incredible freedom there is in practicing forgiveness.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Sunday, April 13, 2008
4.13.8 "Don't Take the Short-Cut!"
"Don't Take the Short-Cut!"
Joshua 7:16-9:2
Luke 16:1-18
Psalm 82:1-8
Proverbs 13:2-3
Are you a goal oriented person? Do you have specific objectives that you want to accomplish down the road? For some it could be a monetary issue, for others a job position, others even ministry goals. Maybe you want to get married. Maybe you just want a happy marriage. I should state right up front that these are not in themselves unhealthy drives. God places passion and desire within us. He wants us to strive for growth and pursue his promise.
Having goals and vision can also be a dangerous thing. There will always be temptations to take a shortcut to achieve the goal. There can be many temptations to move ahead of God's timing.
Yesterday we read about Achan's sin. The people were instructed not to keep anything of the spoils from Jericho for themselves. Achan did. Today, his sin is revealed to everyone. Listen to his confession.
"Achan replied, 'I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel. For I saw a beautiful robe imported from Babylon, and some silver worth $200, and a bar of gold worth $500. I wanted them so much that I took them...'" (Jos. 7:20-21)
As a result of his sin, him & his family were destroyed. I find it interesting that now the Lord instructs the people to attack the city of Ai, and listen to this instruction:
"... but this time you may keep the loot and the cattle for yourselves." (Jos. 8:2)
If Achan had waited for God's timing, he would have had plenty. But his inability to be obedient and faithful to God's commands destroyed him. He wanted to take the shortcut.
We can think "I'd never do something like that," but the temptation isn't always in a huge "destroy the family right away" kind of thing. It happens in little things. It can be so easy to fall into the trap of manipulation. For example, if you want a promotion at work and someone else is in the running, you can be tempted to cut them down to others. Or if you want to skate in the olympics you can club another skater in the knee...
This type of temptation can dwell in finances as well. You may be tempted to hold off tithe until you "catch up" or there may be other little things. What we fail to realize is that when we give in to the short cut, we alienate ourselves from the full gratification of the promise.
Jesus explains this in Luke "... for unless you are honest in small matters, you won't be honest with greater responsibilities. And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? And if you are not faithful with other people's money, why should you be entrusted with money of your own?" (Luke 16:10-12)
Each and every day we are in the proving ground for the promise ahead. The Lord is desiring to use the circumstances of our lives as tools for shaping our character and moulding us into trustworthy stewards of his resources. As we said yesterday, there is more at stake than we think.
Can you imagine what Achan's thoughts would be from his view from eternity? "if only I had done it God's way..."
Don't trade the promise for a bowl of soup. Don't feed the appetite of flesh. Don't take the Short-cut. Be faithful in small things. God has BIG plans!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 7:16-9:2
Luke 16:1-18
Psalm 82:1-8
Proverbs 13:2-3
Are you a goal oriented person? Do you have specific objectives that you want to accomplish down the road? For some it could be a monetary issue, for others a job position, others even ministry goals. Maybe you want to get married. Maybe you just want a happy marriage. I should state right up front that these are not in themselves unhealthy drives. God places passion and desire within us. He wants us to strive for growth and pursue his promise.
Having goals and vision can also be a dangerous thing. There will always be temptations to take a shortcut to achieve the goal. There can be many temptations to move ahead of God's timing.
Yesterday we read about Achan's sin. The people were instructed not to keep anything of the spoils from Jericho for themselves. Achan did. Today, his sin is revealed to everyone. Listen to his confession.
"Achan replied, 'I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel. For I saw a beautiful robe imported from Babylon, and some silver worth $200, and a bar of gold worth $500. I wanted them so much that I took them...'" (Jos. 7:20-21)
As a result of his sin, him & his family were destroyed. I find it interesting that now the Lord instructs the people to attack the city of Ai, and listen to this instruction:
"... but this time you may keep the loot and the cattle for yourselves." (Jos. 8:2)
If Achan had waited for God's timing, he would have had plenty. But his inability to be obedient and faithful to God's commands destroyed him. He wanted to take the shortcut.
We can think "I'd never do something like that," but the temptation isn't always in a huge "destroy the family right away" kind of thing. It happens in little things. It can be so easy to fall into the trap of manipulation. For example, if you want a promotion at work and someone else is in the running, you can be tempted to cut them down to others. Or if you want to skate in the olympics you can club another skater in the knee...
This type of temptation can dwell in finances as well. You may be tempted to hold off tithe until you "catch up" or there may be other little things. What we fail to realize is that when we give in to the short cut, we alienate ourselves from the full gratification of the promise.
Jesus explains this in Luke "... for unless you are honest in small matters, you won't be honest with greater responsibilities. And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? And if you are not faithful with other people's money, why should you be entrusted with money of your own?" (Luke 16:10-12)
Each and every day we are in the proving ground for the promise ahead. The Lord is desiring to use the circumstances of our lives as tools for shaping our character and moulding us into trustworthy stewards of his resources. As we said yesterday, there is more at stake than we think.
Can you imagine what Achan's thoughts would be from his view from eternity? "if only I had done it God's way..."
Don't trade the promise for a bowl of soup. Don't feed the appetite of flesh. Don't take the Short-cut. Be faithful in small things. God has BIG plans!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Saturday, April 12, 2008
4.12.8 "There's More at Stake than you Think"
"There's More at Stake than you Think"
Joshua 5:1-7:15
Luke 15:1-32
Psalm 81:1-16
Proverbs 13:1
Why does temptation have such a power over us? We know what we ought to do, and yet the lure of sin draws us so easily into its grip. Many times the main problem is the fact that we don't realize what is really at stake when we allow compromise and disobedience into our life.
In Joshua 6 the Israelites are at the walls of Jericho. Joshua gives them the command of how to defeat the enemy. This story is familiar to us. "The walls come a tumblin' down..." He has also given them the command to destroy everything except that which is to be used in the Lord's treasury.
"But there was sin among the Israelis. God's command... was disobeyed. For Achan... took some loot for himself" (Jos 7:1)
The result of Achan's sin is that the people scoped out the next enemy and were full of faith from what God had done, and based on that went out and were defeated. The result of that defeat was, "The Israeli army was paralyzed with fear at this turn of events." (7:5)
Remember Jesus' temptation in the Desert? Jesus was really being offered a shortcut to meeting his needs. Think about how often we like to take short cuts to the gratification of our desires. What we don't realize is that when we are tempted, there is ALWAYS more at stake than we think. It's not just about the issue at hand, there are great consequences to disobedience. We fool ourselves to think that we can live under the umbrella of blessing with our heart given to disobedience.
God's commands are very clear. "You must never worship any other god, nor ever have an idol in your home." (Ps. 81:9) He promises great blessing if we obey that. "Only test me! Open your mouth wide and see if I won't fill it. You will receive every blessing you can use! But no, my people won't listen. Israel doesn't want me around. So I am letting them go their blind and stubborn way, living according to their own desires. But oh, that my people would listen to me! Oh, that Israel would follow me, walking in my paths! How quickly then I would subdue her enemies! How soon my hands would be upon her foes!" (Ps 81:10-14)
What is really at stake when we pursue the desires of our flesh? God tells the people, "You cannot defeat your enemies until you deal with this sin." (Jos 7:13) Small steps of self-gratification are far more costly than we realize.
In today's reading in Luke Jesus is telling the story of the prodigal son. This son is one who wants his future NOW. He doesn't want to wait. What does this impatience cost him? He loses it all. Not only that, he finds himself out of relationship with his father. "Father, I have sinned against heaven and you, and am not worthy of being called your son..." (Luke 15:21)
We risk so much when we serve self. In tomorrow's reading in the One-Year Bible we see that Achan and his entire family is killed in judgement of his selfishness. When we are tempted, it is not merely a matter of testing our self-control. We risk our family, our future, and ultimately our faith. Every step of disobedience is extremely dangerous. It is a step toward a hard heart. It is a step away from God.
In whatever area the Lord is dealing with you in, make sure to walk in his path. Walk in his timing. Don't take a shortcut.
There's more at stake than you think!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 5:1-7:15
Luke 15:1-32
Psalm 81:1-16
Proverbs 13:1
Why does temptation have such a power over us? We know what we ought to do, and yet the lure of sin draws us so easily into its grip. Many times the main problem is the fact that we don't realize what is really at stake when we allow compromise and disobedience into our life.
In Joshua 6 the Israelites are at the walls of Jericho. Joshua gives them the command of how to defeat the enemy. This story is familiar to us. "The walls come a tumblin' down..." He has also given them the command to destroy everything except that which is to be used in the Lord's treasury.
"But there was sin among the Israelis. God's command... was disobeyed. For Achan... took some loot for himself" (Jos 7:1)
The result of Achan's sin is that the people scoped out the next enemy and were full of faith from what God had done, and based on that went out and were defeated. The result of that defeat was, "The Israeli army was paralyzed with fear at this turn of events." (7:5)
Remember Jesus' temptation in the Desert? Jesus was really being offered a shortcut to meeting his needs. Think about how often we like to take short cuts to the gratification of our desires. What we don't realize is that when we are tempted, there is ALWAYS more at stake than we think. It's not just about the issue at hand, there are great consequences to disobedience. We fool ourselves to think that we can live under the umbrella of blessing with our heart given to disobedience.
God's commands are very clear. "You must never worship any other god, nor ever have an idol in your home." (Ps. 81:9) He promises great blessing if we obey that. "Only test me! Open your mouth wide and see if I won't fill it. You will receive every blessing you can use! But no, my people won't listen. Israel doesn't want me around. So I am letting them go their blind and stubborn way, living according to their own desires. But oh, that my people would listen to me! Oh, that Israel would follow me, walking in my paths! How quickly then I would subdue her enemies! How soon my hands would be upon her foes!" (Ps 81:10-14)
What is really at stake when we pursue the desires of our flesh? God tells the people, "You cannot defeat your enemies until you deal with this sin." (Jos 7:13) Small steps of self-gratification are far more costly than we realize.
In today's reading in Luke Jesus is telling the story of the prodigal son. This son is one who wants his future NOW. He doesn't want to wait. What does this impatience cost him? He loses it all. Not only that, he finds himself out of relationship with his father. "Father, I have sinned against heaven and you, and am not worthy of being called your son..." (Luke 15:21)
We risk so much when we serve self. In tomorrow's reading in the One-Year Bible we see that Achan and his entire family is killed in judgement of his selfishness. When we are tempted, it is not merely a matter of testing our self-control. We risk our family, our future, and ultimately our faith. Every step of disobedience is extremely dangerous. It is a step toward a hard heart. It is a step away from God.
In whatever area the Lord is dealing with you in, make sure to walk in his path. Walk in his timing. Don't take a shortcut.
There's more at stake than you think!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Friday, April 11, 2008
4.11.8 "The Great Adventure!"
"The Great Adventure!"
Joshua 3:1-4:24
Luke 14:7-35
Psalm 80:1-19
Proverbs 12:27-28
God has a unique plan for each one of us. Our experiences, giftings, and passions are as diverse as our fingerprints. The one thing that we all share however, is the fact that God has big plans for every one of us. There is a Promised Land of potential that he has prepared for our lives. Whether we realize it or not, the name of the Promised Land is not "Mediocrity".
Pause to take a moment to consider how close you are to the Lord right now.
Is there anything between you and your relationship with him?
Are you as close as you've ever been?
Are you planning on getting closer?
Is there anything keeping you from getting closer?
As is illustrated in the journey of the Israelites, our adventure with Christ does not stop at salvation. We don't just "get out of Egypt" so we can wander around in the wilderness of mediocrity. We have a purpose and a direction that God has laid out for us. We must pursue it.
What's it going to take to get there?
Moses has died, and Joshua is now leading the people. they are getting ready to cross the Jordan. "'You have never before been where we are going now...' Then Joshua told the people to purify themselves. 'For tomorrow,' he said, 'the Lord will do a great miracle.'" (Jos. 3:4-5)
God does not want me to spend my life in a surface relationship with him. He doesn't want me to waste time repeating tests and recycling frustrations. He wants to bring me into a powerful and purposeful relationship with him to experience the full potential of his promise. Why? Not for my benefit, but so that he can make his name great in the world around me.
What are we to do in preparation for this adventure? We must purify ourselves. Consecration is a prerequisite of the miraculous experience. We must prepare for battle. We must keep the "radio" of our spirit tuned to the voice of God. To fill our lives with worldliness and self-gratification creates a broken signal.
I received a voicemail at the church that someone had left at 2:30 in the morning. "Pastor Greg, this is (static) could you call me as soon as (static)? I (static) need to talk to you. my number is 41...(static)." He was calling from a cell phone, and the connection was unclear. I was REALLY worried and was really praying for this guy. It's not usually good news if you're getting a call at that time of day. As it turned out it wasn't a crisis, he just works 3rd shift.
But when there's sin in our life, we put static in our communication with God. We can't hear his voice clearly. We must make sure to get the good "coverage" of a sinless life.
There is a price in following Christ, but it is worth it! "And no one can be my disciple who does not carry his own cross and follow me." (Luke 14:26)
We need to be so sensitive to the Holy Spirit that we hear clear directions in the smallest of things. When we respond in faithfulness to these little things, we will KNOW the voice of God so we don't have to doubt when God directs us to say, "Be Healed!"
We need to count the cost, consecrate ourselves, and prepare to experience the miracles God has laid out for us. We need to prepare for the journey of this Great Adventure!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Joshua 3:1-4:24
Luke 14:7-35
Psalm 80:1-19
Proverbs 12:27-28
God has a unique plan for each one of us. Our experiences, giftings, and passions are as diverse as our fingerprints. The one thing that we all share however, is the fact that God has big plans for every one of us. There is a Promised Land of potential that he has prepared for our lives. Whether we realize it or not, the name of the Promised Land is not "Mediocrity".
Pause to take a moment to consider how close you are to the Lord right now.
Is there anything between you and your relationship with him?
Are you as close as you've ever been?
Are you planning on getting closer?
Is there anything keeping you from getting closer?
As is illustrated in the journey of the Israelites, our adventure with Christ does not stop at salvation. We don't just "get out of Egypt" so we can wander around in the wilderness of mediocrity. We have a purpose and a direction that God has laid out for us. We must pursue it.
What's it going to take to get there?
Moses has died, and Joshua is now leading the people. they are getting ready to cross the Jordan. "'You have never before been where we are going now...' Then Joshua told the people to purify themselves. 'For tomorrow,' he said, 'the Lord will do a great miracle.'" (Jos. 3:4-5)
God does not want me to spend my life in a surface relationship with him. He doesn't want me to waste time repeating tests and recycling frustrations. He wants to bring me into a powerful and purposeful relationship with him to experience the full potential of his promise. Why? Not for my benefit, but so that he can make his name great in the world around me.
What are we to do in preparation for this adventure? We must purify ourselves. Consecration is a prerequisite of the miraculous experience. We must prepare for battle. We must keep the "radio" of our spirit tuned to the voice of God. To fill our lives with worldliness and self-gratification creates a broken signal.
I received a voicemail at the church that someone had left at 2:30 in the morning. "Pastor Greg, this is (static) could you call me as soon as (static)? I (static) need to talk to you. my number is 41...(static)." He was calling from a cell phone, and the connection was unclear. I was REALLY worried and was really praying for this guy. It's not usually good news if you're getting a call at that time of day. As it turned out it wasn't a crisis, he just works 3rd shift.
But when there's sin in our life, we put static in our communication with God. We can't hear his voice clearly. We must make sure to get the good "coverage" of a sinless life.
There is a price in following Christ, but it is worth it! "And no one can be my disciple who does not carry his own cross and follow me." (Luke 14:26)
We need to be so sensitive to the Holy Spirit that we hear clear directions in the smallest of things. When we respond in faithfulness to these little things, we will KNOW the voice of God so we don't have to doubt when God directs us to say, "Be Healed!"
We need to count the cost, consecrate ourselves, and prepare to experience the miracles God has laid out for us. We need to prepare for the journey of this Great Adventure!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Thursday, April 10, 2008
4.10.8 "I've Heard about You"
"I've Heard about You"
Deuteronomy 34:1-Joshua 2:24
Luke 13:22-14:6
Psalm 79:1-13
Proverbs 12:26
Ever meet someone and they say, "Oh yeah, I've heard about you!" What crosses your mind? Your first question is probably, "From whom?" You wanna know if it's been from friend or foe. You wanna know if it's been good news or bad. Sometimes we don't know what our reputation is.
In the 2nd Chapter of Joshua, Joshua had sent two spies to Jericho. They stayed at an inn operated by Rahab, who hid them when the city officials came to look for them. She told the spies, "I know perfectly well that your God is going to give my country to you. We are all afraid of you; everyone is terrified if the word 'Israel' is even mentioned. For we have heard how the Lord made a path through the Red Sea for you when you left Egypt! And we know what you did to Sihon and Og, the two Amorite kings east of the Jordan, and how you ruined their land and completely destroyed their people. No wonder we are afraid of you! No one has any fight left in him after hearing things like that, for your God is the supreme God of heaven, not just an ordinary god." (Jos. 2:9-11)
The spies reported back to Joshua, "The Lord will certainly give us the entire land for all the people over there are scared to death of us." (vs.24)
The reputation of God's people had gone before them. It prepared the way for battle. Of course, it was God who had done the great things through them that gave them this reputation, but as we've read, it had to be through their obedience to his direction.
I was thinking today about how a reputation "happens". I don't know that any of us have ever woke up in the morning and said, "Today I'm going to go out and establish my reputation." At the same time, our reputation is established by what we do every day.
Are you living today to establish a reputation? At the end of this day will people say, "Have you heard about [insert your name]? They are one of the most responsible, Godly people I have ever met!" "If you have a problem go see [your name]. She reads the bible and it's given her wisdom. She will pray for you."
A reputation is not established by big things happening to us. It is a result of how we respond consistently to the mundane. It's how we build a foundation of obedience that places us in a position for God to work miracles in and through us.
We don't need to be thinking, "What great thing can I do?". If our focus is on being continual faithful in the small things and the disciplines of life, we will look back and discover that of no pursuit of our own, something great has been accomplished.
Build your reputation today. In each and every little thing Live the DREAM. When you build the balanced Christian life, you are making a mark for Christ. You are showing people the way.
What will they say when they say, "Hey, I've heard about you..."?
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Deuteronomy 34:1-Joshua 2:24
Luke 13:22-14:6
Psalm 79:1-13
Proverbs 12:26
Ever meet someone and they say, "Oh yeah, I've heard about you!" What crosses your mind? Your first question is probably, "From whom?" You wanna know if it's been from friend or foe. You wanna know if it's been good news or bad. Sometimes we don't know what our reputation is.
In the 2nd Chapter of Joshua, Joshua had sent two spies to Jericho. They stayed at an inn operated by Rahab, who hid them when the city officials came to look for them. She told the spies, "I know perfectly well that your God is going to give my country to you. We are all afraid of you; everyone is terrified if the word 'Israel' is even mentioned. For we have heard how the Lord made a path through the Red Sea for you when you left Egypt! And we know what you did to Sihon and Og, the two Amorite kings east of the Jordan, and how you ruined their land and completely destroyed their people. No wonder we are afraid of you! No one has any fight left in him after hearing things like that, for your God is the supreme God of heaven, not just an ordinary god." (Jos. 2:9-11)
The spies reported back to Joshua, "The Lord will certainly give us the entire land for all the people over there are scared to death of us." (vs.24)
The reputation of God's people had gone before them. It prepared the way for battle. Of course, it was God who had done the great things through them that gave them this reputation, but as we've read, it had to be through their obedience to his direction.
I was thinking today about how a reputation "happens". I don't know that any of us have ever woke up in the morning and said, "Today I'm going to go out and establish my reputation." At the same time, our reputation is established by what we do every day.
Are you living today to establish a reputation? At the end of this day will people say, "Have you heard about [insert your name]? They are one of the most responsible, Godly people I have ever met!" "If you have a problem go see [your name]. She reads the bible and it's given her wisdom. She will pray for you."
A reputation is not established by big things happening to us. It is a result of how we respond consistently to the mundane. It's how we build a foundation of obedience that places us in a position for God to work miracles in and through us.
We don't need to be thinking, "What great thing can I do?". If our focus is on being continual faithful in the small things and the disciplines of life, we will look back and discover that of no pursuit of our own, something great has been accomplished.
Build your reputation today. In each and every little thing Live the DREAM. When you build the balanced Christian life, you are making a mark for Christ. You are showing people the way.
What will they say when they say, "Hey, I've heard about you..."?
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
4.9.8 "Do Wonders!"
"Do Wonders!"
Deuteronomy 33:1-29
Luke 13:1-21
Psalm 78:65-72
Proverbs 12:25
We know we are a part of the Body of Christ. Each of us have some understanding of how a body functions. In Ephesians 4 it says, "as each part does it's work." Sometimes we get the impression that it is a lot of "work" to be effective in the Body of Christ. That's not necessarily true. When Ephesians says "as each part does it's work", it means that "when everyone is doing what they were created to do."
We are created to be in Relationships Devoted to Unity. We need one another. Sure, there are times when there are "profound" and "great works" that need to happen, but more often then not, the greatest thing we can do for one another is actually quite simple!
"Anxious hearts are very heavy but a word of encouragement does wonders!" Prov. 12:25 The NLT says, "Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up."
We are surrounded by anxious people. Not just in the workplace, but within the Body of Christ. Think of the last person who encouraged you, and how much that did to equip you to carry on.
There are so many times we can get tired, discouraged, and just want to hang it up. It's amazing what a few words can do to change the environment. I can't tell you the number of times that individuals have encouraged me at JUST the Right Time! It truly does wonders!
This should be the culture of those who walk in fellowship with other believers. We should all be encouraging one another, working together. In "the Message", I Thes. 5:15 says, "And be careful that when you get on each other's nerves you don't snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out." It's not "if" you get on each other's nerves, it's "when"! But look for the best in each other. When you do that, it humbles you, and your nerves aren't so easy to get on.
You may have an anxious heart to day. What you may need to do to lift your spirits is begin to look for others who you can encourage. Spread the light of encouragement today. Seek others out. Who would the Lord place on your heart? Speak the words of life!
Do Wonders!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Deuteronomy 33:1-29
Luke 13:1-21
Psalm 78:65-72
Proverbs 12:25
We know we are a part of the Body of Christ. Each of us have some understanding of how a body functions. In Ephesians 4 it says, "as each part does it's work." Sometimes we get the impression that it is a lot of "work" to be effective in the Body of Christ. That's not necessarily true. When Ephesians says "as each part does it's work", it means that "when everyone is doing what they were created to do."
We are created to be in Relationships Devoted to Unity. We need one another. Sure, there are times when there are "profound" and "great works" that need to happen, but more often then not, the greatest thing we can do for one another is actually quite simple!
"Anxious hearts are very heavy but a word of encouragement does wonders!" Prov. 12:25 The NLT says, "Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up."
We are surrounded by anxious people. Not just in the workplace, but within the Body of Christ. Think of the last person who encouraged you, and how much that did to equip you to carry on.
There are so many times we can get tired, discouraged, and just want to hang it up. It's amazing what a few words can do to change the environment. I can't tell you the number of times that individuals have encouraged me at JUST the Right Time! It truly does wonders!
This should be the culture of those who walk in fellowship with other believers. We should all be encouraging one another, working together. In "the Message", I Thes. 5:15 says, "And be careful that when you get on each other's nerves you don't snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out." It's not "if" you get on each other's nerves, it's "when"! But look for the best in each other. When you do that, it humbles you, and your nerves aren't so easy to get on.
You may have an anxious heart to day. What you may need to do to lift your spirits is begin to look for others who you can encourage. Spread the light of encouragement today. Seek others out. Who would the Lord place on your heart? Speak the words of life!
Do Wonders!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
4.8.8 "Brought to the Border of Blessing"
"Brought to the Border of Blessing"
Deuteronomy 32:28-52
Luke 12:35-59
Psalm 78:56-64
Proverbs 12:24
"But he led forth his own people like a flock, guiding them safely through the wilderness. He kept them safe, so they were not afraid. But the Sea closed in upon their enemies and overwhelmed them. He brought them to the border of his land of blessing, to this land of hills he made for them." (Ps. 78:52-54)
God did great things for the people of Israel. He set them free. He gave them provision in the wilderness. He brought them to the border of the land of blessing.
"Yet though he did all this for them, they still rebelled against the God above all gods, and refused to follow his commands. They turned back... and disobeyed... Like a crooked arrow, they missed the target of God's will." (vs. 56-57)
What a sad statement. "They missed the target of God's will." Do you think that is true of believers today? I can look back at times in my own life when I've been disobedient. I've turned to sin instead of hitting the target of God's will for me. I didn't even realize in those times that I was at the Border of God's Blessing.
Listen to the powerful words of Deuteronomy 32:47. "These laws are not mere words - they are your life!"
To live the DREAM, we must have an understanding of what it means to live by Godly principles. We need to be genuinely Empowered Through Biblical Training. That takes discipline.
I think often we brush off the fact that we struggle in the area of "discipline". "Yeah, I'm pretty undisciplined... My bible reading is 'hit & miss'... Yeah, I know God wants me to do this, but I'm not ready to go there." Because of that lack of discipline, we fail in the area of Obedience which is our primary form of worship. Then we need to understand that if we're not living the Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship, we have a PROBLEM!
There is always more at stake than we realize when we are tempted. So many times we think it's an issue of self-control, or just a "minor" offense, or a "struggle". God's commands are not mere words, they are LIFE. That means to disobey them means DEATH.
Too often I believe we are turned back at the Border of Blessing because we wont follow through in complete obedience. I picture the "Border of Blessing Checkpoint". "Passport please..." Our passports have only one page. It must be stamped "Obedient". If it isn't.... "I'm sorry, you're going to have to take a detour." And like a broken arrow, we miss the target of God's will.
I want life. I want blessing. I must be obedient. When temptation comes, when trials come, I must make sure that I don't sacrifice what God has for me. I don't want to miss the "obedient" stamp in my passport. I must discipline myself to be in the Word. I must discipline myself to obey. This discipline must happen in daily life. If we wait until the climax of the testing, we can't say "Ok, NOW I want to be disciplined!! No, it must happen on a daily basis. Then, what has been done will be revealed in the testing.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Deuteronomy 32:28-52
Luke 12:35-59
Psalm 78:56-64
Proverbs 12:24
"But he led forth his own people like a flock, guiding them safely through the wilderness. He kept them safe, so they were not afraid. But the Sea closed in upon their enemies and overwhelmed them. He brought them to the border of his land of blessing, to this land of hills he made for them." (Ps. 78:52-54)
God did great things for the people of Israel. He set them free. He gave them provision in the wilderness. He brought them to the border of the land of blessing.
"Yet though he did all this for them, they still rebelled against the God above all gods, and refused to follow his commands. They turned back... and disobeyed... Like a crooked arrow, they missed the target of God's will." (vs. 56-57)
What a sad statement. "They missed the target of God's will." Do you think that is true of believers today? I can look back at times in my own life when I've been disobedient. I've turned to sin instead of hitting the target of God's will for me. I didn't even realize in those times that I was at the Border of God's Blessing.
Listen to the powerful words of Deuteronomy 32:47. "These laws are not mere words - they are your life!"
To live the DREAM, we must have an understanding of what it means to live by Godly principles. We need to be genuinely Empowered Through Biblical Training. That takes discipline.
I think often we brush off the fact that we struggle in the area of "discipline". "Yeah, I'm pretty undisciplined... My bible reading is 'hit & miss'... Yeah, I know God wants me to do this, but I'm not ready to go there." Because of that lack of discipline, we fail in the area of Obedience which is our primary form of worship. Then we need to understand that if we're not living the Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship, we have a PROBLEM!
There is always more at stake than we realize when we are tempted. So many times we think it's an issue of self-control, or just a "minor" offense, or a "struggle". God's commands are not mere words, they are LIFE. That means to disobey them means DEATH.
Too often I believe we are turned back at the Border of Blessing because we wont follow through in complete obedience. I picture the "Border of Blessing Checkpoint". "Passport please..." Our passports have only one page. It must be stamped "Obedient". If it isn't.... "I'm sorry, you're going to have to take a detour." And like a broken arrow, we miss the target of God's will.
I want life. I want blessing. I must be obedient. When temptation comes, when trials come, I must make sure that I don't sacrifice what God has for me. I don't want to miss the "obedient" stamp in my passport. I must discipline myself to be in the Word. I must discipline myself to obey. This discipline must happen in daily life. If we wait until the climax of the testing, we can't say "Ok, NOW I want to be disciplined!! No, it must happen on a daily basis. Then, what has been done will be revealed in the testing.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Monday, April 7, 2008
4.7.8 "Real Life and Real Living"
"Real Life and Real Living"
Deuteronomy 31:1-32:27
Luke 12:8-34
Psalm 78:32-55
Proverbs 12:21-23
"Beware! don't always be wishing for what you don't have. For real life and real living are not related to how rich we are." (Luke 12:15)
Finances, wealth and possessions can be a touchy subject. Whether or not we would like to admit it, it is one of the highest priorities in the life of an American. Consider advertising. Advertisers wouldn't be focusing on things that don't matter to people. They're targeting what they know people want. They focus on looks and possessions. Even Christian talk radio I like to listen to has many ads that say, "Make money from home... have what you've always wanted..."
Understand that money is not evil. Possessions are not bad things. But to Live the DREAM, we need to have a healthy picture and understanding of what our goal is. Our goal is to be good stewards of what we do have. This is what Active Ministry Involvement is all about. As I've explained before, It would be easy to look at the phrase "Active Ministry Involvement" and compartmentalize that into "church life". That's not what living the DREAM is all about. This should be a practical tool to apply to daily living.
So what is "Real Life and Real Living" in terms of Active Ministry Involvement?
Well let's look first at what it's not:
"A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. In fact, his barns were full to overflowing - he couldn't get everything in. He thought about his problem, and finally exclaimed, 'I know - i'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones! Then I'll have room enough. And I'll sit back and say to myself, 'Friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Wine, women, and song for you!' But God said to him, 'Fool! Tonight you die. Then who will get it all?'" (vs. 16-19)
How does this apply to our lives? We have to find balance in the stewardship of the resources God has given us. We must find the balance between wasting money foolishly and hoarding it for selfish gain. Establishing a retirement account is great. Establishing it for the purpose of getting rich and making it all about the possessions is not. At the same time, remember that Jesus told the parable of the prodigal son who squandered all his inheritance. That isn't God's plan either.
The principle of Active Ministry Involvement is "Responsibility". Take what you have and put it to work. Remember, we don't have money for the purpose of "getting" more, we have it for the purpose of "giving" more.
Blessing follows obedience. If you are obeying God, you WILL be successful. I know some of you probably cringed with that statement. It's important to know that it doesn't necessarily mean you will be "Rich". That is not the goal. The goal is to allow God to do as much as he can through all that you have.
We get so bent out of shape about financial things. We worry about having enough. "Then turning to his disciples he said, 'Don't worry about whether you have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. For life consists of far more than food and clothes. Look at the ravens - they don't plant or harvest or have barns to store away their food, and yet they get along all right - for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds!
"'And besides, what's the use of worrying? What good does it do? Will it add a single day to your life? Of course not! And if worry can't even do such little things as that, what's the use of worrying over bigger things?'" (22-26)
It is hard to get a healthy perspective on all of this when when we are surrounded by a culture that is so contrary to this. The message we hear is "If you WANT it, you NEED it." I don't even remember what it's about, but there's a commercial out now that has this huge red line painted on the ground. It says something like, "There's a line we all eventually cross. It's where we move from what we want to what we have." That's the goal of our society. That's the goal of your flesh. It's the goal of my flesh.
That's why it's so important to die to the flesh and live spiritually minded. Jesus said, "Yes, every man is a fool who gets rich on earth but not in heaven." (vs.21)
God WANTS to bless his people! Jesus lays out the mindset we should have. "So don't be afraid, little flock, For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom. Sell what you have and give to those in need. This will fatten your purses in heaven! And the purses of heaven have no rips or holes in them. Your treasures there will never disappear; no thief can steal them; no moth can destroy them." (vs.32-34)
Don't you love that line? The purses of heaven have no rips or holes in them! That's awesome! A tag line from a radio show says, "aren't your tired of having more month at the end of your money?" When we are struggling in the area of stewardship, it's like there's a hole in the purse. It runs out so fast!
Don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to teach a prosperity doctrine that is out of balance. What I AM saying is that God HAS A PLAN for the way we deal with ALL of our resources, NOT JUST MONEY. These principles apply to time, talent, and everything at our disposal. Do you have a house big enough for entertaining? Why aren't you hosting a home fellowship group? Do you have the gift of baking cookies? Why don't you make sure you welcome new people to your neighborhood with a fresh plate?
What is at your disposal? We all have an income of some sort, and we all have time and talent. What are we doing with it? Are we "squirreling" it away for selfish gain?
"Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be." (vs. 34)
Today God's Word is challenging me to put what he has given me to work for his glory.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Deuteronomy 31:1-32:27
Luke 12:8-34
Psalm 78:32-55
Proverbs 12:21-23
"Beware! don't always be wishing for what you don't have. For real life and real living are not related to how rich we are." (Luke 12:15)
Finances, wealth and possessions can be a touchy subject. Whether or not we would like to admit it, it is one of the highest priorities in the life of an American. Consider advertising. Advertisers wouldn't be focusing on things that don't matter to people. They're targeting what they know people want. They focus on looks and possessions. Even Christian talk radio I like to listen to has many ads that say, "Make money from home... have what you've always wanted..."
Understand that money is not evil. Possessions are not bad things. But to Live the DREAM, we need to have a healthy picture and understanding of what our goal is. Our goal is to be good stewards of what we do have. This is what Active Ministry Involvement is all about. As I've explained before, It would be easy to look at the phrase "Active Ministry Involvement" and compartmentalize that into "church life". That's not what living the DREAM is all about. This should be a practical tool to apply to daily living.
So what is "Real Life and Real Living" in terms of Active Ministry Involvement?
Well let's look first at what it's not:
"A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. In fact, his barns were full to overflowing - he couldn't get everything in. He thought about his problem, and finally exclaimed, 'I know - i'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones! Then I'll have room enough. And I'll sit back and say to myself, 'Friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Wine, women, and song for you!' But God said to him, 'Fool! Tonight you die. Then who will get it all?'" (vs. 16-19)
How does this apply to our lives? We have to find balance in the stewardship of the resources God has given us. We must find the balance between wasting money foolishly and hoarding it for selfish gain. Establishing a retirement account is great. Establishing it for the purpose of getting rich and making it all about the possessions is not. At the same time, remember that Jesus told the parable of the prodigal son who squandered all his inheritance. That isn't God's plan either.
The principle of Active Ministry Involvement is "Responsibility". Take what you have and put it to work. Remember, we don't have money for the purpose of "getting" more, we have it for the purpose of "giving" more.
Blessing follows obedience. If you are obeying God, you WILL be successful. I know some of you probably cringed with that statement. It's important to know that it doesn't necessarily mean you will be "Rich". That is not the goal. The goal is to allow God to do as much as he can through all that you have.
We get so bent out of shape about financial things. We worry about having enough. "Then turning to his disciples he said, 'Don't worry about whether you have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. For life consists of far more than food and clothes. Look at the ravens - they don't plant or harvest or have barns to store away their food, and yet they get along all right - for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds!
"'And besides, what's the use of worrying? What good does it do? Will it add a single day to your life? Of course not! And if worry can't even do such little things as that, what's the use of worrying over bigger things?'" (22-26)
It is hard to get a healthy perspective on all of this when when we are surrounded by a culture that is so contrary to this. The message we hear is "If you WANT it, you NEED it." I don't even remember what it's about, but there's a commercial out now that has this huge red line painted on the ground. It says something like, "There's a line we all eventually cross. It's where we move from what we want to what we have." That's the goal of our society. That's the goal of your flesh. It's the goal of my flesh.
That's why it's so important to die to the flesh and live spiritually minded. Jesus said, "Yes, every man is a fool who gets rich on earth but not in heaven." (vs.21)
God WANTS to bless his people! Jesus lays out the mindset we should have. "So don't be afraid, little flock, For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom. Sell what you have and give to those in need. This will fatten your purses in heaven! And the purses of heaven have no rips or holes in them. Your treasures there will never disappear; no thief can steal them; no moth can destroy them." (vs.32-34)
Don't you love that line? The purses of heaven have no rips or holes in them! That's awesome! A tag line from a radio show says, "aren't your tired of having more month at the end of your money?" When we are struggling in the area of stewardship, it's like there's a hole in the purse. It runs out so fast!
Don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to teach a prosperity doctrine that is out of balance. What I AM saying is that God HAS A PLAN for the way we deal with ALL of our resources, NOT JUST MONEY. These principles apply to time, talent, and everything at our disposal. Do you have a house big enough for entertaining? Why aren't you hosting a home fellowship group? Do you have the gift of baking cookies? Why don't you make sure you welcome new people to your neighborhood with a fresh plate?
What is at your disposal? We all have an income of some sort, and we all have time and talent. What are we doing with it? Are we "squirreling" it away for selfish gain?
"Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be." (vs. 34)
Today God's Word is challenging me to put what he has given me to work for his glory.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Sunday, April 6, 2008
4.6.8 "Sometimes it Has to Be Impossible"
"Sometimes it Has to Be Impossible"
Deuteronomy 29:1-30:20
Luke 11:37-12:7
Psalm 78:1-31
Proverbs 12:19-20
How long does a pair of shoes last for you? Being the high-end shoe shopper that I am, I usually wear my Payless shoes a bit longer than they last. But i'm usually pretty good for at least a year or so on a pair of shoes. How about those Israelites? Wandering in the desert for 40 years!
"For forty years God has led you through the wilderness, yet your clothes haven't become old, and your shoes haven't worn out!" (Deut. 29:5)
Pretty incredible, isn't it? These wanderers were Gellin'! (don't take out your greek dictionary.... that's form a commercial!)
So what's this all about? check out the next verse:
"The reason he hasn't let you settle down... is so that you would realize that it is the Lord your God who has been caring for you." (29:6)
Sometimes in life we find ourselves in impossible situations. Sure the example of clothes and shoes may not seem like a huge deal, but there's a deeper principle here we need to look at. We serve a powerful God. At the same time, we have a "rebellious" nature that wants to do it's own thing. Verse 19 says, "Let no one blithely think... 'I shall prosper even though I walk in my own stubborn way!'" (by the way, "blithely" means casual indifference)
When circumstances around us seem impossible, they actually can serve to put us in a place of a proper perspective. "I can't do this on my own!" is exactly the place to be. We too often don't understand or realize the incredible danger of walking through life with the tumor of self-sufficiency growing in us. Left unchecked and unchallenged by truth, this tumor will eventually blind the eye to the need for relationship with God. It's danger can't be overstated.
Impossible circumstances serve to prove the greatness of our God. However, even though the circumstances seem impossible, God never demands of us impossible things. He only asks that we obey him. Yet sometimes in our mind we build obedience to be this monstrous impossible thing. It never is.
"Obeying these commandments is not something beyond your strength and reach; for these laws are not in the far heavens, so distant that you can't hear and obey them, and with no one to bring them down to you; nor are they beyond the ocean, so far that no one can bring you their message; but they are very close at hand - in your hearts and on your lips - so obey them." (Deut. 30:11-14)
God isn't asking us to take impossible steps. He's already laid out steps before us in his word that are within our grasp. It's often not the "huge" things we struggle with. It's the very simple steps of obedience that we fail to follow through on. We fail to recognize the danger therein.
"Look, today I have set before you life and death, depending on whether you obey or disobey... Oh, that you would choose life; that you and your children might live! Choose to love the Lord your God and to obey him and cling to him, for he is your life and the length of your days." (30:15, 19-20)
This is the heart of our God. If we do the right thing by taking the small steps of obedience, He comes through in impossible situations. Man's concept of "religion" twists this all around. People think that to live "religious" is impossible. In fact, too often there are "religious" people who twist the truth into something 'impossible'.
The teachers of the law were doing that in Jesus' day. Needless to say, he didn't take too kindly to it.
"Woe to you experts in religion! For you hide the truth from the people. You wont accept it for yourselves, and you prevent others from having a chance to believe it." (Luke 11:52)
I'd hate to be on the "woe" end of a conversation with Jesus. We need to understand the profound simplicity of walking with God. Following him is a great adventure. As we seek his will we find that those impossible situations are nothing more than props in "rubber monster" movie. They are nothing in the presence of God!
Walk in obedience.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Deuteronomy 29:1-30:20
Luke 11:37-12:7
Psalm 78:1-31
Proverbs 12:19-20
How long does a pair of shoes last for you? Being the high-end shoe shopper that I am, I usually wear my Payless shoes a bit longer than they last. But i'm usually pretty good for at least a year or so on a pair of shoes. How about those Israelites? Wandering in the desert for 40 years!
"For forty years God has led you through the wilderness, yet your clothes haven't become old, and your shoes haven't worn out!" (Deut. 29:5)
Pretty incredible, isn't it? These wanderers were Gellin'! (don't take out your greek dictionary.... that's form a commercial!)
So what's this all about? check out the next verse:
"The reason he hasn't let you settle down... is so that you would realize that it is the Lord your God who has been caring for you." (29:6)
Sometimes in life we find ourselves in impossible situations. Sure the example of clothes and shoes may not seem like a huge deal, but there's a deeper principle here we need to look at. We serve a powerful God. At the same time, we have a "rebellious" nature that wants to do it's own thing. Verse 19 says, "Let no one blithely think... 'I shall prosper even though I walk in my own stubborn way!'" (by the way, "blithely" means casual indifference)
When circumstances around us seem impossible, they actually can serve to put us in a place of a proper perspective. "I can't do this on my own!" is exactly the place to be. We too often don't understand or realize the incredible danger of walking through life with the tumor of self-sufficiency growing in us. Left unchecked and unchallenged by truth, this tumor will eventually blind the eye to the need for relationship with God. It's danger can't be overstated.
Impossible circumstances serve to prove the greatness of our God. However, even though the circumstances seem impossible, God never demands of us impossible things. He only asks that we obey him. Yet sometimes in our mind we build obedience to be this monstrous impossible thing. It never is.
"Obeying these commandments is not something beyond your strength and reach; for these laws are not in the far heavens, so distant that you can't hear and obey them, and with no one to bring them down to you; nor are they beyond the ocean, so far that no one can bring you their message; but they are very close at hand - in your hearts and on your lips - so obey them." (Deut. 30:11-14)
God isn't asking us to take impossible steps. He's already laid out steps before us in his word that are within our grasp. It's often not the "huge" things we struggle with. It's the very simple steps of obedience that we fail to follow through on. We fail to recognize the danger therein.
"Look, today I have set before you life and death, depending on whether you obey or disobey... Oh, that you would choose life; that you and your children might live! Choose to love the Lord your God and to obey him and cling to him, for he is your life and the length of your days." (30:15, 19-20)
This is the heart of our God. If we do the right thing by taking the small steps of obedience, He comes through in impossible situations. Man's concept of "religion" twists this all around. People think that to live "religious" is impossible. In fact, too often there are "religious" people who twist the truth into something 'impossible'.
The teachers of the law were doing that in Jesus' day. Needless to say, he didn't take too kindly to it.
"Woe to you experts in religion! For you hide the truth from the people. You wont accept it for yourselves, and you prevent others from having a chance to believe it." (Luke 11:52)
I'd hate to be on the "woe" end of a conversation with Jesus. We need to understand the profound simplicity of walking with God. Following him is a great adventure. As we seek his will we find that those impossible situations are nothing more than props in "rubber monster" movie. They are nothing in the presence of God!
Walk in obedience.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Saturday, April 5, 2008
4.5.8 "I Can See Clearly Now!"
"I Can See Clearly Now!"
Deuteronomy 28:1-68
Luke 11:14-36
Psalm 77:1-20
Proverbs 12:18
Every now & then I enjoy getting a song stuck in your head!
"No one lights a lamp and hides it! Instead, he puts it on a lamp stand to give light to all who enter the room. Your eyes light up your inward being. A pure eye lets sunshine into your soul. A lustful eye shuts out the light and plunges you into darkness. So watch out that the sunshine isn't blotted out. If you are filled with light within, with no dark corners, then your face will be radiant too, as though a floodlight is beamed upon you." (Luke 11:33-36)
Your world is desperate for you to be who God has created you to be. We are to be the light of the world. How are we the light of the world? Because the presence of God dwells within us. How does that happen? "A pure eye lets sunshine into your soul."
You want to shine bright? Guard against the lustful eye that "shuts out the light and plunges you into darkness."
I've heard that those who later in life get glasses for the first time are shocked at how clear things are. The vision loss that has occurred is so gradual that one doesn't even know they aren't seeing clearly. The same thing can happen with sin. What we mistakenly think of as "itty bitty" sin begins to cloud the vision, and the light is not shining clearly, and it can be so gradual that there's no concern because you don't notice the change.
"So watch out that the sunshine isn't blotted out." When we set our eyes on the things of God and we look into His Word and keep our eyes from evil, the Son begins to shine in us. His Presence dwells in us in brilliance. Then guess what... We SHINE!
You can't help but be the light of the world when God dwells in you. I need to make sure that sin does not cast a shadow on the light in my inward being.
I actually don't know the lyrics to "I Can See Clearly Now", so I had to look them up:
I can see clearly now, the rain is gone,
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day.
I think I can make it now, the pain is gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
Here is the rainbow I’ve been prayin' for
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day.
While the author of this song may have not had this application in mind, it does illustrate how we should be looking at life. We must cast out the dark clouds of sin that can blind. Focus on the Lord today. Get the Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship in gear for the Mission to Reach our World for Christ!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Deuteronomy 28:1-68
Luke 11:14-36
Psalm 77:1-20
Proverbs 12:18
Every now & then I enjoy getting a song stuck in your head!
"No one lights a lamp and hides it! Instead, he puts it on a lamp stand to give light to all who enter the room. Your eyes light up your inward being. A pure eye lets sunshine into your soul. A lustful eye shuts out the light and plunges you into darkness. So watch out that the sunshine isn't blotted out. If you are filled with light within, with no dark corners, then your face will be radiant too, as though a floodlight is beamed upon you." (Luke 11:33-36)
Your world is desperate for you to be who God has created you to be. We are to be the light of the world. How are we the light of the world? Because the presence of God dwells within us. How does that happen? "A pure eye lets sunshine into your soul."
You want to shine bright? Guard against the lustful eye that "shuts out the light and plunges you into darkness."
I've heard that those who later in life get glasses for the first time are shocked at how clear things are. The vision loss that has occurred is so gradual that one doesn't even know they aren't seeing clearly. The same thing can happen with sin. What we mistakenly think of as "itty bitty" sin begins to cloud the vision, and the light is not shining clearly, and it can be so gradual that there's no concern because you don't notice the change.
"So watch out that the sunshine isn't blotted out." When we set our eyes on the things of God and we look into His Word and keep our eyes from evil, the Son begins to shine in us. His Presence dwells in us in brilliance. Then guess what... We SHINE!
You can't help but be the light of the world when God dwells in you. I need to make sure that sin does not cast a shadow on the light in my inward being.
I actually don't know the lyrics to "I Can See Clearly Now", so I had to look them up:
I can see clearly now, the rain is gone,
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day.
I think I can make it now, the pain is gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
Here is the rainbow I’ve been prayin' for
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day.
While the author of this song may have not had this application in mind, it does illustrate how we should be looking at life. We must cast out the dark clouds of sin that can blind. Focus on the Lord today. Get the Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship in gear for the Mission to Reach our World for Christ!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Friday, April 4, 2008
4.4.8 "Distracted by Details"
"Distracted by Details"
Deuteronomy 26:1-27:26
Luke 10:38-11:13
Psalm 76:1-12
Proverbs 12:15-17
It is so easy to get so caught up in doing really good things that we forget what is truly important. Martha had invited Jesus into her home. "Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, 'Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.'
"But the Lord said to her, 'My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.'" (Luke 10:39-42)
Reading the story of Mary & Martha, one can take a couple different angles on it. What should Martha have done? Gone and sat at Jesus' feet? I don't know that that is the correct message from this passage. I believe it is more of an issue of her being "worried and upset". There's also the issue of "fairness" that she brings up. There's the thought, "Look how she just sits there while I do all this work..."
The work that Martha is doing is extremely important. Hospitality is a biblical principle. Were we to take the wrong interpretation from these verses, and base our theology on it, we'd all be inviting people over & not feeding them. We'd all just be sitting around. That's not sound doctrine.
What Jesus is saying is in essence, "Don't lose sight of why you are working. You invited me into your home. This is why you did that in the first place: to experience my presence. Don't let your hard work lose it's focus. The reason you're working hard is so someone can sit at my feet."
We've recently come off a very busy season preparing and presenting our Easter Musical outreach. There were hundreds of people involved with thousands of "man-hours" put into the presentation. Doing musicals is one of our greatest opportunities to engage people in ministry while reaching our community. During a musical rehearsal last year, I overheard a couple seasoned stage crew members talking. "I don't remember the last time I just sat and watched a musical." I'm not judging that statement at all, but reading this scripture, it made me think of the thousands who attend the outreaches. They come and sit at Jesus' feet with no real understanding of the sacrifices that have been made by those who've been "working in the kitchen" to prepare this outreach.
But that's ok. Jesus said, "Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her."
Whatever it is at your hand that you are working on, do not lose sight of why you do what you do. Jesus said, "whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matt. 25:40) While the details may be important, don't ever forget WHY you are working.
In the course of everything you do, make sure you do take time to sit at Jesus' feet every day. You may have much work to do, but if you don't take that kind of time, you WILL lose your perspective.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Deuteronomy 26:1-27:26
Luke 10:38-11:13
Psalm 76:1-12
Proverbs 12:15-17
It is so easy to get so caught up in doing really good things that we forget what is truly important. Martha had invited Jesus into her home. "Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, 'Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.'
"But the Lord said to her, 'My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.'" (Luke 10:39-42)
Reading the story of Mary & Martha, one can take a couple different angles on it. What should Martha have done? Gone and sat at Jesus' feet? I don't know that that is the correct message from this passage. I believe it is more of an issue of her being "worried and upset". There's also the issue of "fairness" that she brings up. There's the thought, "Look how she just sits there while I do all this work..."
The work that Martha is doing is extremely important. Hospitality is a biblical principle. Were we to take the wrong interpretation from these verses, and base our theology on it, we'd all be inviting people over & not feeding them. We'd all just be sitting around. That's not sound doctrine.
What Jesus is saying is in essence, "Don't lose sight of why you are working. You invited me into your home. This is why you did that in the first place: to experience my presence. Don't let your hard work lose it's focus. The reason you're working hard is so someone can sit at my feet."
We've recently come off a very busy season preparing and presenting our Easter Musical outreach. There were hundreds of people involved with thousands of "man-hours" put into the presentation. Doing musicals is one of our greatest opportunities to engage people in ministry while reaching our community. During a musical rehearsal last year, I overheard a couple seasoned stage crew members talking. "I don't remember the last time I just sat and watched a musical." I'm not judging that statement at all, but reading this scripture, it made me think of the thousands who attend the outreaches. They come and sit at Jesus' feet with no real understanding of the sacrifices that have been made by those who've been "working in the kitchen" to prepare this outreach.
But that's ok. Jesus said, "Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her."
Whatever it is at your hand that you are working on, do not lose sight of why you do what you do. Jesus said, "whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matt. 25:40) While the details may be important, don't ever forget WHY you are working.
In the course of everything you do, make sure you do take time to sit at Jesus' feet every day. You may have much work to do, but if you don't take that kind of time, you WILL lose your perspective.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
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