"Are your Deeds as Good as your Doctrine?"
Song of Solomon 5:1-8:14
2 Corinthians 9:1-15
Psalm 51:1-19
Proverbs 22:24-25
How blessed are you? Take a moment and think about it. You may have had some financial challenges, maybe even some employment issues, but how blessed are you? Have you ever thought about WHY you've been given what you have been given? Is it because you deserve it? Is it because God likes you better? What is the point of your blessing?
2 Cor. 9:11 says, "Yes, God will give you much so that you can give away much". That pretty much sums up the point.
As much as we like to have "stuff," we must understand that the point is not so that we "have" stuff. The point is that we "use" stuff to minister to people.
This is a principle of Active Ministry Involvement: There is a Responsibility to GIVE because it's been given to you. There is a purpose in this. verse 12-13 say, "So, two good things happen as a result of your gifts - those in need are helped, and they overflow with thanks to God. Those you help will be glad not only because of your generous gifts to themselves and to others, but they will praise God for this proof that your deeds are as good as your doctrine."
That's a pretty powerful statement. "... your deeds are as good as your doctrine." What is that saying? It's saying that you cannot be who God created you to be without the principle of giving in your life. You must be giving of your time, talent, and resources. Otherwise, your deeds do not line up with your doctrine. By not giving, your are hurting your testimony. This detracts from glory that should be going to God.
This is a big deal. I'm not really a generous person by nature. I might be more so with time & service, but not with giving gifts. Not because I don't like to give, but just because I usually don't think about it. It's not in my natural "wiring". While it might not naturally be a part of who I am, it should be a part of my evident maturity. It's a part of living the DREAM.
Don't get me wrong. This is not about throwing away money to every need that comes along. All must be in balance. We must be good stewards of what we've been given. Giving should be God-directed. When giving in good stewardship, "God is able to make it up to you by giving you everything you need and more, so that there will not only be enough for your own needs, but plenty left over to give joyfully to others." (2 Cor. 9:8)
God has put in place an incredible principle. Verse 6 says, "But remember this - if you give a little, you will get little. A farmer who plants just a few seeds will get only a small crop, but if he plants much, he will reap much." In that light it makes sense. To get a nice lawn, I've learned the key is over-seeding. If I want a thick lawn, I can't "sow sparingly". That makes sense to me. So, why can't I understand this when it comes to giving of time, talent & resources? It's the same principle. Sometimes we don't have enough time because of our selfish attitude about time. We shouldn't want a thick pocket book so we can have "stuff", but rather we should want to be able to act when the Lord presents a need.
We don't give to get, we give to get more to give. I need to really learn that. Imagine the change in our lifestyles if all believers lived this way. It would be almost like our deeds lined up with our doctrine!!
THAT'S why you have what you have!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Friday, September 7, 2012
Thursday, September 6, 2012
9.6.12 "Until the Time is Right"
"Until the Time is Right"
Song of Solomon 1:1-4:16
2 Corinthians 8:16-24
Psalm 50:8-15
Proverbs 22:22-23
"Get it Now!" That's the name of the store where I purchased a TV set a few years ago. I was just going in to look... but that place was set up to wheel & deal... I wanted it, and I got it. Our culture has positioned itself to "meet the need as fast as you can." "Buy now.. pay later..." Fast food is making billions on people who want a meal NOW.
Everything is wired for us to take the short cut. Feeling lonely? eHarmony, or match .com or somethign like that will solve all the problems, right? You have a need? Meet it fast!
Today's reading includes Song of Solomon. It's a story of two lover's that pursue each other, and those around who rejoice with them in their love. Song of Solomon 3:5 catches my eye. "Promise me, O women of Jerusalem, by the gazelles and wild deer, not to awaken love until the time is right."
My daughter was in first grade when she came home visibly upset. She didn't want to talk about it for the longest time. Finally, later she opened up and let me know that some other kids found out who she "had a crush on", and they were teasing her. It broke her heart. At the time I just empathized with her, but we had a great conversation later.
I told her that as her parent, she's my responsibility. I told her I have to protect her and care for her, and feed her, and make sure I don't let her drive the car until she's old enough, and a ton of other responsibilities. That's my job. I'm not allowed to leave her out in the yard, or even leave her home alone until she's old enough or let her watch anything she wants on TV. I wouldn't be caring for her if I did that.
I then explained to her that she also has a responsibility to protect and care for her affections. She must care for her heart. The reason it hurt so bad when others mocked is that her affections were "left out in the yard" way too early. They weren't ready to be there. There may be a time when the "crush" happens, but it's way too early for that to take root and be fed. She must make it a priority to keep her heart safe and not let feelings go uncontrolled.
Most of us who read this example can relate at some level. Many would probably think "yeah, first grade is WAY too early for that." Well, this principle is true for ALL of us THROUGHOUT our lives.
There is a place to awaken love. There are many more places love should never be allowed to go. This is true for men and women. We must guard our hearts. We must guard our affections.
Love is a very special, God-ordained phenomenon. It's much more decision than it is emotion. We get into trouble when we make poor decisions just because we want to feed an emotion. We are inclined to take short cuts. Those short cuts always end in heart ache and pain, even bondage.
Proverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, Guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life."
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Song of Solomon 1:1-4:16
2 Corinthians 8:16-24
Psalm 50:8-15
Proverbs 22:22-23
"Get it Now!" That's the name of the store where I purchased a TV set a few years ago. I was just going in to look... but that place was set up to wheel & deal... I wanted it, and I got it. Our culture has positioned itself to "meet the need as fast as you can." "Buy now.. pay later..." Fast food is making billions on people who want a meal NOW.
Everything is wired for us to take the short cut. Feeling lonely? eHarmony, or match .com or somethign like that will solve all the problems, right? You have a need? Meet it fast!
Today's reading includes Song of Solomon. It's a story of two lover's that pursue each other, and those around who rejoice with them in their love. Song of Solomon 3:5 catches my eye. "Promise me, O women of Jerusalem, by the gazelles and wild deer, not to awaken love until the time is right."
My daughter was in first grade when she came home visibly upset. She didn't want to talk about it for the longest time. Finally, later she opened up and let me know that some other kids found out who she "had a crush on", and they were teasing her. It broke her heart. At the time I just empathized with her, but we had a great conversation later.
I told her that as her parent, she's my responsibility. I told her I have to protect her and care for her, and feed her, and make sure I don't let her drive the car until she's old enough, and a ton of other responsibilities. That's my job. I'm not allowed to leave her out in the yard, or even leave her home alone until she's old enough or let her watch anything she wants on TV. I wouldn't be caring for her if I did that.
I then explained to her that she also has a responsibility to protect and care for her affections. She must care for her heart. The reason it hurt so bad when others mocked is that her affections were "left out in the yard" way too early. They weren't ready to be there. There may be a time when the "crush" happens, but it's way too early for that to take root and be fed. She must make it a priority to keep her heart safe and not let feelings go uncontrolled.
Most of us who read this example can relate at some level. Many would probably think "yeah, first grade is WAY too early for that." Well, this principle is true for ALL of us THROUGHOUT our lives.
There is a place to awaken love. There are many more places love should never be allowed to go. This is true for men and women. We must guard our hearts. We must guard our affections.
Love is a very special, God-ordained phenomenon. It's much more decision than it is emotion. We get into trouble when we make poor decisions just because we want to feed an emotion. We are inclined to take short cuts. Those short cuts always end in heart ache and pain, even bondage.
Proverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, Guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life."
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
9.5.12 "AM I?"
"AM I?"
Ecclesiastes 10:1-12:14
2 Corinthians 8:1-15
Psalm 49:1-20
Proverbs 22:20-21
The "A" of DREAM represents Active Ministry Involvement. What's that all about? Today's scripture readings seem to have a lot to say about it.
I like to shorten things, you know, come up w/ abbreviations, etc, so Active Ministry Involvement is AMI. So I like to put it this way: "AM I?"
Depending on your understanding of AM I, you may think it only means getting involved in a ministry. That's actually only the "fruit" of living the A of DREAM. The spiritual principle behind AM I is Responsibility. We have a responsibility to take the gifts God has given us and put them to work. These gifts are not just talents to use in a ministry, but include Time, Money, and any other gift God has given us.
Here are some main points along with the scriptures from today's reading.
1. We are responsible to use our resources for the Kingdom!
Ecclesiastes 11:9 "Young man, it's wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it! Do all you want to; take in everything, but realize that you must account to God for everything you do!" (notice the accountability to God which places responsibility on us).
2. Difficult times do not excuse us from this responsibility.
In 2 Corinthians 8, Paul is telling the church of Corinth about what has been going on in the churches in Macedonia: "Though they have been going through much trouble and hard times, they have mixed their wonderful joy with their deep poverty, and the result has been an overflow of giving to others. They gave not only what they could afford, but far more;"
3. It's not just a commitment of "stuff" it's a commitment of self.
2 Cor. 8:5 "Best of all, they went beyond our highest hopes, for their first action was to dedicate themselves to the Lord and to us, for whatever directions God might give to them through us."
4. As we mature, the responsibility increases.
2 Cor. 8:7 "You people there are leaders in so many ways - you have so much faith, so many good preachers, so much learning, so much enthusiasm, so much love for us. Now I want you to be leaders also in the spirit of cheerful giving."
5. Just because you can't do what someone else can, doesn't excuse you.
2 Cor 8:12 "If you are really eager to give, then it isn't important how much you have to give. God wants you to give what you have, not what you haven't."
6. Go past emotion into action.
2 Cor 8:11 "Having started the ball rolling so enthusiastically, you should carry this project through to completion just as gladly, giving whatever you can out of whatever you have. Let your enthusiastic idea at the start be equalled by your realistic action now."
7. You will reap what you sow.
Ecc. 11:1-2 "Give generously, for your gifts will return to you later. Divide your gifts among many, for in the days ahead you yourself may need much help.
2 Cor. 8:14 "Right now you have plenty and can help them; then at some other time they can share with you when you need it. In this way each will have as much as he needs."
8. You do your part and God will take care of what happens with it.
Ecc 11:6 "Keep on sowing your seed, for you never know which will grow - perhaps it all will."
9. What are you waiting for?
Ecc. 11:4 "If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done."
After reading all of that, I must ask myself. "AM I?"
Let's make sure we're being faithful to all that God has put our hand to.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Ecclesiastes 10:1-12:14
2 Corinthians 8:1-15
Psalm 49:1-20
Proverbs 22:20-21
The "A" of DREAM represents Active Ministry Involvement. What's that all about? Today's scripture readings seem to have a lot to say about it.
I like to shorten things, you know, come up w/ abbreviations, etc, so Active Ministry Involvement is AMI. So I like to put it this way: "AM I?"
Depending on your understanding of AM I, you may think it only means getting involved in a ministry. That's actually only the "fruit" of living the A of DREAM. The spiritual principle behind AM I is Responsibility. We have a responsibility to take the gifts God has given us and put them to work. These gifts are not just talents to use in a ministry, but include Time, Money, and any other gift God has given us.
Here are some main points along with the scriptures from today's reading.
1. We are responsible to use our resources for the Kingdom!
Ecclesiastes 11:9 "Young man, it's wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it! Do all you want to; take in everything, but realize that you must account to God for everything you do!" (notice the accountability to God which places responsibility on us).
2. Difficult times do not excuse us from this responsibility.
In 2 Corinthians 8, Paul is telling the church of Corinth about what has been going on in the churches in Macedonia: "Though they have been going through much trouble and hard times, they have mixed their wonderful joy with their deep poverty, and the result has been an overflow of giving to others. They gave not only what they could afford, but far more;"
3. It's not just a commitment of "stuff" it's a commitment of self.
2 Cor. 8:5 "Best of all, they went beyond our highest hopes, for their first action was to dedicate themselves to the Lord and to us, for whatever directions God might give to them through us."
4. As we mature, the responsibility increases.
2 Cor. 8:7 "You people there are leaders in so many ways - you have so much faith, so many good preachers, so much learning, so much enthusiasm, so much love for us. Now I want you to be leaders also in the spirit of cheerful giving."
5. Just because you can't do what someone else can, doesn't excuse you.
2 Cor 8:12 "If you are really eager to give, then it isn't important how much you have to give. God wants you to give what you have, not what you haven't."
6. Go past emotion into action.
2 Cor 8:11 "Having started the ball rolling so enthusiastically, you should carry this project through to completion just as gladly, giving whatever you can out of whatever you have. Let your enthusiastic idea at the start be equalled by your realistic action now."
7. You will reap what you sow.
Ecc. 11:1-2 "Give generously, for your gifts will return to you later. Divide your gifts among many, for in the days ahead you yourself may need much help.
2 Cor. 8:14 "Right now you have plenty and can help them; then at some other time they can share with you when you need it. In this way each will have as much as he needs."
8. You do your part and God will take care of what happens with it.
Ecc 11:6 "Keep on sowing your seed, for you never know which will grow - perhaps it all will."
9. What are you waiting for?
Ecc. 11:4 "If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done."
After reading all of that, I must ask myself. "AM I?"
Let's make sure we're being faithful to all that God has put our hand to.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
9.4.12 "I've Heard About You"
"I've Heard About You"
Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:18
2 Corinthians 7:8-16
Psalm 48:1-14
Proverbs 22:17-19
Have you ever just met someone and they say, "Oh yeah, I've heard about you..." and then they just kind of leave it at that? You really wonder what has been said. We usually laugh and say, "Only the good stuff is true..." or some cheesy phrase like that.
Ecclesiastes 7:1 says, "A good reputation is more valuable than costly perfume." At the time Solomon wrote this perfume was a pretty significant luxury for those who were well off. We need to remember that so we don't equate our reputation with our 19 year old bottle of Aqua Velva. How are you known? What elements of your life do people talk about? What have people seen in you? If you were a "fly on the wall" when you're the topic of discussion, what would be said?
I get a kick out of Ecc. 7:21-22, "Don't eavesdrop on others - you may hear your servant curse you. For you know how often you yourself have cursed others." Basically, "what goes around comes around."
If I had the opportunity to write down what I wish my reputation were, I don't know that I'd want to include the times I've gotten upset with someone or treated them poorly. I don't know that I'd mention the times I've dropped the ball with responsibilities that were given me. I don't know that I'd mention my jail time... (just kidding... there's no jail time). I'd just want to mention the good stuff.
If only it were so easy to walk up to the counter and sample some "eau de reputacíone" and slap down the cash for the best smelling reputation we could afford. It doesn't work that way. You can't buy the "scent" of your life. You "smell" like you've lived.
A reputation is costly because it is built over time. It's the visible fruit of the hidden labors of your life. Your private disciplines and priorities have set the course for what grows from your life. It's manifest in what people have seen in your consistency, or lack thereof. Oh how we wish it were based on our intentions. I'm the kind of person who "meant" to send a card. I "meant" to call. I "meant" to be on time. I "meant" to be organized. Our reputation has nothing to do with what we "meant" to do. It is based on what we did.
Too often in life we hope our destination is one thing while we travel on a path toward something else. Ec. 7:29 says, "... God created people to be virtuous, but they have each turned to follow their own downward path." I love to eat bad food, but I desire to look in shape. I want people to respect me, and yet I'm not faithful in my duties.
In prioritizing the "small" disciplines of life, we set the course for being who God created us to be. Stay the course. Be faithful. Honor God in all things.
Through the Power of the Spirit, Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:18
2 Corinthians 7:8-16
Psalm 48:1-14
Proverbs 22:17-19
Have you ever just met someone and they say, "Oh yeah, I've heard about you..." and then they just kind of leave it at that? You really wonder what has been said. We usually laugh and say, "Only the good stuff is true..." or some cheesy phrase like that.
Ecclesiastes 7:1 says, "A good reputation is more valuable than costly perfume." At the time Solomon wrote this perfume was a pretty significant luxury for those who were well off. We need to remember that so we don't equate our reputation with our 19 year old bottle of Aqua Velva. How are you known? What elements of your life do people talk about? What have people seen in you? If you were a "fly on the wall" when you're the topic of discussion, what would be said?
I get a kick out of Ecc. 7:21-22, "Don't eavesdrop on others - you may hear your servant curse you. For you know how often you yourself have cursed others." Basically, "what goes around comes around."
If I had the opportunity to write down what I wish my reputation were, I don't know that I'd want to include the times I've gotten upset with someone or treated them poorly. I don't know that I'd mention the times I've dropped the ball with responsibilities that were given me. I don't know that I'd mention my jail time... (just kidding... there's no jail time). I'd just want to mention the good stuff.
If only it were so easy to walk up to the counter and sample some "eau de reputacíone" and slap down the cash for the best smelling reputation we could afford. It doesn't work that way. You can't buy the "scent" of your life. You "smell" like you've lived.
A reputation is costly because it is built over time. It's the visible fruit of the hidden labors of your life. Your private disciplines and priorities have set the course for what grows from your life. It's manifest in what people have seen in your consistency, or lack thereof. Oh how we wish it were based on our intentions. I'm the kind of person who "meant" to send a card. I "meant" to call. I "meant" to be on time. I "meant" to be organized. Our reputation has nothing to do with what we "meant" to do. It is based on what we did.
Too often in life we hope our destination is one thing while we travel on a path toward something else. Ec. 7:29 says, "... God created people to be virtuous, but they have each turned to follow their own downward path." I love to eat bad food, but I desire to look in shape. I want people to respect me, and yet I'm not faithful in my duties.
In prioritizing the "small" disciplines of life, we set the course for being who God created us to be. Stay the course. Be faithful. Honor God in all things.
Through the Power of the Spirit, Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Monday, September 3, 2012
9.3.12 "The Synergy of Unity"
"The Synergy of Unity"
Ecclesiastes 4:1 - 6:12
2 Corinthians 6:14-7:7
Psalm 47:1-9
Proverbs 22:16
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 "Two can accomplish more than twice as much as one, for the results can be much better. If one falls, the other pulls him up; but if a man falls when his is alone, he's in trouble. Also, on a cold night, two under the same blanket gain warmth from each other, but how can one be warm alone? And one standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer; three is even better, for a triple braided cord is not easily broken."
This is a familiar portion of scripture. We've heard the stories of the draft horses and how they can carry a bazzillion tons when working in the synergy of unity. This is so true in the body of Christ. As we combine our focus into the vision Christ has for us, we cease to be a church trying to survive, and become a church that can change the world.
This principle also applies in the relationship of husband and wife. Whether or not you are married, I think it's as important that you hear this as much as anyone.
Have you ever felt the Lord leading you to do something that did not sit well with your spouse? A great vision, dream, decision? You're certain that when you "come down from the mountain" with this new plan or idea, your spouse is going to say, "Yes! let's go for it!" and great things will happen! I have a feeling that's RARELY how it turns out. Usually, the spouse finds a hole in the plan, a reason it wont work, or the worst feeling in the world, laughs it off because, "Honey, there's no way YOU could accomplish THAT!"
This is a common occurrence. Why?
A friend of mine was the pastor of a church who felt a call to the mission field, but his wife wasn't open to the idea AT ALL! Now what? The message this pastor shared was, "You can't live like Paul unless you stay like Paul." In other words, When you are married, you can't just say "God told me to do this" & jump ahead and do it unless your spouse is on the same page. He waited until the Lord moved on his wife's heart, and they moved ahead with one heart. .
God has put your marriage together with purpose. There is an authority structure and a responsibility structure within this relationship that He has ordained. We cannot operate to our potential outside this structure.
Lisa & I have not always been on the same page. I am a dreamer, she keeps us fed and in clean clothes. There is great potential for conflict in this area. There is also an incredible potential to change the world. Marriage is a growing process. As the "two become one", there is a process of melding perspectives and backgrounds and spiritual history. All this can be somewhat uncomfortable at times, but it is all part of discovering and becoming who God has created you to be. God gave your spouse to you to bring balance. He gave your spouse a perspective that you have been greatly lacking in your life. He wants to use you to your full potential, and this occurs through the complementary gifts of your spouse.
There were times that I was moving ahead with what I knew God wanted me to do without waiting for Him to complete his work in Lisa. Those were difficult times. She felt unloved, I felt unsupported. Once I learned to wait for her to come to understanding, or for God to change me, incredible things happened. Many times during that "waiting" process, God refined the vision, filled the holes that were lacking, and purified my motives.
Marriage is not put in place for "survival". It is there for impact. God wants to change the world through you and your spouse. You could be in either position in this. You could be the one with the big dream, and are discouraged because of lack of support, or you could be the one feeling that the dream is insane. The main point is that you must be committed to each other more than anything. Understand this process. God is COMPLETING His work in both of you through this.
Our lives have gone through some incredible seasons. In times that we have never been busier, never had more stress, more pressure, more responsibility, more challenges, more at stake... They have been some of the most fulfilling times. In times of transition and family crisis, we've helped each other balance the emotion and responsibility. One thing keeps us feeling like nothing is impossible: Knowing we are doing EXACTLY what God is calling us to do!
I am so thankful of what God has done in my life through Lisa. She has taken the dreams God has given me and made them happen. She has challenged me, cautioned me, encouraged me, supported me, scolded me and through it all refined me. (I know I'm still quite "unrefined", so she has job security!) Every morning I read the word and send out DEVOs. She equips me to do this. It's a part of OUR life, not a part of mine. I didn't even commit to writing them five years ago until she agreed.
There is a "Synergy of Unity" that needs to happen in every marriage. It doesn't come without working for it. It doesn't happen without allowing God to work in you and through you. Live in unity with your mate!
If you are reading this and you are single, this message is still for you. Not only are these principles especially important for you to understand if you are heading into a relationship, but there are people all around you who have an incorrect perspective and they are wasting their lives ignoring the potential that is available. Let God apply this same synergy of unity to your heart, and bring this encouragement to those in your world.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Ecclesiastes 4:1 - 6:12
2 Corinthians 6:14-7:7
Psalm 47:1-9
Proverbs 22:16
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 "Two can accomplish more than twice as much as one, for the results can be much better. If one falls, the other pulls him up; but if a man falls when his is alone, he's in trouble. Also, on a cold night, two under the same blanket gain warmth from each other, but how can one be warm alone? And one standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer; three is even better, for a triple braided cord is not easily broken."
This is a familiar portion of scripture. We've heard the stories of the draft horses and how they can carry a bazzillion tons when working in the synergy of unity. This is so true in the body of Christ. As we combine our focus into the vision Christ has for us, we cease to be a church trying to survive, and become a church that can change the world.
This principle also applies in the relationship of husband and wife. Whether or not you are married, I think it's as important that you hear this as much as anyone.
Have you ever felt the Lord leading you to do something that did not sit well with your spouse? A great vision, dream, decision? You're certain that when you "come down from the mountain" with this new plan or idea, your spouse is going to say, "Yes! let's go for it!" and great things will happen! I have a feeling that's RARELY how it turns out. Usually, the spouse finds a hole in the plan, a reason it wont work, or the worst feeling in the world, laughs it off because, "Honey, there's no way YOU could accomplish THAT!"
This is a common occurrence. Why?
A friend of mine was the pastor of a church who felt a call to the mission field, but his wife wasn't open to the idea AT ALL! Now what? The message this pastor shared was, "You can't live like Paul unless you stay like Paul." In other words, When you are married, you can't just say "God told me to do this" & jump ahead and do it unless your spouse is on the same page. He waited until the Lord moved on his wife's heart, and they moved ahead with one heart. .
God has put your marriage together with purpose. There is an authority structure and a responsibility structure within this relationship that He has ordained. We cannot operate to our potential outside this structure.
Lisa & I have not always been on the same page. I am a dreamer, she keeps us fed and in clean clothes. There is great potential for conflict in this area. There is also an incredible potential to change the world. Marriage is a growing process. As the "two become one", there is a process of melding perspectives and backgrounds and spiritual history. All this can be somewhat uncomfortable at times, but it is all part of discovering and becoming who God has created you to be. God gave your spouse to you to bring balance. He gave your spouse a perspective that you have been greatly lacking in your life. He wants to use you to your full potential, and this occurs through the complementary gifts of your spouse.
There were times that I was moving ahead with what I knew God wanted me to do without waiting for Him to complete his work in Lisa. Those were difficult times. She felt unloved, I felt unsupported. Once I learned to wait for her to come to understanding, or for God to change me, incredible things happened. Many times during that "waiting" process, God refined the vision, filled the holes that were lacking, and purified my motives.
Marriage is not put in place for "survival". It is there for impact. God wants to change the world through you and your spouse. You could be in either position in this. You could be the one with the big dream, and are discouraged because of lack of support, or you could be the one feeling that the dream is insane. The main point is that you must be committed to each other more than anything. Understand this process. God is COMPLETING His work in both of you through this.
Our lives have gone through some incredible seasons. In times that we have never been busier, never had more stress, more pressure, more responsibility, more challenges, more at stake... They have been some of the most fulfilling times. In times of transition and family crisis, we've helped each other balance the emotion and responsibility. One thing keeps us feeling like nothing is impossible: Knowing we are doing EXACTLY what God is calling us to do!
I am so thankful of what God has done in my life through Lisa. She has taken the dreams God has given me and made them happen. She has challenged me, cautioned me, encouraged me, supported me, scolded me and through it all refined me. (I know I'm still quite "unrefined", so she has job security!) Every morning I read the word and send out DEVOs. She equips me to do this. It's a part of OUR life, not a part of mine. I didn't even commit to writing them five years ago until she agreed.
There is a "Synergy of Unity" that needs to happen in every marriage. It doesn't come without working for it. It doesn't happen without allowing God to work in you and through you. Live in unity with your mate!
If you are reading this and you are single, this message is still for you. Not only are these principles especially important for you to understand if you are heading into a relationship, but there are people all around you who have an incorrect perspective and they are wasting their lives ignoring the potential that is available. Let God apply this same synergy of unity to your heart, and bring this encouragement to those in your world.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Sunday, September 2, 2012
9.2.12 "In Times of Trouble"
Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22
2 Corinthians 6:1-13
Psalm 46:1-11
Proverbs 22:15
What comes in times of trouble?
Alicea Britt Cole wrote a book called "Anonymous". She quotes a friend who states, "I feel that trials do not prepare us for what's to come as much as they reveal what we've done with our lives up to this point." That's a powerful statement. What has been revealed in your times of trouble?
Psalm 46:1-3
"God is our refuge and strength, a tested help in times of trouble. And so we need not fear even if the world blows up, and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam; let the mountains tremble!"
There are those who want to live life to the full and figure at the last minute they will turn to God. This week, Hurricane Isaac was an ominous reminder of this. It's been several years ago, but we can remember the images of the panic after Hurricane Katrina. As many were seeking refuge in the football stadium. In this time of trouble, instead of crying out to God, murder and rape happened. People die as they lived. The 'god' within these individuals reveals itself. Selfishness and rage can take over. Lawlessness. What is revealed in the Godly?
Psalm 46:4-6
"There is a river of joy flowing through the City of our God - the sacred home of the God above all gods. God himself is living in that City; therefore it stands unmoved despite the turmoil everywhere. He will not delay his help. The nations rant and rave in anger - but when God speaks, the earth melts in submission and kingdoms totter into ruin."
In the people of God, there is a river of Joy that runs deeper than any trouble. When we see the turmoil at the surface, we need to go deeper. Too often we don't go deep enough. We allow our eyes to see and accept the pictures seen of calamity, and when those around us ask "Why", we have no answer. If this world is the extent of reality, then all is meaningless.
Ecclesiastes 2:11 "But as I looked at everything I had tried, it was all so useless, a chasing of the wind, and there was nothing really worthwhile anywhere."
Living a life without purpose is not living. Knowing in our heart that God has a plan and purpose equips us to stand in the midst of the chaos and say, "Here is the Way! Here is the Hope". Imagine the impact you can have on a hopeless individual when you tell them, "God has a plan for you're life!"
Paul says in 2 Corinthians, "The world ignores us, but we are known to God; we live close to death, but here we are, still very much alive. We have been injured but kept from death. Our hearts ache, but at the same time we have the joy of the Lord. We are poor, but we give rich spiritual gifts to others. We own nothing, and yet we enjoy everything." (2 Cor. 6:9-10)
It isn't always easy, but we know it is worth it!!!
Today you may have the opportunity to rescue someone hiding in the attic of fear. Deep in your heart you know God is in control. You have the resources to give them a lifeline. Don't miss the opportunity!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
2 Corinthians 6:1-13
Psalm 46:1-11
Proverbs 22:15
What comes in times of trouble?
Alicea Britt Cole wrote a book called "Anonymous". She quotes a friend who states, "I feel that trials do not prepare us for what's to come as much as they reveal what we've done with our lives up to this point." That's a powerful statement. What has been revealed in your times of trouble?
Psalm 46:1-3
"God is our refuge and strength, a tested help in times of trouble. And so we need not fear even if the world blows up, and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam; let the mountains tremble!"
There are those who want to live life to the full and figure at the last minute they will turn to God. This week, Hurricane Isaac was an ominous reminder of this. It's been several years ago, but we can remember the images of the panic after Hurricane Katrina. As many were seeking refuge in the football stadium. In this time of trouble, instead of crying out to God, murder and rape happened. People die as they lived. The 'god' within these individuals reveals itself. Selfishness and rage can take over. Lawlessness. What is revealed in the Godly?
Psalm 46:4-6
"There is a river of joy flowing through the City of our God - the sacred home of the God above all gods. God himself is living in that City; therefore it stands unmoved despite the turmoil everywhere. He will not delay his help. The nations rant and rave in anger - but when God speaks, the earth melts in submission and kingdoms totter into ruin."
In the people of God, there is a river of Joy that runs deeper than any trouble. When we see the turmoil at the surface, we need to go deeper. Too often we don't go deep enough. We allow our eyes to see and accept the pictures seen of calamity, and when those around us ask "Why", we have no answer. If this world is the extent of reality, then all is meaningless.
Ecclesiastes 2:11 "But as I looked at everything I had tried, it was all so useless, a chasing of the wind, and there was nothing really worthwhile anywhere."
Living a life without purpose is not living. Knowing in our heart that God has a plan and purpose equips us to stand in the midst of the chaos and say, "Here is the Way! Here is the Hope". Imagine the impact you can have on a hopeless individual when you tell them, "God has a plan for you're life!"
Paul says in 2 Corinthians, "The world ignores us, but we are known to God; we live close to death, but here we are, still very much alive. We have been injured but kept from death. Our hearts ache, but at the same time we have the joy of the Lord. We are poor, but we give rich spiritual gifts to others. We own nothing, and yet we enjoy everything." (2 Cor. 6:9-10)
It isn't always easy, but we know it is worth it!!!
Today you may have the opportunity to rescue someone hiding in the attic of fear. Deep in your heart you know God is in control. You have the resources to give them a lifeline. Don't miss the opportunity!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Saturday, September 1, 2012
9.1.12 "The Power of the 'Potential' Perspective"
"The Power of the 'Potential' Perspective"
Job 40:1-42:17
2 Corinthians 5:12-21
Psalm 45:1-17
Proverbs 22:14
"You're not good enough to be a piano major." Those were the words of my piano teacher my second year of college. He was right. "You wont be able to get a job teaching orchestra because you lack the background and experience." I was told that by several people, including my supervising teacher when I student taught. All of these words were pretty discouraging. Shame on them for saying that, right? No, the reality is that they were all correct in their assessment of me.
"I know the plans that I have for you..." While these words are from Jeremiah 29:11, but everytime I hear them, I hear the voice of Ralph, the guy who lived across the hall from me at college. He had a slight speech impediment, and really bad breath ALL the time. He was one of those who always stood just a little too close when talking to you, too, so there was no escaping it. I think of him EVERY time I hear this familiar scripture. I was in my dorm room discouraged about my ability to become who I thought God had called me to be. Ralph knocked on the door. He had been praying in his room, and God told him to come read this scripture to me. From that moment on, Ralph became my encourager. He was seeing a potential in me that others couldn't. He knew that God had a plan for me. I began to believe it. Once I did, the words of the teachers and others were no longer stop signs in my path of obedience. They became great tools for me to focus my attentions on the weaker areas of my life. I began to embrace them. It made all the difference in the world.
What happens when you see others? Do you see the short-comings or do you see the potential? If you were a contemporary of Jesus, what would your judgment of him been the first time you saw him? Would you have seen the potential?
Paul says, "So stop evaluating Christians by what the world thinks about them or by what they seem to be like on the outside. Once I mistakenly thought of Christ that way, merely as a human being like myself. How differently I feel now! When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same any more. A new life has begun!" (2 Cor 5:16-17)
There are members of the Body of Christ around you and me every day. What do I see in them? Am I looking through worldly eyes, or am I looking from a "potential" perspective. What's the difference?
If you see a brother or sister in Christ the way God sees them, you begin to treat them a whole new way. You become an encourager. Can you name the encouragers in your life? You know who they are. You love to be around them. They make you feel like you can accomplish anything. For some, encouraging comes very natural. Encouragement is not one of my natural gifts, but over the years, I've really tried hard to see people through the "potential"-perspective. What a difference it makes in my attitude! Human eyes look at everything comparatively. God sees a fresh creation each time. When you look through a Potential Perspective, you begin to see how God can use them to change their world!
Someone you come in contact with today may be about to give up. They may be holding back from using their gifts. They may be afraid to walk in obedience. They may need Ralph to knock on their door. A few words from you could change their world. (But feel free to use a breath mint!)
To live in "Relationships Devoted to Unity", you live with a Potential Perspective. This is your mission. To encourage. To help someone discover and become who God has created them to be.
When the Body of Christ begins to function in this way, it's like a flood of oxygen to atrophied muscles. There is a new vitality. Christians begin to live what they believe: That God has a plan. There is a purpose. Great things will come.
You may need to adjust your 'lenses' today. You may have been seeing as the world sees. It's time to look at someone the way God does. Live with a Potential Perspective.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Job 40:1-42:17
2 Corinthians 5:12-21
Psalm 45:1-17
Proverbs 22:14
"You're not good enough to be a piano major." Those were the words of my piano teacher my second year of college. He was right. "You wont be able to get a job teaching orchestra because you lack the background and experience." I was told that by several people, including my supervising teacher when I student taught. All of these words were pretty discouraging. Shame on them for saying that, right? No, the reality is that they were all correct in their assessment of me.
"I know the plans that I have for you..." While these words are from Jeremiah 29:11, but everytime I hear them, I hear the voice of Ralph, the guy who lived across the hall from me at college. He had a slight speech impediment, and really bad breath ALL the time. He was one of those who always stood just a little too close when talking to you, too, so there was no escaping it. I think of him EVERY time I hear this familiar scripture. I was in my dorm room discouraged about my ability to become who I thought God had called me to be. Ralph knocked on the door. He had been praying in his room, and God told him to come read this scripture to me. From that moment on, Ralph became my encourager. He was seeing a potential in me that others couldn't. He knew that God had a plan for me. I began to believe it. Once I did, the words of the teachers and others were no longer stop signs in my path of obedience. They became great tools for me to focus my attentions on the weaker areas of my life. I began to embrace them. It made all the difference in the world.
What happens when you see others? Do you see the short-comings or do you see the potential? If you were a contemporary of Jesus, what would your judgment of him been the first time you saw him? Would you have seen the potential?
Paul says, "So stop evaluating Christians by what the world thinks about them or by what they seem to be like on the outside. Once I mistakenly thought of Christ that way, merely as a human being like myself. How differently I feel now! When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same any more. A new life has begun!" (2 Cor 5:16-17)
There are members of the Body of Christ around you and me every day. What do I see in them? Am I looking through worldly eyes, or am I looking from a "potential" perspective. What's the difference?
If you see a brother or sister in Christ the way God sees them, you begin to treat them a whole new way. You become an encourager. Can you name the encouragers in your life? You know who they are. You love to be around them. They make you feel like you can accomplish anything. For some, encouraging comes very natural. Encouragement is not one of my natural gifts, but over the years, I've really tried hard to see people through the "potential"-perspective. What a difference it makes in my attitude! Human eyes look at everything comparatively. God sees a fresh creation each time. When you look through a Potential Perspective, you begin to see how God can use them to change their world!
Someone you come in contact with today may be about to give up. They may be holding back from using their gifts. They may be afraid to walk in obedience. They may need Ralph to knock on their door. A few words from you could change their world. (But feel free to use a breath mint!)
To live in "Relationships Devoted to Unity", you live with a Potential Perspective. This is your mission. To encourage. To help someone discover and become who God has created them to be.
When the Body of Christ begins to function in this way, it's like a flood of oxygen to atrophied muscles. There is a new vitality. Christians begin to live what they believe: That God has a plan. There is a purpose. Great things will come.
You may need to adjust your 'lenses' today. You may have been seeing as the world sees. It's time to look at someone the way God does. Live with a Potential Perspective.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
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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