"Speak Out!"
Ezekiel 20:1-49
Hebrew 9:13-28
Psalm 107:1-43
Proverbs 27:11
The study of the word is such an incredible way to get to know God. As we look at the full expanse of scripture we learn so much about his character. Too often we grab a "verse-for-the-day" to ease our conscience instead of taking the time to get into the word and get to know him! The only way you can get to know anyone is to spend time with them. What can be greater than spending time with God? Psalm 107 is a great chapter of encouragement to praise the Lord.
"Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies." vs 2
"He brought the exiles back from the farthest corners of the earth. They were wandering homeless in the desert, hungry and thirsty and faint. "Lord, help!" they cried, and he did! He led them straight to safety and a place to live. Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness, and for all of his wonderful deeds! For he satisfies the thirsty soul and fills the hungry soul with good." vs. 3-9
Have you been there? Thirsty of soul? Has God heard you?
"Who are these who sit in darkness, in the shadow of death, crushed by misery and slavery?... Then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he rescued them!... Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all his wonderful deeds! For he broke down their prison gates of brass and cut apart their iron bars." v.10,13-16
Have you been in the prison of bondage? Are you free?
"Others, the fools, were ill because of their sinful ways... then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he helped them and delivered them. He spoke, and they were healed - snatched from the door of death. Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them tell him "Thank you" as their sacrifice, and sing about his glorious deeds." vs. 17-22
Have you been in trouble because of your sin?
"And there were the sailors sailing the seven seas, plying the trade routes of the world. They, too, observe the power of God in action. He calls to the storm winds; the waves rise high. Their ships are tossed to the heavens and sink again to the depths; the sailors cringe in terror. They reel and stagger like drunkards and are at their wit's end. then they cry to the Lord in their trouble, and he saves them. He calms the storm and stills the waves. What a blessing is that stillness, as he brings them safely into harbor! Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them praise him publicly before the congregation, and before the leaders of the nation." vs. 23-32
What's your story? What has God done for you? Anything? If so, Speak out! Have you ever heard a testimony that just made you wanna shout? Have you ever thought the fact that there's someone in your world who needs to hear your testimony? Your words could build their faith.
I was thinking that too often we think the "normal" thing is an easy-going life. Things should be all ok. Therefore, we don't rejoice in times of blessing. Trouble comes and we cry out to God, but the fact that we subconsciously think we deserve the blessing, or the freedom, or whatever, we don't rejoice the way we should. The truth is that in a life without God, TRIALS are normal! Stormy seas and bondage are a way of life.
If we would only open our mouth and declare how God has delivered us, others could turn to him! One of the Resources of our life is our testimony. What are we doing with that resource? Think of your blessings today. Your home. Your family. Your children. Your job. Which one of those things did not have a crisis at some point? Did God come through? What did you do with that testimony? Did you bury it in the ground? If you put it to work by praising the Lord and telling of his greatness, it WILL come back with a return. God will use your testimony for his Glory. "Good men everywhere will see it and be glad, while evil men are stricken silent." vs.42
Think of the heathen of this world. Our silence gives them ammunition. It gives them voice. It drives me crazy every time I hear one of those "billions of years ago..." type of statements on TV. Were anybody to speak up to refute it, they seem weird. Why? Because it's not normal to hear of the greatness of God.
"Say 'Thank you' to the Lord for being so good, for always being so loving and kind. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies."
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
Showing posts with label Testimony. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Testimony. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
11.9.10 "Speak Out!"
"Speak Out!"
Ezekiel 20:1-49
Hebrew 9:13-28
Psalm 107:1-43
Proverbs 27:11
The study of the word is such an incredible way to get to know God. As we look at the full expanse of scripture we learn so much about his character. Too often we grab a "verse-for-the-day" to ease our conscience instead of taking the time to get into the word and get to know him! The only way you can get to know anyone is to spend time with them. What can be greater than spending time with God? Psalm 107 is a great chapter of encouragement to praise the Lord.
"Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies." vs 2
"He brought the exiles back from the farthest corners of the earth. They were wandering homeless in the desert, hungry and thirsty and faint. "Lord, help!" they cried, and he did! He led them straight to safety and a place to live. Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness, and for all of his wonderful deeds! For he satisfies the thirsty soul and fills the hungry soul with good." vs. 3-9
Have you been there? Thirsty of soul? Has God heard you?
"Who are these who sit in darkness, in the shadow of death, crushed by misery and slavery?... Then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he rescued them!... Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all his wonderful deeds! For he broke down their prison gates of brass and cut apart their iron bars." v.10,13-16
Have you been in the prison of bondage? Are you free?
"Others, the fools, were ill because of their sinful ways... then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he helped them and delivered them. He spoke, and they were healed - snatched from the door of death. Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them tell him "Thank you" as their sacrifice, and sing about his glorious deeds." vs. 17-22
Have you been in trouble because of your sin?
"And there were the sailors sailing the seven seas, plying the trade routes of the world. They, too, observe the power of God in action. He calls to the storm winds; the waves rise high. Their ships are tossed to the heavens and sink again to the depths; the sailors cringe in terror. They reel and stagger like drunkards and are at their wit's end. then they cry to the Lord in their trouble, and he saves them. He calms the storm and stills the waves. What a blessing is that stillness, as he brings them safely into harbor! Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them praise him publicly before the congregation, and before the leaders of the nation." vs. 23-32
What's your story? What has God done for you? Anything? If so, Speak out! Have you ever heard a testimony that just made you wanna shout? Have you ever thought the fact that there's someone in your world who needs to hear your testimony? Your words could build their faith.
I was thinking that too often we think the "normal" thing is an easy-going life. Things should be all ok. Therefore, we don't rejoice in times of blessing. Trouble comes and we cry out to God, but the fact that we subconsciously think we deserve the blessing, or the freedom, or whatever, we don't rejoice the way we should. The truth is that in a life without God, TRIALS are normal! Stormy seas and bondage are a way of life.
If we would only open our mouth and declare how God has delivered us, others could turn to him! One of the Resources of our life is our testimony. What are we doing with that resource? Think of your blessings today. Your home. Your family. Your children. Your job. Which one of those things did not have a crisis at some point? Did God come through? What did you do with that testimony? Did you bury it in the ground? If you put it to work by praising the Lord and telling of his greatness, it WILL come back with a return. God will use your testimony for his Glory. "Good men everywhere will see it and be glad, while evil men are stricken silent." vs.42
Think of the heathen of this world. Our silence gives them ammunition. It gives them voice. It drives me crazy every time I hear one of those "billions of years ago..." type of statements on TV. Were anybody to speak up to refute it, they seem weird. Why? Because it's not normal to hear of the greatness of God.
"Say 'Thank you' to the Lord for being so good, for always being so loving and kind. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies."
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
Ezekiel 20:1-49
Hebrew 9:13-28
Psalm 107:1-43
Proverbs 27:11
The study of the word is such an incredible way to get to know God. As we look at the full expanse of scripture we learn so much about his character. Too often we grab a "verse-for-the-day" to ease our conscience instead of taking the time to get into the word and get to know him! The only way you can get to know anyone is to spend time with them. What can be greater than spending time with God? Psalm 107 is a great chapter of encouragement to praise the Lord.
"Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies." vs 2
"He brought the exiles back from the farthest corners of the earth. They were wandering homeless in the desert, hungry and thirsty and faint. "Lord, help!" they cried, and he did! He led them straight to safety and a place to live. Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness, and for all of his wonderful deeds! For he satisfies the thirsty soul and fills the hungry soul with good." vs. 3-9
Have you been there? Thirsty of soul? Has God heard you?
"Who are these who sit in darkness, in the shadow of death, crushed by misery and slavery?... Then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he rescued them!... Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all his wonderful deeds! For he broke down their prison gates of brass and cut apart their iron bars." v.10,13-16
Have you been in the prison of bondage? Are you free?
"Others, the fools, were ill because of their sinful ways... then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he helped them and delivered them. He spoke, and they were healed - snatched from the door of death. Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them tell him "Thank you" as their sacrifice, and sing about his glorious deeds." vs. 17-22
Have you been in trouble because of your sin?
"And there were the sailors sailing the seven seas, plying the trade routes of the world. They, too, observe the power of God in action. He calls to the storm winds; the waves rise high. Their ships are tossed to the heavens and sink again to the depths; the sailors cringe in terror. They reel and stagger like drunkards and are at their wit's end. then they cry to the Lord in their trouble, and he saves them. He calms the storm and stills the waves. What a blessing is that stillness, as he brings them safely into harbor! Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them praise him publicly before the congregation, and before the leaders of the nation." vs. 23-32
What's your story? What has God done for you? Anything? If so, Speak out! Have you ever heard a testimony that just made you wanna shout? Have you ever thought the fact that there's someone in your world who needs to hear your testimony? Your words could build their faith.
I was thinking that too often we think the "normal" thing is an easy-going life. Things should be all ok. Therefore, we don't rejoice in times of blessing. Trouble comes and we cry out to God, but the fact that we subconsciously think we deserve the blessing, or the freedom, or whatever, we don't rejoice the way we should. The truth is that in a life without God, TRIALS are normal! Stormy seas and bondage are a way of life.
If we would only open our mouth and declare how God has delivered us, others could turn to him! One of the Resources of our life is our testimony. What are we doing with that resource? Think of your blessings today. Your home. Your family. Your children. Your job. Which one of those things did not have a crisis at some point? Did God come through? What did you do with that testimony? Did you bury it in the ground? If you put it to work by praising the Lord and telling of his greatness, it WILL come back with a return. God will use your testimony for his Glory. "Good men everywhere will see it and be glad, while evil men are stricken silent." vs.42
Think of the heathen of this world. Our silence gives them ammunition. It gives them voice. It drives me crazy every time I hear one of those "billions of years ago..." type of statements on TV. Were anybody to speak up to refute it, they seem weird. Why? Because it's not normal to hear of the greatness of God.
"Say 'Thank you' to the Lord for being so good, for always being so loving and kind. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies."
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, November 9, 2009
11.9.9 "Speak Out!"
"Speak Out!"
Ezekiel 20:1-49
Hebrew 9:13-28
Psalm 107:1-43
Proverbs 27:11
The study of the word is such an incredible way to get to know God. As we look at the full expanse of scripture we learn so much about his character. Too often we grab a "verse-for-the-day" to ease our conscience instead of taking the time to get into the word and get to know him! The only way you can get to know anyone is to spend time with them. What can be greater than spending time with God? Psalm 107 is a great chapter of encouragement to praise the Lord.
"Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies." vs 2
"He brought the exiles back from the farthest corners of the earth. They were wandering homeless in the desert, hungry and thirsty and faint. "Lord, help!" they cried, and he did! He led them straight to safety and a place to live. Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness, and for all of his wonderful deeds! For he satisfies the thirsty soul and fills the hungry soul with good." vs. 3-9
Have you been there? Thirsty of soul? Has God heard you?
"Who are these who sit in darkness, in the shadow of death, crushed by misery and slavery?... Then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he rescued them!... Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all his wonderful deeds! For he broke down their prison gates of brass and cut apart their iron bars." v.10,13-16
Have you been in the prison of bondage? Are you free?
"Others, the fools, were ill because of their sinful ways... then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he helped them and delivered them. He spoke, and they were healed - snatched from the door of death. Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them tell him "Thank you" as their sacrifice, and sing about his glorious deeds." vs. 17-22
Have you been in trouble because of your sin?
"And there were the sailors sailing the seven seas, plying the trade routes of the world. They, too, observe the power of God in action. He calls to the storm winds; the waves rise high. Their ships are tossed to the heavens and sink again to the depths; the sailors cringe in terror. They reel and stagger like drunkards and are at their wit's end. then they cry to the Lord in their trouble, and he saves them. He calms the storm and stills the waves. What a blessing is that stillness, as he brings them safely into harbor! Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them praise him publicly before the congregation, and before the leaders of the nation." vs. 23-32
What's your story? What has God done for you? Anything? If so, Speak out! Have you ever heard a testimony that just made you wanna shout? Have you ever thought the fact that there's someone in your world who needs to hear your testimony? Your words could build their faith.
I was thinking that too often we think the "normal" thing is an easy-going life. Things should be all ok. Therefore, we don't rejoice in times of blessing. Trouble comes and we cry out to God, but the fact that we subconsciously think we deserve the blessing, or the freedom, or whatever, we don't rejoice the way we should. The truth is that in a life without God, TRIALS are normal! Stormy seas and bondage are a way of life.
If we would only open our mouth and declare how God has delivered us, others could turn to him! One of the Resources of our life is our testimony. What are we doing with that resource? Think of your blessings today. Your home. Your family. Your children. Your job. Which one of those things did not have a crisis at some point? Did God come through? What did you do with that testimony? Did you bury it in the ground? If you put it to work by praising the Lord and telling of his greatness, it WILL come back with a return. God will use your testimony for his Glory. "Good men everywhere will see it and be glad, while evil men are stricken silent." vs.42
Think of the heathen of this world. Our silence gives them ammunition. It gives them voice. It drives me crazy every time I hear one of those "billions of years ago..." type of statements on TV. Were anybody to speak up to refute it, they seem weird. Why? Because it's not normal to hear of the greatness of God.
"Say 'Thank you' to the Lord for being so good, for always being so loving and kind. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies."
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
Ezekiel 20:1-49
Hebrew 9:13-28
Psalm 107:1-43
Proverbs 27:11
The study of the word is such an incredible way to get to know God. As we look at the full expanse of scripture we learn so much about his character. Too often we grab a "verse-for-the-day" to ease our conscience instead of taking the time to get into the word and get to know him! The only way you can get to know anyone is to spend time with them. What can be greater than spending time with God? Psalm 107 is a great chapter of encouragement to praise the Lord.
"Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies." vs 2
"He brought the exiles back from the farthest corners of the earth. They were wandering homeless in the desert, hungry and thirsty and faint. "Lord, help!" they cried, and he did! He led them straight to safety and a place to live. Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness, and for all of his wonderful deeds! For he satisfies the thirsty soul and fills the hungry soul with good." vs. 3-9
Have you been there? Thirsty of soul? Has God heard you?
"Who are these who sit in darkness, in the shadow of death, crushed by misery and slavery?... Then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he rescued them!... Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all his wonderful deeds! For he broke down their prison gates of brass and cut apart their iron bars." v.10,13-16
Have you been in the prison of bondage? Are you free?
"Others, the fools, were ill because of their sinful ways... then they cried to the Lord in their troubles, and he helped them and delivered them. He spoke, and they were healed - snatched from the door of death. Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them tell him "Thank you" as their sacrifice, and sing about his glorious deeds." vs. 17-22
Have you been in trouble because of your sin?
"And there were the sailors sailing the seven seas, plying the trade routes of the world. They, too, observe the power of God in action. He calls to the storm winds; the waves rise high. Their ships are tossed to the heavens and sink again to the depths; the sailors cringe in terror. They reel and stagger like drunkards and are at their wit's end. then they cry to the Lord in their trouble, and he saves them. He calms the storm and stills the waves. What a blessing is that stillness, as he brings them safely into harbor! Oh that these men would praise the Lord for his loving-kindness and for all of his wonderful deeds! Let them praise him publicly before the congregation, and before the leaders of the nation." vs. 23-32
What's your story? What has God done for you? Anything? If so, Speak out! Have you ever heard a testimony that just made you wanna shout? Have you ever thought the fact that there's someone in your world who needs to hear your testimony? Your words could build their faith.
I was thinking that too often we think the "normal" thing is an easy-going life. Things should be all ok. Therefore, we don't rejoice in times of blessing. Trouble comes and we cry out to God, but the fact that we subconsciously think we deserve the blessing, or the freedom, or whatever, we don't rejoice the way we should. The truth is that in a life without God, TRIALS are normal! Stormy seas and bondage are a way of life.
If we would only open our mouth and declare how God has delivered us, others could turn to him! One of the Resources of our life is our testimony. What are we doing with that resource? Think of your blessings today. Your home. Your family. Your children. Your job. Which one of those things did not have a crisis at some point? Did God come through? What did you do with that testimony? Did you bury it in the ground? If you put it to work by praising the Lord and telling of his greatness, it WILL come back with a return. God will use your testimony for his Glory. "Good men everywhere will see it and be glad, while evil men are stricken silent." vs.42
Think of the heathen of this world. Our silence gives them ammunition. It gives them voice. It drives me crazy every time I hear one of those "billions of years ago..." type of statements on TV. Were anybody to speak up to refute it, they seem weird. Why? Because it's not normal to hear of the greatness of God.
"Say 'Thank you' to the Lord for being so good, for always being so loving and kind. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies."
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, July 8, 2009
7.8.9 "You're Nuts!"
"You're Nuts!"
I Chronicles 5:18-6:81
Acts 26:1-32
Psalm 6:1-10
Proverbs 18:20-21
In Acts 26 Paul is in front of King Agrippa, his lovely wife Bernice, and Governor Festus. The charges have been brought forth by the Jews. Agrippa says to Paul, "Go ahead. Tell us your story." (Acts 26:1)
Paul then lays out what is to me a tremendous path of understanding where he's at. He speaks in terms they can understand. Common ground. He begins talking of his being a Pharisee, and how he only desires what all Jews want. He then recounts his history of torturing Christians and chasing them to distant cities in foreign lands.
Then comes the Damascus road. He tells them the story of this light and how it changed his life forever. He tells of his commission to "tell the world about this experience." to go to the Gentiles "to open their eyes to their true condition so that they may repent and live in the light of God." (Acts 26:15-18)
He talks of his obedience to that call, and God's protection and provision as he's been obedient.
He closes by connecting the dots from Moses to the Messiah.
Wow - What a great job, Paul! If I were there as a believer, I would have wanted to jump to my feet clapping and yelling "attaboy, Paul!!!" But before I could do that, Festus interrupts shouting, "PAUL, YOU ARE INSANE!! YOUR LONG STUDYING HAS BROKEN YOUR MIND!" (Acts 26:24)
In verse 30, "Then the king, the governor, Bernice, and all the others stood and left."
Well, what do you get out of that little tale?
First, I think we need to understand our testimony the way Paul did.
1. Remember where you came from. You were no different than those you are speaking to.
2. Remember what changed your life. Be able to communicate your salvation experience.
3. Remember what God has called you to do. Understand that you are to "tell the world about this experience."
4. Remember what God has done since to sustain you. Tell of his greatness & provision.
I think Paul laid out a great road map for sharing Christ with your world.
The next thing we must realize is that to the world, we are insane! I've always kind of felt that was a bad thing. It's not. I'm not saying we should be out of balance loonies. We need to be people of good works so that we bring glory to the name of the Lord. But it's normal that the world doesn't get it. I catch myself being so afraid of sounding "weird", that I render myself ineffective for the Kingdom. I know I'm sounding like I contradict what I said the other day about being a light that men are drawn too, but in living the DREAM, both are true. Your world will be drawn to you as a Balanced Christian, and at the same time, they will think you're insane. Do you know why?
"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." I Cor. 1:18.
As you have opportunity to share your story with unbelievers, don't feel like a failure if their response is like that of Festus. Stick it out. Don't let it knock you off course. You can't Live the DREAM without your "Mission to reach our world for Christ." God has commissioned you to go to them to "open their eyes to their true condition..."
Be confident in your testimony. Not arrogant, or obnoxious, just confident in what God has done in you. If we get this, I believe that through the Power of the Spirit, we can change the world!
"Go ahead. Tell us your story."
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
I Chronicles 5:18-6:81
Acts 26:1-32
Psalm 6:1-10
Proverbs 18:20-21
In Acts 26 Paul is in front of King Agrippa, his lovely wife Bernice, and Governor Festus. The charges have been brought forth by the Jews. Agrippa says to Paul, "Go ahead. Tell us your story." (Acts 26:1)
Paul then lays out what is to me a tremendous path of understanding where he's at. He speaks in terms they can understand. Common ground. He begins talking of his being a Pharisee, and how he only desires what all Jews want. He then recounts his history of torturing Christians and chasing them to distant cities in foreign lands.
Then comes the Damascus road. He tells them the story of this light and how it changed his life forever. He tells of his commission to "tell the world about this experience." to go to the Gentiles "to open their eyes to their true condition so that they may repent and live in the light of God." (Acts 26:15-18)
He talks of his obedience to that call, and God's protection and provision as he's been obedient.
He closes by connecting the dots from Moses to the Messiah.
Wow - What a great job, Paul! If I were there as a believer, I would have wanted to jump to my feet clapping and yelling "attaboy, Paul!!!" But before I could do that, Festus interrupts shouting, "PAUL, YOU ARE INSANE!! YOUR LONG STUDYING HAS BROKEN YOUR MIND!" (Acts 26:24)
In verse 30, "Then the king, the governor, Bernice, and all the others stood and left."
Well, what do you get out of that little tale?
First, I think we need to understand our testimony the way Paul did.
1. Remember where you came from. You were no different than those you are speaking to.
2. Remember what changed your life. Be able to communicate your salvation experience.
3. Remember what God has called you to do. Understand that you are to "tell the world about this experience."
4. Remember what God has done since to sustain you. Tell of his greatness & provision.
I think Paul laid out a great road map for sharing Christ with your world.
The next thing we must realize is that to the world, we are insane! I've always kind of felt that was a bad thing. It's not. I'm not saying we should be out of balance loonies. We need to be people of good works so that we bring glory to the name of the Lord. But it's normal that the world doesn't get it. I catch myself being so afraid of sounding "weird", that I render myself ineffective for the Kingdom. I know I'm sounding like I contradict what I said the other day about being a light that men are drawn too, but in living the DREAM, both are true. Your world will be drawn to you as a Balanced Christian, and at the same time, they will think you're insane. Do you know why?
"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." I Cor. 1:18.
As you have opportunity to share your story with unbelievers, don't feel like a failure if their response is like that of Festus. Stick it out. Don't let it knock you off course. You can't Live the DREAM without your "Mission to reach our world for Christ." God has commissioned you to go to them to "open their eyes to their true condition..."
Be confident in your testimony. Not arrogant, or obnoxious, just confident in what God has done in you. If we get this, I believe that through the Power of the Spirit, we can change the world!
"Go ahead. Tell us your story."
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, October 4, 2008
10.4.8 "Protecting Purity"
"Protecting Purity"
Jeremiah 2:31- 4:18
Colossians 1:1-19
Psalm 76:1-12
Proverbs 24:21-22
There are many "subtle killers" out there. Carbon Monoxide is one. You don't see it, you don't smell it, and yet if you work with a gas powered engine in an enclosed area, it will overtake you. Hypothermia is considered another subtle killer. When you're trapped in the cold it lulls you to sleep and takes your life.
Probably the most dangerous of them all is this: Spiritual compromise is a subtle killer. Minor steps of disobedience at the onset seem like no big deal, but they numb the conscience ever so gradually, that an individual begins to feel that involvement in sin is nothing more than a matter of priorities that need adjustment, or just a minor offense. In the same way a mountain climber might just want to "take a short rest" in the snow, the compromising believer will take his eyes off the path of purity only to look around and find the spiritual fire has gone out.
In Jeremiah we see how God feels about this. God views our relationship with him as a marriage. He desires that we are intimately committed to Him. So what does that say about our little compromises or indulgences? "Is there a single spot in all the land where you haven't been defiled by your adulteries - your worshiping these other gods? You sit like a prostitute beside the road waiting for a client!" Jer 3:2
In verse 9 the Lord says, "She treated it all so lightly - to her it was nothing at all that she should worship idols made of wood and stone. And so the land was greatly polluted and defiled."
The marriage relationship is something to be protected and guarded. The intensity with which we guard it depends on how valuable we think it is. In other words, if we understand how important purity is in our marriage relationship, we will make every effort to intensely protect it. If we don't value it, how hard do we work to protect it?
How valuable is your relationship to God? How intensely do you protect it? Too often we treat it casually, and approach God saying, "'O Father, you have always been my Friend; surely you won't be angry about such a little thing! Surely you will just forget it?' So you talk, and keep right on doing all the evil that you can." (Jer. 3:4-5)
This is a Big Deal! If you can imagine the pain of adultery and a broken marriage, that is how God views our lack of faithfulness to him. In the same way God wants our earthly marriages to be pure so it can be a testimony to the world, He wants our pure relationship with him to be a sign to the world. Jeremiah 4:1-2 says, "O Israel, if you will truly return to me and absolutely discard your idols, and if you will swear by me alone, the living God, and begin to live good, honest, clean lives, then you will be a testimony to the nations of the World and they will come to me and glorify my name."
Put your every effort into living a life of purity. Put your efforts and energy into the value of your relationship with Christ. If you will value it, you will lock the doors of your heart to anything that would compromise the purity the Lord desires. Protect your purity!
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
Jeremiah 2:31- 4:18
Colossians 1:1-19
Psalm 76:1-12
Proverbs 24:21-22
There are many "subtle killers" out there. Carbon Monoxide is one. You don't see it, you don't smell it, and yet if you work with a gas powered engine in an enclosed area, it will overtake you. Hypothermia is considered another subtle killer. When you're trapped in the cold it lulls you to sleep and takes your life.
Probably the most dangerous of them all is this: Spiritual compromise is a subtle killer. Minor steps of disobedience at the onset seem like no big deal, but they numb the conscience ever so gradually, that an individual begins to feel that involvement in sin is nothing more than a matter of priorities that need adjustment, or just a minor offense. In the same way a mountain climber might just want to "take a short rest" in the snow, the compromising believer will take his eyes off the path of purity only to look around and find the spiritual fire has gone out.
In Jeremiah we see how God feels about this. God views our relationship with him as a marriage. He desires that we are intimately committed to Him. So what does that say about our little compromises or indulgences? "Is there a single spot in all the land where you haven't been defiled by your adulteries - your worshiping these other gods? You sit like a prostitute beside the road waiting for a client!" Jer 3:2
In verse 9 the Lord says, "She treated it all so lightly - to her it was nothing at all that she should worship idols made of wood and stone. And so the land was greatly polluted and defiled."
The marriage relationship is something to be protected and guarded. The intensity with which we guard it depends on how valuable we think it is. In other words, if we understand how important purity is in our marriage relationship, we will make every effort to intensely protect it. If we don't value it, how hard do we work to protect it?
How valuable is your relationship to God? How intensely do you protect it? Too often we treat it casually, and approach God saying, "'O Father, you have always been my Friend; surely you won't be angry about such a little thing! Surely you will just forget it?' So you talk, and keep right on doing all the evil that you can." (Jer. 3:4-5)
This is a Big Deal! If you can imagine the pain of adultery and a broken marriage, that is how God views our lack of faithfulness to him. In the same way God wants our earthly marriages to be pure so it can be a testimony to the world, He wants our pure relationship with him to be a sign to the world. Jeremiah 4:1-2 says, "O Israel, if you will truly return to me and absolutely discard your idols, and if you will swear by me alone, the living God, and begin to live good, honest, clean lives, then you will be a testimony to the nations of the World and they will come to me and glorify my name."
Put your every effort into living a life of purity. Put your efforts and energy into the value of your relationship with Christ. If you will value it, you will lock the doors of your heart to anything that would compromise the purity the Lord desires. Protect your purity!
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, July 8, 2008
7.8.8 "You're Nuts!"
"You're Nuts!"
I Chronicles 5:18-6:81
Acts 26:1-32
Psalm 6:1-10
Proverbs 18:20-21
In Acts 26 Paul is in front of King Agrippa, his lovely wife Bernice, and Governor Festus. The charges have been brought forth by the Jews. Agrippa says to Paul, "Go ahead. Tell us your story." (Acts 26:1)
Paul then lays out what is to me a tremendous path of understanding where he's at. He speaks in terms they can understand. Common ground. He begins talking of his being a Pharisee, and how he only desires what all Jews want. He then recounts his history of torturing Christians and chasing them to distant cities in foreign lands.
Then comes the Damascus road. He tells them the story of this light and how it changed his life forever. He tells of his commission to "tell the world about this experience." to go to the Gentiles "to open their eyes to their true condition so that they may repent and live in the light of God." (Acts 26:15-18)
He talks of his obedience to that call, and God's protection and provision as he's been obedient.
He closes by connecting the dots from Moses to the Messiah.
Wow - What a great job, Paul! If I were there as a believer, I would have wanted to jump to my feet clapping and yelling "attaboy, Paul!!!" But before I could do that, Festus interrupts shouting, "PAUL, YOU ARE INSANE!! YOUR LONG STUDYING HAS BROKEN YOUR MIND!" (Acts 26:24)
In verse 30, "Then the king, the governor, Bernice, and all the others stood and left."
Well, what do you get out of that little tale?
First, I think we need to understand our testimony the way Paul did.
1. Remember where you came from. You were no different than those you are speaking to.
2. Remember what changed your life. Be able to communicate your salvation experience.
3. Remember what God has called you to do. Understand that you are to "tell the world about this experience."
4. Remember what God has done since to sustain you. Tell of his greatness & provision.
I think Paul laid out a great road map for sharing Christ with your world.
The next thing we must realize is that to the world, we are insane! I've always kind of felt that was a bad thing. It's not. I'm not saying we should be out of balance loonies. We need to be people of good works so that we bring glory to the name of the Lord. But it's normal that the world doesn't get it. I catch myself being so afraid of sounding "weird", that I render myself ineffective for the Kingdom. I know I'm sounding like I contradict what I said the other day about being a light that men are drawn too, but in living the DREAM, both are true. Your world will be drawn to you as a Balanced Christian, and at the same time, they will think you're insane. Do you know why?
"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." I Cor. 1:18.
As you have opportunity to share your story with unbelievers, don't feel like a failure if their response is like that of Festus. Stick it out. Don't let it knock you off course. You can't Live the DREAM without your "Mission to reach our world for Christ." God has commissioned you to go to them to "open their eyes to their true condition..."
Be confident in your testimony. Not arrogant, or obnoxious, just confident in what God has done in you. If we get this, I believe that through the Power of the Spirit, we can change the world!
"Go ahead. Tell us your story."
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
I Chronicles 5:18-6:81
Acts 26:1-32
Psalm 6:1-10
Proverbs 18:20-21
In Acts 26 Paul is in front of King Agrippa, his lovely wife Bernice, and Governor Festus. The charges have been brought forth by the Jews. Agrippa says to Paul, "Go ahead. Tell us your story." (Acts 26:1)
Paul then lays out what is to me a tremendous path of understanding where he's at. He speaks in terms they can understand. Common ground. He begins talking of his being a Pharisee, and how he only desires what all Jews want. He then recounts his history of torturing Christians and chasing them to distant cities in foreign lands.
Then comes the Damascus road. He tells them the story of this light and how it changed his life forever. He tells of his commission to "tell the world about this experience." to go to the Gentiles "to open their eyes to their true condition so that they may repent and live in the light of God." (Acts 26:15-18)
He talks of his obedience to that call, and God's protection and provision as he's been obedient.
He closes by connecting the dots from Moses to the Messiah.
Wow - What a great job, Paul! If I were there as a believer, I would have wanted to jump to my feet clapping and yelling "attaboy, Paul!!!" But before I could do that, Festus interrupts shouting, "PAUL, YOU ARE INSANE!! YOUR LONG STUDYING HAS BROKEN YOUR MIND!" (Acts 26:24)
In verse 30, "Then the king, the governor, Bernice, and all the others stood and left."
Well, what do you get out of that little tale?
First, I think we need to understand our testimony the way Paul did.
1. Remember where you came from. You were no different than those you are speaking to.
2. Remember what changed your life. Be able to communicate your salvation experience.
3. Remember what God has called you to do. Understand that you are to "tell the world about this experience."
4. Remember what God has done since to sustain you. Tell of his greatness & provision.
I think Paul laid out a great road map for sharing Christ with your world.
The next thing we must realize is that to the world, we are insane! I've always kind of felt that was a bad thing. It's not. I'm not saying we should be out of balance loonies. We need to be people of good works so that we bring glory to the name of the Lord. But it's normal that the world doesn't get it. I catch myself being so afraid of sounding "weird", that I render myself ineffective for the Kingdom. I know I'm sounding like I contradict what I said the other day about being a light that men are drawn too, but in living the DREAM, both are true. Your world will be drawn to you as a Balanced Christian, and at the same time, they will think you're insane. Do you know why?
"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." I Cor. 1:18.
As you have opportunity to share your story with unbelievers, don't feel like a failure if their response is like that of Festus. Stick it out. Don't let it knock you off course. You can't Live the DREAM without your "Mission to reach our world for Christ." God has commissioned you to go to them to "open their eyes to their true condition..."
Be confident in your testimony. Not arrogant, or obnoxious, just confident in what God has done in you. If we get this, I believe that through the Power of the Spirit, we can change the world!
"Go ahead. Tell us your story."
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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