Did you ask for anything this Christmas season? Did you get it? Did your kids or grand kids ask for anything? Chances are they did. Did you as a parent or grandparent do your best to try to fulfill their request. Chances are you did.
I thought this was an opportune time to mention that God our heavenly Father has also told us to ask for the things we want.
Matthew 7:7-11
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
Allow me to confess here. There are many times I am guilty of not asking because I feel God has already been so overwhelmingly good to me and I have the tendency to think that He already knows what I am in need of why do I need to ask. But that is contrary to what the Bible says we should do so I have to remind myself to ask and to seek forgiveness for not asking. We think, from hearing them talk sometime and because we think we "know" them, but don't we like to here them verbalize it and actually ask for it? God is the same way. He wants us to ask and in fact he tells us:
James 4:2
Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.
That is pretty powerful. In other words we can work and slave to obtain what we want but we don't have because without God's blessings on our efforts we can work ourselves to death and still not obtain. We we would simply ask He is more than willing to give.
However!
We must be careful for what we ask. The very next verse says.
James 4:3
Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
There are 2 examples, one good and one not good, in the Old Testament that illustrates this principal. The Israelites were not pleased with God's provisions and ask for meat when God had provided manna. God granted them their wish because they ask. But...
Psalms 106:15
And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.
Not only were they not satisfied with His provisions but they simply were wanting to satisfy their physical cravings.
The other example worth noting is when God asked Solomon what he wanted and Solomon asked for wisdom that he may judge God's people rightly. And God's reply was:
1 Kings 3:10-13
And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.
What a contrast in stories. Do you ask? That is important. What do you ask for? That is equally important. Make it a habit to ask for things that will benefit others and not yourself and God will take care of you. He is a good and gracious God.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Grace Of Giving
In our Wednesday night Bible study at church we finished a study last week by Dr. David Jeremiah, "Captured By Grace." (For a limited time you can view the videos of that series on our church website at Turkey Creek Free Will Baptist Church .) It was a seven week study using a back drop of the hymn Amazing Grace by John Newton. However it did not cover the grace of giving. The Apostle Paul makes some very important points concerning this grace in 2 Corinthians 8.
He uses the the church of Macedonia as an example, stressing in the first two verses of that chapter that they gave even though they were experiencing great hardships. So poverty is not even an excuse for not giving. Jesus even made a teaching moment for his disciples in Mark and Luke.
Mark 12:41-44
And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.
Luke 21:1-4
And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.
I personally have seen people on welfare begin tithing and were truly blessed for doing so.
The attitude with which giving is done is of utmost importance. Back again to 2 Corinthians 8 verses 11 and 12 he says:
Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
And 2 Corinthians 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
And in Malachi 3:10 God himself tells us to prove him that he will bless us for giving. That should be motivation.
Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
Finally we are not excused from giving by our performance in verse 7 of 2 Corinthians 8 he says:
Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.
In other words faith, knowledge or love is no substitute for our giving.
It is a privilege and honor to be given the grace of giving. It has often been said you can't out give God. No truer statement has been said. God gave the best that heaven had in the gift of his son. We should give no less than our best to him; our time, talent and yes our money.
He uses the the church of Macedonia as an example, stressing in the first two verses of that chapter that they gave even though they were experiencing great hardships. So poverty is not even an excuse for not giving. Jesus even made a teaching moment for his disciples in Mark and Luke.
Mark 12:41-44
And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.
Luke 21:1-4
And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.
I personally have seen people on welfare begin tithing and were truly blessed for doing so.
The attitude with which giving is done is of utmost importance. Back again to 2 Corinthians 8 verses 11 and 12 he says:
Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
And 2 Corinthians 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
And in Malachi 3:10 God himself tells us to prove him that he will bless us for giving. That should be motivation.
Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
Finally we are not excused from giving by our performance in verse 7 of 2 Corinthians 8 he says:
Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.
In other words faith, knowledge or love is no substitute for our giving.
It is a privilege and honor to be given the grace of giving. It has often been said you can't out give God. No truer statement has been said. God gave the best that heaven had in the gift of his son. We should give no less than our best to him; our time, talent and yes our money.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
One More Opportunity
(This article was published by Free Will Baptist's Home Missions Department and copied by permission of its author Donna Crabtree, wife of Jeff Crabtree, pastor of the Free Will Baptist Church in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada http://web.mac.com/serenityfwb you may contact Donna at crabtree@nbnet.nb.ca )
ONE MORE OPPORTUNITY
Some time back my daughter-in-law Alexis and I attended an auction. It was an office equipment auction and I was looking for chairs for Jeff’s office. I found three that were perfect. I was sitting in one of them waiting for the auction to begin when a lady walked by. She stopped to look at the chairs I was sitting in. I said, “These are sold.” She looked at me and replied, “This is an auction and it hasn’t started yet.” We both laughed and thus began a friendship. We have met many Thursday nights at the auction. After talking with her for some time, Alexis and I became aware she was lost and needed the Lord. We are witnessing to her as much as possible. She has attended Serenity a couple of times but is not ready to turn her life over to God. Please pray for her.
This past school year this lady hosted a German exchange student. She brought her to the auction one night. We were introduced and we immediately connected. She has such a sweet personality. Let me tell you this, she speaks English a lot better than I speak German. (SMILE). I do not attend the auction every week but try too. I have met several people who attend weekly and it is a great place to meet people and witness. This girl told her host mother she wanted to visit Serenity FWB Church. So they came. She really enjoyed the service. I prayed that the Holy Spirit would not only work in her heart but the heart of her host mother. At the end of this summer it was time for the exchange student to return home to Germany. I was sad because I knew I would never see her again in this life. She brought a diary to the auction before she left. Everyone signed it. I wrote a note telling her to seek God with all her heart. I gave her my e-mail address and told her to write anytime. She would be missed.
You probably think this is the end of this story. Well it is not! I recently had the opportunity to spend a few days in Tennessee and Georgia visiting family. I was able to see our oldest son Ben through unforeseen circumstances who was home on leave from Afghanistan. It was so good to see him and his family. I had not seen Ben in over a year. God is so good. On my return flight home from Nashville, I flew through Toronto, Canada. I had a 3-½ hour layover before I flew to Fredericton. The airport had free Internet, so I answered e-mails and worked on this newsletter. I almost had the newsletter finished when they called for boarding. I boarded the flight and started to sit down. Someone tapped me on the shoulder. Can you guess who it was? Yes, it was the exchange student from Germany. I squealed with excitement. I said, “What are you doing on this flight?” She replied, “I am bringing my family to visit my host mother.” We chatted for a few minutes before the flight left. When we arrived in Fredericton, I was able to meet her father, mother, sister and brother. Her host mother invited Jeff, Eric, Alexis and me for Thanksgiving dinner on Monday. (Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving the second Monday in October.) Jeff and I had already made plans, so Eric and Alexis went. This was one more opportunity to witness to this girl and her family. I hope to see her at the auction next week, and am praying she will bring her family to church. By the time you get this newsletter, this family will be back in Germany. You may recall that I wrote in a recent newsletter, ”KINGDOM WORK MAY NOT MEAN LOCAL CHURCH GROWTH.” This is definitely Kingdom work, but how exciting is that? I am amazed how God brings people into our lives that need Jesus. And this time God has given me one more opportunity to witness to a sweet German girl and her family. I do not think that was a coincidence. By the way, I had the best bid on the office chairs and I got all three of them. J Another note, this is not the newsletter I wrote in the airport. This situation happened after the fact. You will read that newsletter next month, unless God does something amazing again. That is what I am praying for, one more opportunity to witness!
ONE MORE OPPORTUNITY
Some time back my daughter-in-law Alexis and I attended an auction. It was an office equipment auction and I was looking for chairs for Jeff’s office. I found three that were perfect. I was sitting in one of them waiting for the auction to begin when a lady walked by. She stopped to look at the chairs I was sitting in. I said, “These are sold.” She looked at me and replied, “This is an auction and it hasn’t started yet.” We both laughed and thus began a friendship. We have met many Thursday nights at the auction. After talking with her for some time, Alexis and I became aware she was lost and needed the Lord. We are witnessing to her as much as possible. She has attended Serenity a couple of times but is not ready to turn her life over to God. Please pray for her.
This past school year this lady hosted a German exchange student. She brought her to the auction one night. We were introduced and we immediately connected. She has such a sweet personality. Let me tell you this, she speaks English a lot better than I speak German. (SMILE). I do not attend the auction every week but try too. I have met several people who attend weekly and it is a great place to meet people and witness. This girl told her host mother she wanted to visit Serenity FWB Church. So they came. She really enjoyed the service. I prayed that the Holy Spirit would not only work in her heart but the heart of her host mother. At the end of this summer it was time for the exchange student to return home to Germany. I was sad because I knew I would never see her again in this life. She brought a diary to the auction before she left. Everyone signed it. I wrote a note telling her to seek God with all her heart. I gave her my e-mail address and told her to write anytime. She would be missed.
You probably think this is the end of this story. Well it is not! I recently had the opportunity to spend a few days in Tennessee and Georgia visiting family. I was able to see our oldest son Ben through unforeseen circumstances who was home on leave from Afghanistan. It was so good to see him and his family. I had not seen Ben in over a year. God is so good. On my return flight home from Nashville, I flew through Toronto, Canada. I had a 3-½ hour layover before I flew to Fredericton. The airport had free Internet, so I answered e-mails and worked on this newsletter. I almost had the newsletter finished when they called for boarding. I boarded the flight and started to sit down. Someone tapped me on the shoulder. Can you guess who it was? Yes, it was the exchange student from Germany. I squealed with excitement. I said, “What are you doing on this flight?” She replied, “I am bringing my family to visit my host mother.” We chatted for a few minutes before the flight left. When we arrived in Fredericton, I was able to meet her father, mother, sister and brother. Her host mother invited Jeff, Eric, Alexis and me for Thanksgiving dinner on Monday. (Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving the second Monday in October.) Jeff and I had already made plans, so Eric and Alexis went. This was one more opportunity to witness to this girl and her family. I hope to see her at the auction next week, and am praying she will bring her family to church. By the time you get this newsletter, this family will be back in Germany. You may recall that I wrote in a recent newsletter, ”KINGDOM WORK MAY NOT MEAN LOCAL CHURCH GROWTH.” This is definitely Kingdom work, but how exciting is that? I am amazed how God brings people into our lives that need Jesus. And this time God has given me one more opportunity to witness to a sweet German girl and her family. I do not think that was a coincidence. By the way, I had the best bid on the office chairs and I got all three of them. J Another note, this is not the newsletter I wrote in the airport. This situation happened after the fact. You will read that newsletter next month, unless God does something amazing again. That is what I am praying for, one more opportunity to witness!
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
He (God) Is A Buckler (parenthesis mine)
As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him. 2 Samuel 22:31
I have for some time now started each day with a post on Facebook with a verse of Scripture. (Please add me as a Facebook friend if you haven't already.) Today's verse was the one above. I meditated on that verse and as is common when doing that with Scripture, I was amazed at the real implications hidden in the verse. I browsed to dictionary.com as I often do rather than assuming I know the definitions to even some common words and looked up buckler. It has the definition of buckler as follows:
But the definition describes something even deeper. We can and should be bound or strapped to Him. That means nothing come come between us. That same concept is found in the New Testament as well.
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
We are not promised that there will not be battles. In fact, just the opposite. We are told there will be struggles in life and all of us have experienced them. But with being bound to God we know that we will be victorious.
Romans 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
I have for some time now started each day with a post on Facebook with a verse of Scripture. (Please add me as a Facebook friend if you haven't already.) Today's verse was the one above. I meditated on that verse and as is common when doing that with Scripture, I was amazed at the real implications hidden in the verse. I browsed to dictionary.com as I often do rather than assuming I know the definitions to even some common words and looked up buckler. It has the definition of buckler as follows:
- nounI have three big brothers and the one next older than me I always figured if I got into a place where I needed protection I could call on him. He not only was older, he was bigger, stronger and more experienced in the ways of the street. I don't remember ever having to ask for his help in that manner but it was a comfort knowing I could count on him if I needed to. But in reality I have someone (God) who is even bigger, more powerful and more knowledgeable in the ways of the world than a big brother. I did not need my brother but I have grown in wisdom and realize I need those things from God.
- 1. A round shield held by a grip and sometimes having a strap through which the arm is passed.
- 2. Any means of defense, protection.
- verb
- 1. To be a shield to; support; defend.
But the definition describes something even deeper. We can and should be bound or strapped to Him. That means nothing come come between us. That same concept is found in the New Testament as well.
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
We are not promised that there will not be battles. In fact, just the opposite. We are told there will be struggles in life and all of us have experienced them. But with being bound to God we know that we will be victorious.
Romans 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Thank God For His Mercy
Last Sunday evening I preached a message taking the text from one of my favorite passages of Scripture,
Lamentations 3:22-26 It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.
You don't have to know the context of that passage to know that it is true if you truly understand the depravity of man and you understand anything about the character of God. He is holy and demands a holiness from us that we cannot produce by ourselves. The Lord's mercies are forever great.
However if you read the book of Jeremiah and see the spiritual condition that the nation of Israel is in at that time its is even more clear as to why Jeremiah was appreciative of God's mercies. They were worshiping other gods and had even stooped to offering their children as sacrifices and it was prophesied that when Jerusalem was to be besieged they would stoop even lower and indulge in cannibalism. Wickedness abounded.
Even though the first part of this chapter in Lamentations he is lamenting over his personal struggles as a result of the sins of the nation and not his person sins. It is in this context he boasts of the mercies of God. And realizes that his hope and the hope of the nation lies in the salvation that only God could give.
Our nation is in a similar turmoil. There is greed and corruption at the highest levels. We are openly condoning what God says is an abomination to him. And we are justifying killing millions of babies for the sake of woman's right to control her own body. I don't know what the future holds for America. I definitely don't like the direction it is headed but I know if we survive at all it will not be because a certain political party control the Congress and White House but because of the mercies of God.
Lamentations 3:22-26 It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.
You don't have to know the context of that passage to know that it is true if you truly understand the depravity of man and you understand anything about the character of God. He is holy and demands a holiness from us that we cannot produce by ourselves. The Lord's mercies are forever great.
However if you read the book of Jeremiah and see the spiritual condition that the nation of Israel is in at that time its is even more clear as to why Jeremiah was appreciative of God's mercies. They were worshiping other gods and had even stooped to offering their children as sacrifices and it was prophesied that when Jerusalem was to be besieged they would stoop even lower and indulge in cannibalism. Wickedness abounded.
Even though the first part of this chapter in Lamentations he is lamenting over his personal struggles as a result of the sins of the nation and not his person sins. It is in this context he boasts of the mercies of God. And realizes that his hope and the hope of the nation lies in the salvation that only God could give.
Our nation is in a similar turmoil. There is greed and corruption at the highest levels. We are openly condoning what God says is an abomination to him. And we are justifying killing millions of babies for the sake of woman's right to control her own body. I don't know what the future holds for America. I definitely don't like the direction it is headed but I know if we survive at all it will not be because a certain political party control the Congress and White House but because of the mercies of God.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Sons and Saints
In the lesson series Captured By Grace that we are studying in Wednesday night Bible Study at church, Dr. David Jeremiah makes the comments about the elder son, who got angry and would not go to the party that the father threw upon the return of the younger son, "He was a son acting like a servant and a sinner who thought he was a saint." How much like that are we?
Romans 8:14-18 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: ¶ And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Heirs of God? In other words what the Father has is ours? What does the Father have?
Psalms 24:1 The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.
When we receive the full payment of our inheritance is at the Father's discretion but that should not keep us from acting like sons and daughter of the king. I am somebody and so are you.
That said, we should never exhibit a self-righteous attitude either.
Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
We must conclude as the Apostle Paul did in:
1 Corinthians 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
Let us appreciate our sonship and be a saint but never act like one.
Romans 8:14-18 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: ¶ And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Heirs of God? In other words what the Father has is ours? What does the Father have?
Psalms 24:1 The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.
When we receive the full payment of our inheritance is at the Father's discretion but that should not keep us from acting like sons and daughter of the king. I am somebody and so are you.
That said, we should never exhibit a self-righteous attitude either.
Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
We must conclude as the Apostle Paul did in:
1 Corinthians 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
Let us appreciate our sonship and be a saint but never act like one.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Grace
Ephesians 2:8,9
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Most evangelical and fundamentalist Christians believe, and teach that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of God and are pretty much in agreement on the application of the above scripture. We can do absolutely nothing to earn salvation, it is a gift of God through Jesus Christ His Son.
Most people that believe the above also believe that the works of grace do not stop at salvation. I have read books and articles on the subject and preached on it myself but each time I meditate on the subject or read a new article or book or study for a message I am almost always overcome with awe at the extent of the continuing work of grace in our day to day lives.
This coming Wednesday evening, Oct 6, 2010 we are beginning a series by Dr. David Jeremiah (one of my favorite teachers and preachers) called "Captured By Grace." I am so looking forward to it. It is a 7 week study. I am the study leader and will get to spend a good deal of time in preparation. It is my hope and expectation that I will be stricken with awe. I hope as the leader that I can encourage those attending to spend time each week between group study session to read, meditate and worship God for this great gift he bestows upon us each and everyday of life.
On our church website I have post a 3 min. clip "commercial" promoting the series. What Dr. Jeremiah says in that 3 min. clip is well worth the view. Here is a link please enjoy. http://www.turkeycreekfwb.org/
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Most evangelical and fundamentalist Christians believe, and teach that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of God and are pretty much in agreement on the application of the above scripture. We can do absolutely nothing to earn salvation, it is a gift of God through Jesus Christ His Son.
Most people that believe the above also believe that the works of grace do not stop at salvation. I have read books and articles on the subject and preached on it myself but each time I meditate on the subject or read a new article or book or study for a message I am almost always overcome with awe at the extent of the continuing work of grace in our day to day lives.
This coming Wednesday evening, Oct 6, 2010 we are beginning a series by Dr. David Jeremiah (one of my favorite teachers and preachers) called "Captured By Grace." I am so looking forward to it. It is a 7 week study. I am the study leader and will get to spend a good deal of time in preparation. It is my hope and expectation that I will be stricken with awe. I hope as the leader that I can encourage those attending to spend time each week between group study session to read, meditate and worship God for this great gift he bestows upon us each and everyday of life.
On our church website I have post a 3 min. clip "commercial" promoting the series. What Dr. Jeremiah says in that 3 min. clip is well worth the view. Here is a link please enjoy. http://www.turkeycreekfwb.org/
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Tell Me The Story of Jesus
Tell Me the Story of Jesus not because I haven't heard it before but because every time I hear it I become overwhelmed with it. We are studying the New Testament book of Matthew chapter by chapter and we are currently up to chapter 27. As I was preparing for this evening's lesson I was again captivated by the awesome love Christ displayed for not just me but for all humanity, His created creatures. It is perhaps easy for us to conceive that He would die for us but for a Hitler, Saddam Hussein or Judas? They didn't take His life he laid it down. It was at the timing of God the Father. His accusers didn't want to do it at the Passover for fear of the crowd. But that is precisely when it happened because He was in control not them. Many throughout history though have chosen the timing of their death but only Christ made the choice to die. Matt. 26:53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
Matthew 27 tells of the horrible humiliation, pain and suffering he endured until he finally died. To think that someone would do that for me brings me to my knees with gratitude. Because I am as undeserivng as Hitler, Saddam Hussein and/or Judas. Romans 3:23-25 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
But the story doesn't end there. There is a chapter 28 in Matthew that tells of his ressurection in spite of a huge stone and Roman guards at the entrance. But even though Matthew ends the story doesn't. It picks up again in the Acts of the Apostles, and Chapter 1:9-11 says, "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."
And Hebrews 9:28 reinforces those statements with So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
So tell me the Story of Jesus, again and again and again.....
Matthew 27 tells of the horrible humiliation, pain and suffering he endured until he finally died. To think that someone would do that for me brings me to my knees with gratitude. Because I am as undeserivng as Hitler, Saddam Hussein and/or Judas. Romans 3:23-25 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
But the story doesn't end there. There is a chapter 28 in Matthew that tells of his ressurection in spite of a huge stone and Roman guards at the entrance. But even though Matthew ends the story doesn't. It picks up again in the Acts of the Apostles, and Chapter 1:9-11 says, "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."
And Hebrews 9:28 reinforces those statements with So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
So tell me the Story of Jesus, again and again and again.....
Monday, September 13, 2010
Well Done Good and Faithful Servant
Jesus in his parable of the talents teaches us that faithfulness is rewarded.
Matthew 25:14-30 (NKJV)
14 ¶ "For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them.
15 "And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.
16 "Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents.
17 "And likewise he who had received two gained two more also.
18 "But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord's money.
19 "After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them.
20 "So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, 'Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.'
21 "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'
22 "He also who had received two talents came and said, 'Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.'
23 "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'
24 "Then he who had received the one talent came and said, 'Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed.
25 'And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.'
26 "But his lord answered and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed.
27 'So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.
28 'Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.
29 'For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.
30 'And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
Luke 16:10 also tells us "He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much;
Here are some areas that we really should strive to be faithful in"
We should be faithful to ourselves. In other words, just be who you are. Don't be a hypocrite or phony. Don't pretend to be something or someone you are not. Jesus often criticized the Scribes and Pharisee for being hypocrites.
We should be faithful to our spouse and family. Don't put them ahead of God but by all means don't neglect them. On your list of priorities it should be God then family. I shouldn't have to mention fidelity but I will. Don't allow yourself to get sexually involved with anyone but your spouse. Don't allow yourself to get in compromising situations. One thing will lead to another. Human nature is consistent.
Be faithful to your employer. If you are employed by someone give them a good days work, everyday. Be loyal to them. Be punctual. Keep a good attendance record.
Be faithful to your church. All Christians should belong to a body of believers. (The reasoning behind that may be a topic for another blog) Support it with your finances. Support it with your attendance. Get involved in groups and activities.
Last but not least, be faithful to God. It is all about a relationship. Cultivate it. Make a habit of daily devotions. Talk to God and let Him talk to you through His Word and your spirit. Communication is a two-way street and it takes time. Give it the time it is deserving of.
Matthew 25:14-30 (NKJV)
14 ¶ "For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them.
15 "And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.
16 "Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents.
17 "And likewise he who had received two gained two more also.
18 "But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord's money.
19 "After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them.
20 "So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, 'Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.'
21 "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'
22 "He also who had received two talents came and said, 'Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.'
23 "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'
24 "Then he who had received the one talent came and said, 'Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed.
25 'And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.'
26 "But his lord answered and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed.
27 'So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.
28 'Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.
29 'For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.
30 'And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
Luke 16:10 also tells us "He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much;
Here are some areas that we really should strive to be faithful in"
We should be faithful to ourselves. In other words, just be who you are. Don't be a hypocrite or phony. Don't pretend to be something or someone you are not. Jesus often criticized the Scribes and Pharisee for being hypocrites.
We should be faithful to our spouse and family. Don't put them ahead of God but by all means don't neglect them. On your list of priorities it should be God then family. I shouldn't have to mention fidelity but I will. Don't allow yourself to get sexually involved with anyone but your spouse. Don't allow yourself to get in compromising situations. One thing will lead to another. Human nature is consistent.
Be faithful to your employer. If you are employed by someone give them a good days work, everyday. Be loyal to them. Be punctual. Keep a good attendance record.
Be faithful to your church. All Christians should belong to a body of believers. (The reasoning behind that may be a topic for another blog) Support it with your finances. Support it with your attendance. Get involved in groups and activities.
Last but not least, be faithful to God. It is all about a relationship. Cultivate it. Make a habit of daily devotions. Talk to God and let Him talk to you through His Word and your spirit. Communication is a two-way street and it takes time. Give it the time it is deserving of.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Mind Over Matter
The World English dictionary as reported by dictionary.com defines humanism as the denial of any power or moral value superior to that of humanity; the rejection of religion in favour of a belief in the advancement of humanity by its own efforts. That is contrary to Biblical doctrine. However, the mind is a powerful organ given to us by God and with plenty of instruction in its use. One of my favorites is:
Phil. 4:7,8
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Another one of my favorites is:
Phil 2:5
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
And if you look at the context of that verse you will find in verse 4 tells us what the mind of Christ is. Verse 4 says: Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. It is when we get to looking on ourselves and our situation that we get into trouble even at times to the point of being emotionally disturbed. Or on the other end of the spectrum as the humanist are, we get to thinking we are better or more capable than we really are. That is called pride.
However at a closer look at both of these passages in Philippians it indicates that we are in control of our thoughts. If you are feeling down and discouraged, you have the power to change those thoughts by thinking on Scripture. If you are feeling haughty and prideful you can control that as well. You can humble yourself before God by controlling your thoughts. It really is mind over matter within the restraints of Scripture.
Phil. 4:7,8
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Another one of my favorites is:
Phil 2:5
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
And if you look at the context of that verse you will find in verse 4 tells us what the mind of Christ is. Verse 4 says: Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. It is when we get to looking on ourselves and our situation that we get into trouble even at times to the point of being emotionally disturbed. Or on the other end of the spectrum as the humanist are, we get to thinking we are better or more capable than we really are. That is called pride.
However at a closer look at both of these passages in Philippians it indicates that we are in control of our thoughts. If you are feeling down and discouraged, you have the power to change those thoughts by thinking on Scripture. If you are feeling haughty and prideful you can control that as well. You can humble yourself before God by controlling your thoughts. It really is mind over matter within the restraints of Scripture.
Monday, July 26, 2010
A Chapter out of God's Love Story
Ruth 1:1-18;
1 Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehemjudah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons.
2 And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah. And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there
3 And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons.
4 And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelled there about ten years.
5 And Mahlon and Chilion died also both of them; and the woman was left of her two sons and her husband.
6 ¶ Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the LORD had visited his people in giving them bread.
7 Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah.
8 And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother's house: the LORD deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me.
9 The LORD grant you that ye may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband. Then she kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept.
10 And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people.
11 And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands?
12 Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should also bear sons;
13 Would ye tarry for them till they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD is gone out against me.
14 And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.
15 And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law.
16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:
17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.
18 When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her.
Ruth 4: 13-17
13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son.
14 And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel.
15 And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him
16 And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it.
17 And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David.
The book of Ruth in the Bible is a beautiful love story, steeped in Jewish law and tradition. It is thought by some to be one of the best short stories of all time. That is saying a lot.
When Benjamin Franklin was the ambassador to France, he occasionally attended the Infidels Club--a group that spent most of its time searching for and reading literature masterpieces. On one occasion Franklin read the book of Ruth to the club but changed the names in it so it would not be recognized as a book of the Bible. When he finished, the listeners were unanimous in their praise. They said it was one of the most beautiful short stories that they had ever heard, and demanded that he tell them where he had run across such a remarkable work of art. He loved telling them that it came from the Bible! (source unknown)
However if you read it and that is all you see you have completely missed its reason for being included in Scripture. The Old Testament is a collection of 39 books that are Christocentric. That means that all things in the Old Testament are centered around Christ. It is easy to see in the story the symbolism of the kinsman redeemer (referring to Christ as our redeemer.) But over and above that is the story of Ruth is a picture of God's love for mankind. 1 John 4:8 says...God is love. John 3:16 says For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. This story is important because if you noticed in the text the part of Chapter 4 that Ruth is the Great Grandmother of King David. She had a part in the giving of Christ to man. See it is a part of God's love story.
We often get wrapped up in the micro and forget there is a macro. Everything God does is a part of His demonstration of His love to us. Sometimes we don't see it because it is part of the big picture. You're heard the saying "can't see the forest for the trees?" That us. And God doesn't always reveal the big plan to us. Did Ruth know she was in the lineage of the Messiah? Not likely.
When she was going through the toughest of times she no doubt wondered if there was purpose to it all. She didn't have it easy. She was born a peasant no doubt (upper class would never have married foreign immigrants.) Widowed (in that culture that was even worse than in our society.) Left her homeland (Deut. 23:3) Gleaning wheat fields, which she did, is humbling and not easy labor. She had it tough. Did she see God's hand it it all. I doubt it. Do we? Not always or maybe not even usually. Yet it was all a part of God's love story.
Was it coincidence:
NO!
This story is a chapter out of God's love story for His creation. His love story to you. His love story to me.
Romans 5:5-8
5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
6 ¶ For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 8:38,39
38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
You are a part of God's love story. He sent His Son to die for you. What is your response to that love? Ruth married Boaz. God is looking for a relationship with you.
1 Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehemjudah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons.
3 And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons.
7 Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah.
9 The LORD grant you that ye may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband. Then she kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept.
13 Would ye tarry for them till they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD is gone out against me.
14 And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.
17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.
Ruth 4: 13-17
13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son.
15 And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him
The book of Ruth in the Bible is a beautiful love story, steeped in Jewish law and tradition. It is thought by some to be one of the best short stories of all time. That is saying a lot.
When Benjamin Franklin was the ambassador to France, he occasionally attended the Infidels Club--a group that spent most of its time searching for and reading literature masterpieces. On one occasion Franklin read the book of Ruth to the club but changed the names in it so it would not be recognized as a book of the Bible. When he finished, the listeners were unanimous in their praise. They said it was one of the most beautiful short stories that they had ever heard, and demanded that he tell them where he had run across such a remarkable work of art. He loved telling them that it came from the Bible! (source unknown)
However if you read it and that is all you see you have completely missed its reason for being included in Scripture. The Old Testament is a collection of 39 books that are Christocentric. That means that all things in the Old Testament are centered around Christ. It is easy to see in the story the symbolism of the kinsman redeemer (referring to Christ as our redeemer.) But over and above that is the story of Ruth is a picture of God's love for mankind. 1 John 4:8 says...God is love. John 3:16 says For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. This story is important because if you noticed in the text the part of Chapter 4 that Ruth is the Great Grandmother of King David. She had a part in the giving of Christ to man. See it is a part of God's love story.
We often get wrapped up in the micro and forget there is a macro. Everything God does is a part of His demonstration of His love to us. Sometimes we don't see it because it is part of the big picture. You're heard the saying "can't see the forest for the trees?" That us. And God doesn't always reveal the big plan to us. Did Ruth know she was in the lineage of the Messiah? Not likely.
When she was going through the toughest of times she no doubt wondered if there was purpose to it all. She didn't have it easy. She was born a peasant no doubt (upper class would never have married foreign immigrants.) Widowed (in that culture that was even worse than in our society.) Left her homeland (Deut. 23:3) Gleaning wheat fields, which she did, is humbling and not easy labor. She had it tough. Did she see God's hand it it all. I doubt it. Do we? Not always or maybe not even usually. Yet it was all a part of God's love story.
Was it coincidence:
- that Israel was going through a famine?
- that Ambelich went to Moab out of obvious disobedience and distruct in God's ability to provide?
- that Boaz ended up marrying Ruth?
NO!
This story is a chapter out of God's love story for His creation. His love story to you. His love story to me.
Romans 5:5-8
5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
6 ¶ For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 8:38,39
38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
You are a part of God's love story. He sent His Son to die for you. What is your response to that love? Ruth married Boaz. God is looking for a relationship with you.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Consider your ways
Haggai 1:5 Now therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways. 6 Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes. 7 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways.
Sometimes we call it spinning our wheels. It seems that is what was happening in the days of Haggai the prophet. The people weren't lazy, just the opposite. They were very busy it seems. However, their priorities had gotten out of order. They were putting their needs, wants and personal ambitions ahead of the work and labor of God. The temple lay in ruin and they were busy building their own houses, planting their crops and working their fields. Attempting to provide for their family with the necessities of life; food, drink and clothes. Those are admirable things are they not? Things God expects of us, right? There is no mention of their being wasteful. So what was the problem? So what is the problem? Isn't it part of God's plan for the family that we provide for them? Does it shock you if I say "No!"?
Am I saying we should not work and just expect God, the church and social programs to provide for us and our families? Of course not. That would be irresponsible. But God is our ultimate provider. Jesus instructs us to acknowledge that in the example of the model prayer. Matt 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread. That prayer is recognizing God as the provider.
Matt 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
It is by and through His provision if we have a job and have the health to work. Whatever our means of support is a direct result of his grace toward us. What I'm saying is we generally aren't lazy but often like the people the prophet wrote about, we have our priorities shuffled around. Are you spinning your wheels and going nowhere in life? Put God first and let Him direct you paths.
Prov. 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Sometimes we call it spinning our wheels. It seems that is what was happening in the days of Haggai the prophet. The people weren't lazy, just the opposite. They were very busy it seems. However, their priorities had gotten out of order. They were putting their needs, wants and personal ambitions ahead of the work and labor of God. The temple lay in ruin and they were busy building their own houses, planting their crops and working their fields. Attempting to provide for their family with the necessities of life; food, drink and clothes. Those are admirable things are they not? Things God expects of us, right? There is no mention of their being wasteful. So what was the problem? So what is the problem? Isn't it part of God's plan for the family that we provide for them? Does it shock you if I say "No!"?
Am I saying we should not work and just expect God, the church and social programs to provide for us and our families? Of course not. That would be irresponsible. But God is our ultimate provider. Jesus instructs us to acknowledge that in the example of the model prayer. Matt 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread. That prayer is recognizing God as the provider.
Matt 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
It is by and through His provision if we have a job and have the health to work. Whatever our means of support is a direct result of his grace toward us. What I'm saying is we generally aren't lazy but often like the people the prophet wrote about, we have our priorities shuffled around. Are you spinning your wheels and going nowhere in life? Put God first and let Him direct you paths.
Prov. 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Forbid Them Not
Mt 19:14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
Mr 10:14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Lu 18:16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Jesus held kids in high regard and so should we. We had Vacation Bible School last week and what a week it was. We had more 3-5 year-olds than I think we have ever had. That totally thrills me. Our Sunday School kids enrollment has been declining for sometime and that bothers me. Kids are both a way to parents hearts and they play an important roll in the future of the church.
In these troubling times we have too many kids growing up that are receiving distorted tales of Christianity from a world viewpoint that is anti-Christian. They are not being taught Biblical moral values, in fact they are being taught there are no moral absolutes. Many have never heard that co-habitation, pre-marital and extra-marital sex is wrong. They don't know that the Bible is the final authority on everything, that it is as relevant today as it was when it was penned. They are not being taught that God looks on homosexuality as an abomination. They don't know that evolution is just a theory and an evolving theory at that. And it still leaves them questioning how something was created from nothing. They haven't been told that only God can do that.
We as a church have a great responsibility. God helps us to take it seriously. We can't take the place of God in the home but we can with the help of the Holy Spirit fill in some of the gaping holes that the world is leaving in their minds and hearts. They are looking for something let us not hide the Gospel of Christ from them.
I publicly thank all of the teachers, helpers and other workers that help make VBS the success it was. May God bless you and I hope you'll do it again next year. Also may God bless all the other VBS's and church camps this summer, across the country and around the world.
Mr 10:14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Lu 18:16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Jesus held kids in high regard and so should we. We had Vacation Bible School last week and what a week it was. We had more 3-5 year-olds than I think we have ever had. That totally thrills me. Our Sunday School kids enrollment has been declining for sometime and that bothers me. Kids are both a way to parents hearts and they play an important roll in the future of the church.
In these troubling times we have too many kids growing up that are receiving distorted tales of Christianity from a world viewpoint that is anti-Christian. They are not being taught Biblical moral values, in fact they are being taught there are no moral absolutes. Many have never heard that co-habitation, pre-marital and extra-marital sex is wrong. They don't know that the Bible is the final authority on everything, that it is as relevant today as it was when it was penned. They are not being taught that God looks on homosexuality as an abomination. They don't know that evolution is just a theory and an evolving theory at that. And it still leaves them questioning how something was created from nothing. They haven't been told that only God can do that.
We as a church have a great responsibility. God helps us to take it seriously. We can't take the place of God in the home but we can with the help of the Holy Spirit fill in some of the gaping holes that the world is leaving in their minds and hearts. They are looking for something let us not hide the Gospel of Christ from them.
I publicly thank all of the teachers, helpers and other workers that help make VBS the success it was. May God bless you and I hope you'll do it again next year. Also may God bless all the other VBS's and church camps this summer, across the country and around the world.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Family Reuion
This past weekend was our annual 57th Miller Family Reunion. I have been attending it as long as I can remember (except while in the military.) Family reunions are something common here in Southern Ohio, and I assume throughout the country. Although reunions are common I presume most are unique. I really believe that about our Miller Reunion.
My mother was Stella Miller, the eldest daughter of Samuel and Daisy Altman Miller. She was one of 10 children that survived infancy. Only 3 of those 10 survive today but the reunion is a big deal. It is a two day event. Beginning on Saturday afternoon around 2:00 p.,m. family members begin arriving. At 4:00 o'clock we enjoy a cookout with visiting and games to follow. On Sunday morning at 8:30 there is a breakfast cooked and served by volunteer family members. Usually 20-25 enjoy. Then at 10:00 o'clock we have a worship service. Then around noon we feast on a carry-in lunch. There are more games and visiting and people begin returning home one car load at a time. The attendance varies considerably and I haven't heard the count for this year yet but it generally (since the passing of so many of the first generation) has been between 70 and 80.
Nothing I've mentioned so far may seem too unusual except perhaps the worship service on Sunday morning. But that is what makes the Miller Reunion so special for many of us. Not everyone attends it but for those of us who do it is what makes the reunion. The food would be hard to beat anywhere, I mean it is down-home Southern style good . The visiting is exceptional because it is the only time of year many of us get to see each other. The games are good if you like horseshoe, slip-n-slide or the newest board games that some have brought. But the worship service is great because not only are we blood relation but we are spiritual family as well. Each first generation extended family takes a turn and gives a testimony to the goodness of God and sometimes a representative from the family will sing a gospel hymn or song. Then one of several member preachers will give a sermon. Many of us sit and cry off and on throughout the whole service as God is glorified in song and testimony.
Most families, including ours, are proud of their heritage and that is often mentioned in the testimonies but the fact that each testimony carries that one step further to glorify and give thanks to God for that heritage is nothing short of inspiring. To God be the glory for the Miller Reunion.
My mother was Stella Miller, the eldest daughter of Samuel and Daisy Altman Miller. She was one of 10 children that survived infancy. Only 3 of those 10 survive today but the reunion is a big deal. It is a two day event. Beginning on Saturday afternoon around 2:00 p.,m. family members begin arriving. At 4:00 o'clock we enjoy a cookout with visiting and games to follow. On Sunday morning at 8:30 there is a breakfast cooked and served by volunteer family members. Usually 20-25 enjoy. Then at 10:00 o'clock we have a worship service. Then around noon we feast on a carry-in lunch. There are more games and visiting and people begin returning home one car load at a time. The attendance varies considerably and I haven't heard the count for this year yet but it generally (since the passing of so many of the first generation) has been between 70 and 80.
Nothing I've mentioned so far may seem too unusual except perhaps the worship service on Sunday morning. But that is what makes the Miller Reunion so special for many of us. Not everyone attends it but for those of us who do it is what makes the reunion. The food would be hard to beat anywhere, I mean it is down-home Southern style good . The visiting is exceptional because it is the only time of year many of us get to see each other. The games are good if you like horseshoe, slip-n-slide or the newest board games that some have brought. But the worship service is great because not only are we blood relation but we are spiritual family as well. Each first generation extended family takes a turn and gives a testimony to the goodness of God and sometimes a representative from the family will sing a gospel hymn or song. Then one of several member preachers will give a sermon. Many of us sit and cry off and on throughout the whole service as God is glorified in song and testimony.
Most families, including ours, are proud of their heritage and that is often mentioned in the testimonies but the fact that each testimony carries that one step further to glorify and give thanks to God for that heritage is nothing short of inspiring. To God be the glory for the Miller Reunion.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Father's Day
My father, Everett G. Sibole, passed away, Dec.11, 1984 so I didn't get to call him or visit him this past Sunday but that didn't keep me from thinking of him. My father was typical in many ways, 5'11" tall, 195 lbs. a blue collar worker and teamster member The only thing perhaps you might notice if you knew him long enough was that he never went out of the house without a hat on. If there was an underlying reason for that he never shared it with us.
So what does an ordinary man leave to a son for a remembrance on Father's Day? Two things I remember vividly. He was a man that like gadgets. He passed away before the real technology boom but I remember him getting a reel-to-reel tape machine when they first came out. Then when cassette tape players came on the scene, he had to have one. I mentioned he was teamster, when CB radios came out he had to have one of them for his truck and one for the car, so he could "10-4 good buddy" with the rest of the truckers. Had he lived just a few years longer I'm sure he would have had an eight-track player, cd player, mp3 player, cell phone and I'm sure I would have been emailing him when PC's and the internet arrived. I can't picture him into video games though, he was too serious for that.
The other remembrance was one that means the world to me and it happened on his death bed. My father, even though he was a Christian man, a born again believer, was afraid of dying as long as I can remember. Dying was something he thought about frequently and it terrified him. I never did understand it because I knew Christians were not suppose to fear death because we don't really die, we just pass from this life into another, more glorious one. Even though he knew that, the thought of dying still haunted him. The last two weeks of his life, he was bed ridden and on medication so strong that he hallucinated. There was a nurse that came and took care of him for 8 hours a day and then my mom and I sat with him the rest of the day and night. Then a little more than 24 hours before he passed at 2 a.m. he awoke and ask to talk to my mom who was in bed. She was getting so physically worn out that I hated to disturb her rest. I had some things to tend to while he was awake and I told him if he stayed awake until I tended to those things I would wake her and let him talk to her. To my surprise, he did stay awake. So I kept my word, knowing he didn't have long to live, I didn't want it on my conscience that I had denied him the opportunity to talk to her. I got a kitchen chair and sat it beside the bed then went and got her. He had been so heavily medicated that he had not carried on a meaningful conversation in several weeks. But he talked to her that morning with a clear mind for one solid hour. I was amazed. At the end of that hour he told her, in a calm, clear, fearless voice, "I'm leaving, I don't want to go but I'll meet you over there." He then went back to sleep and never awoke again before his passing almost 27 hours later. For a man that had feared death for so long to be that calm and fearless when it came to the actual time of passing left me with a remembrance not only of his life but of an assurance that I too will be able to meet him again.
So what does an ordinary man leave to a son for a remembrance on Father's Day? Two things I remember vividly. He was a man that like gadgets. He passed away before the real technology boom but I remember him getting a reel-to-reel tape machine when they first came out. Then when cassette tape players came on the scene, he had to have one. I mentioned he was teamster, when CB radios came out he had to have one of them for his truck and one for the car, so he could "10-4 good buddy" with the rest of the truckers. Had he lived just a few years longer I'm sure he would have had an eight-track player, cd player, mp3 player, cell phone and I'm sure I would have been emailing him when PC's and the internet arrived. I can't picture him into video games though, he was too serious for that.
The other remembrance was one that means the world to me and it happened on his death bed. My father, even though he was a Christian man, a born again believer, was afraid of dying as long as I can remember. Dying was something he thought about frequently and it terrified him. I never did understand it because I knew Christians were not suppose to fear death because we don't really die, we just pass from this life into another, more glorious one. Even though he knew that, the thought of dying still haunted him. The last two weeks of his life, he was bed ridden and on medication so strong that he hallucinated. There was a nurse that came and took care of him for 8 hours a day and then my mom and I sat with him the rest of the day and night. Then a little more than 24 hours before he passed at 2 a.m. he awoke and ask to talk to my mom who was in bed. She was getting so physically worn out that I hated to disturb her rest. I had some things to tend to while he was awake and I told him if he stayed awake until I tended to those things I would wake her and let him talk to her. To my surprise, he did stay awake. So I kept my word, knowing he didn't have long to live, I didn't want it on my conscience that I had denied him the opportunity to talk to her. I got a kitchen chair and sat it beside the bed then went and got her. He had been so heavily medicated that he had not carried on a meaningful conversation in several weeks. But he talked to her that morning with a clear mind for one solid hour. I was amazed. At the end of that hour he told her, in a calm, clear, fearless voice, "I'm leaving, I don't want to go but I'll meet you over there." He then went back to sleep and never awoke again before his passing almost 27 hours later. For a man that had feared death for so long to be that calm and fearless when it came to the actual time of passing left me with a remembrance not only of his life but of an assurance that I too will be able to meet him again.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Repentance and Prayer is the Answer
Romans 13: 1 ¶ Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.
This scripture is very clear that national rulers are in their position because God has ordain it and gives us a responsibility to act appropriately. That is a tough directive sometimes when we see things in this country sliding down a slippery slope politically, morally and ethically. We see our standing in the world being challenged. Our national defense being systematically weakened. And socialism being blindly voted in one election after another. So that seemingly leaves us in a predicament.
You see we like to cast blame. It is easy to blame the President, Congress the Judicial system, our educators and the list could go on and on. We just like to blame someone, anyone but ourselves. However Scripture is not silent in the area of blame either. God is clearly placing the blame on "His people". 2 Chronicles 7:14 says:
The state we find ourselves in and the direction we are headed is not the blame of the ungodly. They are just acting as the ungodly do. It is the Christian that has left their first love of God, compromised their morals, ethics and abandoned their prayer closets for comforts, conveniences, sports and recreation. That sounds harse and "old fashioned", but we have taken our prosperity that God has blessed us with and turned it into a curse. And we don't like the curse.
Now I have promised to be positive on this blog and what I've said is not intended to be negative, just the opposite. 2 Chronicles 7:14 is not negative. The end can be positive. We should be aggressive in our attack against evil. Not with negative political activism. Don't take that wrong, we should exercise our right to vote and I think we have a responsibility to promote leaders that advocate Christian principles. But our greatest responsibility is to repent, turn from our wicked ways which includes apathy and tolerance for immorality. However, neglecting our relationship with God and failing to be good stewards of our time and money can also be included in the list of wicked ways. The blame lies solely within the body of Christ. We have abandoned basic Christian principles. That may be tough to admit but until we do we will not implement the remedy. The fact that there is a remedy is what makes this positive. Can we join together in repentance and prayer?
This scripture is very clear that national rulers are in their position because God has ordain it and gives us a responsibility to act appropriately. That is a tough directive sometimes when we see things in this country sliding down a slippery slope politically, morally and ethically. We see our standing in the world being challenged. Our national defense being systematically weakened. And socialism being blindly voted in one election after another. So that seemingly leaves us in a predicament.
You see we like to cast blame. It is easy to blame the President, Congress the Judicial system, our educators and the list could go on and on. We just like to blame someone, anyone but ourselves. However Scripture is not silent in the area of blame either. God is clearly placing the blame on "His people". 2 Chronicles 7:14 says:
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
The state we find ourselves in and the direction we are headed is not the blame of the ungodly. They are just acting as the ungodly do. It is the Christian that has left their first love of God, compromised their morals, ethics and abandoned their prayer closets for comforts, conveniences, sports and recreation. That sounds harse and "old fashioned", but we have taken our prosperity that God has blessed us with and turned it into a curse. And we don't like the curse.
Now I have promised to be positive on this blog and what I've said is not intended to be negative, just the opposite. 2 Chronicles 7:14 is not negative. The end can be positive. We should be aggressive in our attack against evil. Not with negative political activism. Don't take that wrong, we should exercise our right to vote and I think we have a responsibility to promote leaders that advocate Christian principles. But our greatest responsibility is to repent, turn from our wicked ways which includes apathy and tolerance for immorality. However, neglecting our relationship with God and failing to be good stewards of our time and money can also be included in the list of wicked ways. The blame lies solely within the body of Christ. We have abandoned basic Christian principles. That may be tough to admit but until we do we will not implement the remedy. The fact that there is a remedy is what makes this positive. Can we join together in repentance and prayer?
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
Pray Request and Answered Prayers
James 5:16 ...The prayer of a good man is full of power in its working. (BBE)
1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing. (KJV)
Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (KJV)
Those are just a small sampling of Scripture on prayer. Jesus set an example for us.
Matthew 14:23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. (KJV)
Matthew 26:36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. (KJV)
Mark 6:46 And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. (KJV)
Considering the importance of prayer and its power, I have added two pages Prayer Request and Answered Prayers to the Turkey Creek Free Will Baptist (Ohio) website. It is not limited to members or attendees of the church. I'd like to see these pages become used by the world wide web community. Help us use these pages to bring glory to God. I am convinced the more we broadcast His workings the more He will do.
I have heard Pastor John Hagee on his TV broadcast often repeat a favorite quote of his mother: "Little prayer-little power, more prayer-more power, much prayer-much power.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing. (KJV)
Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (KJV)
Those are just a small sampling of Scripture on prayer. Jesus set an example for us.
Matthew 14:23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. (KJV)
Matthew 26:36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. (KJV)
Mark 6:46 And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. (KJV)
Considering the importance of prayer and its power, I have added two pages Prayer Request and Answered Prayers to the Turkey Creek Free Will Baptist (Ohio) website. It is not limited to members or attendees of the church. I'd like to see these pages become used by the world wide web community. Help us use these pages to bring glory to God. I am convinced the more we broadcast His workings the more He will do.
I have heard Pastor John Hagee on his TV broadcast often repeat a favorite quote of his mother: "Little prayer-little power, more prayer-more power, much prayer-much power.
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Memorials
Some memorials are just remembrances on other occassions monuments are erected to enduce a memory. This is not new. In Scripture, Deuteronomy 4:9 Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons; (KJV)
Then in Joshua Chapter 4 when the waters were parted and the Israelites crossed the Jordan river, God instructed them to take 12 stones and build a memorial as a reminder to the miracle that God had performed.
And in the New Testament, Luke 22:19,20 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. (KJV)
In the instances cited above, notice they pointed to God. I have no problem with our Memorial Day Holiday. I think it is great that we have a day set aside for remembrances. (Here is a good history of Memorial Day) It originally was set aside to honor the war dead and has morphed into a remembrance for all of our military who gave the ultimate sacrifice as well as loved ones that have passed away.
What I suggest is we not only remember our couragous men and women who gave their lives that we can still enjoy our great country, its liberties and freedoms, but take it as an opportunity to thank God for the country for which they were willing to make that sacrifice. It is because of God that our forefathers took the direction they did in establishing our government. We have come a long way since its inception and only recently have we attempted to hide, cover and disavow God's involvment in our affairs. Shame on us. Those of us who are believers truly have become the silent majority. We need to be shouting it from the roof tops.
If this memorial day you were remembering parents or loved ones that have gone on to their eternal reward, I also suggest you take the time to give God the praise for the love they gave you. It is only because of Him that we have the ability to love. Love is the greatest of all emotions and 1 John 4:8 and 16 tells us that "God is love." Therefore it is an emotion that allows us to experience a part of Him. Acknowledge it or not, if you are or have been loved it is because of God and He needs to be praised
So as well as making memorial day a day of remembering each year make it a day of thanksgiving as well. Two thanksgiving days a year is surely not asking too much. To God be the Glory for our nation and our loved ones.
Then in Joshua Chapter 4 when the waters were parted and the Israelites crossed the Jordan river, God instructed them to take 12 stones and build a memorial as a reminder to the miracle that God had performed.
And in the New Testament, Luke 22:19,20 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. (KJV)
In the instances cited above, notice they pointed to God. I have no problem with our Memorial Day Holiday. I think it is great that we have a day set aside for remembrances. (Here is a good history of Memorial Day) It originally was set aside to honor the war dead and has morphed into a remembrance for all of our military who gave the ultimate sacrifice as well as loved ones that have passed away.
What I suggest is we not only remember our couragous men and women who gave their lives that we can still enjoy our great country, its liberties and freedoms, but take it as an opportunity to thank God for the country for which they were willing to make that sacrifice. It is because of God that our forefathers took the direction they did in establishing our government. We have come a long way since its inception and only recently have we attempted to hide, cover and disavow God's involvment in our affairs. Shame on us. Those of us who are believers truly have become the silent majority. We need to be shouting it from the roof tops.
If this memorial day you were remembering parents or loved ones that have gone on to their eternal reward, I also suggest you take the time to give God the praise for the love they gave you. It is only because of Him that we have the ability to love. Love is the greatest of all emotions and 1 John 4:8 and 16 tells us that "God is love." Therefore it is an emotion that allows us to experience a part of Him. Acknowledge it or not, if you are or have been loved it is because of God and He needs to be praised
So as well as making memorial day a day of remembering each year make it a day of thanksgiving as well. Two thanksgiving days a year is surely not asking too much. To God be the Glory for our nation and our loved ones.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Happy Birthday
Happy birthday to the church. Typically called pentecost because its inception was 50 days after the resurrection. Although not nearly as well known throughout the world, and not celebrated to the extent as Christmas and Easter, it is nontheless important. The term church here is not referring to any particular organization or denomination but to the universal church. It is the body of which Christ is the head. It is made up of individuals not organizations or denominations. (But that is not to say that individuals cannot be members of organizations or denominations.)
This was a world changing event and perhaps shameful that it is not a bigger celebration than it is. I think we miss a great opportunity to share the good news such as we do at Christmas and Easter and in fact it would help us communicate the complete message to those not familiar with Christianity's history.
Just as the coming and infilling of the Holy Spirit changed the lives of the first recipients it is still changing lives today. It is what makes the difference in ones life. In Christian jargon the term used is born again because Apostle Paul said we become a new creature. That coinsides with Jesus' explanation to Nicodemus that you must be born again. It is a spiritual transformation. It is one of those things you must experience in order to fully understand. Until experienced it will always remain a mystery. No amount of study or research will enlighten enough for comprehension. If you are interested in that transformation shoot me an email at davesib@yahoo.com or a comment with your contact information in it and I'll be happy to follow up.
This was a world changing event and perhaps shameful that it is not a bigger celebration than it is. I think we miss a great opportunity to share the good news such as we do at Christmas and Easter and in fact it would help us communicate the complete message to those not familiar with Christianity's history.
Just as the coming and infilling of the Holy Spirit changed the lives of the first recipients it is still changing lives today. It is what makes the difference in ones life. In Christian jargon the term used is born again because Apostle Paul said we become a new creature. That coinsides with Jesus' explanation to Nicodemus that you must be born again. It is a spiritual transformation. It is one of those things you must experience in order to fully understand. Until experienced it will always remain a mystery. No amount of study or research will enlighten enough for comprehension. If you are interested in that transformation shoot me an email at davesib@yahoo.com or a comment with your contact information in it and I'll be happy to follow up.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Christian Responsibilities
Christian Responsibilities
I heard an interview some time ago on the Focus on the Family radio broadcast with Mike Yankoski who along with another guy went homeless for 5 months back in 2003 in 6 different U.S. Cities, Denver, Washington D.C., Seattle, San Francisco, Phoenix and San Diego. He has since written a book "Under the Overpass." It is a real eye opener for the church in America. It gives practical insight into real Christian responsibilities. We have taken "Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel" to mean send missionaries to foreign countries while we stay in our comfortable church building collecting the money to send them. (Nothing wrong with that) but Mike and his partner show how we are failing in America to reach the homeless and "the least of these." Not only are we failing to reach them by going to where they are but also by not welcoming them into where we are (unless they are like us.) I hope that interview and Mike's book changes me forever.
Jesus, who is to be our example, spent little time in the Synagogues and much time with the people. Jesus and the early church revolutionized the world in that day with that formula. Today we have abandoned that formula and wonder why America is in the condition it is. You can't bake a cake using a mud pie recipe.
I could expound on that thought a lot but I won't because I believe in trying to build up rather than beat down which is what would happen if I elaborated extensively. Let me just say let's get back to basics. Help the hurting, whether it be the poor, the young, the elderly, the grieving or the broken. People have often misspoke saying "God helps those who help themselves." In reality God helps those who can't help themselves and often He uses people to do it. Let's use the church building for worship and let's get the gospel (good news) out into the streets where it belongs.
Jesus also gave us the parable of the good Samaratian for a reason. The injuried man was not in a temple or synogogue and neither are most of the hurting in our society. Look for ways to help the less fortunate and disavantaged outside the wall of the church. That is where you are most likely to find them. You don't shop for groceries in a used car lot.
I heard an interview some time ago on the Focus on the Family radio broadcast with Mike Yankoski who along with another guy went homeless for 5 months back in 2003 in 6 different U.S. Cities, Denver, Washington D.C., Seattle, San Francisco, Phoenix and San Diego. He has since written a book "Under the Overpass." It is a real eye opener for the church in America. It gives practical insight into real Christian responsibilities. We have taken "Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel" to mean send missionaries to foreign countries while we stay in our comfortable church building collecting the money to send them. (Nothing wrong with that) but Mike and his partner show how we are failing in America to reach the homeless and "the least of these." Not only are we failing to reach them by going to where they are but also by not welcoming them into where we are (unless they are like us.) I hope that interview and Mike's book changes me forever.
Jesus, who is to be our example, spent little time in the Synagogues and much time with the people. Jesus and the early church revolutionized the world in that day with that formula. Today we have abandoned that formula and wonder why America is in the condition it is. You can't bake a cake using a mud pie recipe.
I could expound on that thought a lot but I won't because I believe in trying to build up rather than beat down which is what would happen if I elaborated extensively. Let me just say let's get back to basics. Help the hurting, whether it be the poor, the young, the elderly, the grieving or the broken. People have often misspoke saying "God helps those who help themselves." In reality God helps those who can't help themselves and often He uses people to do it. Let's use the church building for worship and let's get the gospel (good news) out into the streets where it belongs.
Jesus also gave us the parable of the good Samaratian for a reason. The injuried man was not in a temple or synogogue and neither are most of the hurting in our society. Look for ways to help the less fortunate and disavantaged outside the wall of the church. That is where you are most likely to find them. You don't shop for groceries in a used car lot.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Fear Not
Deut. 31:1 ¶ And Moses went and spake these words unto all Israel.
2 And he said unto them, I am an hundred and twenty years old this day; I can no more go out and come in: also the LORD hath said unto me, Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.
3 The LORD thy God, he will go over before thee, and he will destroy these nations from before thee, and thou shalt possess them: and Joshua, he shall go over before thee, as the LORD hath said.
4 And the LORD shall do unto them as he did to Sihon and to Og, kings of the Amorites, and unto the land of them, whom he destroyed.
5 And the LORD shall give them up before your face, that ye may do unto them according unto all the commandments which I have commanded you.
6 Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
7 And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the LORD hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it.
8 And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.
The phrase "fear not" appears 63 times in the Bible from Genesis to Revelations. That is an average of almost 1 time per book considering there are 66 books in the Bible. I think that is significant, indicating 2 things. (1) It is something that is common and (2) Something God cares deeply about.
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
In the text in Deut. the Israelites were fearful of the unknown. Hmmm, doesn't that sound familiar. That covers most of our fears as well, doesn't it?
In the absense of trained engineers and building materials to build a bridge, they feared crossing the swollen Jorday river. Then there was still the giants on the other side that their forefathers had feared 40 years before.
However, God's message to the individual Israelites (verse 6) and their new leader, Joshua (verse 8) was the same. "Fear not." But he doesn't just command them to abolish their fears without giving them reason. I like that. I used to hate it when my parents used to say, "Just because I said so."
He gives them three (3) reasons to not be afraid:
1. He would go with them.
2. He wouldn't fail them.
3. He wouldn't desert them.
Does those promises apply to us today? Sure! He is no respecter of persons, Acts 10:34. and For I am the LORD, I change not, Malachi 3:6.
So when (not if) fear rears its frightful head, trust God to go with you, never to fail you and never to desert you.
2 And he said unto them, I am an hundred and twenty years old this day; I can no more go out and come in: also the LORD hath said unto me, Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.
3 The LORD thy God, he will go over before thee, and he will destroy these nations from before thee, and thou shalt possess them: and Joshua, he shall go over before thee, as the LORD hath said.
4 And the LORD shall do unto them as he did to Sihon and to Og, kings of the Amorites, and unto the land of them, whom he destroyed.
5 And the LORD shall give them up before your face, that ye may do unto them according unto all the commandments which I have commanded you.
6 Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
7 And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the LORD hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it.
8 And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.
The phrase "fear not" appears 63 times in the Bible from Genesis to Revelations. That is an average of almost 1 time per book considering there are 66 books in the Bible. I think that is significant, indicating 2 things. (1) It is something that is common and (2) Something God cares deeply about.
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
In the text in Deut. the Israelites were fearful of the unknown. Hmmm, doesn't that sound familiar. That covers most of our fears as well, doesn't it?
In the absense of trained engineers and building materials to build a bridge, they feared crossing the swollen Jorday river. Then there was still the giants on the other side that their forefathers had feared 40 years before.
However, God's message to the individual Israelites (verse 6) and their new leader, Joshua (verse 8) was the same. "Fear not." But he doesn't just command them to abolish their fears without giving them reason. I like that. I used to hate it when my parents used to say, "Just because I said so."
He gives them three (3) reasons to not be afraid:
1. He would go with them.
2. He wouldn't fail them.
3. He wouldn't desert them.
Does those promises apply to us today? Sure! He is no respecter of persons, Acts 10:34. and For I am the LORD, I change not, Malachi 3:6.
So when (not if) fear rears its frightful head, trust God to go with you, never to fail you and never to desert you.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Nameless?
On Mother's Day, I preached a message about a mother who had an encounter with Jesus. Her name is not mentioned in this encounter nor is she ever mentioned again. That is the way it is with most of us. We are nameless so far as most of the world is concerned. If you have ever been in the military or dealt with a government agency on any level you know exactly what I'm talking about. I'm reminded of an incident in basic training in the Air Force when the Squadron Commander got into the face of one of the young recruits, who was struggling to keep up with the group, and yelled, "Your name is Jenkins, isn't it?" and the airman answered back, "Sir, yes sir." To which the Squadron Commander replied, "You know you're in trouble when I know your name, don't you?" In essence they took pride in everyone remaining nameless. That is the way of the world. We expect that. The Psalmist said in Ps 8:4 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? And again in
Ps 144:3 LORD, what is man, that thou takest knowledge of him! or the son of man, that thou makest account of him! (KJV)
However, that is not God. Psalms 115:12 Says, "The LORD hath been mindful of us:" (KJV) How awesome is that? It is one thing to be aware of someones presence or existence but to be mindful of them take the situation to a elevated level. Actually I can't think of anything in Scripture that indicated God is just aware of anything. We use the word Omniscience as one of the attributes of God but He is more than all knowing he is mindful of all things. That means He cares:
All of this is beyond human comprehension. 1 Peter 5:7 says, "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." (KJV) That means you, even if no one knows your name.
Ps 144:3 LORD, what is man, that thou takest knowledge of him! or the son of man, that thou makest account of him! (KJV)
However, that is not God. Psalms 115:12 Says, "The LORD hath been mindful of us:" (KJV) How awesome is that? It is one thing to be aware of someones presence or existence but to be mindful of them take the situation to a elevated level. Actually I can't think of anything in Scripture that indicated God is just aware of anything. We use the word Omniscience as one of the attributes of God but He is more than all knowing he is mindful of all things. That means He cares:
Matthew 6:25-29 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. (KJV)
All of this is beyond human comprehension. 1 Peter 5:7 says, "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." (KJV) That means you, even if no one knows your name.
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