Yes, I do write a great deal about faith. It has so many attributes, aspects, and applications that I probably always will. Bottom line: I believe faith is indispensable, critical for us to live a full and fruitful life. Recently I heard another comment - (paraphrased) the thing about faith is that it's always there whenever you choose to return to it. Again, the 'fullness' of faith and the realization that it is we who depart from faith... and that WE can reverse this.
If you remember the full armor of God, faith is one of the pieces of our equipping:
"...In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can
extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;" (Ephesians 6:16, ESV)
One translation states this a little stronger: "In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith," (Berean Study Bible) - ('addition' is referring to the other parts of the full armor of God). The NKJV states it as: 'above all', the Christian Standard Bible says - 'In every situation'. This should demonstrate just how important Faith is and how it should be considered.
So if Faith is this important, if it has this much power... do we live in faith? Do our actions and words define, describe, and express that this is our mindset, our frame of reference? Probably not, at least not consistently. But rather than standing still in our lack of applying faith, what can we do, what should we do?
One thing we can do is to view building up our faith as a process, a continual process of growing in and understanding faith and what it is. Scripture tells us in Romans 12:3, NASB
"...as God has allotted to each a measure of faith."
"For it is by grace [God’s remarkable compassion and favor drawing
you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from
judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation]
is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the
[undeserved, gracious] gift of God; not as a result of [your]
works [nor your attempts to keep the Law], so that no one will
[be able to] boast or take credit in any way [for his salvation]."
(Ephesians 2:8-9, AMP)
I did underline the 4 key words from the Ephesians verses: grace, saved, faith, gift. If we begin to understand faith in these definitions then we are on our journey of discovering faith and what it is and how it works in our lives. Faith is crucial. But we also have the reassurance that it comes from and has been given us by the Lord. Our responsibility is to exercise and use it... watch it grow.
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
Sunday, January 26, 2020
Saying what you mean....
Mean what you say? Clarity of message? Perhaps the question should be, do you listen to what you say? If you heard you, would the message be clear and understandable? Honestly... what's more important to you - the message or your recognition? If the message isn't the focus, emphasis then why bother getting upset when you're not understood? Do not forget that you need to present the message in the frame of reference of your listeners.
You always need to be aware of what you say and how you say it. Scripture tells us:
"But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’ [a firm yes or no];
anything more than that comes from the evil one." (Matthew 5:37, AMP)
I know I've written about this context before, but it bears repeating. Do you give mixed messages? Is your communication garbled? If you were listening to you would you understand your message? You need to be aware not just of what you are saying but 'how' you say it. Your tone and body language also speak about your message.
There's also another 'requirement':
"Do not let unwholesome [foul, profane, worthless, vulgar] words
ever come out of your mouth, but only such speech as is good for
building up others, according to the need and the occasion, so that
it will be a blessing to those who hear [you speak]." (Ephesians 4:29, AMP)
Have you ever judged your message according to this standard? And no, that does not mean that you never say anything that could be interpreted as correction (2Timothy 3:16-17), because this is also important. In this case we have our standard - scripture. We always need to remember:
"But I tell you, on the day of judgment people will have to give an
accounting for every careless or useless word they speak. For by
your words [reflecting your spiritual condition] you will be justified
and acquitted of the guilt of sin; and by your words [rejecting Me]
you will be condemned and sentenced.” (Matthew 12:36-37, AMP)
Again, I realize that I have written on these verses, but too often we don't apply them to our words. Words ARE important and just as important is how we present them. Words convey meaning.
Now before any of us goes to the other extreme, repeating - words ARE important. They tell us as well as others what we believe, who we believe, how we act on this. We are always an example to others and it IS based on both our words and actions. Actions confirm our words. Words provide impetus for our actions. They are critical for us to know what our motivations and intents are.
Since they are foundational, we should act and speak from confidence. Do we? Do we really say what we mean?
You always need to be aware of what you say and how you say it. Scripture tells us:
"But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’ [a firm yes or no];
anything more than that comes from the evil one." (Matthew 5:37, AMP)
I know I've written about this context before, but it bears repeating. Do you give mixed messages? Is your communication garbled? If you were listening to you would you understand your message? You need to be aware not just of what you are saying but 'how' you say it. Your tone and body language also speak about your message.
There's also another 'requirement':
"Do not let unwholesome [foul, profane, worthless, vulgar] words
ever come out of your mouth, but only such speech as is good for
building up others, according to the need and the occasion, so that
it will be a blessing to those who hear [you speak]." (Ephesians 4:29, AMP)
Have you ever judged your message according to this standard? And no, that does not mean that you never say anything that could be interpreted as correction (2Timothy 3:16-17), because this is also important. In this case we have our standard - scripture. We always need to remember:
"But I tell you, on the day of judgment people will have to give an
accounting for every careless or useless word they speak. For by
your words [reflecting your spiritual condition] you will be justified
and acquitted of the guilt of sin; and by your words [rejecting Me]
you will be condemned and sentenced.” (Matthew 12:36-37, AMP)
Again, I realize that I have written on these verses, but too often we don't apply them to our words. Words ARE important and just as important is how we present them. Words convey meaning.
Now before any of us goes to the other extreme, repeating - words ARE important. They tell us as well as others what we believe, who we believe, how we act on this. We are always an example to others and it IS based on both our words and actions. Actions confirm our words. Words provide impetus for our actions. They are critical for us to know what our motivations and intents are.
Since they are foundational, we should act and speak from confidence. Do we? Do we really say what we mean?
Thursday, January 23, 2020
Encouragement -- Correction
Both important. Just like we can't always live in the rarefied mountaintops, we can't continually live in the valleys (and stop seeing valleys as negative, stressful, unforgiving). We live on both, separately, and both are important to our growth. Both provide learnings and insights into living our lives.
We all need encouragement, and typically those whose opinion's we value the most weigh the heaviest. Encouragement is a one of the best incentives available to propel us onward and upward. Scripture does recognize our need for encouragement... there are over 20 verses that speak to this.
"But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they
shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be
weary; they shall walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)
"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man.
God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your
ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of
escape, that you may be able to endure it." (1Corinthians 10:13)
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might."
(Ephesians 6:10)
"For the Lord your God is He who goes with you to fight for you
against your enemies, to give you the victory." (Deuteronomy 20:4)
"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)
These are my verses that I try to remember when I am in those situations that I need encouraging... we all need verses that we can bring to mind when we are in these times. They become a foundation to stand on, especially when there aren't others around us to cheer us on.
Just like encouragement, we all face those times of correction. Correction really shouldn't be considered as a negative. It's a method, a way to help us stay or return to our journey, on our path. Correction should help us see and understand why what we did or said was not what we should have done and what we can do in the future so that we are helpful and not harmful.
"Do not hold back discipline from the child, Although you strike him
with the rod, he will not die." (Proverbs 23:13)
"Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves, So do not
despise the discipline of the Almighty." (Job 5:17)
"...preach the word; be ready in season and out of season;
reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction." (2Timothy 4:2)
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for
reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;" (2Timothy 3:16
"Correct me, O LORD, but with justice; Not with Your anger, or You
will bring me to nothing." (Jeremiah 10:24)
"For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and He scourges
every son whom He receives." (Hebrews 12:6)
All these verses point to the positive nature of correction, it rarely is punishment. We need to understand the purpose of correction - to help us to understand and grow, to get us on the right path. 2 Timothy 3 has always been an important verse to define and understand correction and then Hebrews 2. Actually... I believe that everything the Lord does with, for, to us is for us to become our best... and to live the abundant life.
We all need encouragement, and typically those whose opinion's we value the most weigh the heaviest. Encouragement is a one of the best incentives available to propel us onward and upward. Scripture does recognize our need for encouragement... there are over 20 verses that speak to this.
"But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they
shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be
weary; they shall walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)
God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your
ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of
escape, that you may be able to endure it." (1Corinthians 10:13)
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might."
(Ephesians 6:10)
"For the Lord your God is He who goes with you to fight for you
against your enemies, to give you the victory." (Deuteronomy 20:4)
"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)
These are my verses that I try to remember when I am in those situations that I need encouraging... we all need verses that we can bring to mind when we are in these times. They become a foundation to stand on, especially when there aren't others around us to cheer us on.
Just like encouragement, we all face those times of correction. Correction really shouldn't be considered as a negative. It's a method, a way to help us stay or return to our journey, on our path. Correction should help us see and understand why what we did or said was not what we should have done and what we can do in the future so that we are helpful and not harmful.
"Do not hold back discipline from the child, Although you strike him
with the rod, he will not die." (Proverbs 23:13)
"Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves, So do not
despise the discipline of the Almighty." (Job 5:17)
"...preach the word; be ready in season and out of season;
reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction." (2Timothy 4:2)
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for
reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;" (2Timothy 3:16
"Correct me, O LORD, but with justice; Not with Your anger, or You
will bring me to nothing." (Jeremiah 10:24)
"For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and He scourges
every son whom He receives." (Hebrews 12:6)
All these verses point to the positive nature of correction, it rarely is punishment. We need to understand the purpose of correction - to help us to understand and grow, to get us on the right path. 2 Timothy 3 has always been an important verse to define and understand correction and then Hebrews 2. Actually... I believe that everything the Lord does with, for, to us is for us to become our best... and to live the abundant life.
Monday, January 20, 2020
... only pray
NEVER say the ONLY thing I can do is pray. If you believe that prayer is that ineffectual, why do it? Prayer is never an 'only' ... remember what it is and what is accomplished. Many churches have Prayer Chains that people can contact to request prayer for their need. Most of these requests fall into either a request for healing or for comfort (especially at a loss of a loved one). but there are other types of requests.
The point in this is that when crisis or issues beyond one's ability to effectively respond to... the 'foxhole' mentality kicks in - we seek help, and often that is help from others to pray. So... never consider your act of prayer to be an 'only'. Do you understand the power, the effect, the potency of prayer? Do you appreciate what it can accomplish?
Look at just 3 verses:
"Ask, and it will be given to you seek, and you will find; knock, and it
will be opened to you." (Matthew 7:7)
"And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”
(Matthew 21:22)
"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you
have received it, and it will be yours." (Mark 11:24)
There are other scriptures I could use to reinforce my belief in the power of prayer, but the positive 'will', 'faith', and 'believe' should provide a solid foundation on the power and effectiveness of prayer
There are 2 emphases I'd like to present: 1- prayer of agreement and 2 - effectual prayer of a righteous man avails much.
Prayer of agreement:
"Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning
anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in
heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name,
I am there in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:19-20, NKJV)
I have always been taken with the first word - again. If 'again' then the Lord had made this a teaching previously. The point is when we stand in agreement concerning anything - it WILL BE DONE. And remember too that the Lord is in the midst when prayer is sent forth.
Effectual Prayer
Obviously, the 'anything' is important. And James responds to this:
"You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it
on your passions." (James 4:3)
There is always a context and mindset. Prayer is not mindless. Prayer is very serious so we shouldn't ever view it is 'only'. When and whatever you pray for is something you are presenting to the Lord for His intervention. This should never be regarded lightly. And when someone asks you to pray for them, then they acknowledge the power of prayer and honor you to stand with them in their need. Intercession according to Google:
"Intercession or intercessory prayer is the act of praying ... on behalf
of others."
Prayer is a powerful weapon we have to wield against anything - not flesh and blood - standing in the way (2Corinthians 10:4). Prayer is your way of bringing those people and needs to the One who can answer. This is never insignificant.
The point in this is that when crisis or issues beyond one's ability to effectively respond to... the 'foxhole' mentality kicks in - we seek help, and often that is help from others to pray. So... never consider your act of prayer to be an 'only'. Do you understand the power, the effect, the potency of prayer? Do you appreciate what it can accomplish?
Look at just 3 verses:
"Ask, and it will be given to you seek, and you will find; knock, and it
will be opened to you." (Matthew 7:7)
"And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”
(Matthew 21:22)
"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you
have received it, and it will be yours." (Mark 11:24)
There are other scriptures I could use to reinforce my belief in the power of prayer, but the positive 'will', 'faith', and 'believe' should provide a solid foundation on the power and effectiveness of prayer
There are 2 emphases I'd like to present: 1- prayer of agreement and 2 - effectual prayer of a righteous man avails much.
Prayer of agreement:
"Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning
anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in
heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name,
I am there in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:19-20, NKJV)
I have always been taken with the first word - again. If 'again' then the Lord had made this a teaching previously. The point is when we stand in agreement concerning anything - it WILL BE DONE. And remember too that the Lord is in the midst when prayer is sent forth.
Effectual Prayer
Obviously, the 'anything' is important. And James responds to this:
"You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it
on your passions." (James 4:3)
There is always a context and mindset. Prayer is not mindless. Prayer is very serious so we shouldn't ever view it is 'only'. When and whatever you pray for is something you are presenting to the Lord for His intervention. This should never be regarded lightly. And when someone asks you to pray for them, then they acknowledge the power of prayer and honor you to stand with them in their need. Intercession according to Google:
"Intercession or intercessory prayer is the act of praying ... on behalf
of others."
Prayer is a powerful weapon we have to wield against anything - not flesh and blood - standing in the way (2Corinthians 10:4). Prayer is your way of bringing those people and needs to the One who can answer. This is never insignificant.
Friday, January 17, 2020
Curing the symptom
It appears that much, if not all, of our attention is in reacting to the 'symptom' rather than attempting to cure the 'disease'. Simple example: we have and live in a violent society. It appears to become more vicious and violent... daily. What is our response? To focus on one aspect - weaponry and work to eliminate guns. Granted, guns do kill people but that's only because of the reality that it is people who are wielding the guns. Doesn't the problem reside in the society we live in? Will eliminating gun possession, which will never be followed by those who are intent on circumventing the law, eliminate the problem?
How did our society get so violent... so quickly? Restraint was thrown off is obvious, as is the result. There are many scripture verses (57+) that speak to what happens when restraint is ignored. None of the results are good. The first part of Proverbs 29:18. AMP reads:
"Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the
people are unrestrained;..."
Another way of saying this is: when there is no standard and no sense of a moral compass - violence and all sorts of negativity quickly comes to fill this void. The point is, when we submit to a loving God and abide in Him - we do have a standard to live by. And this results in (the rest of this verse):
"...But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]."
I would also add:
"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself
unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in
Me." (John 15:4, NASB)
There are incredible 'benefits' that occur when we accept and act on the fact that we have a standard by which we attempt to live. As we shift our focus from one aspect of the problem - lack of restraint - to resolving the 'disease' then we begin to get our focus right. And yes, that is my bias.
Decades ago I believe our country began a descent. While it may seem that 'it' happened overnight, it didn't. First one and then another of our principles were tossed out or updated to become meaningless. We strayed from true north and it appears that every aspect, component in our society fell into step. Me-ism and the attitude of 'what's in it for me' took hold and directed society's thinking and action.
Is there a way out? Has our nation gone so far that it is not redeemable? I think that yes - there's a way, and no - we haven't crossed over the line completely. Fortunately, the answer resolves both.
"if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves,
and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then
I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
(2Chronicles 7:14, NKJV)
Our frame of reference needs changing to curing the disease and not just responding to the symptom. The prognosis then changes when we do what we need to do and humbly accept the gift of what the Lord offers - forgiveness and healing. We do have the 'medication' available and known. It isn't a question of whether we can do this... it's only a question if we will. One has to ask... where is the church's leadership in accomplishing this?
How did our society get so violent... so quickly? Restraint was thrown off is obvious, as is the result. There are many scripture verses (57+) that speak to what happens when restraint is ignored. None of the results are good. The first part of Proverbs 29:18. AMP reads:
"Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the
people are unrestrained;..."
Another way of saying this is: when there is no standard and no sense of a moral compass - violence and all sorts of negativity quickly comes to fill this void. The point is, when we submit to a loving God and abide in Him - we do have a standard to live by. And this results in (the rest of this verse):
"...But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]."
I would also add:
"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself
unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in
Me." (John 15:4, NASB)
There are incredible 'benefits' that occur when we accept and act on the fact that we have a standard by which we attempt to live. As we shift our focus from one aspect of the problem - lack of restraint - to resolving the 'disease' then we begin to get our focus right. And yes, that is my bias.
Decades ago I believe our country began a descent. While it may seem that 'it' happened overnight, it didn't. First one and then another of our principles were tossed out or updated to become meaningless. We strayed from true north and it appears that every aspect, component in our society fell into step. Me-ism and the attitude of 'what's in it for me' took hold and directed society's thinking and action.
Is there a way out? Has our nation gone so far that it is not redeemable? I think that yes - there's a way, and no - we haven't crossed over the line completely. Fortunately, the answer resolves both.
"if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves,
and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then
I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
(2Chronicles 7:14, NKJV)
Our frame of reference needs changing to curing the disease and not just responding to the symptom. The prognosis then changes when we do what we need to do and humbly accept the gift of what the Lord offers - forgiveness and healing. We do have the 'medication' available and known. It isn't a question of whether we can do this... it's only a question if we will. One has to ask... where is the church's leadership in accomplishing this?
Tuesday, January 14, 2020
You ARE responsible
Why do I think we are responsible? And responsible for what? The following 3 points underscore my belief and the reasons. Being a Christian is not something that we sit on our 'laurels' since we are saved. We are expected to be and to do. The Lord chose to work through us in His creation... we have been invited into a wonderful adventure.
1. Everyone - 2 Timothy 2:15
This is not a suggestion or option, and not for just the 'professionals' ALL are told to study to show yourself approved. Why? So that you can show yourself as: "...a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."
We are told to do this so that we are equipped to be, live, work, act, do in our world. Our world. Sometimes and some of us are called to the professional ministry, but the reality is that we are all called to be His Ambassadors (2Corinthians 5;17-21). The more we know and understand, the more effective we will be.
2. Given and expected - Luke 12:48
"From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required;
and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more."
So what is it you feel the Lord has called you to do? First, do you feel you are equipped to do what He has called you to? Never forget: the Lord never calls us to something that we aren't able to do, for which He hasn't already equipped us. No, we shouldn't do go off without this assurance. And yes, we may not have all the ducks or they aren't in a row, but if the Lord calls you to it..... He will equip you to do it.
"Now may the God of peace...equip you with every good thing to
carry out His will and strengthen you [making you complete and
perfect as you ought to be], accomplishing in us that which is
pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, ..." (Hebrews 13:20-21, AMP)
This confirms His equipping and how we accomplish the 'mission' - "through Jesus Christ".
3. Gift - Proverbs 18:16
"A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before the great"
Don't focus on the 'great' - the point is your gifting is what makes you visible to others and provides your entry. You don't have to push your way into (fill in the blank) but don't shirk from expressing your understanding. We all have a gifting:
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:10)
Does someone else have the same gift? Probably. That's not the point. We ALL are His handiwork that God prepared just for us to accomplish. When we act as if we have no gift or its significance is not great or someone else can do what we are asked... never the reasons, never the focus. We have been created to do good works... just not apart from the Lord (John 15:4).
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve
others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." (1Peter 4:10)
I have shared only these 3 points regarding our responsibilities, but they are sufficient. They underscores that we ALL are responsible. And that we can be successful when we act confidently in faith.
1. Everyone - 2 Timothy 2:15
This is not a suggestion or option, and not for just the 'professionals' ALL are told to study to show yourself approved. Why? So that you can show yourself as: "...a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."
We are told to do this so that we are equipped to be, live, work, act, do in our world. Our world. Sometimes and some of us are called to the professional ministry, but the reality is that we are all called to be His Ambassadors (2Corinthians 5;17-21). The more we know and understand, the more effective we will be.
2. Given and expected - Luke 12:48
"From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required;
and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more."
"Now may the God of peace...equip you with every good thing to
carry out His will and strengthen you [making you complete and
perfect as you ought to be], accomplishing in us that which is
pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, ..." (Hebrews 13:20-21, AMP)
This confirms His equipping and how we accomplish the 'mission' - "through Jesus Christ".
3. Gift - Proverbs 18:16
"A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before the great"
Don't focus on the 'great' - the point is your gifting is what makes you visible to others and provides your entry. You don't have to push your way into (fill in the blank) but don't shirk from expressing your understanding. We all have a gifting:
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:10)
Does someone else have the same gift? Probably. That's not the point. We ALL are His handiwork that God prepared just for us to accomplish. When we act as if we have no gift or its significance is not great or someone else can do what we are asked... never the reasons, never the focus. We have been created to do good works... just not apart from the Lord (John 15:4).
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve
others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." (1Peter 4:10)
I have shared only these 3 points regarding our responsibilities, but they are sufficient. They underscores that we ALL are responsible. And that we can be successful when we act confidently in faith.
Saturday, January 11, 2020
Invisible
It is said that people 'of a certain age' are invisible (actually on both ends of the age continuum). Then there are those who feel that they've always been invisible. Does invisible define or describe your 'persona'? Do you feel invisible? If so... why? By/to whom? And... do you want or need to do anything about this? Do you 'like' to be/feel invisible?
If being invisible is a choice, then a whole different set of issues arise. If you feel you are/have always been invisible, then this is different. Have you ever taken the time to analyze why this seems to be the case? Are you certain of your self declaration of invisibility? What's your evidence of being invisible? Are there any advantages to being invisible? Why do you need to be visible... what would you be or do differently? Or... underneath all this is a feeling of desiring to receive the 'credit' or the acclaim for (fill in the blank) that will shine the light on you. Is this pride?
I would suggest that a definition would be important but our motivation is even more critical. Specifically... what, for you, is your definition of being 'invisible'? Why would we want to be visible or invisible? If you've been invisible for a long time then does this classification give you your identification? I realize that the last sentence sounds counter-intuitive, however, that doesn't make the question invalid.
By choice? Design? Or attributed to? And regardless, how does this affect and influence your sense of your worth? Often visible and self-worth is highly related... but probably incorrectly. There are 2 scriptures that speak to worth and visibility.
"And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,
knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the
inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:23-24, ESV)
"For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires
of the eyes and pride of life - is not from the Father but is from
the world." (1John 2:16, ESV)
One of the learnings from these 2 verses leads us to discover our motivation for being visible. Are we the Lord's Ambassadors - sharing His life... or are we attempting to exalt ourselves? That's why our motivation is so critical. Have you ever considered just how much we are honored to be His Ambassador in our world? This is a huge reward. .
Finally, the issue of visible or invisible becomes unimportant. When we do what we are called to do - we are visible to the One we want to please... and Colossians tells us then our reward will come from the Lord - the reward of inheritance.
If being invisible is a choice, then a whole different set of issues arise. If you feel you are/have always been invisible, then this is different. Have you ever taken the time to analyze why this seems to be the case? Are you certain of your self declaration of invisibility? What's your evidence of being invisible? Are there any advantages to being invisible? Why do you need to be visible... what would you be or do differently? Or... underneath all this is a feeling of desiring to receive the 'credit' or the acclaim for (fill in the blank) that will shine the light on you. Is this pride?
I would suggest that a definition would be important but our motivation is even more critical. Specifically... what, for you, is your definition of being 'invisible'? Why would we want to be visible or invisible? If you've been invisible for a long time then does this classification give you your identification? I realize that the last sentence sounds counter-intuitive, however, that doesn't make the question invalid.
By choice? Design? Or attributed to? And regardless, how does this affect and influence your sense of your worth? Often visible and self-worth is highly related... but probably incorrectly. There are 2 scriptures that speak to worth and visibility.
"And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,
knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the
inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:23-24, ESV)
"For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires
of the eyes and pride of life - is not from the Father but is from
the world." (1John 2:16, ESV)
One of the learnings from these 2 verses leads us to discover our motivation for being visible. Are we the Lord's Ambassadors - sharing His life... or are we attempting to exalt ourselves? That's why our motivation is so critical. Have you ever considered just how much we are honored to be His Ambassador in our world? This is a huge reward. .
Finally, the issue of visible or invisible becomes unimportant. When we do what we are called to do - we are visible to the One we want to please... and Colossians tells us then our reward will come from the Lord - the reward of inheritance.
Wednesday, January 8, 2020
Musing over a cuppa
I love starting my day with a cuppa and chatting with the Lord. Offensive? Not reverential enough? Presumptuous? Why??? Exactly what is your relationship with Him? 'Out there'? For crisis times? Honestly, I don't believe this is what the Lord desires. Coming to Him only when we need something (for ourselves or others) doesn't seem to be the best basis to develop a relationship. Yes, He is available for those considerations... but is that all?
If we attempt to look at what the Lord wants... perhaps we'll get a better understanding. Remember when Jesus called the disciples - friends? And don't tell me that this kind of relationship was only for them and something we could never attain. Rubbish. If this were true then explain to me the scripture that tells us we are joint heirs!
"The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children
of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with
Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified
together." (Romans 8:16-17, NKJV)
If you have siblings what kind of relationship do you have with them? Whether good or distant, this kind of relationship is different from all others because you are part of the family. Isn't it logical to apply this thinking? And no, I haven't forgotten about the comment about 'suffer'. But also see that the 'suffer' is with Him and the result is being glorified together.
Read a bit further in this chapter and we see... (8:29)
"For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the
image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren."
Jesus is the firstborn among many brethren and if you have accepted Him as your Lord then you are part of that 'many brethren'. Does this begin to give you a different picture of who you are? It should.
Never put your relationship with the Lord into cement... it's meant to grow - just like all relationships, otherwise it atrophies. I believe the Lord wants an active, interactive, growing relationship with all of us. He wants us to understand who He is and to share our experiences with others. It's as we do this, our understanding grows. This also is great fun. Remember that before the fall, God walked with Adam and Eve in the cool of the morning. Wouldn't that be a far more intimate basis on how we can build our relationship?
Hmmm... this may be a good topic for my 3rd stand alone book.
If we attempt to look at what the Lord wants... perhaps we'll get a better understanding. Remember when Jesus called the disciples - friends? And don't tell me that this kind of relationship was only for them and something we could never attain. Rubbish. If this were true then explain to me the scripture that tells us we are joint heirs!
"The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children
of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with
Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified
together." (Romans 8:16-17, NKJV)
If you have siblings what kind of relationship do you have with them? Whether good or distant, this kind of relationship is different from all others because you are part of the family. Isn't it logical to apply this thinking? And no, I haven't forgotten about the comment about 'suffer'. But also see that the 'suffer' is with Him and the result is being glorified together.
Read a bit further in this chapter and we see... (8:29)
"For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the
image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren."
Jesus is the firstborn among many brethren and if you have accepted Him as your Lord then you are part of that 'many brethren'. Does this begin to give you a different picture of who you are? It should.
Never put your relationship with the Lord into cement... it's meant to grow - just like all relationships, otherwise it atrophies. I believe the Lord wants an active, interactive, growing relationship with all of us. He wants us to understand who He is and to share our experiences with others. It's as we do this, our understanding grows. This also is great fun. Remember that before the fall, God walked with Adam and Eve in the cool of the morning. Wouldn't that be a far more intimate basis on how we can build our relationship?
Hmmm... this may be a good topic for my 3rd stand alone book.
Sunday, January 5, 2020
Humility
Humble. Meek. Do we really know what these words mean? Or do you think you know? And what kind of behavior demonstrates these words? It would be my contention that most people really don't know what the definitions are nor what behavior accompanies them. Mostly it's a reaction to both words demonstrating negative connotations.
Always remember that there are spiritual and carnal definitions of the same word - often with no semblance of similarity. Webster:
Humble: "not proud or haughty : not arrogant or assertive; reflecting,
expressing, or offered in a spirit of deference or submission a
humble apology; ranking low in a hierarchy or scale : insignificant,
unpretentious
Synonyms: Adjective - demure, down-to-earth, lowly, meek,
modest, unassuming, unpretentious
Meek: "enduring injury with patience and without resentment : mild
a meek child dominated by his brothers; deficient in spirit and
courage; submissive; not violent or strong; moderate
Synonyms - demure, down-to-earth, humble, lowly, modest,
unassuming, unpretentious
Scripture's descriptions, definitions:
Humble
"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe
yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and
patience." (Colossians 3:12)
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one
another in love." (Ephesians 4:2)
"But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God
opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (James 4:6)
"Live in harmony one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to
associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited." (Romans 12:16)
"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that
He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him,
because He cares for you." (1Peter 5:6-7)
Does this give you a better context and expression of what humble is and means? Does it give you examples of the types of behavior that define humble? Who are you expressing your humility toward - God? Man? Both?
Meekness
"Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth." (Matthew 5:5)
"... but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the
imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious
in the sight of God." (1 Peter 3:4)
"So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved,
put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and
patience." (Colossians 3:12)
Completely different from what we think these words are 'supposed' (commonly held misconceptions) to be and to Whom it is expressed. Especially when you are questioning... look first to how the word is explained and expressed in scripture. Humility is never, as in ever, a negative - something that is demeaning. Humility is a gentleness of spirit, expressed in understanding.
Always remember that there are spiritual and carnal definitions of the same word - often with no semblance of similarity. Webster:
Humble: "not proud or haughty : not arrogant or assertive; reflecting,
expressing, or offered in a spirit of deference or submission a
humble apology; ranking low in a hierarchy or scale : insignificant,
unpretentious
Synonyms: Adjective - demure, down-to-earth, lowly, meek,
modest, unassuming, unpretentious
Meek: "enduring injury with patience and without resentment : mild
a meek child dominated by his brothers; deficient in spirit and
courage; submissive; not violent or strong; moderate
Synonyms - demure, down-to-earth, humble, lowly, modest,
unassuming, unpretentious
Scripture's descriptions, definitions:
Humble
"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe
yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and
patience." (Colossians 3:12)
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one
another in love." (Ephesians 4:2)
"But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God
opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (James 4:6)
"Live in harmony one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to
associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited." (Romans 12:16)
"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that
He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him,
because He cares for you." (1Peter 5:6-7)
Does this give you a better context and expression of what humble is and means? Does it give you examples of the types of behavior that define humble? Who are you expressing your humility toward - God? Man? Both?
Meekness
"Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth." (Matthew 5:5)
"... but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the
imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious
in the sight of God." (1 Peter 3:4)
"So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved,
put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and
patience." (Colossians 3:12)
Completely different from what we think these words are 'supposed' (commonly held misconceptions) to be and to Whom it is expressed. Especially when you are questioning... look first to how the word is explained and expressed in scripture. Humility is never, as in ever, a negative - something that is demeaning. Humility is a gentleness of spirit, expressed in understanding.
Thursday, January 2, 2020
A year from now...
What you do now begins to determine what a year from now becomes. What do you want it to look like, who do you want to be? What do you plan - plan, not just hope - will you have accomplished? What will next year look and feel like?
Granted, you can't see tomorrow from today, but what are you willing to do to make your tomorrow all that you need and want it to be? It can never be only lip service. You don't really accomplish much if you don't put 'sweat equity' into (fill in the blank). How can you possibly get to your goal without having objectives to accomplish and direct you along the way? In fact, how do you even know you are heading in the right direction? The old adage that if you fail to plan then you plan to fail (Benjamin Franklin) is not just a saying, it's a fact.
There are times when I am greatly concerned that we've grown into a nation of fatalists - feeling (or thinking) we have no control... over anything! Perhaps we have bought into the 'go with the flow' philosophy as our default. Not certain if this is because we feel inadequate or disenfranchised to direct our own lives? Regardless, we can't afford to adopt this attitude. If we give up, especially on ourselves, we let chaos reign. Never forget:
“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men
to do nothing.” (Attributed to Edmund Burke)
And the 'evil' in this situation is defined as giving up on everything - especially ourselves. Alternative? To act proactively and not reactively, to consciously and intentionally become who we are:
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who
love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."
(Romans 8:28, NKJV)
"Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him
who loved us." (Romans 8:37, NKJV)
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
(Philippians 4:13, NKJV)
Even if you only remember and recite these 3 verses (over and over and over until they become a mindset) you will be strengthened in the inner man which is your source for who you are and a how you relate. As we are strengthen with the knowledge that the foundation for this mindset is:
"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of
itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you
abide in Me." (John 15:4, NKJV)
Then we can look back a year from now and rejoice at who we've become and how we interact with those populating our world. We can become the Lord's Ambassador and touch our world with love and truth. This is worth our time and effort. Remember, I said it isn't a cake walk but also remember Who walks with us - abiding is our strength.
Granted, you can't see tomorrow from today, but what are you willing to do to make your tomorrow all that you need and want it to be? It can never be only lip service. You don't really accomplish much if you don't put 'sweat equity' into (fill in the blank). How can you possibly get to your goal without having objectives to accomplish and direct you along the way? In fact, how do you even know you are heading in the right direction? The old adage that if you fail to plan then you plan to fail (Benjamin Franklin) is not just a saying, it's a fact.
There are times when I am greatly concerned that we've grown into a nation of fatalists - feeling (or thinking) we have no control... over anything! Perhaps we have bought into the 'go with the flow' philosophy as our default. Not certain if this is because we feel inadequate or disenfranchised to direct our own lives? Regardless, we can't afford to adopt this attitude. If we give up, especially on ourselves, we let chaos reign. Never forget:
“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men
to do nothing.” (Attributed to Edmund Burke)
And the 'evil' in this situation is defined as giving up on everything - especially ourselves. Alternative? To act proactively and not reactively, to consciously and intentionally become who we are:
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who
love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."
(Romans 8:28, NKJV)
"Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him
who loved us." (Romans 8:37, NKJV)
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
(Philippians 4:13, NKJV)
Even if you only remember and recite these 3 verses (over and over and over until they become a mindset) you will be strengthened in the inner man which is your source for who you are and a how you relate. As we are strengthen with the knowledge that the foundation for this mindset is:
"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of
itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you
abide in Me." (John 15:4, NKJV)
Then we can look back a year from now and rejoice at who we've become and how we interact with those populating our world. We can become the Lord's Ambassador and touch our world with love and truth. This is worth our time and effort. Remember, I said it isn't a cake walk but also remember Who walks with us - abiding is our strength.
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