Christ Jesus is Lord

Facts. 13 questions answered.

2012-01-23T19:52:00.011-07:00

Didn't want to watch TV, so I filled out one of those online quizes. One question is answered falsely can you guess which one? enjoy :p

1: Right handed, left handed? I still have both ;) .... but tend to favor the right.

2: Ever met your doppleganger? Not yet, but have seen others (which is so weird)

3: Car, truck, bike, boat? Currently car, chevy impala.

4: Married, Relationship, or Single? Single

5: Can you play an instrument? Yes, but I wish it was piano.

6: Evolution or Creation? Creation without any doubt in my mind.

7: Top five favorite cuisines? in no real order; Indian, Japanese, chinese, italian, mexican, greek, american...I guess that's 7, but I could go on, I like most everything...but not really shell fish...more of that for the rest of you. See I'm not shelfish ;)

8: Can you cook? Yup!! :)

9: How tall are you? 6 ft. 3 in.

10: Do you have a job? Sure do :)

11: Do you have a bucket list? A sillyish one yes, just for fun things I'd like to do, not really one with serious must complete goals. But there are 100 things on it (some of which are done). :)

12: Do you like photography? Not at all....

13: What do you think is the most important thing in life? Love! God's love! Can't live without it. :)

Hope you enjoyed learning a bit about me.

Bonus Prize: I'll answer 5 more asked in comments about anything you like. First come first serve. :)

Some encouraging verses for today

2012-01-18T12:40:00.003-07:00

"No temptationhas overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13"

"That evening many demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. He cast out the evil spirits with a simple command, and He healed all the sick. This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, who said, “He took our sicknesses and removed our diseases.” Matthew 8:16-17"

" Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do.“Honor your father and mother.” This is the first commandment with a promise: If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-4"
"A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For weare not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. Ephesians 6:10-18"

^{(I love that it's God's armor we put on, and that He is the one keeping us. Not some selfmade righteousness, not our own understanding of truth and reality, not our own weak faith, not our salvation, for Jesus name means God is salvation, and He alone has the power to save and He has promised to do so. We don't have to rely on any of our own weak abilities. He is the one fighting the battles and protecting us in spite of the worldly circumstances/troubles surrounding us. They are temporary, but a new kingdom was declared by Jesus, an everlasting kingdom full of the joys of the Lord. And I love that these amazing qualities/abilites, that are all really impossible if we tried to do them on our own, are now something we can do and are instructed to do. Not by our own power, but by in His. In verse 10 we are told to be strong in His mighty power, not our own. That's so awesome!! We are told to put on truth, a truth that comes from Him, Jesus is the truth. The enemy is the father of lies, but lies are weak and their deceit is easily seen when placed against the truth. We must believe in His promises because He is the truth. Righteousness, peace, and salvation, and faith are also from Jesus in us, He is in all ways protecting us from the enemy. Even our weapon in this battle is the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. Jesus is called the word of God and He will/has fought for us. Praise God for we are not alone, He has everything under control!! )}

So encouraging! :)

2012-01-16T10:29:00.003-07:00

I find these verses so encouraging!!

"All who confess that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God. We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in His love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.1 John 4:15-16"

There is a Day! :)

2012-01-13T18:57:00.011-07:00

In hope I wait for You my Lord, your saving grace I don’t deserve,

My heart is quieted by the thought, that You will surely soon return,

With trumpet sound the dead will rise to join You in the sky,

And then Your bride shall be with You, forever to abide,

Please may my heart reside in truth, primed ready for that sound,

When shadow is cast into the dark and our bright bodies found,

To lovers of dark a thief you’ll be, but we are of the light,

For us you are our conquering king, to lead us by Your might,

So ready be our deep desires, to rest on Christ the Rock secure,

Casting off all other thoughts, that cause us to remain impure,

Rejoice my heart for truth prevails, though fleshly hopes may die,

His joy shall ever fill my heart, then free from current sigh.

Praise Jesus for His love is better, than current heart’s desire,

In life beyond all thought and measure, we’re one with the Supplier.

My Response: Jesus and I :)

2012-01-10T23:37:00.027-07:00

To the reader: Sorry this is so long. Hope you enjoy! :)

Before I get to myself personally, I'd like to share some things I believe and some great verses.
I don't believe it's possible to be a Christian without Jesus living in us via His Holy Spirit. Without Him living in us, we wouldn't be any different from any other religion, because Jesus the Christ in us, is the way the truth and the life. He alone is our very hope and salvation. He alone is our redeemer, and the giver of life. A life that can only come from Him, because He is life. He is God the Author of life, the life giving Spirit.
Please don't misunderstand, I'm not saying that we have to undergo a pentecostal transformation, or speak in tongues etc. to be a Christian. I am saying that those who have through His power repented and confessed with their mouth Jesus is Lord, and believe in their heart that God raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9) (ie believers in Jesus) most certainly have from that moment, been born again not by flesh by by His Spirit. So regardless of our feelings, we are saved and sealed by His Holy Spirit. The Bible even says we(believers) are His temple, That He dwells in us. but sometimes we give in to doubt, or the enemies lying whispers, that make us think without a PHYSICAL manifestation of the Spirit of God(like with the apostles at Pentecost) in our lives then we must not have Him in us. However, because of His word(the Bible) we know that is of course not the case. That is why Paul wrote the Corinthians "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies ARE TEMPLES of the Holy Spirit, who IS in you, whom YOU HAVE received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. 1Corinthians 6:18-20" See, even though they didn't necessarily know that they were sealed by His Spirit of promise for the day of redemption, didn't mean it wasn't true. We need to have faith, if Jesus our Lord(the truth) said that He'd give His Spirit to live in us and with us, then we must believe it. We also have to live by/in faith, and not selfish unfruitful lives(ugh...I know it but still....Lord please save me from a selfish heart), but by His grace we can live humbly and let Him shine through us by faith (I do think He Shines and warms hearts through us even on our off days. Just like a baby can bring joy, laughter, love, without really knowing it. I think baby, young or maturing Christians can too. We're not called born again for nothing.) Here is another encouraging verse about the promise of His Holy Spirit living in believers. "In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1:13-14" It's so awesome to know that Jesus never left us without help, That He completes a good work in us(often in spite of our weaknesses) and gives us each a manifestation of His Spirit for the building up and sustaining of His body(the church) "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and He distributes them to each one, just as He determines. 1Corinthians 12:4-11" I love that! that we need each other and that there are no "lone gun" super Christians. We need each other because we each are a part of something greater than ourselves. We're a part of a kingdom not of this world even though it is in the midst of it. A "upside down"(to the world) but perfect kingdom where the servant of all(Jesus) is greater than all and Lord. Such great stuff when I remember it and am not distracted/deceived by the world around me. But I love the promise: Greater is He that is in you than He that is in the world. :)

Anyway.... I got a bit passionate there LOL

So, Have I always been close to Jesus? Probably not...sigh, but He has always been close to me, calling me to open my heart to Him. :) I'll begin with a bit of my background, I am the seventh of eight children (now all grown up..ish :) and thanks to God and the witness of my parents I believed in Jesus at a young age. However, it wasn't probably until around the age of 13 after a family devotional that I experienced(realized the working of) His Spirit in my life. My mum had just read us a story of a missionary that gave His life for Jesus, and I remember that I wanted to be willing to give my life to (or if necessary for) Him too. I had believed in Him many years but it was more of a 'so I don't go to hell when I die kind of faith' more than a 'He is my God and I will serve Him with my life kind of faith' I knew He loved me, and died for me, but was I loving Him? Yeah, this was a big thing to think about for a 13 year old, I remember after the family devo I went to my parents room and had my face buried in a pillow hoping to talk with my mum or dad about some stuff. All the while with this question resounding in my mind "Would I be willing to be a missionary for God, to go to another country possibly mosquito ridden and maybe even die for Jesus? Will I give my life to Jesus, and accept all that might entail?" ( I loved my family and was rarely alone so the thought of moving way from them terrified me, plus I used to have quite an allergy to mosquito bites and would swell up huge so I hated them) Anyway I knew verses like "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who has found his life will lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake will find it." So I knew the importance of giving my life fully to Jesus but still the fear of it and struggle with the temptation to say no to that question resounding in my head were big ones. The toughest one to overcome was ridiculously the bug issue LOL. I eventually decided I could die for Jesus but to endure living in a country with so many mosquitoes, disease etc. was tough to accept. But after a bit of a inner battle and with His love, help and strength I finally said yes to the question. I would give my life to Jesus, whatever that would mean. What happened next? I was filled with a peace and joy that I had never experienced before, I was crying with tears of joy, pure joy filled my heart. His joy filled my heart! finally my mum came in as she heard me crying and I explained how it was from happiness and not sadness(a kind of crying I had previously not known existed) She explained to me about God's Spirit and how happy crying can be from a filling of His Spirit in my life. So anyway shortly after that I got baptized and publicly gave my heart, soul and life to Jesus. Trusting in Him for my life and not in myself. And though I've had a lot of stumbling since then, He always been faithful to pick me up and encourage me, even when in my weakness I've be faithless, or acted by worries etc.. :) God is sooooo good!!! Since then I've noticed many times when Christ in me asks me a question or leads me and I either am faithful to follow or to my shame ignore his voice in unbelief. (Sigh, how I yearn to be more bold in my faith, when I think of the times I've ignored his whisper in my heart because of unbelief or cowardice, I feel sick, but God is soooooo gracious and patient with me) Umm... another time a few years later(age17) I was a counselor at a bible camp and I experienced again His Holy Spirit in my life in a more tangible way(not to say He wasn't always with me/in me, just to say that I was more tuned to see Him at work there I guess) Anyway that time we were singing some worship songs and I was just filled with awe and wanted to kneel to Him. But I grew up kind of believing that people who did that or lifted their hands etc. while not wrong were just being pious and show-offs. So I struggled with the, "what will people think!" "I can't do that, it will distract others or I'd be embarrassed, my friends beside me would surely give me grief for it" Hahaha the stuff that goes through our minds sometimes hey. But I overcame my pride and humbled my heart and body before Him. I knelt and I didn't care who saw. It was an awesome moment, I honestly didn't even notice anyone else, my eyes were closed but my heart was bare before God and it seemed like it was just Him and me and He loved me. So after that I was a bit more bold in faith and cool stuff was happening, I'd try to nightly take some time on my knees and pray for people that God put on my heart, even people I didn't know yet, their names were coming into my mind and I was praying for them. Plus, I prayed in tongues which(not coming from a Pentecostal background) was totally by faith, but it gave me such peace and joy to pray like that. Even during cabin devotions one day my sister knocked at our cabin and asked me for a bible verse (giving a vague explanation for which one she was looking for) and I didn't really know what verse she wanted, and no idea where the verse was found in the Bible, but I asked God for it and one popped into my head and by faith I just told her that one. She said thanks and left. Later I found out it was the exact verse she was looking for, which was so encouraging. God was totally working and providing at that camp. Not just in me but through many of the campers/counselors. I think because there were few distractions and our hearts were fixed on Jesus and less on worldly things or ourselves. I would say the theme of the camp which was "The Supernatural" transformed to "His Love" (not really but in my heart it did, because His love is supernatural. It's so different(fuller) than what I think the world often calls love). I realized that being more like Jesus wasn't just about me keeping rules, but letting His love flow through us. God is love after all. In fact the Law was summed up with the command "Love God and each other", but even that man failed at. But now with Jesus living in us we can let His amazing unselfish love shine through! Which is awesome! :) Also it was at that time that I really started reading the Bible, and grew so much through that. So anyhoo, that year I came up with a motto. I've got to give up to grow up. That is to mean, to grow up(mature) in faith, I have to give up my selfish desires, pride, and fears and have faith. Looking at it now it's probably based on Jesus' parable about the sower sowing the seed, "The seed which fell among the thorns, these are the ones who have heard, and as they go on their way they are choked with worries and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to maturity. Luke 8:14" So those are some of my past experiences with God's spirit working in and around me. He has been so faithful/patient with me over the years, and continues to make me awed by His love and power that I see at work in the world and in my own life. Even now God is still showing me His grace, and slowly but surely, helping me to draw closer to Him. OK Quick disclaimer: please don't misinterpret this, I'm not trying to brag here, I'm just trying to share some life experiences in which God was working and I hope this brings God the Glory! JESUS IS SO AMAZING!!! So does Jesus live in me because I live a Holy and set apart life. Hahaha I wish I did, nope quite the opposite. He lives in me because I need Him to transform my life to be Holy and set apart. Yes, I need to give up to grow up, but even the desire/ability to do that is from Him, even my having faith is from Him. All my experiences of His Spirit too, I know are not because of any so called "righteousness" on my part, they are a gift of grace(His favor I don't deserve). I could only do filthy rag righteousness. I make messy pictures for the His fridge LOL. Yup, Jesus is my salvation, and He put the willingness to follow Him and the ability to follow in me(but even that I sometimes mess up), most assuredly though I know that by His grace we are saved. I/We am a work of His Grace, Praise God. Even my choice to give my life fully to Him when I was 13, was because He was working in me already giving me the strength to overcome those fears, and follow/devote myself to Him. All my ups are because of Him, But my downs are me(the old me trying to get its hold back), as those are my selfishness and eyes drifting to other things and sinning. (but, praise God that I'm no longer under condemnation, because He took my penalty on the cross, He took responsibility for my sins (not to say I should go on sinning, ignoring what He's done, His sacrifice demands my repentance(my turning from sin), because He didn't die so that I could go on sinning, still living apart from Him. He died to redeem me from death and sin, so that I/we could be with Him forever, and that is what He is doing/has done). God's love is sooo amazing!). "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.Romans 11:36"
I've had (as all believers do by His grace) many more God moments/answers to prayer etc. God's Holy Spirit is most definitely working in the members of His church around the world. I've heard about/seen some great answers to prayer, miracle healing, etc. over the course of my life, but this is getting to be soooo long(sorry) so those are all I'll write for now. :)

I do still catch myself living here or there in "Christian stagnation" though. Times I'm not living out my faith, not trusting Jesus or following His leading. I let myself be weighed down by the distractions of this culture, and give into the lies that tell me I should worry about myself more, or I should pursue selfish pleasure, or find my happiness in worldly things. Things that promise present happiness, but are really only a temporary happiness ....(I can be so stupid!!! Argh... ) and that is why I need/rejoice in His grace, and so I remain in Hope, with faith. That He who began a good work in me is faithful to complete it. So now hundreds of years later...ish(you've probably grown old reading this ;) I try to remain in and trust in Jesus.
It's so important to keep our eyes fixed on Him. Plus I believe encouragement is soooo important these days. To remind ourselves of the truth and the need to give up some of the thorns that are trying to deceive/strangle our faith. :)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T14:01:00.005-07:00

Happy New Year! 2012 already, wow time is flying. I'm so glad that by God's grace in Christ we will live forever! cause even though time is speeding by it's taking us nearer and nearer to our saviours side. :) And I'm very thankful for the last year and years gone by. Thank you Jesus for saving me, keeping me, helping me to be more likeYou, and for picking me up when I stumble. Praise You Lord!
So it's 2012 and I'm still on blogger, who would have guessed :)

So for my next post of the year lets give you the reader (if your out there) the chance to pick the topic for my next blog post. I.E. Ask me a question (about anything you want), give me a topic. I'll even let you get me to fill out one of those about me quizzes. Wow! the power in your hands hey! :)

To some this may seem a lazy way for me to get a good topic to write about, but I really enjoy engaging with people, or responding to their thoughts or questions or comments. And so please feel free to comment and let me respond with my next blog. :) God bless you and give you a great 2012.

Sincerely,
Me :)

Happy Christmas!!!

2011-12-22T17:51:00.004-07:00

Merry Christmas!!!
Yup, it's that awesome time of year again. Time to enjoy family, friends, gifts, merryment etc. But better yet, time to rejoice that God gave us the best present we could ever hope for, even though we were naughty(probably an understatement), Jesus the Christ. When you really think about all Christmas involves, the amazing story of Jesus' birth, what He means for the world, and that God is now with us, it is such an amazing day of remembrance and good news!

I realize I haven't blogged much this last year, sorry if you follow. But I do hope that any who read this have a splendid holiday full of blessing, hope, and joy (inspite of circumstance) and filled with His love. God bless and, Happy Christmas! :)

HIS Words

2011-12-01T16:16:00.001-07:00

Verses on my laptop's desktop right now (hope they encourage all who read them)

"I have the right to do anything," you say—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but not everything is constructive. No one should seek their own good, but the good of others. 1 Cor. 10:23-24"

"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 I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chron. 7:14"

"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe. Proverbs 29:25"

"It is the LORD your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him. Deut.13:4"

"But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives" 2 Peter 3:10-11"

"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the LORD is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100:4-5

Jesus Is The Way!

2011-09-26T23:33:00.000-06:00

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33"
:)

I'm Back

2011-09-05T00:36:00.003-06:00

I'm back. :)
Had a awesome trip through the U.S. of A. I did so much this past month, too much to say now in a quick post anyway, so I'll just say this important bit of news: TODAY is my Birthday!!! :D

All around I'd have to say I'm very blessed, Praise God!! :)

Summer time

2011-07-28T20:39:00.002-06:00

Leaving for my big summer trip tomorrow. 3300km of driving across two countries on the way there and then another 3300km back. Add in the middle some great times visiting with friends and family along the way (my one year old niece will be so spoiled! :) ), some books on tape for the road, a few good stops, plus beautiful scenery etc. and lots of pics. And another little adventure begins. :) If anyone reads this, then....Have a great summer bloggers! God Bless! :)

But the Greatest of these is LOVE

2011-07-22T21:46:00.056-06:00

God loves you so much! Don't doubt it, and don't let the enemy deceive you, with lying words. Words which condemn your faith, or lies that would steal your hope for salvation. Don't believe such lies! If you need to repent of something keeping you down, then repent. Place your trust in the Lord's Mercy, Forgiveness,Grace and Love. You cannot save yourself, so don't trust in your own ability to be saved by Christ, just trust in Him. The name Jesus means 'God is salvation.' He is the only one able to both save and perfect you. He is also the one who says that (in Him) you are free from your slavery to sin. Believe Him!! For "Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God" Trust in Him. He created you to be loved and died to redeem you from sin's hold on you. Jesus said "Do not let your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me." He gave us authority there. The power to not let our hearts be troubled by believing in who He is: The only begotten Son of God, the Messiah, Saviour, Creator, The Way,Truth and Life, Prince of peace, King of kings and Lord of lords. He wouldn't have said it if we couldn't do it. He is The Truth after all, and He is also our strength to overcome. If He told us to not let our hearts be troubled, then you can be sure that it is now in our ability to obey. For Christ Jesus in us has set us free, and He has given us everything we need to live Godly lives in Him. So stop doubting His love, and provision for you, and trust in Him! Now if God so loves us we ought to love others. So in all situations remember to love. Because then you will mature in your new life. Not a passive love, a "when I feel in the mood," love, but a true love ( like in 1 Corinthians 13), one that makes us servants of everyone and is active and effective in all circumstances. Jesus commanded us to love, we are His body and in Him we are able to love, even our enemies. Hahaha it sounds a bit like loving is a chore and a command that burdens us, but it's really quite the opposite. God tells us to love like that because its a blessing and a great joy. It lets us be like Christ and teaches us more about God's perfect love. He is telling us how to be like Him and to enjoy and grow in the life He has breathed into us. To love others is better than to be loved by others, just like to give is better than to receive. Praise God that He has given us such a perfect amazing command/mission, one that blesses us and rewards us with more of Himself. (Lord Jesus forgive me, and help me to love more, to be bold in sharing the gospel, and to keep my eyes fixed on You. Thank You Lord) :)
This says it better than I could. Please read

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
"This I command you, that you love one another."
"For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome."
"Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever."
"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has seen God at any time; if we love one another, God abides in us, and His love is perfected in us."
"God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love."
"Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaint."
"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good."
"keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life."
"Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth."
"But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith."

Trust in Him and don't worry He is the one who fulfills His will in our lives and even the ability to love is a gift from God. We love because He first loved us. Love is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and something we get the privilege of bearing.

Redeemed, Reborn, Refreshed

2011-06-20T16:04:00.003-06:00

When I was alone, afraid, destroyed, and utterly condemned,
His voice of love called out to me and named me as His friend,
I stood in hope, but still confused, my skin began to shed,
My sin a crown of thorns removed and placed on Him instead,
All of my flesh and self consumed, refined in Holy flame,
Renewed through grace I got new life, was given His own name,

I fell today in shame and dread, I thought I was alone,
But gracious and faithful as He is, He rescued His seed sown,
A sprout of life now grew within and steadily matured,
Even when life seems full of trials He keeps this child secured,
I walk the way alive in hope, to know Him is true life,
No more alone, but full of praise for Jesus sacrifice,

His perfect love casts out all fear, defeating evil's horde
Jesus my way, my truth, my life, my ever loving Lord

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philipians 4:4"

Psalm 100:4-5

2011-03-08T09:17:00.001-07:00

Enter His gates with thanksgiving
and His courts with praise;
give thanks to Him and praise His name.
For the LORD is good and His love endures forever;
His faithfulness continues through all generations.

Praise the Lord Jesus!! Amen!

Questions and Encouragement

2011-01-28T15:12:00.004-07:00

Questions for Today.

1.What are you seeking most right now?

(“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33” “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for THEY WILL BE filled. Matthew 5:6” Glory in His holy name; Let the heart of those who seek the LORD be glad.Seek the LORD and His strength;Seek His face continually. Remember His wonders which He has done,His marvels and the judgments uttered by His mouth. Psalm 105:3-5" "For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.Gal:1-10")

2.Why are you seeking it?

(“You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and He will come near to you(from James 4)”

3.Do you believe that what you’re seeking is His will for your life?

(“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. 1 John 5:13-15” "For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God. 1 Thess. 4:3:5" "The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever.1 John 2:17)

5.Do you believe Jesus the Christ(Emmanuel, God with us) is in fact with you now?

(‘Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned or scorched, nor will the flame kindle upon you. For I am the Lord your God' Isaiah 43:1-3)

6.Do you believe He is coming again? Are you doing anything to prepare for the Way, for the King of Kings return, or His kingdom? (I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. Revelation 3:11)

(Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”Matthew 28:18-20 Also read the letters to the Churches in the book of Revelation regarding overcoming the world in Christ)

8.Do you know how much He loves you or are you seeking only a temporary earthly love?

(‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16’ ‘For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39’ ‘And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17b-19’ "The LORD appeared to him from afar, saying,"I have loved you with an everlasting love;Therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.")

9.Do you believe that He has a perfect plan for you?

(“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11”)

10.Do you know Him well enough to trust Him with your life instead of just trusting in yourself?

(Psalm 65)("Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD. and whose trust is the LORD" jer.17:7)(He who trusts in his own heart is a fool,But he who walks wisely will be delivered.Proverbs 28:26)

11.Do you go to God with all your worries, fears, cares, problems? Why not?

(Cast all your anxiety(worries, desires, fears, cares) on Him because He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 ‘Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20) "Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me? Jeremiah 32:27"

12.When in doubt or troubled in heart, do you try to refocus your desires and hopes on Him?

("For, "THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS, MUST KEEP THIER TONGUE FROM EVIL AND THIER LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT. THEY MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; THEY MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER, BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL." 1 Peter 3:10-12)

(‘For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:16-17’ ‘Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31’ "Delightyourself in the LORD;And He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. Psalm 37:4-5")

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Lord Jesus help me to remember these truths and to Keep Jesus First in my heart! :)

A Great Song: 'Be still, my soul'

2011-01-20T15:42:00.003-07:00

"Psalm 94:19
When my anxious thoughts multiply within me,Your consolations delight my soul."

I didn't write this song (for those who thought I may have. It's an older hymn) but the other night I had a dream and this song was in my mind in the dream, when I woke up I remembered how much I liked it and so I thought I'd share it. God is so Good!! I'm sorry Lord Jesus for when I let my anxious thoughts multiply.

"Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side.
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain.
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change, He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake
To guide the future, as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know
His voice Who ruled them while He dwelt below.

Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,
And all is darkened in the vale of tears,
Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears.
Be still, my soul: thy Jesus can repay
From His own fullness all He takes away.

Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord.
When disappointment, grief and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past
All safe and blessèd we shall meet at last.

Be still, my soul: begin the song of praise
On earth, believing, to Thy Lord on high;
Acknowledge Him in all thy words and ways,
So shall He view thee with a well pleased eye.
Be still, my soul: the Sun of life divine
Through passing clouds shall but more brightly shine."

"Philippians 4:6
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."

On Worshiping the Lord

2010-06-01T21:04:00.000-06:00

"Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." John 4:23-24

How do we worship Him in Spirit and in truth?
Through Christ Jesus living in us who is the truth and gives freely of His Spirit.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6

"Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual act of worship." Romans 12:1

"from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way." James 3:10

"For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. If Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.So then, brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh--for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live." Romans 8:5-13

"In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:26-29

We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2009-12-31T18:01:00.006-07:00

Praise God for another year!
Heavenly Father may Your name be holy and Your will be done and Your kingdom come on earth as it is in Heaven. Thank you Father for your love and for Jesus and for Your patience with me this last year. I pray that this year I'll trust in You and abide in You, and please forgive me my sins. Please use me to change this world for the better in any way that I can and strengthen my faith to fulfill Your plan for my life. Please help me to be a positive person and full of encouragement for those around me. I know how weak I am, but I also know that You use the weak things of the world, so I have high hopes. Please be with those I love and help Your church (and me as I'm part of it) to put You first and to love each other as you've commanded us. May our hearts be full of Your praises and our lives abiding with Your Spirit. Please keep us from temptation and the lies of the enemy. May Your praises, Your light, and power fill this Year with hope and blessings for those You love and those who love You. In Jesus name I pray. Thank You Lord! Amen!

The New Covenant in Christ Jesus

2009-12-29T12:37:00.001-07:00

“The LORD wrote on these tablets what He had written before, the Ten Commandments He had proclaimed to you on the mountain, out of the fire, on the day of the assembly. And the LORD gave them to me. Then I came back down the mountain and put the tablets in the ark I had made, as the LORD commanded me, and they are there now. Deut. 10:4-5”

Reading through 1 kings 8:9 and 2 Chronicles and found something I hadn’t noticed before ch 5 vs 10

“There was nothing in the ark except the two tablets which Moses put there at Horeb, where the Lord made a covenant with the sons of Israel , when they came out of Egypt. 2Chron 5:10”

Yet we know from Hebrews 9:4 that “Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place, which had the golden altar of incense and the gold-covered ark of the covenant. This ark contained the gold jar of manna, Aaron's staff that had budded, and the stone tablets of the covenant.”
So we can see that this staff of miracles and bread of life that fed the Israelites from heaven was not a lasting part of His covenant under the law with Israel. In so much as that they could not keep the law, we see this clearly that by the time of 2 Chronicles these articles were no longer in the ark of testimony. But we in Christ most certainly have a better promise because Christ has entered the most holy place and is there on our behalf. And in Him the miracles(Indwelling by His Spirit, Freedom from sin, resurrection, even Knowledge, Wisdom, healing, supernatural miracles, prophesy, tongues, etc.) and manna(bread of life: God’s daily provision and faith and hope and love and the fruits of the Spirit that come from Jesus) are found abundantly once more and even the law is now written on our hearts(Heb8:10). This is all said much better in Hebrews but I like it when God shows me these interesting facts when I’m reading old testament too.

“Hebrews 8:5-7 They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: "See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain." But the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one, and it is founded on better promises. For if there had been nothing wrong with that first covenant, no place would have been sought for another.”

Isn’t Jesus amazing!!!!

Happy Christmas Everybody!!

2009-12-25T00:56:00.003-07:00

"John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly"

Thank you Lord God for sending Your Son Jesus, He is truly the best present!
And thank you Father in Heaven for Your love, and Your promises and Your daily encouragement and Your patience with me through all my doubts and trasspasses and selfishness. And thank You for forgiving me and mending my brokeness and keeping me in hope. And thank You for my family, my friends, and for the people that I love, and for a good life (it`s good because Your in it). Please may You be the center of my life, my first love, and the king on the throne of my heart. Thank You that you love me and please open others eyes so that they may see how much it is that You love them. Thank You Jesus for coming and being like us so that You could redeem us. These words are not enough, so may we forever praise your name!! Please deliver us from temptation and teach us to walk with You. In Jesus name Amen. Thank You Abba Father, Dad!

Jesus is the Truth!

2009-12-13T20:04:00.004-07:00

"1Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ(Christ meaning the messiah) has come in the flesh is from God; 3and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming, and now it is already in the world. 4You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world." 1 John 4:1-4

Is it wrong to test whether God is the one speaking to you or not? of course not infact He tells us to in His word. Many false prophets have gone out into the world. They believe in a lie and you can know them by this great section of 1 John.
But also there are those who would try to pervert the knowledge of Christ Jesus about them we have instruction found in Galatians 1:6-8 "6 I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel; 7which is really not another; only there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. 8But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed!" A strong warning to those religions who use the name of Christ Jesus falsely. One more way to know those who are from Him is spoken by Jesus in Matthew 7:15-2015"Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 16By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them."

Well hope this helps in decerning some of the lies out there from the enemy.

Some thoughts about life stuff

2009-12-13T16:43:00.009-07:00

"Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Matthew 5:11-12

These words found in the gospel of Matthew chapter 5 bring us a truth straight from the mouth of Jesus the anointed one; the only son of God the creator, Who came to bring peace between God and man and destroy the works of Satan. This He accomplished on the cross by taking our sin upon Himself and dieing in our place. No longer can the accuser accuse us, for in Jesus we have been made righteous(made to be in communion once more with God the Father). He is our peace and the peace/sin/guilt offering between Man and God. A one time offering to God the Father (and more than sufficient for all eternity) Who was most pleased to accept it. These words found in Matthew pronounce a promise and a blessing. Note that He did not say "if people insult you and persecute you" but "when", we must not expect a life free from the hate of those who reject and hate Jesus, but we can take courage and know that we are blessed by God for believing and remaining in Him.

So here are some tips I have learned from His word.
1. Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.
2. Trust Jesus (don't believe the lie of the enemy when He says God doesn't love you. He does!! More than you could even imagine!! Don't doubt His love just because you are enduring tough times, but know that He is perfecting you for even Jesus endured the cross and more suffering than you will/could probably ever know.
3. There are many in the world who will either hate you, ignore you, tease you, tolerate you, or receive you because you love Him. Remember greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world.
4. Seek to daily remember that you are a new creation. You no longer have to fear or submit to your old nature for it is but a passing thing and daily He will help you to grow to be more like Him. Many things we do, have done, or will do can cause us to doubt that. But Jesus is faithful and will keep His promise. He lives in those who believe, not He might live in them, but He does!
5. No one is born an adult and no child tries to remain a child in all things. So remember God knows you're His child and that you're wanting to grow Spiritually each day, and if you fall He will pick you up so do not fear but believe!
6. Jesus is the Author and perfector of our faith, so don't beat yourself up trying to have more faith, if a mustard seed is the amount you need to move a mountain don't you think He's given you that much? He has given you all you need so have faith in Him knowing He governs all the situations in your life. When a mountain doesn't move, believe that He has a perfect plan and it is unfolding according to His purpose. If you doubt your faith trust in His faithfulness. When he told His disciples that they had little faith it was when they weren't recognizing who He was. It wasn't that they doubted their own faith or that they doubted that bread couldn't multiply but that they didn't yet know Him. Jesus is one with God! He said if you've seen Him you've seen the Father yet they struggled with this. But He said that we who have yet to see Father or Son and yet believe will be more blessed. So if your faith is troubled, believe in Jesus and know that He is the one Who began a good work in you and will be faithful to complete that work, leading to the salvation of your very soul.
7. Many will say they believe in Jesus and call themselves Christians and yet their fruit or lifestyle says differently. They will endeavor to affirm their wrongful deeds by asking you to join them. Don't! stand firm in Jesus and follow Him, walking according to His deeds, instead of following people who say they follow Him. After all He is the way. That said it is not our place to judge or condemn, perhaps they are still young in the faith or struggling. Ask God to rescue them and know that you don't have to remove the speck in their eye because Jesus is the one who cleans His children. Instead love them. Showing them Christ in your actions because truth is revealed by His light shining through you. If they are truly His then they will desire to be closer to Him and hear His loving voice calling them to follow Him.
8. Come close to God and God will come close to you, resist the devil and the devil shall flee from you! The devil is a deceiver, don't be deceived and give in to fear, stay in the light of Christ and know that Satan is a defeated foe trying to lie to people about their saviour and their place in salvation. Lies like, you're not good enough, or that your sin is to great, or that God has abandoned you, or that you don't have to know Jesus to get to God. But the truth is, We're good because God is good and He lives in us, sin is not greater than God nor can it be greater than His sacrifice, and God has promised to never leave you nor forsake you. Believe in Jesus' words and not the enemy's. He is the Way the Truth and the Life no one comes to the Father except through Him. So come close to God (through Jesus) and He will come close to you, and know that if you're near Him you have nothing to fear.
9. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control the fruits of the Spirit are all from His Spirit, and shall be evident in the lives of those who are born again in Christ Jesus. Those who practice these fruits and let these qualities grow in there lives will not be disappointed. Just as a child must practice the speech and actions of their parents before becoming proficient so we too shall become more like our Father in Heaven as we follow His example. So don't give up know that He both gives you good desires and He fulfills them according to His perfect Will and Power.
10. Remember to observe communion with Jesus, partaking of His flesh and blood as a sign of oneness with His death and resurrection until He comes, remember that you were worth His life. He loved you that much and that He is now with the Father to prepare a place for you and complete His good work. It is when we forget this that the enemy tries to deceive us and cause us to forget that He died for us, or that we must still suffer and be punished. No, we are one with Jesus and He paid it all. So rejoice and praise Jesus for He is the bread of life and His blood is what sanctifies and cleanses us and our conscience. So partake in Communion with Him for the sake of remembering those truths.

P.S. 11. This one is a big one for me (because I come from a large family) and because I have found it helpful over the years. (I first read it in a daily bread reader.) If someone criticizes you and the criticism is true mend your ways, if false then forget about it. In other words, with Jesus' help, judge if you are at fault in what you did, and if you are, then repent(change your ways), but if you're not at fault and they only criticize you because they don't know the situation or because of their own fault, then don't retaliate or worry what they or others may think. Simply forget about it.
Also trust Jesus, if He has put something on your heart to do, then do it, regardless of whether it will embarrass you or you think you'll get criticised for doing it. It is far better to please God than man, and besides He has the best intent for your life. He has plans that give you both a hope and a future, so don't mess that future up by your disbelief and lack of action.

There is so much more He's teaching/taught me but I tend to forget so fast in a moment of doubt. So More than knowledge trust His love, believe in Jesus, and when stuff in your life confuses you, take your eyes off of stuff and put them back on Jesus. When people hurt you, know that Jesus loves you, and that in time hurt WILL be replaced by His joy. Don't let one bad moment create a million more. I know that because of certain hurts in my life I have doubted the love of certain people and that only resulted in further hurt both on their part and on mine. Trust then in His love, and be free with showing/doing it. Don`t let others restrain your belief in Him.

These statements aren`t all perfect but they are based on scripture, so if you have any questions or comments feel free to make them.

Believe in Jesus

2009-12-02T19:40:00.001-07:00

In Christ is found hope, and faith that refines,
So that we may cope, defeating sins crimes,
Our Saviour is He, Who rose from the grave,
He let our hearts see, the love that He gave,
For He took the sentence, of death we deserved,
Removing the fence, between sheep and shepherd,
We now have a guide, to lead us each day,
No longer we hide, from our Lord in dismay,
So now let us walk, in the way that He’s shown,
In true love not just talk, and by Love we’ll be known.
His love and kindness, forever will rain,
On the one who believes in His glorious name,

Trust in Jesus!!

2009-11-27T18:21:00.003-07:00

(Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understandings, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall make thy paths straight.)

Life can be so confusing, filled with so many questions, wanders and hopes. Sometimes I get so frustrated because I’ve misinterpreted something or think that one of my greatest hopes is just too impossible or unlikely, but then I try to take my eyes off the situation and trust God instead. When I think I’ve failed or overstepped my bounds it’s good to know that we have a Father who can and does straighten our paths. Why do I lean so much on my own understanding of people, situations, hopes, or dreams? God is able to do the impossible and if He has placed something on our hearts or in our path then He is more than able to bring about His will. Truth be told, the Lord has probably already made a straight way before us and it’s just our own doubts stopping our feet from walking life’s paths and stopping those hopes from becoming reality. I’m so thankful that Jesus loves me and has a plan from my life. And that He waits patiently and doesn’t take away a path just because we hesitate, but instead He grabs our hand (shaking though it may be) and leads us in His Will. I’m so thankful that He can and will bring in people to share it with me. I’m so thankful that despite the times I feel alone He does really have a future for me, and people ready to love and defend me, and people that I can love and defend. I guess why I’m writing this is that.... Hope is a wonderful thing, but it’s even more wonderful when we have faith and know that He is the fulfiller of our hopes, both heavenly and earthly. So have faith, and takes steps toward the hopes He has given you, even the seemingly impossible ones!!
(Romans 4:18-22 Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping—believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, “That’s how many descendants you will have!” And Abraham’s faith did not weaken, even though, at about 100 years of age, he figured his body was as good as dead—and so was Sarah’s womb. Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. And because of Abraham’s faith, God counted him as righteous.) (Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the steadfast belief of things not seen.)
We who believe in Jesus are one in Him and He loves to give us good things and to share with us His love. Praise God!!

A Poem of Praise

2009-11-25T19:24:00.003-07:00

Wake up! For it is morning, open your eyes and see His light,
He frees the soul from mourning and He gives the heart delight,
He is Jesus, God’s anointed, King of Kings with God He’s one,
Praise His Holy name forever, Giving Praises to the Son,
He endured our shame and died for us to make us each His Own,
He rose from the grave to reign again and sit upon His throne,
Now His love beyond all measure, offered to them who will believe,
Shall make the contrite born again, and set the captive sinner free,
Rejoice O world and give your praise, to Him who gives you grace,
Remain in Him ‘till He returns eternal life to face.

Joshua ch.1-5 (some thoughts)

2009-11-23T22:04:00.004-07:00

The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh received their inheritance of the Promised Land on the east side of the Jordan River. However, they were not allowed to enter their rest (land) until they had helped the rest of Israel get theirs on the west side of the Jordan River. Did the rest of Israel really need their help? No (aside from maybe some moral support), God was the one winning all the battles, and often in some pretty amazing ways. I think as Christians today we too often view our salvation as an individualistic/personal goal or promise. It’s true Jesus died for me, and that God loves ME more than I could probably ever know. This is all true and more than wonderful, but then we seem to, instead of living this new life of hope for His name, tend to forget that we are one body in Christ. That Jesus died for the sins of the whole world and that all who believes will have everlasting life. So if we are one body though individual members of it, we must by faith use the gifts we’ve been given for the building up and sustaining of the body (Church). We must lift up the fallen, supply the needy, encourage the persevering, and care for and love all those who call on His name. Just like in our bodies the heart pumps the blood, the lungs provide the oxygen, and our body’s parts work together for the whole. What happens if there are some rogue cells acting on their own; caring only for themselves, and living in the body propagating cells that are likewise renegade? We call them cancer and the whole body suffers for their sake, until it’s cured or the cancer removed.
We mustn’t ignore other believers who are struggling like the rich man did to Lazarus (Luke 16:19) regardless if they are on our door steps or half way around the world. We have been given a measure and if we freely give we shall freely receive. Sure we may say true things like, “God will help them. After all He loves them too, besides He doesn’t need me. And realistically speaking I couldn’t do much of anything anyhow.” But the bride of Christ Jesus is a collective and just like this passage in Joshua we must join together as Christ’s church/body, together claiming His promises until we all receive of His goodness upon His return. So let’s not be selfish and ignore His word.

Matthew 25:31-46 31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His throne in heavenly glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33He will put the sheep on His right and the goats on His left. 34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by My Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited Me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you came to visit Me.' 37"Then the righteous will answer Him, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and invite You in, or needing clothes and clothe You? 39When did we see You sick or in prison and go to visit You?' 40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.' 41"Then He will say to those on His left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42For I was hungry and you gave Me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite Me in, I needed clothes and You did not clothe Me, I was sick and in prison and You did not look after Me.' 44"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help You?' 45"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for Me.' 46"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

So then we in Christ will bear good fruit. Don't be afraid of your old self and fleshly lusts but remember that in Christ we are a new creation, so put that old nature to death (so to speak) let us not be deceived by the enemy and become selfish lay bouts who are too caught up in our society, in its worries, pleasures, and riches that we bear no good fruit. The Fruits of His Spirit are Love, joy, Peace, Patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. These are gifts from Him that we bear not produce. Let us do the good, which we can now by His grace do, and together rejoice in the love of God!

Jonah and the whale or Gospel of Jesus

2009-05-30T13:54:00.004-06:00

Luke 11:29,30 and 32 “As the crowds were increasing, He began to say, "This generation is a wicked generation; it seeks for a sign, and yet no sign will be given to it but the sign of Jonah. For just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. The men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation at the judgment and condemn it, because they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and behold, something greater than Jonah is here. “

Mathew 12:39-41 “But He answered and said to them, "An evil and adulterous generation craves for a sign; and yet no sign will be given to it but the sign of Jonah the prophet; for just as JONAH WAS THREE DAYS AND THREE NIGHTS IN THE BELLY OF THE SEA MONSTER, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. "The men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation at the judgment, and will condemn it because they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and behold, something greater than Jonah is here.”

Jonah took a message of destruction to the city of Nineveh. He did not come to them declaring that they must be keepers of the law, but he did reason to himself that they would repent and receive mercy. They were not given any further instructions in regard to self-righteousness, such as they must now keep the law like the Israelites. They simply believed the word of God concerning them and hoped for mercy. They put their trust in God that He is gracious, merciful and a giver of salvation. The king of Nineveh himself spoke these words
“let men call on God earnestly that each may turn from his wicked way and from the violence which is in his hands. Who knows, God may turn and relent and withdraw His burning anger so that we will not perish.” Jonah a man under the law and not grace foresaw God’s mercy and at first rebelled against the Idea of their salvation apart from works, knowing that if they simply repented God would spare their city from the promise of destruction. In fact it wasn’t until He was made an example in the likeness of Christ, i.e. His being in the belly of the fish as good as dead for three days, that he was ready to accept this message of God’s undeserved mercy and to take such a message to them. For He placed His hope in God for his own salvation apart from works while in the belly of the fish, and finished the prayer found in Jonah chapter two with the proclamation concerning Jesus Himself “Salvation is from the Lord.”
Jesus proclaims this sign of Jonah to be now the only sign to the wicked generation that seeks for a sign. The sign of His death and resurrection, indeed there can be, nor is any greater sign of God’s love and salvation than this. This sign of Jonah through Christ is the very gospel of grace. The people of Nineveh did not receive their temporal salvation except through God’s mercy and grace by believing the word of God through His prophet Jonah. Just as those who now here the gospel of Christ and believe will receive eternal salvation and on top of that His life as a free gift of grace from the one and only living God.

Baptism is a washing that is likewise by grace and not an act of self-righteousness. One does not nor can baptise oneself but is baptised by another. Baptism is then not a self cleansing act but a petition to God for a clean conscience (1 Peter 3:21) a cleansing that only God can provide through the resurrection of Jesus the Christ. Therefore we baptise one another (according to the commission of Jesus found in Matthew’s gospel ch28vs16-20) in the name of God the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. As doing it in His name on His behalf acting as His body on the earth for the cleansing of the one seeking after the grace and good news of Christ Jesus. Baptism is a sign to us of our victory in Christ Jesus over sin and death. It declares our freedom from the slavery of sin and the condemnation of the Law, in that in baptism we have died with Christ and the law holds no power over things that have died (read Romans ch.6 and 7). It shows us that we can do nothing for our own righteousness and salvation but like the Ninevites we must forsake sin and believe in the free gift of God’s mercy and love. Being washed and made perfect by the act of God and not of ourselves. We died with Christ and because He was raised up so we too live in a newness of life. That is why we are called born again and saints for we are no longer slaves to unrighteousness but to righteousness. Let us rejoice for God is so good! We also see that when God spared the Ninevites the religious Jonah despised that mercy. Let us not be so captivated by self-righteousness that we, like Jonah did when he left the city, ignorantly reject God's mercy. For we have be given this gracious gift of salvation which is found in Christ Jesus. For I see today too much the false gospels going out into the world, proclaiming that once saved in Christ we are still under the Judgement of the Law. That being now saved in Christ if we fail in keeping the Ten commandments we are hell bound. that is not the gospel to be put under a yoke even God's chosen nation could not bear. I'm not saying not to keep the law, what I'm saying is that in Christ Who fulfilled the law we are free from its condemnation. The Apostle Paul tells us plainly(Romans 8:1) that there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Jesus never said to people He had healed and saw had faith in Him “Go and keep the law.” In fact He said to the woman caught in adultery who He didn't condemn “Go and sin no more.” If that was a command then He gave her no hope, but if a promise then praise God He keeps those whom He saves. You see, Jesus, who came to complete the Law, would not have commanded that woman to do something beyond her capabilities as some cruel joke. No indeed when He said “Go and sin no more” it was a promise. He knew full well the salvation and freedom He was bringing to the world. The salvation we receive from Jesus is of an eternal nature. Its the gospel that frees us from sin and promises us that we can now, because of our oneness with Christ, sin no more.

“Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned-- for until the Law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam until Moses, even over those who had not sinned in the likeness of the offense of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come. But the free gift is not like the transgression. For if by the transgression of the one the many died, much more did the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, abound to the many. The gift is not like that which came through the one who sinned; for on the one hand the judgment arose from one transgression resulting in condemnation, but on the other hand the free gift arose from many transgressions resulting in justification. For if by the transgression of the one, death reigned through the one, much more those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ. So then as through one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men. For as through the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous. The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:12-21”

So you see Baptism is a promise to the believer of Holiness, and is carried out by Him through His body the church. For the believer is saved and made righteous by Jesus through faith, but baptism working together with faith promises a clear conscience, proclaiming that God has done for them what they could never do for themselves, that their eternal life is cleansed and made holy forever, so that they may be with the Lord forever. Not as an act of human or self cleansing but by an act of God. Nineveh was a picture of temporal grace given by faith and repentance, but Christ is eternal grace. History shows us that the Ninevites could not keep themselves from sinning. Despite their repentant heart they could not free themselves from the curse and ultimately have disappeared from the earth. But Jesus lives in those who believe in Him and keeps and perfects us. Praise God. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whomsoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.

Do you know and trust in how much God loves you? He loved you enough to give His beloved son so that we might be saved. He paid the price for our sin and then some! Jesus was more than enough for a payment for the sins of the world. So now in Him we are promised life and freedom from sin forever. Believe it! He loves you!

The day before Easter Friday

2009-04-09T19:40:00.005-06:00

God is so good!!!!!

Some things to remember in light of Easter:

Many may ask themselves what work can we do for the one who took our punishment, and gave us eternal life, and on top of that filled our hearts with the love and light of Christ Jesus?

“Therefore they said to Him, "What shall we do, so that we may work the works of God?" Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent.” John 6:28-29

We who believe in Him are born again new creations, so now we can live in faith, hope, and love.
Even our faith is such a blessed gift as He is the author and perfector of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” Eph.5:8-9

Praise God for His faith, hope, and love!

Jesus is our hope and life the first born from the dead, conquering the sting of death. “"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?"The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Cor. 15:55-57 We no longer need to fear death and the righteous punishment of God the Father. For in His love He sent His son to take our sin and punishment. His perfect love in Christ Jesus now casts out all fear. “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1

“We love because He first loved us.” 1John 4:19

We can now truly love because of Him. Love is from God and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God, for God is love. To love for us now is both a command and a promise "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:34-35" “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8” “He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him. John 14:21" “And this is His commandment, that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, just as He commanded us. 1John 3:23” “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? 1 john 5:3-5”

Praise God for He abides in us giving us and fulfilling in us faith, hope, and love.

“By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has seen God at any time; if we love one another, God abides in us, and His love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. We have come to know and have believed the love which God has for us, God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this, love is perfected with us, so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment; because as He is, so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. 1 john 4:9-18”

So what work can we do for the one who took our punishment and on top of that gave us eternal life? By ourselves... very little more than filthy rags(Isaiah 64:6), but through Him we can rejoice and be glad and give Him Glory, believing in Jesus and loving each other.

What shall I render to the LORD
For all His benefits toward me?
I will take up the cup of salvation,
And call upon the name of the LORD. Psalms 116:12-13

Have a Great Easter!!

Church the Body of Christ Jesus (2-3)

2009-02-28T12:20:00.007-07:00

Church the Body of Christ Jesus (2)

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and does them, will be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock.” Matthew 7:24

Continuing on from before, Christ Jesus is the head of the church. But it’s not as if without the church He has no physical body and is just a head and incomplete. Jesus, although one with God the Father, became a human like us and has His own body which which is now a glorified one. So how is the Church His body? God is the creator and all things are possible for Him, but let’s look at another example of our oneness with Him. Since the beginning God made this mystery as a promise:
“The man said, "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called 'woman, ' for she was taken out of man." For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. Genesis 2:23-24”
Similarly we who are in Christ are of one spirit. So that while at death the two by flesh are no longer one flesh, yet for us the promise is that we are one with Christ not only in flesh but in His eternal Spirit, and so death no longer has any hold over us. Death can no longer separate us, who are in Christ, from God the Father, because we are one with Him in Spirit, knowing this we have all the more reason to live holy lives.
“By His power God raised the Lord from the dead, and He will raise us also. Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, ‘The two will become one flesh.’ But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with Him in spirit. Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.1 Corinthians 6:14-20”
The Church is called the bride of Christ and as such we have become ONE with God. Just as a man and woman through marriage become one flesh/body so we the Church are one body. Being then fully unified with God and each other in the vows, love, and promises of Christ Jesus our Lord, should we carry on as individuals, caring only for ourselves and our personal relationship with Christ? Should a bride once married carry on/act/live as though she has no head/husband? No she must forsake her old life and be one with her husband as He is with her. So we who are the bride of Christ Jesus must forsake our “single” life of sin (not at all saying that everyone in the church must be married here, this is speaking only of our life in Christ) and be obedient to our head/husband Jesus Christ. Yes, we have a personal relationship with Christ, but we can’t neglect one another because of that. Especially since in our personal relationship with Him, Jesus commands us to love each other. Not merely in word and tongue but in deed and truth(or in action and from the inner most being), so that we can be one with Him and the Father by the power of His Holy Spirit working in us. Praise God that He loves us so much!

Church the body of Christ Jesus (3)

If the body is dead apart from Christ can the individual member be alive apart from the body? For example, can a hand, no longer attached to the arm receive the supply needed (blood, nerve impulses, etc.) to function. My point here is that we NEED each other. Why? Because that is the way God created us to have unity with Christ... as a body (a group of parts creating a whole). Now although there may be exceptions to this rule, as it is Christ Jesus who ultimately supplies our need. His desire is for one body, and He will bring those exceptions to be unified with His body, so that we, being fully supplied together, may love each other as He works in/through us. Now some may say “What about a lone missionary, aren’t they on their own and apart from the body?” Of course not. They remain a vital part and Christ has many Christians praying for and supporting them being one with them in Spirit. Distance doesn’t separate the members of Christ’s body. If they are in fact working in/for the body of Christ then Christ the head keeps them unified. The principle then is: The body/church, although right now seemingly made up people who are separated by flesh, distance and even time, is in truth alive together in our Lord Christ Jesus by His Spirit. Our whereabouts on this earth does not separate us from Christ nor from His body. The problem comes with Christian’s mistaken belief today that we can be unified with Jesus and His body and yet be separate from the Church. This is absurd, the Church is His body. I’m not talking about non believing congregations, those who call themselves Christians or Christ followers and yet reject Jesus Christ’s teaching and Lordship. Let us not also be deceived and reject His word, we are to be one together with Him and the Father as Jesus who is the Word abides in us. One member must not suffer alone nor one rejoice alone. Salvation is for all who receive Jesus the Anointed one of God, joining together in His death and resurrection. He calls us to be one, a bride together of the Lamb. So let us put on love which is the perfect bond of unity.

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in Me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in Us so that the world may believe that you have sent Me. I have given them the glory that you gave Me, that they may be one as We are one” John 17:20-22

May we be faithful as He is faithful, and together be unified in obedience to Christ Jesus our Lord and Master (head).

Church, the body of Christ Jesus

2009-02-20T16:25:00.003-07:00

Jesus is the head of His church which is called both Christ’s bride and body. I’m writing this because we often negate this truth in our individual walk in the Christian life. Perhaps from a lack of understanding this mystery or maybe something else, but regardless of the reason, I have found myself on both sides and wanted to commit to paper what my mind tends to forget on the subject.

I begin by reiterating something I often overlooked in some of the letters by the Apostle Paul. Can the hand, arm or any other part of the physical body function without instruction or command from its head/brain? Similarly we, who believing in Jesus are born again and grafted spiritually into His body, must be obedient to His living word in us. For without His instruction, authority, and Spirit working through us and with us we can do nothing and are as dead. Can your hands, eyes, or body express love, an action, or emotion apart from the brain telling them what to do or how to do it? We all know that a body without a head is a corpse and useless. So we, when we were without Christ, were dead and useless, being fully unable to walk by His Spirit and bear the very evident actions of true life. A body might appear to still have life without its head. Somewhat like a chickens body can run around impulsively after losing its head to a chopping block, but in time the ultimate result is unmistakable...death. The good news is that through Christ Jesus we have new life. A life that is true and everlasting, for we are now a part of Christ’s eternal body. If we are His body, then, we can do nothing apart from Him, insomuch as He is the head. In contrast to that everything He empowers us to do, we can do, as we are now one with Him by faith. Now the body needs in it blood to supply, repair, heal, protect against disease etc. So we the Church can do nothing apart from His Holy Spirit’s presence in us. He graciously gives the body/church life and the abilities (gifts) it needs to function and live as more than a cold heap of flesh and bones. It is His Spirit that softens and warms our hearts. (It should be noted here that the abilities and gifts of His Spirit are not suddenly subject to our human or fleshly whims. They are subject to Christ`s will working in us. By faith, via His gifts, we act and carry out Christ`s will in the body (church) for the common good of one another, to the glory of Christ Jesus and God our Father. If certain gifts aren`t evident in the church, chances are that the body is: Not putting Christ Jesus first, struggling with faithlessness, or perhaps, those gifts may not be needed to fulfill Christ`s will at that given time. That said, the fruits of the Spirit of Christ should always remain evident, though all the gifts disappear. His word says there remains faith, hope, and love.)

The principle here is that apart from Christ Jesus’ Spirit working in and through His church it cannot function or bear the fruits of life and of His Spirit. The human body without a head and blood is functionless and dead. We the people of the Church, through faith and so Christ’s body, must look to Him in all we do, for apart from Him we can do nothing. If He tells us to love and obey we do so with the ability Christ as our head provides. Here’s a simple example: No one could get away with saying “My body acts on its own so don`t hold me accountable.” But rather we know that their brain, mind (will) and spirit control their body, telling it what to do. I write this knowing that we are individuals and as individuals try to act alone, but now by His grace we can be united and be one together with each other and His Spirit, acting together for the greater good of the church.

So what then?

1. Abide in Jesus and He will live in and through you. Apart from Him we are dead, but in Him is eternal life.

2. The body/church can do whatever the head (Jesus the Christ) tells it to do. Whether that be to “Love the Lord God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind and love our neighbour as our self.” Or to perform great signs and wonders in His name. All things are possible in Christ because, simply put, it is not we who do these things but His Spirit working through us teaching us to be in His likeness. We see then the principle that He is both our willing and doing as we abide in Him. That is why we pray “Our Father in heaven Hallowed be your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Because it is God who by His grace works these things in His body the church.

3. 1 Timothy 1:5 “But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” Love is Christ`s ultimate work in us, as part of His body He will love though us and teach us to love.

4. Trust Jesus! Do not fret if you cannot perform every day some amazing sign for your own edification or what you think is good. Christ will work through His body so be faithful to keep on praying and persevering and acting according to the faith He has given you. Godliness with contentment is great gain. Therefore rejoice that your name is written in the lambs book of life and don`t chase after fleshly hopes and desires. Trust that He works all things to the good of those who love Him. Be confident that the work of Christ Jesus is being done in and through you according to His will and faithfulness as you abide in Him and so are a part of His body.

5. That said His gifts are amazing, don`t doubt but believe and act for He is faithful. Humble yourself therefore under the mighty hand of God and He WILL exalt you in His time. Cast all your cares upon Him for He cares for you!

6. Rejoice!

A Thought on Eternal Life vs Eternal Existence

2008-08-18T11:33:00.002-06:00

"Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent. John 17:3"

How many people today seek after eternal life? Many seek after everlasting existence, but how many seek life…that is to know the only true God and Jesus who He sent?

I was thinking about this last night, after watching a anime about high school relationships (boy was it full of drama), and the thought occurred to me that we are so deluded as to what life really is! Think about the common human view of "life" after death. If people are true to themselves they'll admit that death isn't/can't "be it" or the end of existence. We all feel/know that there has to be more. "He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Eccl.3:11" And so we come up with theories. What is Heaven and Hell in the mind of a common American? Hell is a place where the devil is king and punishes people because they wanted to have a fun existence and "party down." The people who commit social and moral indignities; things like drinking(alcohol), smoking, sex, drugs, murder, swearing, uncouth practical jokes (burning feces on a neighbors door step) etc. are sure to end up there. Whereas heaven, is a place where you get wings, a harp and some Philadelphia cream cheese while sitting in clouds surrounded by naked babies. Or it's a party with dancing, attractive people and a jazz band, where God is a king and if you don't behave you'll be sent to H, E, double hockey sticks.

Neither view involves eternal life, but instead everlasting existence, because neither view involves knowing Jesus. I think that is why Jesus said the road is narrow that leads to life and few find it. Because life isn't mere existence, it is something more wonderful than we can imagine…the ability to know and be one with God! "Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in Us so that the world may believe that You have sent Me. I have given them the glory that You gave Me, that they may be one as We are one: I in them and You in me." Don't we who call ourselves Christians understand the significance of these words? We get to share in oneness with God! How could we not rejoice in all things if we remember this truth?

Perhaps it's that we often neglect the wonder that is knowing God and having true life. Maybe we think it's not a big deal because it's a free gift or because it's available for all who would believe and therefore less "special." Or maybe it's because we don't really want life, we just want an existence forever pleasuring in our own delights, ignoring the fact that they can't truly satisfy. I love the picture of this that C.S. Lewis gives in his book "The Great Divorce." It shows people that want to save their existence instead of have true life with the source of life and therefore find hell and run to it, without being sent there. "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it." For as long as we want an existence that is selfish and based on our "being" only, we will never be able to have Spiritual union and oneness with God, which is life! For Christ came to bring the word of life, one in which there is a unity and knowledge of the life source, God the Father. "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge because you have rejected knowledge…(Hosea 4:6)"

Why do we grumble and complain? Is it because we don't understand the love of God? For truly if we did, wouldn't we be like Moses and not the Israelites, like the prophets and not the people, or like Christ a servant of all first, and not like ourselves greedy little master "want to be." For if we recognize God's Lordship and submit to Him then we will be able to know Him. This is life, to know God and Jesus. If we love Him we will abide in His word and He shall personally bring us to communion with the Father. So rejoice in the hope of life, an honor without precedence, that God would choose part of His creation to share His person and eternity with. Quit complaining about the now, and rejoice in the hope of true life!

Now some may say in this life we have troubles. Indeed we will, for Christ suffered first and those who follow Him will also suffer because of the enemy, so that they may be made perfect through His sufferings. Yet, it has been also said He will give us His peace and not only that but as we serve Him He will be in us and with us.

What then is left? "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well. Mark 16:15-18" Often today there are those who "hold to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; avoid such men as these… (They're) always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." Why? Because they don't want to know Him, "For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God (from 2timothy3)" These are strong words of warning, I hope we will abide in Him with our whole hearts, mind, will, and strength.

Let us go to the Author of life through the Son of His love and grace and know Him. Rejecting the wicked things of this existence and receiving life; we will hold on to truth and shall walk with the Lord God.
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me. Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

"Since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity so that by His death He might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. Hebrews 2:14-15”

Baptism - Power and Purpose

2008-06-16T11:30:00.002-06:00

Baptism – What &Why

I’m a little curious of the full significance of baptism in the life of a believer. I was told that it was not necessary for salvation but still very important for a Christian’s maturity. Following some baptism classes that I took before my own baptism when I was fourteen years of age, I understood that baptism was the responsibility of the maturing Christian. A seemingly powerless symbol to declare being “born again” as it symbolized our spiritual death and new life found in Jesus Christ. I was told it was to be a witness to others (usually Christian family and friends), a declaration to them of my choice in following Jesus Christ. That was it…holding no other significance… as much as I understood.

Originally that was enough, to walk in obedience in declaring my faith and love for God. However, the more I read of God’s word, the less this view of baptism meant to me. It seemed like it was missing some of the truth in its purpose and power.

When I was sixteen to eighteen years old (I can’t remember exactly when) I once had to give a report before my church congregation, at a youth baptismal service, about its significance. I found and studied as many Bible verses regarding baptism and its purpose as I could (around ten verses at the time) the week prior to the service. I couldn’t seem to put the pieces of understanding together at that time in my life (thanks to my teenage brain). The night of the service came and all I could think to do was read the congregation some of the verses, confirm the obedience and symbolic nature of baptism and concluded with “I think its important that you all get baptized” hoping that God could fill in the rest. Now, although I do believe God used me in my weakness, nevertheless, that left me feeling quite ashamed at my ignorance and lack of understanding on the subject. And since then I have just held its purpose as an act of faith (nothing wrong with that, but I like to strive on to maturity)

And so now about ten years later and with the help of God’s Spirit teaching me I’d like to look at it again.

Dictionary definition: Baptism - the ritualistic sprinkling of water on the head or immersion of the body into water as an action of initiation, dedication, etc. considered a sacrament (a visible sign of an inward grace) in both the Protestant and Catholic Church.

Through further study I still believe that water baptism is a declaration of oneness (like a marriage ceremony) with God the Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit. And it should not be forgotten that baptism is a sacrament (a holy command given by Jesus Christ to all those who believe) and should not merely be overlooked because people don’t understand it’s purpose or are to proud and think that they don’t need it to be saved so it can’t be that important. That is an arrogant, rebellious, and disobedient way of thinking about baptism by water. Jesus instituted it, just as He commanded us to remember Him in the Lord’s Supper and to love each other he also commanded us to baptize and be baptized.

Here are a few more things I’ve learned about the purpose and power of baptism. I put it in point form so as not to have to write a book and it does require some Bible studying on the part of the reader. The purposes for baptism are underlined under the sub headings of water baptism and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Supporting verses are found under each purpose. All in all I hope it’s a blessing, from God and not just me.

Baptism - Power and Purpose
As found in scripture

Baptism by/in/through Water

Sanctification/consecration (being set apart for God)-
In the Israelites baptism by Moses (1 cor.10:2-13)
In the Anointing the Levites (Lev.8:6)
Israel by blood (Ex.24:6-8)
In the baptism of Jonah
Baptism of believers in Jesus (1 Cor.6:11)

Cleansing (from past sins and unholiness)-
In the Flood
In the Levitical Laws (Num.19)
Israel (Lev.14:8 and throughout Num.8:6-8&19:7)
In the baptism of Jonah
Baptism of believers in Jesus (1 Cor.6:11, Eph.5:25-26, Acts 22:16, Heb.10:22)

Repentance-
In the baptism of John (Acts 13:24&19:4, Matt.3:6&11, Mk.1:4&8, Lk.3:3)
In the baptism of Jonah
In the baptism of believers in Jesus (Jn. 3:22&4:1-2, Acts 2:38&19:4-6)

Obedience-
(Obeying God’s command then undergoing baptism)
The Flood (Noah building the ark)
The Israelites (taking Passover/leaving Egypt)
Death of Jesus (Lk.12:50, Matt.20:22, Mrk.10:38)
The baptism of believers in Jesus (Acts 2:38&10:48&19:1-6&22:16)

Discipleship/Kinship (to God or man)-
In the Israelites baptism by Moses
In the baptism of John (Acts 18:25, Acts 19:3)
Baptism of believers (Matt.28:19, Jn.4:1-2, Gal 3:26-28, Acts 19:5, 1Cor.1:12-15)
In the anointing of the Levites

Joining in Christ’s death and victory leading to life/freedom from sin/death(and the curse)-
The Flood (1 Peter 3:18-21)
In the Israelites baptism by Moses (1 cor.10:2-13)
Baptism of believers (Rom.6:2-4, Col.2:12)
Jonah (ch 2 ending with his proclamation “salvation is from the Lord” which is what the name Jesus means)

A sign of God’s faithfulness-
Baptism of Jesus (Matt 3:16)
Death of Jesus (Lk.12:50, Matt.20:22, Mrk.10:38)
The baptism of believers in Jesus (Mk.16:16)
In the Israelites baptism by Moses (1 cor.10:2-13)

A declaration of faith/placing of oneself under authority-
In the anointing of the Levites
In the anointing of the Kings (1Sam.16:13)
Baptism of Jesus (Lk.12:50)
In the Israelites baptism by Moses
The baptism of Jesus (by John the Baptist)
In the baptism of John (Acts 19:3, Lk.7:29-30)
The baptism in Jesus of believers (Mk.16:16, Acts 18:8, 1Pet. 3:21, 1Cor.1:12-15)
The baptism of Jonah (Ch 2)

Judgment-
In the Flood (2 Peter 3:5-6)
Jonah in the sea (read Jonah)
Death of Jesus (Lk.12:50, Matt.20:22, Mrk.10:38)
Baptism of believers in Jesus (Rom.6:2-4)

A sign/promise given by God of Salvation/Redemption-
In the Israelites baptism by Moses (1 cor.10:2-13)
The baptism of believers in Jesus (Heb.10:22, Mk.16:16, Rom.6, Acts 18:8, Titus 3:5)

A sign of commitment/oneness with someone (like that of marriage)-
In the Israelites baptism by Moses
Jesus to the Father(Matt. 3:16, Mk.1:10, Lk.3:22, John 1:32)
Baptism in Jesus of believers (Eph.5:25-26, 1Cor.1:12-15&12:13, Gal 3:26-28, Rom.6:2-4)

Purification leading to a clean conscience-
Ceremonial washings of Old Testament Law
In the baptism of believers in Jesus (Heb. 10:22, 1Pet.3:21)

A sign/foretelling/shadow of the baptism of Fire/the Holy Ghost-
In the Flood (2 Peter 3)
In the Israelites baptism by Moses (1 cor.10:2-13)
In the anointing of the Levites Hebrews
In the anointing of the Kings
In the baptism of John (Lk.3:16, Acts 1:5, Mk.1:8)
In the baptism of believers in Jesus (Acts 2:38)

Baptism by/in/through Fire/Spirit of God

Sanctification/Purification-
In the Heavens & Earth destroyed by fire & new heaven and new earth coming from God’s Spirit to last forever dedicated to God.(2 Peter 3:7&10-13, Hebrews 12:26-28, Rev.21:1)
The Church/bride of Christ in baptism and receiving of His Spirit (Lk.3:16, Matt.3:11, Mk.1:8, Acts.2:3, Rom.15:6&16, 2Thes.2:13, 1Cor.6:11, 1Peter 1:2)

Cleansing (from sins/curse bringing eternal holiness)-
The Church/believers (Heb.9:14, Is.4:4, 1Cor.6:11, Titus3:5, Ez.36:26-27)

Anointing-
Baptism of Jesus (Is.61:1, Lk.4:18, Acts10:38)
In the Church (1Jn.2:20&27, 2Cor.1:21-22)

Freedom from the Law/sin/death-
(Mk.16:16, Gal.5:1&16-25, Ez.36:26-27)

A seal of God’s faithfulness/promises and Love-
2Cor.1: 22, Eph.1:13-14, Romans 5:5

Obedience-
(Obeying God’s command then undergoing baptism)
Acts 5:32, Acts 10:44-47, Acts 19:1-6

A seal/contract of commitment/unity with God a oneness (like that of marriage)-
(Ez.36:26-27, John 14:16-17,1Cor 12:13, 2Cor.1:21-22&13:14, Gal 3:26-28)

A seal given by God of Salvation/Redemption-
Mk.16:16, 2Cor.1:21-22, Acts 10:44-48, Eph.1:13-14&4:30, Titus 3:5

The impartation of Spiritual fruits/gifts and teaching of truth-
Luke12:12, John 14:26, John16:13-15,Acts 1:8,Acts 2:4, 1 John 2:27, Romans 9:1, 1 Corinthians ch12, Hebrews 2:4, 2 Peter 1:21

Judgment-
John 16:8-11
The world and the wicked (Is.66:15-16, 2 Peter 3:7&10-13, Hebrews 12:26-28, Rev.21:1)
The people of Israel/bride of Christ (Isaiah 4:3-5, Heb4:11-13)
Sodom and Gomorrah (Lk.17:29, 2Pet.2:6, Jude 1:7)

Something interesting I noticed is the many connections between baptism by water and baptism by the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ. Why get baptized in water? To obey God and to declare your willingness to love, honor and obey Him. To receive His promise of sanctification and to repent and be cleansed, rejecting the old solitary self and become a new person. Just as a husband and wife become one in the flesh so we become one in Spirit with God. Can some be married without ceremony? Yes, but this is God’s plan and He desires us to physically, mentally, and spiritually chose Him.

P.S. something interesting about baptism is the report of the Apostle Peter in the book of Acts chapter 10. Some gentiles listened and believed the report of Peter concerning Jesus and were filled by God’s Spirit and then Peter commanded them to be water baptized. So obviously the significance of baptism is not something to be overlooked by even Spirit filled believers.

“Surely no one can refuse the water for these to be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we did, can he?" And he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to stay on for a few days. Acts 10:47-48”

Homeliness

2006-08-28T21:37:00.001-06:00

I was thinking tonight about myself, and my life up until now. I have always considered myself, in the flesh, to be a homely and unattractively plain fellow. No need to try and flatter or tell me otherwise(I'm not fishing for compliments), I know that we all see ourselves differently, and people see us differently than we see ourselves. But still there are a lot of us that lower our worth because of our minds image. And many of us that lower others worth, thanks to the gift of sight we tend to misuse. God gave us a worth! How much are we worth? We are worth the blood of Christ Jesus His son... a treasure beyond our thoughts and understanding. So we must not let ourselves be deceived and we must quit deceiving others with our sneers and judging looks and comments.

But now I'll come to my point: As I was feeling a little blue and upset that I couldn't woo whoever I wished or make a crowd swoon by my smile (yeah... I'm ashamed to say I was in one of those silly fleshy moods, in which I'm thinking about me and not Christ) Then a joy occurred to me...I am, if only in my minds eye, more like Jesus if I am unbecomingly average. For that is what God did...He didn't just make Himself of no reputation, but He also made Himself to be no handsome and dashing jewish model nor a rugged, burly muscleman. His picture was definitely not in the fashion magazines of the time.
"He grew up before Him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him, nothing in His appearance that we should desire Him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces He was despised, and we esteemed him not."" Just as many were astonished at you, My people, So His appearance was marred more than any man and His form more than the sons of men. (Excerpts from Isaiah)"

My point is this, that we are blessed to be in His likeness and if we find ourselves "homely" so what! For we are made in a likeness to how He made Himself on this earth. An honor nothing else in all of creation can bear. He is now all beauty and has been glorified! And soon we will be blessed to be more like Him because we will see Him as He is!

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.1 John 3:1-3"

So truly, we are blessed because He loves us, and the sooner we can forget about ourselves the better.

Why am I so selfish? Why do I turn from looking at Jesus and look back at myself? Why do I sometimes forget truth and so judge myself and others? Lord Jesus, help me to keep my eyes on You and You alone!

Humble Pie!

2006-07-31T11:31:00.000-06:00

I was praying last night, and suddenly this thought came into my mind concerning humility. A funny thing about humility is that every man and woman is born in a different circumstance. Some are born rich, some are born poor, some sick, some healthy, some alone and some surrounded by loving people. Humility does not care about circumstance, but I think that is the difference between humility and pride. Pride thrives in your flesh and heart because of certain circumstances that are only temporary, yet humility acts despite any circumstances and it's rewards are eternal.

I had this thought and had to write it. Humility is not the absence of pride. I think that pride is the absence of humility. Kind of like how there is not really a thing like cooler temp. but that cold is merely the absence of heat energy. So pride is the absence of humility. Pride won't last forever because in the end humility will triumph!

Humility puts God's interests first. It is not telling a lie and saying you are of less/more value or worth than you are. It is not saying that you are worse/better at something than you are. That is just hidden or false pride! I think that true Humility is the form love takes when you say, "No not me, but Him! And because He, then them!" Humility is having more worth for others, not less for yourself. It is part of who He is and the very action of love. I think it is said more clearly in Philippians by Paul,

"If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation."

So you see, it was a fullness of humility (others centeredness or His love for the Father and His love for His creation) that caused Jesus to obey the Father even in death. I think this is important because if we have a false pride that says we're nothing, or less/more than God made us to be, then our eyes are fixed on the wrong thing. They are still fixed on ourselves and now we have to overcome doubt and temptations that say, "We can't do it because we're not good enough", or that "We're better than this". We are who we are, and God knows who we are; He knows both our strengths and weaknesses, so to ignore our strengths are to ignore His gifts that He's graciously given. To dwell on our weakness ignores God's strength in our weakness, and so robs us of rejoicing in our weaknesses. One of the things I wrote down in my journal when I was on retreat (and which I'm still struggling with) was this, "God has prepared a plan for your life John, you don't have to be anything else (less or more) to carry out His will! He has planned, with who you are in mind, so don't worry, you are more ready than you think!" Humility lets us be who we are, and put's loving God first and then, because of His love in us, other people in His name (not saying I'm anywhere close to perfect in humility that's why I had to write this). Yeah, so... not less pride, just more of His humility in place of our pride!

An Addition:

Something I left out because I thought is was commonsense (but now I think it might be necessary) was this:

Humility is not something we can attain on our own! It is a gift, and part of the new life we have in Christ. Humility is an action of love and so of God, consequently we need to let Him be the Humility in us! The more His Spirit's humility has reign in us, then the wonderful result is, the less of our sinful pride will be in us. Also... when Humility(a desire to put God’s interests first) creates in us the desire to put others ahead of ourselves (because of His love in us), we must remember it's not putting their fleshly interests first e.g. their lusts, pleasures, wants, passions, pride! Although, some may say that Jesus said to "give your cloak also" or "walk the extra mile," I don't think that it falls specifically under humility. Nor does giving them your cloak mean to give them something that would harm them. To put their NEEDS above our fleshly wants and perhaps, if God wants, then their NEEDS above your own needs (or what you think your needs are, as God knows better than us.) this is what God desires. That we love others in His name like He loved us. You didn’t see Him giving His apostles everything they ever wanted, no indeed, they never drove around in a big cars with lots of women, while eating and drinking like kings. But He did provide them with their needs and even better, eternal life. What I’m getting at is if humility is from the Lord Jesus Spirit reigning in you, then follow His leading instead of your “good intentions!” Then He will use us to bless one another with something that lasts!

Interesting Principles

2006-07-27T19:27:00.000-06:00

God began to show me that His Word alone is our standard of judgement; that it can be explained only by the Holy Spirit; and that in our day, as well as in former times, He is the teacher of the people."~George Muller

Muller had the opinion that to lay up stores or hoard money was inconsistent with a life of faith. Lest God send then to their hoardings before answering their prayers. A life of trust forbids laying up treasures for unforeseen needs, since with God "No emergency is unforeseen and no want unprovided for."~Muller

This is from a biography on George Muller that I'm currently reading. It's actually a very good read, and is full of encouragement for those who are desiring to live by faith! I'm only just starting the fifth chapter and already I am being strengthened in the faith department. I plan on writing a more thorough book report when I'm finished the book, but for now I just thought that those were some interesting quotes that I thought I'd share!

What's Up!

2006-07-25T19:30:00.000-06:00

If we exalt ourselves God will humble us, but if we humble ourselves God will exalt us!
Although I was/am planning/hoping to move this fall or winter, I still do not have the where, so instead I will seek to live in what I know. I do know that I would like to live a more obedient life in loving kindness and I have the desire to be more generous in giving to the needy of this world. So until further notice I shall strive to give and to be obedient to His word in love, faith, and hope. May God's Spirit help me in this venture! He is good and if we are faithful in the little things, He will put us in charge of bigger things.

As it is written "He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little" and "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written:
"He has scattered abroad His gifts to the poor;
His righteousness endures forever." Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 2 Corinthians 9:6-11"

Being A New Creation!

2006-07-25T19:25:00.000-06:00

This is a fraction of some of the things I have been pondering as of late. Once again sorry it is so long, I did shorten it and this is what remains. I don't claim these words to be perfect, but I do pray they will bless and not hinder His work in you the reader.

Come, take up your cross, and follow me–Mark 10:21

Should we expect attesting miracles and wonders to accompany us in our sharing of the word? Yes, but we should be more concerned with the sharing of His word and that our names are written in the Lambs book of life? For many will walk, but the faithful will be lifted up!(Philippians 3:18-20) Many will perform signs, miracles, and wonders in His name(Matthew 7:21-23), but only those who truly believe(not just know, but a belief that causes you to submit yourself through faith under that knowledge of the unseen). A belief that causes you to surrender your life under His kingship and authority, surrendering to Him in a righteous faith and obedience as servants of His word. Then we can be assured of that which we hope for. Even Jesus ,as a man, was first a slave and servant of the Most High God, submitting Himself to death on a cross! We are not greater than Jesus that we should expect a life without walking in faith, obedience, or even persecution like that of Christ are we? Which is more difficult, to be bold in a faith and obedience that produces fruit (a burden He says is light), being a slave of righteousness whose reward is eternal life, or living a life for the flesh(body/lusts/greed/fears/etc.) first, one full of deceitful riches, pleasures, and worries that leads to judgement and eternal Hell fire(which isn't meant for us but for the devil and his demons)?

There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores and longing to eat what fell from the rich man's table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. "The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.' "But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.' "He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.' "Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.' " 'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.' "He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.' "

Our life in Christ Jesus is to be both that of the servant and the heir. The servant first and then when He returns we shall be fully heirs with Him and sons of God. Loving others is not a request from Jesus to the believer; it is a command and promise! Jesus is our Savior because He first came as a servant to seek and to save that which was lost, but He is also and completely our Teacher and Master! He has not left us here for our health, pleasure, or so that we may live comfortably, but so that we might share in working the work of God and the kingdom; spreading the gospel and proving ourselves to be faithful servants of the most high God! Jesus left us here to bear fruit, and when He returns clothed in the heavens and surrounded by the angels, those who have will be given more, yet those who are without even what they have will be taken away. He is our Master and we are called to be faithful and obedient even as He was to death. Why? So that it will be well with us, and so that we will no longer slaves but sons, even sons of the most High God!
And if we believe in the One whom God the Father sent then we must also do what He says, for "Why do you call Me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is like who comes to Me and hears My words and puts them into practice. He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears My words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete." "If you obey My commands, you will remain in My love, just as I have obeyed My Father's commands and remain in His love. I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you."
Do you love your neighbour, boss, family member, or enemy as much today/everyday as you love yourself or as much as Christ loved you? If you are in Christ you will! But you must take up your cross first and then that promise will be realized. For all who have died to sin are free from its law of death. "Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.""For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin" "Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires.""Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?""But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life." "Suppose one of you had a servant plowing or looking after the sheep. Would he say to the servant when he comes in from the field, 'Come along now and sit down to eat'? Would he not rather say, 'Prepare my supper, get yourself ready and wait on me while I eat and drink; after that you may eat and drink'? Would he thank the servant because he did what he was told to do? So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty"
Let your flesh and fears perish on the cross with Christ Jesus and go follow Him! For He will make us sons and one with Him and the Father! Let your life perish so that you may truly live, not in miracles and wonders, but in everlasting life, not in comfort and ease on this earth, but in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control! If your fleshly mind says "NO!" Master your fleshly mind! If your flesh is afraid to let go of your life, then let His Spirit conquer it! Do that which you fear and the death of fear is soon to follow. For He has not given us a Spirit of fear, but one of power, love and a sound mind. Let your newness of life in the Spirit rule your flesh which is now dead, for it has been buried with Christ Jesus in your baptism and now it to can also find life in His resurrection! Quit submitting your body to sin and temptations so as to be their slave, but instead submit to the righteousness that is found in obedience to Christ Jesus and His word.

Time can with circumstance and deception kill/delay the zealous heart, so if God has given you a passion or command, do not wait for a comfortable time! For now is the acceptable time! Now is the day of salvation! Leave everything family/friends/wealth/securities and follow the passion that comes from His Spirit in you. Then you will be rewarded! "I tell you the truth," Jesus said to them, "no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age and, in the age to come, eternal life."
"Therefore they said to Him, "What shall we do, so that we may work the works of God?" Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent."

Now ask me how well I'm doing in all that....yes, truly we need to encourage each other to be diligent workers!

The Pharisees Perception?

2006-05-20T12:38:00.000-06:00

Disclaimer: Sorry if this is too long or if it doesn't flow very well. Take it with a grain of salt and receive a seasoned meal with Christ teaching you(not me) and receive whatever blessing He has for you in there somewhere.

Last night I had just finished cleaning my room, everyone else was otherwise engaged and so I was left with nothing else to do but contemplate and meditate. For some reason the thought of the pharisee popped into my head and so that is what I pondered. I began with the nature of the pharisees identity. These were men who had devoted their lives to the living out of Gods Law and the teaching of God's righteousness. I began to surmise that they had three identities, one the world perceived, one God distinguished, and one that the pharisee himself envisioned.

I'd like to just sum up the first two briefly because the last one is of more interest at this time to me.
1. Man perceived the pharisee to be proud, pompous and pious, but in the end the goodie-goodie who was without fault and righteous according to the Law (as they were taught anyway). The people who knew the law thought they needed to be like them and the people who knew them couldn't stand to be near them and their superior natures. They were revered and exalted yet feared. There are, however, as many guesses at how they were viewed as there are people to view them and so this point ends here.
2. God loved the pharisee yet hated their heart. He distinguished the actor and their act from the truth He would bring. Was it devotion to Him that made them create new rules to follow so that they wouldn't break His, and yet scorn and despised the works of their fellow man? Jesus knew the truth about them for Jesus was The Truth. God the Father knew their hearts and their deeds that they were but filthy rags. Certainly such devotion to the letter of the Law could and would never bring them righteousness for there very conscience accused them daily. Jesus gave them Truth yet they would not let go of their self-made righteousness to receive it. They were unrepentant and knew not the spirit behind the Law that they held so dear.

3. But what of the pharisee himself? Was He caught in the very lie and act in a show that he caused others to believe? I strongly believe that the pharisee thought he was a man in the know. He believed the very act and performance he daily put on in the local church and market place. For he thought himself righteous because of the works and good deeds he did in accordance with the law. I wonder how the mind of the pharisee conducted this thought. For in my own mind when I slip up I feel guilt, shame, remorse, and hatred concerning that pit in which I've fallen, and when I overcome a temptation I feel I'm one step closer to being that better man I know the Lord Jesus is transforming me into. But the pharisee... did he mess up? Did he feel such remorse and fall on his knees before his maker in repentance? Or did he make the necessary sacrifice, a declaration before man and God of his wickedness, probably for not washing his hands before he ate, and thus be now free of the ridicule of man and God? In a sense to save himself by his actions?
Now, if you didn't perceive where I'm going, I am about to compare this pharisee to the pharisee in myself and in the church today.
For the Truth came, Christ Jesus the light of the world, and the very word of creation, has come into this world to seek and to save that which was lost. That means he came for everyone, including the pharisee who was lost in their false righteousness. Jesus spoke harshly to them and yet He loved them no less than the poor man and "visible" sinner. He did say those who know the truth yet cast it aside receive the stricter judgement and alas I think the pharisees received the first fruits of that truth. For the pharisee, knowing the letter of the law, was the first to scoff at and shake his head concerning Jesus(the only true fulfilment of the law). The pharisee who would give his very life to the act of serving God, would be the first of all to reject the reward of righteousness found in Christ Jesus. Oh... you may say the pharisee is full of good intentions(as we often think ourselves to be). I wonder if the pharisee knew he was the actor in a play so detrimental. I have often seen the pharisee in myself and know that what I do is but a show. Whether I do something to be praised by others, or at least something to be seen as someone who is living the "Christian life." Yet, I know that which is false... Did the pharisee? Perhaps, but perhaps they held onto a lie so long that they throughout the generations even deceived themselves. I know there are times in my life where I had thought something to be entirely Christian, yet it was far from anything Christ said. I have been such a pharisee and were it not for God's grace I still might be so deluded. What words will Christ have for that deluded and self-seeking pharisee. "Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you who practice lawlessness." For they held their "law" from God in more esteem than God Himself. Their manmade "righteousness" could have no part in the truth. Nor could their law be considered to be in any true likeness to God's Law. For God's law is about faith and love and their was merely "good deeds"wrapped in whitewashed filthy rags. They held onto a form of Godliness yet denied it power...it's power to save trough faith alone. For faith, not works, brings the righteousness of God to all those who believe. The pharisee and that nature in us have a sad story indeed.

How do you view then this verse? "For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven."The pharisee in us will say "Now wait just a minute, how can that be? They've done it all. They have even kept laws that aren't in the Bible just so they wouldn't break laws that were! How could I ever live a more righteous life than they did? Hmmm... perhaps if I could do my best... yes even a bit more, yes... I know, I'll do what they could not. I'll do that stuff Jesus talked about, like not hating because is the same as murder. Oh!... and I won't lust because that is just like adultery. Hmmmm... what else? Perhaps if I don't drink, swear, gamble, smoke, do drugs, eat meat...yes, that just might do the trick(the trick indeed)! I'll just die to my pleasures and find life in that sacrifice( sigh...Big Smile...relief)" But Christ has revealed the truth. That these very thoughts are those of the pharisee and no more righteousness is attained this way than by hunting witches or cutting off your tongue. I was in the mind set of the pharisee and didn't know it. So what does Christ Jesus (The Truth) reveal to me, and the church... to us all? He revealed the good news! That to have a righteousness that surpasses that of the pharisee is to have a righteousness of FAITH and NOT WORKS! For works that don't come from faith and love are both proud and meaningless, they lead strait to death. An example of works without faith and those done because of faith can be seen in the story of the sheep and goats.

"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'
"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

I pray that we won't miss the truth in Churches today, and that we won't just try to be "Christians" by name alone, being no more righteous than that pharisee of old. Just doing works and trying to save ourselves by being merely "good" people with seemingly "right" intentions. May our eyes be open to the light of the truth. That faith alone in Jesus saves, and faith alone bears fruit and true works of love and not false works and fake intentions. Then beware the leaven(works) of the pharisee which are praised by the world. For their works are of the law of sin and death and they will never see the kingdom that way. There is only one who has the keys of life eternal. He is the way, the truth, and the life. He is God's son Jesus Christ.

Have Faith and know that your worth is not found in things perishable(like good intentions or works done by your own perishing hands) but your worth is found in the imperishable love that came with Jesus' death and resurrection. So cast the pharisee in your heart aside with the act and the seemingly good intentions. Rely on God alone! Hold firm to His gifts of faith, hope and love, and die to yourself daily, not merely to pleasures but to the thoughts of saving yourself by your own means. It's not self-righteous and sanctimoniousness to declare the truth, but it is if you act for merely your own glory. I shall endeavour to trust in Him alone, for all other self-made truth is false.

One more thing... never feel ashamed to declare your love of Christ if it is true. For we all too often fear the judgement of man, but it is right to express our faith in God by expressing our love for God, and by loving not just with word and tongue but by actions and truth. For I love Jesus! Because He loves me. So I shall also love others as He, in me, desires me to. How? Well, We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us(Philippians 4:13) and He can do the rest!

Good thoughts

2006-05-15T12:36:00.000-06:00

Isn't it good when someone love's YOU!
Isn't it infinitely better that God love’s YOU!
If we could let all other thoughts fall out of our heads and that one remains, I think we would all be better off!

"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. John 15:9”(word's of Jesus to us all)

Galatians 3:5

2006-05-01T11:07:00.000-06:00

So then, does He who provides you with the Spirit and works miracles among you, do it by the works of the Law, or by hearing with faith?

Not everything is done the way we expect it to be done. If our Father the King and creator of all things, invisible and visible, has declared to us a truth… how can we justify unbelief?

Why do we search out answers by circumstance alone? Why do we analyze our future by the way we currently live (do we forget He's changing us moment by moment)?

Why do we judge ourselves to be so very inept in our Christian walks? He is with us, both guiding and perfecting us!

He is able to do what He is willing to do!

Jesus said “Let not your hearts be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in me! (John 14:1)”

Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees,
And looks to God alone; Laughs at impossibilities,
And cries it shall be done! - Charles Wesley

RE: Feed Back!

2006-04-11T13:40:00.000-06:00

Matthew 17:14-20
14 When they came to the crowd, a man approached Jesus and knelt before Him. 15 "Lord, have mercy on my son," he said. "He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water.
16 I brought him to Your disciples, but they could not heal him."
17 And Jesus answered and said, "You unbelieving and perverted generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him here to Me."
18 And Jesus rebuked him, and the demon came out of him, and the boy was cured at once.
19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not drive it out?"
20 And He said to them, "Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.

I asked for some feed back on the above passage 27 days ago and was pleasantly surprised to receive a lot of good insights and different points of view. Today my mind came back to this scripture, however, and so I thought I’d add a point I have previously overlooked. It is a witness on the character and wonderful life of Jesus.
In these verses Jesus’ disciples were unable to heal a man’s son and so the man took his plea strait to the author of faith and life. Jesus responded in quite a confusing way. He didn’t say to the man “go your faith has made him well.” He responded with some harsh yet necessary words of tough love, and then proceeded to heal the boy.
Now this is the interesting point that was solidified in my mind today. Jesus still healed the boy! The disciples lacked faith at this point to heal the child and apparently their faith was smaller than a mustard seed. Yet Jesus with them remained faithful, even when they were faithless. I love to see that testimony in this scripture because that is an important part of Christ. He was/is both full of mercy and faith. When our lives doubt, or our faith shrinks in fear, Christ in us remains faithful. Christ in us heals the broken hearted releases the captives and declares the glory of our God! If our faith is weak and cannot move mountains, Christ’s Spirit in us and with us strengthens our faith and does the deeds we couldn’t yet perform. In short this passage of His word shows us how we are, in Him, made complete. With Jesus in our lives, He proclaimed that greater things we would accomplish then He did while on this earth. Not because of our great faith in God but because of our faith in a Great God. He is our King of kings and savior who is full of mercy and grace. Let us never disown His rightful place in our hearts and then nothing will be impossible to us! (That’s including overcoming a twisted nature which is prone to wonder, and even one lacking a mustard seed worth of faith)

If we endure, we will also reign with Him. If we disown Him, He will also disown us; if we are faithless, He will remain faithful, for He cannot disown Himself. 2 timothy 2:12-13

The Farmer in all of us!

2006-04-03T14:17:00.000-06:00

I was doing my nightly meditation before sleep and thinking about the parable of the sower lately and God showed me something new I had previously overlooked.

A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. He who has ears, let him hear."

I have usually always previously taken the position of the seed in the soil and had often wondered whether I was the seed planted in good soil bearing fruit or that in the thorns being choked by "weeds." However, this time I saw that because of Jesus’ life giving Spirit in us, I could be the sower of the seed. Also I found it fascinating that the sower in the parable spread the word everywhere. He hadn't spent years cultivating the perfect soil or learning the ancient lost art of seed planting and irrigation. He was a farmer who simply spread his crop generously around knowing that the nature of the seed will take hold and grow as it was planned and created to function. I think sometimes we imagine that sharing the "good news" has to be more difficult and complex than Jesus had intended it to be. When all we were instructed with is the sharing of His word and gospel with those who can listen and receive it. He has made His word with the power to take root in their heart WITHOUT necessarily needing our clever explanations to be ready before we can share it, because that is the nature of His word. It is both the power and the wisdom of God to those who believe.

Hear then the parable of the sower. "When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is the one on whom seed was sown beside the road. "The one on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, this is the man who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no firm root in himself, but is only temporary, and when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he falls away. “And the one on whom seed was sown among the thorns, this is the man who hears the word, and the worry of the world and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. "And the one on whom seed was sown on the good soil, this is the man who hears the word and understands it; who indeed bears fruit and brings forth, some a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty."

Here's an awesome verse full of promise and hope for both the seed in us and the sower:
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1 12-13

I’m not saying I never have taken the position of the sower before but that I more frequently (I don’t know why) assume the position of the seed.

Fact for the day: Did you know that the George means farmer or "earthworker" and that George just happens to be one of my middle names. Coincidence?... I don't think so!

Extremely Shocking News!

2006-04-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

I found an elephant in my pajamas, how an elephant got into my pajamas I shall never know! HAHAHAHAHA!

For more great jokes like the one above just watch movies like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!

Now, do you want to hear a dirty joke?

A man on horseback fell into a mud puddle HAHAHAHA!

April fool!

Disclaimer: This news was neither extreme nor shocking nor news!

P.S. for more great April fools day fun check the comments portion of this blog!

Feed back!

2006-03-15T13:55:00.000-07:00

Matthew 17:17-20
17And Jesus answered and said, "You unbelieving and perverted generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him here to Me."

18And Jesus rebuked him, and the demon came out of him, and the boy was cured at once.

19Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not drive it out?"

20And He said to them, "Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.

I just wanted to know some of your opinions on this text. Feel free to share your comments.

My book review of Sadhu Sunder Singh

2006-03-03T12:23:00.000-07:00

I have a day off today... and so I just finished reading “The Story of Sadhu Sundar Singh” by Cyril J. Davey. It was a compelling 156 page tale of God’s provision, grace and mercy to those who love Him and long to serve Him. It is an account of Sundar’s life in Jesus. Sundar was born in 1889 in a Sikh family with strong Hindu affinities, and he was still in his early teens when he became a follower of Christ. Sundar converted to Christianity immediately after seeing a literal vision of Jesus at the age of fourteen, and was consequently poisoned by his family and thrown out of his home in dishonor because of his faith and love for Christ. After being baptized at sixteen he spent most of the rest of his life as an Indian “Holy Man”(Sadhu) observing “the way” and living as a missionary to both India and Tibet. During every year of his life that followed, he faced both torture and death because of his love of Christ. One of the most convicting parts of this book is to know that he lived this fantastic life full of peril and blessing at a relatively young age. From the age of fourteen until his disappearance at around the age of forty he didn’t sway towards the temptations of family and friends. His decision of devotion to his now first love, Jesus Christ was more than enough. This was a man whose deep conviction and love for Christ Jesus lead him to live a life set apart from the things of this world and from the desires of wealth and pleasures of youth. His pleasure was his savior and his joy was to walk in the foot steps of Jesus, covered in blood and sweat though they were. He declared that “a Christian is a man who has fallen in love with Christ.” and “When we have left this life we shall not have a second chance of bearing the cross for Christ.” I love the fact that this book reminds me that a life fully lost for Christ is a life found and full!

The book continues to share how this Sadhu who had given up his life for Christ Jesus did have the chance to visit the west(Europe, Australia & America) in 1920. He stated, without abashment, some important warnings to the west. In one of which he declared, “I found a stone in a pool among the Himalayas. It was hallow, and when I broke it, I found the center completely dry. So it is here in the west. You have lain for centuries in the waters of Christianity, but it has never penetrated your hearts.” The truth of this can still be seen today! We must remember to pray. Once when in a rat infested prison for declaring Christ’s gospel in Tibet, Sundar wrote in his now tattered new testament “Christ’s presence has turned my prison into a blessed heaven. What will it be like in heaven itself?”

This is definitely a book filled with conviction for the reader. And I must admit that I will certainly be more willing to live a life devoted to Christ after reading it (with His help of course). I do desperately wish that I had the courage to live such a life, and perhaps with His Spirit to guide and help, I/we might all find His joy that comes with suffering for Him. We must remember how much it is that God loves us. We must remember that Jesus is our first love, He is the light found in our eyes and the delight of our souls. May we know no other joy then Him.

All in all, this is an excellent book and a must read for those who need a good kick in the pants (like I did) in reminding what a new life in Jesus is all about. It isn’t about not going to hell and it’s definitely not just about going to heaven. It’s about loving Him as He loves us. Not loving Him like you love a fine cigar or a cold glass of Iced tea. Not loving Him like you love your mother, father, sister or brother, nor like loving best friend. But it’s loving Him like He loves us(something we are only capable of doing because of Christ’s love for the Father in us). However, we often neglect the fact that love must be sacrificial. We must die to our sinful desires and take hold of this new life and love. It takes courage and guts to stand outside in foreign clothing declaring words the world hates. Let’s remember to pray for each other!

Anyway, this book is filled with tons of interesting glimpses into the Indian culture of Asia, as well as a mysterious secret society of believing Sadhu, a three hundred year old Christian hermit and tales of Gods protection from man’s hatred, wild beasts, and tumultuous acts of nature.

I’ll end with this interesting paraphrase of Jesus’ words. Sundar had told this to America on his visit here after seeing our state of affairs, “Come unto me all ye that are heavy-laden with gold and I will give you rest.”

I assure you His rest is far better than all the world’s gold, riches, and pleasures!

Analyzing the Analytical Analyst

2006-02-28T14:13:00.000-07:00

I have decided through many thorough and methodical thought processes that my human nature is bizarre. I am to myself, a bit of an enigma. I have a life which is not my own and yet that is the very life I yearn to dominate. I was/am an analytical control freak! I don’t ever just see one situation for what it is. Instead I see a situation with a myriad of possibilities and hang-ups. The frustrating part is that I know better. I know that I am no longer my own, and I know that nothing will change by my worrying about it. I know that I must die to myself daily and that God has promised to be a Father to me. I know I should trust in the Lord with all of my heart, leaning not on my own understanding and in all my ways acknowledging Him and He shall direct my path!

Shouldn’t that be enough? It is enough! The problem is that I often forget that truth. The world around us is constantly judging our appearance, success rate, ideals, and drive for worldly things etc. I think because of this the warning bells within my old nature immediately start going off and the analyst within takes over. He begins by screaming, “Don’t judge me! I can be normal and successful and everything you think I should be, just you wait and see!” He continues with a hearty dose of doubt and with a truck load of pride. Then the analyst within starts to hide popular memoirs of my mind, usually beginning with promises from God and anything else that will give him friends on the jury(world). I start by analyzing my past, things I could or should have done differently, and then I continue by analyzing my current state of affairs and how they will play a role in my future i.e. What goals do I have for my life? Will these goals support me or a family if my life takes that turn? What should I be doing now to advance myself toward such goals? Are these goals from God or are they just something my surroundings are pushing me towards? Is God using my surroundings to push me towards them? Am I missing the obvious way because I’m to busy analyzing the situation? What about timing should I wait or should I go now? Is there an obvious way?

Does this get me anywhere? No…If anything it distracts me from the truth. The truth is that I must seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to me as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (Matt. 6:33-34) I know that… I just need to hold onto it! There are so many distractions in life…I am so thankful that I have a Father who promised to always love me and who is always there to counsel His children. His Holy Spirit daily gives us the wanting to be…the wanting to be new creations free from the sin that so easily entangles...the wanting to be humble before the God of the universe… the wanting to be set apart and special… the wanting to seek first His kingdom and righteousness etc. And the best part of all is that His Holy Spirit also daily gives us the how to be…the how to be all of the things we can’t be without him…the how to be a new creation… the how be a person who can love his enemies and neighbors just as Christ loves the church... the how to be a man fully dedicated to the Lord etc. He is both our wanting to be and our how to be!
So my advice to those whose analytical doubts in life are clouding their joy in Christ is this… Rejoice in the Lord always…again I say rejoice, for being in the way the Lord will lead you!

'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.

A Fork in the Road

2006-02-13T13:08:00.000-07:00

Have you ever reached a turning point or a fork in the road and wondered which path to take? Of course you have, everyone must make life altering decisions at least once in their life. I am at such a fork. I've been here awhile (years) and still I wait. I know God will guide me but sometimes the waiting is almost unbearable. It isn't that I don't know the way, but it's that I don't know the time. The thing that gets me the most is that the longer I wait the more inconvenient circumstances seem to become. But perhaps the less suited I am for life’s task the more suited I am for Christ's purpose. How long must you wait at the fork in the road before His time reveals your path? Only God knows I suppose, and I see that patience is most certainly a virtue and it's a fruit of the Spirit that those who are in Christ must bear! Why is human nature so quick to give up! Why does it sometimes seek to stop seeking and yearn to stop yearning? Why are you in despair, O my soul and why have you become disturbed within me!?! Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God.

O what grace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear… all because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer!

Godliness with contentment is great gain!

End Result

2006-01-30T13:52:00.002-07:00

What will my life be like ten years from now? I realize that we can only live day to day and in fact we are instructed not to worry ourselves about the things of tomorrow, but here is the same question in other words… How are the choices I’m making today shaping my temperament, personality, and morality? Am I living in such a way that ten years from now (if myself or world last that long) I will be more like Christ?
“Do not be deceived bad company corrupts good morals 1 Cor.15:33” Am I daily choosing a life that is surrounded by good or bad influences? Because whether you want to believe it or not… it does matter!

In Christ Alone

2006-01-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

I think that the older I get the more aware of my sinful nature I become, and yet (when I remember to focus on His love and not my guilt) it is that awareness that draws me closer to Him and allows me to praise Him all the more. Yet, even that is only because of God’s presence in me and His promises to me.

I was listening to this song the other day as it is one of my favorites, probably because of it’s gospel message and the wonderful hope and truth that can be found in it. I love this song because it helps me to not focus on myself and all of my short comings but to fix my eyes on Jesus, on him alone. He is our Comforter our All in All... well I’ll let you read it for yourself.

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save
‘til on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave He rose again
And as He stands in victory
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life’s first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand
‘til He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand

Amen to that!

High Places

2006-01-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

Now Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of his father David, except he sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.
But the high places were not taken away; nevertheless the heart of Asa was wholly devoted to the LORD all his days.

Jehoshaphat was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned twenty-five years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Azubah the daughter of Shilhi. He walked in all the way of Asa his father; he did not turn aside from it, doing right in the sight of the LORD However, the high places were not taken away; the people still sacrificed and burnt incense on the high places.

Jehoash did right in the sight of the LORD all his days in which Jehoiada the priest instructed him. Only the high places were not taken away; the people still sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.

Amaziah the son of Joash king of Judah became king. He did right in the sight of the LORD, yet not like David his father; he did according to all that Joash his father had done. Only the high places were not taken away; the people still sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.

Azariah son of Amaziah king of Judah became king. He was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned fifty-two years in Jerusalem; and his mother's name was Jecoliah of Jerusalem. He did right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father Amaziah had done. Only the high places were not taken away; the people still sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.
(Excerpts from 1 & 2 Kings)

Do you notice a trend in these passages?
Why were these high places not removed from the land of the kings who served the Lord God?
Is there a right and a wrong way to worship the Lord nowadays?
How can this be applicable to us today, are we leaving “high places” untouched in our Christian lives?
Are we doing right in the sight of the Lord according to those around us and their standards(like those kings) or according to His life in us?
We have an advantage that these Kings never did. We are Christ Jesus’ inheritance because of what He did and we have an inheritance found in Him (His Spirit to guide us and overcome the world around us.) You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world. 1 John 4:4 So let us shed these “high places” (anything that hinders us from fully surrendering our lives to Christ Jesus) for we are not our own but we have been bought with a price more precious than gold or anything else for that matter. We are His inheritance. Yep, even when we were at our most sinful and wretched He wanted us soooo much that He died for us!

Scribes and Pharisees

2006-01-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

Jesus replied, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God. Matt. 22:29”

John, I find this to be an interesting verse because of who Jesus was speaking to. He was responding to the scribes and pharisees. These are men who would have been meticulously studying the scriptures since their youth. They would have been known by their peers to be men of renown, great intellects and masters in the law. They are the ancient equivalent of having a doctor of divinity and being professors, M.D.s, lawyers and judges, and yet they were in error because despite their study they did not really know the Scriptures or the power of God. They were in fact trying to use their knowledge to confound Jesus (the creator of the universe) and publically discredit Him. This error is something to be careful of today as pride often blinds a person to it. Even the most brilliant and best can have it all wrong if their eyes aren’t focused on Jesus Christ. You may see this problem in some churches today. Some have no trouble understanding and being witness to the power of God, but they do not know the Scriptures and so they can easily be deceived concerning God’s word and led astray. Others know the Scriptures backwards and forwards, yet they deny His power to be evident today and so all of their learning is powerless (blind and useless). You must remember that the gospel is both the wisdom and the power of God for those who believe. However, to the “wise” who are perishing it is seen as foolishness and weakness.

Verses to ponder on pride and humility:

In his pride the wicked does not seek Him;
in all his thoughts there is no room for God. Psalms 10:4

But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the LORD his God, and entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. 2 Chron. 26:16

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. Proverbs 11:2

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. Luke 14:11

Hmmm....

2006-01-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

John here are some points to ponder:

1. The spiritual can influence the physical, but the physical can’t directly affect the spiritual(Physical= mass, energy etc. Spiritual=???)

2. If physical can physically affect spiritual, then man could alter or affect the unshakable, constant, steadfast, eternal.

3.Spiritual is made unshakable, constant, steadfast, eternal. Physical is made destructible, chaotic, temporal.

4. God created all eternal and spiritual things as well as the physical. He made everything that is visible and invisible and all eternal beings i.e. Angels, mans spirit, unclean spirits, demons, and everything else I don’t fully understand. He is therefore not just greater, but infinitely greater... surpassing all angels or demons(the devil included) in power and in every other way.

5. God is eternal yet even eternity in its’ fullness is subject to only Him. And so it can be said that only God is God. The All-powerful, All-knowing, All-present God of everything and anything.

6. If God knows the beginning and the end is eternity itself a created thing? Time is created but is eternity part of time or something else?

7.God is Spirit(is that a created aspect of God for our explanation or part of an uncreated eternal?)

8. God is so much greater than anything anyone could invent with the imagination of a created mind. He is greater than any man made god and greater than mans atheism.

9. I do not understand eternity or God and even these thoughts of God are subject to error because they come from theories and guesses I have made. How can man understand God. How foolish we can be to try to explain God as we are His creation not His creator. All we can know of Him is what He chooses to reveal to us and gives us understanding about.

10. There is not a part of me that wasn’t created by God right down to every part of every atom in my body was masterfully created by Him. Even the abilities of my brain, whether the ability to breathe, smell, taste, see, hear, even my personalty, my thought processes and everything that makes me...me. We were truly wonderfully and marvelously made. Can anyone or anything say the same about Him. No!

These points to ponder are just interesting to me. They let me unmask some of my unfounded preconceived ideas about God and the spiritual realm. And they let me realize just how amazing it is that He loves us. I can know that His promises are not subject to some physical or spiritual force but they come from Him who is able. It is not just a coincidence that His name means “I AM”. He is!

I ‘ll end with a children’s song that we are never too old to use in singing His praises.

“My God IS so big so strong and so mighty there is nothing my God can not do. The mountains are His... the rivers are His... the stars are His handy work too... My God IS so big so strong and so mighty there is nothing my God can not do. For you!”

Of Faith and Love

2005-12-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

People have been writing a lot of blogs about Faith lately and I’ve been reading them. Because of this I thought of a few things that I would like to share on the subject.

What is faith and why do we need it? Would you say that faith is necessary to believe and if so how much do we need?
To start... What is faith “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Heb.11:1” It isn’t just about having a vague hope in God or in His promises, it is freedom from doubt and something that inspires confidence concerning hope. It’s the state of being convinced of something we can’t see.
But why do we need it? Well here are four reasons out of hundreds:
“By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead. By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death; he could not be found, because God had taken him away. For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Heb.11:3-6” So we need faith to be able to please God.
“This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. Rom.3:22” We need faith to receive righteousness.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. Eph.2:8-9” We need faith, which comes from God, to receive His grace and salvation in Jesus.
“You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. Gal.3:26” “In Him and through faith in Him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. Eph.3:12” We need faith to be children of God and to receive a clear conscience before Him.

Anyway you can see that faith is important and necessary for the believer, so how much do we need? How do we measure how much we currently have? Ah... but is this the right question. Why do we as BELIEVERS need MORE faith? Is there any where in the bible that says that Christians need more faith? There are some spots where it talks about mens faith being weak and not as strong as it could be, and says that they could do with their faith being strengthened, but as for them needing more... I think it just talks about people needing some. Jesus said that faith the size of a mustard seed can move a mountain. Is there such a thing as believing in Jesus and having His Spirit yet being devoid of a mustard seeds worth of faith in Him.
Well then if it’s an issue of weakness how do we strengthen our faith? We can start by encouraging one another. If you need an example read Paul’s letters they’re all about strengthening different churches through encouragement. God will also supply all of our needs according to His riches and Glory. He tells us simply to ask and we shall receive. If you need your faith strengthened ask Him.

That said I can get to my main reason for writing this. Are we as believers too fixated on faith instead of love and Christ Jesus? Love, because it is greater than faith and Jesus because He is it’s author and perfector. After Hebrews chapter on faith(Ch.11) It says that now those who have faith (any amount I’m sure) are too cast off the sin that so easily entangles us and fix our eyes on Jesus. Here’s a question... Is it faith in having more faith that sets us free or is it faith in Jesus? Should we now be asking for more faith or because of our faith more Love? Which would help us more in our ministry or in the life that he has given us more faith or more love? Does more faith strengthen our love or more love strengthen our faith? This is God’s command to the faithful.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”“And this is his command: to believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as He commanded us.”“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.”“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”“Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.”“No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us.”“Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” Perfect love casts out fear and love covers a multitude of sins. What better reasons are there to seek after Jesus and receive His love. Faith brings us to His love, a love that lasts forever. We should be using the faith we’ve received with the gifts we’ve received for the purpose of sharing the love we’ve received.

“For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things To Him be the glory forever. Amen.”

The Treasure of ...Life!

2005-11-30T14:05:00.000-07:00

This is a truth I need to remember!

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Matthew 13:44-46”

Does this description sound like any believer you know myself included? Do we cherish the kingdom this much?
Now I’m sure that we have all made small or once in awhile large( at least we think they’re large)concessions here and there because of our faith, but do we put our everyday All into it!
Now, I’m not saying that you or me should go out right now and sell everything of value that we don’t need and give it to the poor. But then again, why am I not saying that? Is it because it’s unrealistic or because I don't want to believe that is what these verses are actually saying? Or because I’m just too comfortable. Besides no respectable Christian would ever advise me of doing anything of the sort nor do they live that way themselves. No, these can't be valid reasons!
What did Jesus tell the rich young ruler? He told him that “you shall not commit murder, you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; Honor your father and mother; and You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Matt. 19:18-19” (When the man said he had done all of those things) Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me. Matt.19:21"
Did Jesus say to him “Wow good job on keeping those laws, some of them are pretty tough. I mean, for years people have forsaken them, but not you. You’re a man among men, let me give you a pat on the back. If only Judas here were as good as you. Haha just kidding Judy ol’ boy”
No, of course this sounds nothing like Jesus. Jesus was there to tell the truth about the Father and about His kingdom. He was there to speak the truth about how it was worth far more than the treasures/pleasures of this life. Selling everything we own may not be the point. My point is that, why when we have found and received such a great blessing as to be called sons of the most high God, and an inheritance such as eternal life in the presence of God and the angels, do we act as if it were a chore? Why do we try to hold on to the pleasures of this life?
“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Galations 5:16-25”
So let us rejoice that our names are written in the lambs book of life, and let us fix our eyes on Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith. Let us lose our lives that we might find life. These are days of deception and propaganda, a world constantly telling us that the fun we have and ease of life we enjoy are the most important things in life. They say in more subtle ways “Eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow you die!” and we swallow it hook, line, and sinker!

I’ll end with this quote from the apostle Paul who considered his life as nothing in comparison to the riches found in Christ Jesus.
“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith. Gal.6:7-10”

God is Love!

2005-11-24T14:03:00.011-07:00

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16"

I had an interesting thought yesterday, It was about a deep down subconscious thought that I had always kept a little below the surface. I thought (not believed, but thought) that God loved us (believers) more than He does non-Christians. Although I wasn’t conscious that I thought this way, and were you to ask me, I would have answered you passionately (perhaps in a Sunday school tone) “God loves everyone equally!” but I think I really meant that He loved all Christians equally. Because, after all, we believe in Jesus the Christ...and we who believe in Jesus are called (according to His word) His children. Of course He died for every one, and He would love them as much as me and other believers; if only they too would choose salvation through Jesus by believing in Him. I probably didn’t think this way when I caught myself in a sin, but on the whole it is something that was inside of me none the less. The problem with this thought was that not only is it wrong, but it takes away from God’s unchanging love and perfection. It creates a religion of good works and a false hope concerning God’s love for us. It destroys the meaning of true love as defined by His word. His love is so beyond our own that it bewilders me ( like it did the prophet Jonah when the wicked people of Nineveh repented and were spared from utter destruction). I think it is hard for us to love somebody unless they loved us back at least just a little bit(not a biblical principle just a way we often think). And I think we sometimes think that God’s love operates in a similar way. How could God really love those who are sinners, those who rebel and hate Him (or at least rebel and hate His law He's placed in their conscience). Those who, because of their disbelief/rejection of Jesus, are going to hell for eternity; being separated from Him and everything good that is found in Him. How could He love them as MUCH as He loves His own precious children(born/"adopted" by faith as His child) who He died for and who are going to be with him forever? Did Jesus love Judas Iscariot less than the other disciples, even while knowing that He would be betrayed by him? No, of course not. You see... I have put stipulations on His love, and I have subjected it to circumstances. I didn’t know that I had, but I’m glad that I do now. Because there is something that I have to know/remember about His love. It IS unchanging... truly and wonderfully unchanging. He loves us all equally, both the sinner and the saint. He took everyone's penalty onto Himself in Jesus(should they accept it) Why? Because God is love!
The rest (receiving the gift of salvation, choosing heaven or hell) is up to us and our free will (insomuch as God gave us the choice to believe in Jesus the Christ,or not. After all, He (Jesus) is mankind's salvation and the love of God the Father displayed) So we can never say that He doesn't love us(He showed us that He does, even to be executed on a cross in our place), and we can never say that He didn't love those who rejected Him. Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Jesus is "the way" because of God's love for everyone in the world to know the only true God, and to receive the everlasting life that comes from knowing Him.
The earth is full of Your lovingkindness, O LORD; Teach me Your statutes. Psalms 119:64

A Firm Foundation

2005-11-17T11:49:00.000-07:00

Jesus said, “you believe in God, believe also in Me.”
I have just finished reading some of the most wonderful words. Words of promise and hope. Words that bring warnings yet joy. You may have already guessed that the words were from the Holy Bible. I have read them before several times, but this time was different. I know it is true that His words are living and each time I read them I learn something new. Now this may not be any grand epiphany, but it is a simple truth that we often forget. I don’t know why I forget, but at times like this I’ll rejoice that He lets me relearn things. The words were those of Jesus to His disciples and to those who believe in Him. From the book of John chapters 14-17. I can’t even write on them, but I insist and wish that you who believe will read them and be blessed! Read them over and over feasting on each verse (as odd as that may sound). There are sooooooo many verses that I wanted to use. About His love for us, His promises, our role as believers, our hope as children of God, the glory of the Father, the reason of existence, and the truth found in His word. But in the end I think that just as He teaches me He can teach you so much more than I ever could.

My only advice is this, that while reading the chapters you accept and believe that everything Jesus says is true(why wouldn't you anyway right). I know that sometimes when I read, I get into a mode, so to speak, of taking the book I’m reading as a story and not as fact. And so I have to remind myself when reading His word that everything is true and profitable for me. He is who our lives in Him are to reflect. His teaching is better than any you’ll find in the latest novel or sermon.

So rejoice in what you read, for He is coming again and has given us His Spirit of truth.
Wow!!! The God of the universe, of the smallest atom and largest galaxy, of the air we breath and blood that flows in our veins, He has chosen to reside with us... in us. Even if we were disobedient sinners, He said that His very words have made us clean. I’ve said this before, but can I really say it too many times? It is after all a wonderful thing. His Spirit has sealed us and He died to take our place. Why, because He was obeying God the Father who so loved the world that He sent His Son. Oh the deep, deep love of Jesus, vast, unmeasured, and boundless.

I’ll end with a verse that speaks a glorious truth, from a prayer of Jesus to the Father.
“Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent. John 17:3"

The kingdom of Heaven

2005-11-09T14:01:00.000-07:00

I find this to be an interesting story and so I thought I would share it!

“After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of Him to every town and place where He was about to go. He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field. Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road. When you enter a house, first say, 'Peace to this house.' If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you. Stay in that house, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move around from house to house. When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is set before you. Heal the sick who are there and tell them, 'The kingdom of God is near you.' But when you enter a town and are not welcomed, go into its streets and say, 'Even the dust of your town that sticks to our feet we wipe off against you. Yet be sure of this: The kingdom of God is near.' I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town. Luke 10:1-12"

“Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the depths. Luke 10:13-15"

"He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me. Luke 10:16"

“The seventy-two returned with joy and said, "Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name." He replied, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. Luke 10:17-20"

This is just a portion of what the Jesus taught His disciples. That they were to go and share the good news about the Kingdom of God. I find it neat that they were sent ahead of Him to every town and place where He was about to go, because today we are also called to share the good news of the kingdom and even now He is coming soon. But now the good news this great and glorious hope of the kingdom, is given to all the world. “The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life. Rev.21:26-27"
Remember, our home is not here on earth(as crazy as that may sound) but He has gone to prepare a place for you and He encourages us to store up treasure in heaven not on earth! If you, like me, believe that is true, why do we still try to build ourselves feeble little kingdoms on this earth? Isn't it so much more important to share His kingdom with those who are willing to receive it.
So rejoice if your name is written in His book, and continue to look forward to His coming. The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field. Go!

"He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon."
Amen. Come, Lord Jesus."

There is a lot more written in this text so please share what you may have learned!

Question 2

2005-11-04T13:37:00.000-07:00

I’d like to answer my questions from my last blog...
This time I’ll try to cover: Why do you think it was necessary for the Israelites to divorce or separate from their wives, and why did God condone it?

To start, I’d like to point out that the Israelites were already involved in a covenant before they “married” or united themselves to the evil nations surrounding them. There was already in place a holy covenant between their nation and the Lord God almighty. As such they were no longer their own, they belonged to God. In fact the very act of marriage outside of their own people, on the side of the priests and Levites, was a breach of that and against God’s law. They were disobeying the Lord at a time when they had just received forgiveness and the ability to return to the land of promise. They were in truth committing adultery against God. The importance of them remaining a holy nation set apart by God was being jeopardized. To remain God’s priests, and chosen people they had to turn away from all of their wickedness and immorality. If this movement had gone unchecked they would have become unfit to be God’s holy nation and ultimately destroyed. Therefore, in this situation it was necessary to separate themselves from the nations around them, and to become once again sanctified unto God.

I am by no means condoning divorce, God hates divorce. After all, one of the reasons God instituted marriage on this earth, was as a representation of the mystery that is found in the union of Christ Jesus to the church. Divorce is a separation from that truth.

Malachi 2:10-16 Have we not all one Father? Has not one God created us? Why do we deal treacherously with one another by profaning the covenant of the fathers? Judah has dealt treacherously, and an abomination has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem, for Judah has profaned the LORD’s holy institution which He loves:
he has married the daughter of a foreign god. May the LORD cut off from the tents of Jacob the man who does this, being awake and aware, yet who brings an offering to the LORD of hosts!
And this is the second thing you do: You cover the altar of the LORD with tears, with weeping and crying; So He does not regard the offering anymore, nor receive it with goodwill from your hands. Yet you say, “For what reason?” Because the LORD has been witness between you and the wife of your youth, with whom you have dealt treacherously; yet she is your companion
and your wife by covenant. But did He not make them one, having a remnant of the Spirit? And why one? He seeks godly offspring. Therefore take heed to your spirit, And let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth. “ For the LORD God of Israel says That He hates divorce, for it covers one’s garment with violence,” Says the LORD of hosts.

Now if you notice that in the prior text there are two troubles:
1. They were joining themselves in marriage to peoples of other faiths and gods.
2. They were divorcing their own wives, and renouncing the commitment they had made to them before God.

Jesus said of divorce:
"Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." "Why then," they asked, "did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?" Jesus replied, "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery. Matt. 19:4-8"

I’m also by no means trying to judge any one either;
“Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor? James 4:11-12"

I’m just trying to share what I’ve learned of the truth, with whatever ability the Lord supplies me with.
“Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.1 Peter 4:9-11"

James 1:27

2005-11-03T15:13:00.000-07:00

I’d like to answer the questions from my last blog, but because I can’t write anything that is short, I’ll do one question at a time. The question answered in this blog will be...

What application, if any, can we learn from this text(the end of the book of Ezra)?

I think there is a lot that we can learn from this text. Here are some of my thoughts in point form.

1. It is important to keep ourselves away from temptation before it overwhelms us.
”Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. 1 Cor.10:12”

2. We who received God’s grace are no longer our own, but our lives now belong to Christ.
“For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body. 1 Cor.6:20"

3. It may be necessary to change our surroundings and the way we are currently living.
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Rom.12:2”

4. To realize that we are already joined to Christ Jesus and should have no part of sin.
“No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God. 1 John 3:9”

5. To acknowledge that we live in a world of idolatry and sinful desires, and are constantly being immersed in it’s culture, yet we are to keep ourselves unspotted by the world around us(not remove ourselves physically from it , but not becoming like it either).
"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. James 1:27" and “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:15-17"

6. That we have a new covenant in Jesus with a merciful God of grace who loves us, one who will save us from sin and death, restoring us to Himself.
“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 1 John 4:9-10” and “For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant. Hebrews 9:15”

There are more things that could be learned from the text, but for the sake of keeping this shorter I think these points are sufficient. Although I'd love to hear more of yours(the reader)!

Note: the other question(Why do you think it was necessary for the Jews to divorce or separate from their wives, and why did God condone it?) will be covered in my next blog.

Divorcing wives?

2005-10-31T12:44:00.000-07:00

Ezra 9:1-2
"After these things had been done, the leaders came to me and said, "The people of Israel, including the priests and the Levites, have not kept themselves separate from the neighboring peoples with their detestable practices, like those of the Canaanites, Hittites, Perizzites, Jebusites, Ammonites, Moabites, Egyptians and Amorites. They have taken some of their daughters as wives for themselves and their sons, and have mingled the holy race with the peoples around them. And the leaders and officials have led the way in this unfaithfulness."

Ezra 10:9-11,16-17
"Within the three days, all the men of Judah and Benjamin had gathered in Jerusalem. And on the twentieth day of the ninth month, all the people were sitting in the square before the house of God, greatly distressed by the occasion and because of the rain. Then Ezra the priest stood up and said to them, "You have been unfaithful; you have married foreign women, adding to Israel's guilt. Now make confession to the LORD, the God of your fathers, and do his will. Separate yourselves from the peoples around you and from your foreign wives." "So the exiles did as was proposed. Ezra the priest selected men who were family heads, one from each family division, and all of them designated by name. On the first day of the tenth month they sat down to investigate the cases, and by the first day of the first month they finished dealing with all the men who had married foreign women.

I've been in a kind of theme in my thought process as of late. But I thought that instead of saying what I think about this particular text. I would ask you the reader... If there is indeed a you the reader reading this, to please share a few of your idea's or conclusions concerning the following questions.

Why do you think it was necessary for the Jews to divorce or separate from their wives, and why did God condone it?

What application, if any, can we learn from this text?

I suggest that before you answer my question, you read all of chapters 9 and 10.

The Young Christian

2005-10-30T17:19:00.000-07:00

“And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through His own blood. Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore. For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.” Hebrews 13:12-14

I was thinking of how God can use weak and simple things to bless us. And though there are many examples I could use, I thought that I would share with you a poem. I had originally read this about eight years ago and it really let me, at that time, bring things into perspective. It’s not fabulous by any means, and it’s a fairly simple poem, and has a few flaws, but it once blessed me none the less.

The Young Christian

I cannot give it up.
The little world I know -
The innocent delights of youth
The things I cherish so!
‘Tis true, I love my Lord,
And long to do His will;
But oh, I may enjoy the world
And be Christian still.

I love the hour of prayer,
I love the hymns of praise
I love the blessed word which tells
Of God’s redeeming grace
But I am human still!
And while I dwell on earth,
God surely will not grudge the hours
I spend in harmless mirth!

These things belong to youth,
And are its natural right -
My dress, my pass time and my friends,
The merry and the bright.
My Father’s heart is kind!
He will not count it ill
That my small corner of the world
Should please and hold me still!

And yet –“outside the camp”-
‘Twas there my Savior died!
It was the world that cast Him forth
And saw Him crucified,
Can I take part with those
Who nailed Him to the tree?
And where His name is never praised
Is there a place for me?

Nay, world! I turn away
Tho’ thou seem fair and good;
That friendly outstretched hand of thine
Is stained with Jesus’ blood.
If in thy least device
I stoop to take a part,
All unaware, thine influence steals
God’s presence from my heart.

I miss my Savior’s smile,
When’ ere I walk thy ways;
Thy laughter drowns the Spirits voice,
And chokes the springs of praise.
When’ ere I turn aside
To join thee for an hour,
The face of Christ grows blurred and dim,
And prayer has lost its power.

Farewell… Henceforth my place
Is with the Lamb who died.
My Sovereign! While I have Thy love,
What can I want beside?
Thyself, blest Lord, art now
My free and loving choice,
In whom, though now I see thee not,
Believing, I rejoice.

Shame on me that I sought
Another joy than this,
Or dreamt a heart at rest with Thee
Could crave for earthly bliss!
These vain and worthless things,
I put them all aside;
His goodness fills my longing soul,
And I am satisfied.

Lord Jesus! Let me dwell
“Outside the camp” with Thee!
Since Thou art there, then there alone
Is peace and rest for me.
Thy dear reproach to bear
I’ll count my highest gain
Till Thou return, rejected one.
To take Thy power, and reign.

written by an unknown author.

See nothing great... but it really helped me to focus my eyes back on Christ Jesus, and to see that some of the things we think are harmless could be a form of idolarty, if not put in proper check.

It's so easy to get distracted by the worthless things of this life, but we must set them aside and return to our Lord.

To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:
These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." Revelation 3:14-22

The temple in my heart

2005-10-28T23:46:00.000-06:00

I was watching the Jesus movie the other day, why? Mainly because I was curious about it. I had never seen it before and was interested to see the tool that had been spreading the gospel in so many countries for the last few years. It was older and of poorer quality than I thought it would be, kind of like some of those old spaghetti westerns I used to watch when I was a kid. It was neat to see how God could use something so weak and evidently low in production values to spread the “good news.” It just goes to show that He can really use anything too fulfill His wonderful will.

Anyway, let me get back to the reason I started writing this.

When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple courts he found men selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple area, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. To those who sold doves he said, "Get these out of here! How dare you turn my Father's house into a market!" His disciples remembered that it is written: "Zeal for your house will consume me."

In the film, when it came to the part where Jesus was throwing the money changers and crooks out of the temple, it occurred to me that, as we are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, does zeal for His house still consume Him?
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
What I’m saying is do I daily remember that I grieve Him when I conform to the lifestyle of the world. Usually I find myself too caught up in the here and now to pay much attention to what I’m subjecting my Lord too. I know that He’s everywhere and already knows everything, but is that an excuse we use to then live as we wish? Do I love Him enough to tell myself, enough John. The time has come and gone for me to carry on with worldliness. And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others. But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved).
Perhaps that is why I’m writing this… because His Spirit in me is turning over the tables of greed and idolatry in my heart. I love the idea that He is changing me, and molding me, conforming me into someone more like Him. Kind of like when two people come together in marriage and the wife starts taking on the characteristics of the husband, or the husband that of the wife. In a similar way we are the bride of Christ, and receive the blessing of taking on His characteristics. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. I adore the idea that Jesus loves me more than I could possibly love anyone. A love that would have been beyond the reach of creation except that He gives it to us. His love is so deep for me that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Wow! Does the Spirit of God grieve for me that much! Do my sins hurt Him like when a man cheats on his wife, or a wife ignores and despises her husband. Am I such a foul and loathsome creature when I betray the love of the eternal all-powerful, ever existing, God? Lord, please forgive me for when I betray your love! A love I don’t deserve and could never earn.
But He is so good, and in the end nothing can separate me from His love in Christ Jesus. Praise the Lord, all of you who have found such mercy and grace! Praise the Lord, you who receive the everlasting love of their Creator!
Praise the Lord, sing and shout in every land! For Great is the Lord and worthy to be praised!

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love

2005-10-27T10:57:00.000-06:00

Just a few thoughts for today, nothing inspirational but perhaps ones you could give me some feed back on.

And Jesus answered and said to them, "See to it that no one misleads you. “For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will mislead many. “You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.

Birth pangs... I’ve noticed the earth going through a lot of them lately. I mean it’s true that for the past two thousand years since Christ came these things began to take place, but I’ve found that in the last few years they seem to be getting to be more frequent and steady. For something interesting to do, our school has been counting them. In the past 9-10 months throughout the world there have been at least(that we’ve seen on the news):
3 major fires, 4 huge earthquakes, 18+ hurricanes/typhoons/cyclones/tornadoes, 12 wide spreading floods, several bombings, war, worldwide unrest, famines, and volcanic eruptions. Not to mention all of the things going on in outer space the past few years.

Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name. "At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another. "Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. "Because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will grow cold. "But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved. “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.

I’m not trying to be a conspiracy junky, or a fear monger. We have enough of those as it is. I just wanted to remind you that the world as we know it is not going to last(thank heaven some would say). There is a coming judgement and a coming redemption. We must ask ourselves “If He is with us always, are we living according to His Spirit’s guidance?” If yes, then wonderful, if no, then why not?
We must set aside every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles us and run with perseverance the race set before us. Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith.
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love. So this I say, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart; and they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness. But you did not learn Christ in this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry, and yet DO NOT SIN; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity. He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need. Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light.
For this reason it says,
Awake, sleeper,
And arise from the dead,
And Christ will shine on you."
Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.

Glorious Salvation

2005-10-25T14:47:00.000-06:00

I was reading a devotional this morning and I found an interesting point that I'd like to share. It's not any thing new, I just like the way it was put.
In the old covenant a sinner would bring his offering of a sheep or bull to the temple. The priest would then carefully examine the animal. If it was found to be without a blemish or flaw of any kind, it would be pronounced good and slaughtered as a substitute for the sin of the man who had brought it. A thing to note was that the priest didn't study the man after the fact to see if he had become more spiritual. Or a quick open heart surgery to see if the mans heart was clean. It was taken in faith that the sacrifice was enough to cleanse the man for yet another day. The glorious part of this is that in the new covenant we have with Christ we are cleansed through faith in him, forever! The sacrifice of the perfect God man (Jesus)that he made on our behalf was so awesome and wonderful that even the vilest offender who truly believes, that moment from heaven a pardon receives! Praise the Lord! So be encouraged and take heart for we are saved not on the basis of things we have done, but by faith in the death and resurrection of the one who created the universe. His sacrifice was more than enough.

The World of Flesh or Desire for Christ 6

2005-10-20T13:12:00.000-06:00

Today I’ll address the question “Am I commonly too comfortable to follow Christ?” Perhaps, I should be more routinely utilising the Spiritual disciplines of prayer, fasting, Biblical reading and study. Why? Because they’re a definite part of the cure to what ails you(spiritually). I’ll discuss fasting because I think it is the most overlooked of those(by myself anyway). I read this by John Piper once talking about fasting, “The most deadly appetites are not for the poison of evil, but for the simple pleasures of the earth. For when these replace an appetite for God Himself the idolatry is scarcely recognizable, and almost incurable.” Then the denial of my stomach’s appetite for food might express, or even increase, my soul’s “appetite” for God (a definite incentive). What is in jeopardy then may not only be the good of my soul, but also the glory of my Lord. He goes on to say, “There is no easy way home to heaven. The hard and narrow way is strewn with obstacles and many fatal paths of innocent pleasure. There is a war to be fought within and without. The inward war is with our own “appetites” that compete with our hunger for God. And one of the weapons is fasting. I invite you to turn from the dangers of idolatry, and to say with some simple fast, “This much, O God, I want You.” Truly everyday I desire to shout “This much, O God, I want You!” But, I often wonder if I can even grasp or realise what a self defence, self denial can be.

In conclusion the main questions I ask myself are:

Do I have faith in a goal of righteousness, or is my desire to find the limit I can reach or break and still be saved from eternal death?

Do I truly believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God come in the flesh, and that He came to die in our place( because of our sins) on a cross, rising three days later to a life everlasting in power, being seated at the right hand of God? That one is easy, Yes, I do. I couldn’t imagine anything otherwise.

Do I love Jesus with all of my might, confident that He loves me and is preparing for those who believe in Him a place sharing in His inheritance and glory?

I'll end with this verse which is one of my favorites:
And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come.”
And let the one who hears say “Come.”
And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost
Revelations 22:17

Note: The End

The World of Flesh or Desire for Christ 5

2005-10-19T15:28:00.000-06:00

Now, In Christ I am part of the Church and “we” (in Jesus) are all a part of Christ’s body, and we have been chosen, because of the amazing grace of God, to shine as lights in the darkness of this world, and to be bearers of fruit for His kingdom. John 15:16. We are called, though love and by love, to actively transfigure our lives and the lives of our community for the glory of Jesus Christ, by the power of Jesus Christ, and to grow in our love for God, each other, and the world. Being fully aware that, in and of myself, I am incapable of these things, I must also be fully aware, through faith, that it is Christ in us that is my hope for glory. There is most assuredly victory in Jesus. I must grasp the truth that “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1.” Then, as a follower of Jesus, assured through faith that the afore mentioned statement of transfiguration is not only a “hopeful” goal to strive for, but one that will be accomplished as I strive to serve Him. This needn’t take years to put in to motion, but it is a goal that is already in action, and will transform our lives and communities as soon as we step up and claim it in victory through Jesus.

When reading God’s word we see Him bestow miracles and gifts upon His people. “Who by faith conquered kingdoms, performed acts of righteousness, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made strong, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. Women received back their dead by resurrection; and others were tortured not accepting their release, in order that they might obtain a better resurrection; and others experienced mockings and scourgings, yes, also chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were put to death with the sword; they went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, ill-treated(men of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts and mountains, and caves holes in the ground. Hebrews 11:33-38.” This is written to encourage us to live in faith and victory, despite worldly consequences, while fixing our eyes fully and wholly on Jesus. We are called to lay aside every encumbrance and the sin that entangles and to run the race set before us(read Hebrews 12). If Christians were “afraid” of worldliness as much as they are “afraid” of holiness, they would set the world on fire for Christ. Then the question to ask oneself(usually over and over again)is, are we living our lives humbly devoted to Christ Jesus or to the flesh(our old sinful nature)?

Note:To be continued

The World of Flesh or Desire for Christ 4

2005-10-18T11:09:00.000-06:00

What influence do worldly things have in my life? I’ve always imagined that all of God’s gifts, whether material or Spiritual, are to be used for the common good of the "Church body," and in the coming kingdom of God(I wrote the aforementioned to remind my future self). In which Christ’s followers all have a place whether they realize it or not. Here’s an example of this in a story Jesus told to His disciples, "The kingdom is also like what happened when a man went away and put his three servants in charge of all he owned. The man knew what each servant could do. So he handed five thousands coins to the first servant, two thousand to the second, and one thousand to the third. Then he left the country. As soon as the man had gone, the servant with five thousand coins used them to earn five thousand more. The servant who had two thousand coins did the same with his money and earned two thousand more. But the servant with one thousand coins dug a hole and hid his master’s money in the ground. Some time later the master of those servants returned. He called them in and asked what they had done with his money. Matt.25:14-19" Already we can see in the story that the master knew his servant’s capabilities, and we see what they did with the gifts and provisions that their master gave them according to their abilities. The story progresses and each servant reveals the outcome of their labor. The first and second are proclaimed good and faithful and are called to share in their
master’s happiness. But the third is declared lazy and good for nothing. He viewed his master as a harsh judge and therefore did nothing at all. The very least he could have done would have been to invest it in a bank for the interest. However this was not done and so everything he had was taken away and he was cast into the darkness. This may indeed sound harsh, but we must remember that the master new the capabilities of each servant. If the third servant had done anything with the gift according to his own ability, the master may have been happy. By this we can see that our new life is not based on our success, but on our faithfulness to our Master Jesus Christ. In my opinion it was a lack of faith and works on the side of the lazy and evil servant that condemned him. We know because of His word that our salvation and justification are based on faith, because of God’s grace, but we must remember that faith without works may be dead (read James 2:14-26). I must ask myself each day and every day because of my new life in Him, "What am I doing, through faith and according to my own abilities, with the gifts God’s given me?

Note: To be continued

The World of Flesh or Desire for Christ 3

2005-10-18T10:56:00.000-06:00

Now I don’t think being rich and having wealth is the problem, but that there is such a determination in many "Christian" circles for obtaining a great deal of wealth and riches, whether it’s the newest and best car, jet ski, house, or television set. Do we not read our Bibles? Well, I must not enough because It seems that every year I must relearn these things. It gives many warnings and much wisdom on the follies in life, a big one being the pursuit of riches. "Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease from your consideration of it. When you set your eyes on it, it is gone. For wealth certainly makes itself wings, like an eagle that flies toward the heavens." Proverbs 23:4-5. "There are two things, Lord, I want you to do for me before I die: Make me absolutely honest and don’t let me be too poor or too rich. Give me just what I need. If I have too much to eat, I might forget about you; If I don’t have enough, I might steal and disgrace your name." Proverbs 30:7-9. (I was going to write down all the verses about wealth and riches found in the Bible, but there are so many, and all of them good for instruction, that you(any one out there who had the patience to read this far) should really look for yourselves. Try using a concordance). Another important warning to the rich is in James 5:1-5. I hope I don’t misunderstand the meaning, I think it is a warning out of love. "You rich people should cry and weep! Terrible things are going to happen to you. Your treasures have already rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. Your money has rusted, and the rust will be an evidence against you, as it burns your body like fire. Yet you keep on storing up wealth in these last days. You refused to pay the people who worked in your fields, and now their unpaid wages are shouting out against you. The lord All-powerful has surely heard the cries of the workers who harvested your crops. While here on earth, you have thought only of filling your own stomachs and having a good time. But now you are like fat cattle on their way to be butchered." James 5:1-5. This must be written to people consumed by riches, but with so many warnings, why then is there so much drive for material gain in the Church? Remember what Jesus said, "If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross each day and follow me. Luke 9:23." I must remember that our Lord is returning, and that this world is not going to last, but my actions done, here and now, in hate or love, will determine my(and possibly others) everlasting future.

Note: To be continued

The World of Flesh or Desire for Christ 2

2005-10-17T13:59:00.000-06:00

So to continue on with the debate in myself with regard to the aforementioned things, I ask "According to God’s word what is the purpose of material wealth in the life of a Christ follower?" Is it to enjoy a simple life of pleasure with friends and family? No, that can’t be with so many warnings against the follies of riches. His word says I am called to be a servant of others, "washing each others feet" so to speak. His word clearly says that the treasures of this life will not last, and that I should instead store up treasure in heaven (Matt.6:19-21). We are told in James 1:27 that true religion is taking care of widows and orphans and keeping oneself unspotted from the world. Can I keep myself unspotted and remain living the life society tells me to live? I don’t believe it’s possible, I must follow my Master’s example, and look to providing the needs of others before providing for my own selfish cravings (no matter how I may justify them). For answers to my questions I must look to His word because He is my Master and Teacher and Friend. He has prepared all the answers I’ll need to know before I need to know them. Wow, knowing God is incredible, even if I only know Him just a very infinitely little bit. Anyway His word says "Do not be jealous or proud, but be humble and consider others as more important than yourselves. Care about them as much as you care about yourselves and think the same way that Christ Jesus thought: Christ was truly God. But He did not try to remain equal with God. Instead He gave up everything and became a slave, when He became like one of us. Christ was humble. He obeyed God and even died on a cross. Then God gave Christ the highest place and honored His name above all others. Philippians 2:3-9." Then this is what I am to be and how I am to live and function as a believer, and as someone reborn in a new and everlasting life in Christ and in the Church. So why does the Church have such trouble with this? Yet even Jesus in Revelations had to tell the Churches to return to Him. This is not a new issue that we struggle with, it has been going on since the church was young.

Note: to be continued

The World of Flesh or Desire for Christ 1

2005-10-17T13:57:00.000-06:00

The vanquishing, suppressing, and uprooting of Christians in North America, is not the result of bullets, or swords, nor hatred and beatings, but because of the pride we take in having our simple pleasures or fears and fulfilling our selfish desires. Now to be sure society does compel everyone to participate in these things. Whether in the society of the world or the "church," all too often Christ’s followers are encouraged to enjoy themselves and live a life devoted to ease, comfort, and well being. We are constantly taught by those around us to focus on number one "El Numero Uno" (that’s M-E in case you didn’t catch it).
So I ask myself "What is "well being" in the life of a Christian or their family?" Christ Jesus taught us that God our Father has promised to supply our every need just as He did for His Son, but then what are our true needs? I think our problems arise from our perception of neediness. We are caught up in our own fancies, yearnings and the needs the world as a whole indicates to us. Is happiness or fulfilment a need? Is need a quality of life issue? When God supplies our every need is it for this temporal life or for our eternal life or both? I find the answers to these questions difficult because simply, I’m not God, I don’t see the big picture and I don’t understand "need" like He does. But I do indeed believe that when following Christ we will be "well-off", but in what regard, that of western society or the transcendent Word of God? "But godliness is a means of great gain, when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. And if we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction.1 Tim.6:6-9." Now I’m not saying it is not wrong to desire good things, but I do believe that it is wrong to be filled with the desire of worldly temporal things in the place of Christ. As long as our eyes are focussed on Jesus and we are living according to His Spirit, the pleasures of this world its lusts, worries, and fears will have no control over us. "The fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. And because we belong to Christ Jesus, we have killed our selfish feelings and desires. Galations 5:22-24." Have we killed our selfish feelings and desires? It says that because we belong to Christ Jesus we have. He who began a good work in me will be faithful to complete it.

NOTE: I wrote this and the others in this series about two years ago but it was the best way to quicly write a blog.