Who Is Your Role Model?

Paul tells the people in Corinth to IMITATE him!  In other words, behalf and act like him; set a Christ-like example!   He wanted their lives to model Christ's nature, as he had patterned his life after.  Unfortunately, the immoral conduct in the city of Corinth had begun to creep into the church and corrupt it!  I've seen the same thing happening today....in our culture, in our society, and in our churches.

When I was a kid, my ROLE MODEL was Roy Rogers!  (And I especially loved Trigger!)  Roy was kind, he fought for what was right, he had good manners, and he was a good citizen (that was his character and role in the movies).  But, as I grew older,  I also observed this same behavior in
his personal life.   He was a faithful husband and father, he served his community, and he stayed true to his faith.  He was not "double-minded"--acting one way in the movies and another way in life--no, he was the same character on and off the screen!  [James 4:6-10]

What about you and me?  Do we ACT one way at church and another way at work....are we different at home?  Who is the "real you?"  Who do you model your life after? 

We all are "polluted" in some ways--only the Lord can "flush-out" that which is filthy!  Rid yourself of your fleshly nature and allow Christ to fill you with His"living water."  The more you take on His nature, the less you'll act like those in the world!

Be a godly role model in your homes, in your work, in your church, and in your play!  Set the right standard!   Strive after righteousness!  Strive to be more Christ-like!  IMITATE Him!

Matthew 5:20 Christ clearly says to you (and me)..."unless your righteousness exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven."

Entrance into His kingdom is by a righteousness of heart, not by pretending to be righteous--not by putting on an act--but being an authentic Christian...by being like Christ! 

      

FINAL INSPECTION

I was a "tomboy" when I was a child.  I remember one time I helped dad put shingles on a playhouse roof.  I thought I was a big help!  However, most of the nails I pounded in ended up bent and crooked!  Dad never scolded me for not doing a good job...nor did he make me quit.  He accepted my help....and most of all, he accepted me!  God's like that, too--He will let us try to help  even though we really aren't able to be of much help...even though we don't know what we're doing ! 

A good father "trains-up" the child in the way he should do things. We all learn by "trial-and-error!"  Our Heavenly Father doesn't expect us to do everything perfectly, but He does expect us to build on His foundation and to complete the work He's called us to do.

In the end, the house we've built (and the life we've lived) will have a final inspection!  What will the "Building Inspector" find?  Has your work been built on a solid faith foundation?  What materials did you use:  Wood, hay, straw--or gold, silver, and precious stones?  Is it "fire proof?"  

Be careful how you build!  Your life depends on it!


I Corinthians 2:12-17

"Actions Speak Louder Than Words!"

God says that "those who are strong ought to help the weak!"  Some of the things I'm weak (lack skill) in are computers and technology, understanding insurance and medical policies, or doing anything with tools and the like, etc. my husband is strong (more skilled); however, he is weak in typing skills, English and grammar,  etc,  When I'm "down" emotionally, he lifts me up; when he's "down" physically (knee replacement surgery), I help him up--and so on!  This is what couples do for one another.  And it doesn't stop there--friends are to help friends, neighbors are to help neighbors, co-workers are to help one another, and believers are to lend support to one another, etc.

I get so sick-and-tired of listening to people who only talk about themselves....they have what I call the "It's-all-about-Me Mouth Disease!"  They sit on their self-make thrones and demand everyone to bow down to them--they believe they're the most important person in the room.  Everything is ALL ABOUT THEM!

We're to submit--one to the other; it's not a "one-way street!"  It's an ebb-and-flow of the Spirit...back-and-forth to help and support one another.  This especially applies to marriage (between husband and wife) and in The Body of Christ.  We are Christ's "bride"--we should love and respect each other; it's a "give-and-take" relationship.  Many people go to church to receive something from God; a few go to give something to God."

If you just expect to be served...if you just prefer to sit...you'll become like a stagnant body of water.  Stagnant water does not produce any life! There needs to  be a FLOW of the Spirit..  Christ didn't come to please Himself...He came to please His Father.  

Christ GAVE His life so we would RECEIVE new life (everlasting life).  What more could we ask for?  In like manner, we are to give our lives back to Him.  To KNOW Him is to LOVE Him--and to love Him is to SERVE Him!

He wants a personal relationship with each one of us....He desires that we draw near to Him and get to KNOW Him...to learn from Him and GROW in Him...then we can GO out into all the world and SERVE Him by demonstrating His love so others will be drawn unto Him. 

God's Chosen

In I Corinthians 1:27 it says that "God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things that are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are."

I've been called "a fool," but I'm a fool for Christ's sake!  I know I am "weak" in many areas, but God's strength empowers me.  I'm simply a CLAYPOT that is cracked (a "crackpot")!  But God uses me....and He's chosen me to serve Him. 

Don't put yourself down, don't de-value your worth!  I heard a story about two waterpots.  The master's gardener carried water (2 pots hooked onto a yoke) up a hill to the master's garden each day.  One pot was cracked, so it lost much of the water on the way up the hill.  This cracked pot was sad and felt it wasn't of any use.  But the servant who was carrying the pots said this to the cracked pot:  "Look...see this one side of the path?  It has no flowers growing....but look at your side of the path.  See all the flowers?  You have watered this side everyday as I've carried you up the hill.  You have made the path more beautiful!"

Often we are not aware of how the Lord is using us.  But, if our hearts desire to serve Him, He will use us to make this world more beautiful.

Pour out the "living water" that resides within you today...pour out to others and God will pour more back into you tomorrow.  He will fill you up until you overflow, if you open yourselves to Him.

Who Is More Important?

In a healthy, balanced family we find that each member of the family has a specific gifting and their own personality...no two children are alike and mom and dad are generally quite opposite from the other as well.  "Variety is the spice of life," they say!  Each member of the family--from the parents on down--are assigned tasks to do, participate in family functions, and remain loyal and faithful to the family.  In like manner, so does the church family.  Each member is important, has a specific function or role to fill, and contributes to the growth and stability of the church family.

Romans 12:3-8 speaks about each member having a certain gift.  We can function--in greater or lesser degrees--in all 7 of these gifts, if we put forth an effort to do so, but we have a "primary" one that always stands out.  These gifts are called "Motivational or Foundational Gifts."  I believe this passage of scripture should be taught early on to the congregation.  If we understood where each one is "coming from" (what gift they operate from), there'd be fewer disputes and misunderstandings. 

My main motivational gift is that of an EXHORTER; I love to exhort and encourage!  I used to think I was primarily an ADMINISTRATOR, as I functioned highly in that area.  But I learned some of those skills from my parents.  Of course, that gift helps if you mix it with my primary one.  People like to be encouraged--lifted up...not be put down--when you have to oversee (boss) them.

What I'm trying to say is that each and every gift...each and every member is important in the Family of God.  Don't go around thinking you are more important or have a superior gift than someone else....don't go flaunting it around!  We're not to "compare or compete" (or "complain")about one another!  Just remember this:

..."not to think of yourself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith, for we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are ONE BODY in Christ, and individually members of one another."  [Romans 12:3-5]

Watch Where You're Walking!

Feet are not pretty...especially mine!  I have a very wide foot and very stubby toes.  When I was a kid--in the 7th grade--the school took a class picture (the whole class in one picture).  I'm also short, so I knew they'd place me in the front row.  The 7th grade was a "right of passage" year--where the girls wore nylons and patent leather shoes for the 1st time.  However, due to my wide feet, I couldn't get patent leather shoes in my size.  So--I wasn't going to go to school...I was self-conscious and embarrassed!  Mom called the principal and asked if I could stand on a box in the 2nd row (to conceal my feet).  The principal found a box, and you'll find me pictured  in the 2nd row of that 7th grade class photo! 

Years after I was married, my husband and I were in a bad car crash.  I was thrown into the windshield and my foot got wedged up under the dashboard.  It was a bad injury, but my foot finally healed.  Ever since that accident, I never complained about my wide, ugly feet.  I praise God that I still have two feet...that I can stand, walk, and still run!

Romans 10:15 says that the person who brings "glad tidings of good things" (the gospel) to others has BEAUTIFUL FEET.  In the natural, I have ugly feet--but spiritually, they're beautiful!  I can live with that!

So what is God saying in this verse?  We are to share the gospel of Christ with those who cross our path.  It could be with a kind word, a kind deed, a cheerful smile, a helping hand, writing a note, visiting the sick, etc.  Those in the world need to "see" and "hear" Jesus through you.  It's up to you and me to spread the gospel of good news to others. 

Remember the old wrist band Christians used to wear that read:  "WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?"  We're His representatives and His ambassadors here in the world today.  Think about that!  Are we doing the work He's called us to do?  Demonstrate and share His love with someone today.  Don't draw back, don't pass by....just DO IT!    

 

You Did That On Purpose!

Ever since Adam and Eve ate from "The Tree of the Knowledge of Good & Evil," bad things have been happening--even to good people--and even good people do very bad things.!  But God can make goods things come out of bad situations.  For instance:  What Joseph's brothers meant for evil, God turned into good, Moses killed a man, David had a man purposely killed so he could have his wife, and Paul purposely sought out Christians to kill before his conversion.  Yet God used Moses to save a nation, David to be the King of Israel, and Paul to be the greatest Apostle.

 The "key" is found in Romans 8:28.  To those He has set aside for His purposes, He will see that His Plan is carried out.  He put His DESIGN on these people; they were His vessels to be used as He saw fit.  However, they became "marred" (flawed; damaged).  Therefore, He made them again!  [See:  Jeremiah 18:1-5]

All He required of them, after they had done such bad deeds, was to repent, confess their sins--to turn away from satan's plan and turn towards Him and fulfill the purpose they were designed and designated to complete.

YOU ONLY FAIL WHEN YOU FAIL TO TRY!!!  Don't quit!  Get back up....look up....and go forward in faith--believing He has "called you out of darkness into His marvelous light!"  You may be in a "dark place," but know this:  His Word is a lamp to your feet and He will lighten up your path.  Just get up and go on with Him!  He has a PLAN and a PURPOSE for your life.

Obedience from the Heart

Wedding vows use to contain the words, "to love, honor, and OBEY!"  The word "obey" stuck in the throats of many brides--and thus, could not be swallowed.  Why?  I believe because too many  husbands flexed their  muscles by beating (verbally or physically) their brides into submission.  Thus the word OBEY has  been misused  and misinterpreted--used as a weapon, spoken as a threat.  The meaning of the word OBEY is "to listen attentively, answer and respond, submit without reservation."  Beating people into submission is the wrong way...extending loving grace produces a willingness to respond in the right way.

In Acts 6:17 - ..."you OBEYED from the heart...".  This is the way the Lord wants us to obey--from our hearts.  Not out of duty, but out of a desire to please our Lord.  Not out of a phelio love (a conditional kind of love... a you scratch my back--I'll scratch your back kind of love) but an agape love (unconditional--no strings attached--totally giving myself to you kind of love).

The only way I can try to love someone that I simply don't like is to try to see them through Jesus' eyes.  The only way I can serve the unlovlies of this world is to do it for Jesus--because He asked me to.  And when I truly  OBEY and try to love them and draw closer to see their needs, then I'm more willing to help them and accept them.  Then I can begin to love them.  For by the grace of God go I!   If I remember that He saved me and extended grace and mercy to me--I surely must extend what He's given to me onto others.  This is how we "bear fruit" --"The Fruit of the Spirit."  What is this fruit?  It is found in Galatians 5: 22-23.  The only way to grow and mature that fruit is by being obedient to what He's asked us to do--for obedience leads to righteousness.  We're to walk in love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  That's a life of GRACE!

To KNOW Him is to LOVE Him; and to LOVE Him is to SERVE Him!  Walk in obedience to The Word today!

False Start!

All runners in a race line up at the "starting line."  No one is allowed to cross that line until the starter's gun is fired..  It's called a "false start" if they cross that line ahead of the gun.  Well, that's exactly what Sarah did....she got ahead of God's starting time....she had a "false start!"

Abraham "did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith..".  In other words, he didn't doubt God's promise that they were to give birth to a son.  Sarah was going to help God to hurry up the process.  She "conceived" a plan of her own:  She offered her handmaiden to Abraham.  Her plan worked....they had a son, named Ismael. 

Both disobeyed God!  Abraham gave into Sarah's plan rather than waiting for God's.  Sarah was impatient; Abraham maybe welcomed the pleasure of sleeping with another woman....or maybe he wanted peace (at all costs) in his household, as he was weary of hearing Sarah's complaints about waiting.

Of course, in God's timing, Isaac was born--they were blessed with the child that God promised them.  However, the child of their own making,Ismael, caused them much trouble because they had  "jumped the gun" and rushed ahead of God's timing.

Sarah grew weary of waiting....it weakened her faith.  But remember--"those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength...".  That is, if they wait "in faith."  [See:  Isaiah 40:31 and Romans 10:17]  Satan always causes us to rush ahead of God.  Don't have a "false start"...WAIT for His perfect timing.

REASONING (leading with your mind) rushes ahead of God... FAITH (believing with your heart) follows God!

 

Who's Right & Who's Wrong?

You can't tell the Politicians from the Pharisees (the religious experts).  So much of "the world" has inflitrated and infected  "the church."  I'm so tired of hearing the politicians argue who is right and who is wrong!!!  I'm so sick of hearing them argue and fight against one another!  I don't know who is right or who is wrong--I'm more concerned with the motives and intents of their hearts!!!

The Pharisees in Paul's day debated about doctrine....and religious pastors do (today) as well.  Churches split because of the differences....and our country is becoming more divided as well.  We have weaker churches and weaker government because we have disunity--because we must be right and the other guy must be wrong!   

Many religious leaders, who call themselves pastors and shepherds are no more than "wolves in sheeps' clothing!"  Many politicians wear cover-ups/masks as well.   We don't need to wait until Halloween to see people disquised to be something they're not!

I thought we were to be "One nation....under God!"  However, we're fast becoming a fragmented nation who has forgotten God!  Our only HOPE is this: 

"If my people, which are called by My Name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and heal their land."  [II Chronicles 7:14]

  

SIMPLE KINDNESS

Paul had been shipwrecked (again)...but all were saved and able to swim to shore to the tiny island of Malta.  There the natives treated them with KINDNESS and showed them hospitality.  They kindled a fire to warm them, fed them, sheltered them, etc. 

What is KINDNESS?  It is love for mankind, hospitality, acts of kindness, readiness to help, human friendship, benevolence, and taking thought of others.

Kindness can be as simple as praying by the bedside of someone in the hospital , bringing a meal to a shut-in, writing a note to encourage someone, sending a sympathy card, helping someone finish a difficult project at work, sitting by your child--helping them with their homework, etc.  I could go on-and-on, but you ALL know what kindness is.  BUT....are you ALL looking for ways to be kind each and every day?  If not, you should!!!

Whenever you get "a nudge" inside to do some kind act, or a certain  person's face flashes across you mind--that's a prompting from the Lord to ACT....do something KIND on their behalf!!!

I'm thinking of you this morning....my act of kindness is to devote some time to share my thoughts with you....to try to encourage you....to let you know God loves you.

HAVE A BLESSED DAY!

AVAILABILITY

We are given at birth "natural" ABILITIES.  As we grow and mature, we become more skillful at using these abilities.  Paul was highly schooled and highly skilled...the smartest in the land.  But God wasn't impressed with that!  What God sought from Paul was his AVAILABILITY!  Mary, the mother of Jesus, wasn't hgihly educated--not the smartest--but she AVAILED herself unto the Lord.  She responded by saying, "Be it unto me, according to Your Word!"  [Luke 1:38]  What does AVAILABILITY mean?  To make yourself useful, helpful; to be of worth; to be of benefit.  

In Acts 26:19 Paul says, "...I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision."  Not only did he make himself available, but he stayed true to the vision the Lord had personally revealed to him.  He was faithful to the end.  He had one goal in mind--to finish the course that was set before him.
He was, as we say today--"IN THE ZONE!"  I loved this line from the movie, "City Slickers"--"What's the ONE thing?"  Fellow believers, what's the ONE thing you're most passionate about; who is the ONE person you most love?

I always tried to be "perfect" (not make any mistakes)....I always tried to be "good," (I was a "goody-two-shoes"....boring), but I FAILED at both!   Paul "played-by-the-book" (The Law)--yet he, too, failed.  God knows we'll fail...God knows we can't be perfect.  All He truly asks of us are three things:  (1)  Avail yourself to Me; (2) Trust and obey Me; (3) Endure and remain faithful.

If you submit yourself to Him--avail yourself to Him--He will "do great things" in and through you.
Mary was "blessed among women"--just a simple peasant girl--handpicked by the Lord to give birth to His Only Son.  And Paul, formerly the "Hitler" of his day (who went about killing Christians)  was transformed and used by the Lord to establish His church all over the known world of that day.

AVAILABILITY is more valuable than ABILITY.  Availability is like a flawless diamond whereas ability is like coal.   Diamonds are formed in the dark and under pressure.  Both Mary and Paul suffered many dark and difficult days--but look what the Lord did for them and through them!  He transformed them into "precious stones!"

I Peter 1:6-7 - In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ...




 

Hot Potato! (I like my potato "well done!")

Remember the kids' game, "Hot Potato?"  You would stand in a circle and toss a (pretend) hot potato, as quickly as you could, to somebody else.  Well, that's what the priests and governors, and other officials were doing with Paul, as he was too hot for them to handle!   The Jews were determined to have him arrested, so they circulated a bunch of lies and heresay (none of which were true).  Finally Felix, the governor, got tired of "sitting-on-the-fence" (as he had held Paul under "house arrest" for 2 years)--waiting for Paul to offer him some bride $$$ to release him, and sent him on to another official who finally sent him to Rome for sentencing. 

Sorta sounds like our government and politicians of today doesn't it?  A lot of talk, a bunch of lies, plenty of false accusations being tossed around, along with a few brides under the table! 

None of this "moved" Paul; he remained steadfast in his faith and determined to complete the work the Lord had called him to do.  He was "grounded and rooted" in love....love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  He could say, as did Jesus, "IT IS FINISHED!"  Soon he would be standing before the Lord in heaven above.  And I'm sure the Lord lovingly said to him:  "Well done, good and faithful servant....come, enter my joy!"

How 'bout you...how 'bout me?  When we meet the Lord, face-to-face at eternity's door, will He be able to say to us, "Well done, good and faithful servant!  You've finished the work I've asked you to do!"  

Appointed By The Lord!

Paul got dumped off his donkey on the road to Damascus...stopped in his tracks.  There he had a miraculous meeting with the Lord... and his career and his life was changed forever!   The Lord said to him:  "Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed  for you to do."

God sent Paul "all over the map" (I kid you not)!  He started churches, converted people, performed miracles, preached the gospel, trained disciples, and poured out his very life for the work of the ministry and for God's glory.  God called Paul his "chosen vessel."  He was handpicked for a specific PURPOSE.  God had a PLAN for him....and He has a PLAN and a PURPOSE for you!!!

I had a similar encounter with the Lord many years ago.  I was an Executive Secretary; I was in the middle of typing a letter--and suddenly God STOPPED me....He spoke to me....He told me to put down "my net" (which was my secretarial career) and follow Him!  Much like when He told Peter to put down his net and follow Him.  Jesus was going to make him "a fisher of men"...no longer would he be known as a fisherman!  [Matthew 4:18-22]  Likewise, I'd been a secretary who took dictation from her boss--but now I would be His "scribe"--transcribing what He writes on my heart--to share with others.  That was THE DAY He "called" me into ministry.

Could this be THE DAY He reveals to you what He's calling you to do?  Listen carefully!  Do you hear Him calling?  Does He want to change your life? 

We're all "marred vessels"--so the Potter comes and "makes us again into another vessel, as it seems good" to Him.  [Jeremiah 18:1-6]  Let Him remake you and form you into what He desires you to be.

You, too, can be HIS CHOSEN VESSEL!  [Acts 9:15]

FOLLOW THROUGH

The Apostle Paul was an amazing man of God!  For instance, he "served the Lord with all HUMILITY" (Unselfish concern for the welfare of others.  Total absence of arrogance, conceit, and haughtiness).  The ONE thing he had on his heart was to serve the Lord!  He had a tough race to run in life--filled with many obstacles, tribulation and persecution, along with a disturbing "thorn in the flesh."  Yet he said this:  "But none of these things move me"...I just want to "finish my race with joy!"  On top of all that, he knew-that-he-knew that he had to leave the people he loved to go "bound" to Jerusalem.  In other words, he was going to be put in prison (again)--and, eventually, put to death!  Yet, he went!  He FOLLOWED THROUGH with what God asked him to do!  

I believe that the majority of  Christians do what they want to do....not what God's asked them to do!  Nor do they complete the work God's called them to do.

As we "mature" in Christ--grow in love and grace--our assignments become more challenging.  He promotes us from the "minor leagues" to the "majors!"  More is expected...more is required of us.  Remember what Jesus required of  Peter?  He was to feed His sheep and tend His flocks  (shepherd the flock of believers)....and, He even told him how he would die (hanging upside down on a cross)!  Yet Peter FOLLOWED THROUGH with his assignment (calling). 

 I Corinthians 9:24-27 Paul adds this:  "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize?  Run in such a way that you may obtain it....I discipline my body...lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified!"

Don't be a DROP OUT...don't be a QUITTER...be a FINISHER!  It's easy to start running with Jesus, but it takes a lot of faith, courage, and endurance to finish with Him.  The Lord wants you to go with Him ALL THE WAY to the finish line...from the beginning  to the end. 

Don't run from Him...run with Him!

Come and Sit By My Side, If You Love Me!

Apollos was new on the scene--young to the ministry--a Jew.  He spoke eloquently, accurately, and was very fervent in spirit (full of burning zeal).  However, he only had knowledge of John the Baptist's work--not Jesus'.  Therefore, Aquila and Priscilla (an older couple in the newly-formed Christian church)--when they had heard him speak so boldly in the synagogue--took him aside to explain the way of God more accurately.  They recognized that Apollos was called to preach....and Apollos realized he didn't know-it-all!  He respected his elders...he listened to their counsel and teaching....and he was wise to accept their help.

Our culture in America today (including many churches)  does not value the wisdom of the older generation.  Companies disgard employees when they reach about 50 yrs. of age; many teens don't respect their parents, and grandparents are used just for babysitting. The older population moves more slowly (and is more patient), which frustrates the young; whereas the young have the enthusiasm and energy (willing to try new things) that the older folks should appreciate.  We need BOTH in The Body of Christ, and in the world today!

In Titus Chapter II it states that the older women are to teach the younger women and that the older men are to teach the younger men.  And I don't see where that was ever changed in Scripture.  I believe that primarily refers to godly character, godly principles, etc.  I am trying to learn from my son and other young folks how to use the computer and my cellphone.  I'm not ready for the I-pad or such.  But I am rather skilled in interpreting the Scriptures!  We could learn MUCH from one another.

Families are failing, traditional marriages are disappearing and "alternative lifestyles" are rapidly appearing.   Soccer games and golf on Sundays are replacing Sunday School (nowadays called "Children's Church") and church.  Entertainment is the only way some will be enticed to attend church.  Church music is often  mixed with rock-band mentality...the louder the better...rather than entering into respectful worship unto the Lord.

God cries out, "BE STILL and know that I am God."  I speak to you in a quiet voice, but you are so busy and so noisy that you can't hear Me!  Come to the waters....sit by My side....and I will give you rest for your SOULS!  Today is Sunday.  This is a day of REST!  Will you leave the cares and things of the world behind for just a little while?  I'm CALLING you to come and sit by My side!

   

Tough Assignments Bring Astounding Rewards

After being beaten, chained together, and thrown in prison--Paul and Silas started praying and singing.  Here they are in a dark, damp inner prison...praising the Lord.  And suddenly the ground starts to shake, the doors fling open, and everyone's chains break off.  The rest of the prisoners flee, but Paul and Silas stay put.  They're waiting for the jailer to arrive.  Their assignment (Paul and Silas') was to set the jailer free from the "bondage" of unbelief .  The jailer came running to them and asked them "what must I do to be saved."  They told him to "believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved--you and your household."

You may be setting in a "dark place"--not of your choosing.  Instead of grumbling or complaining, try praising the Lord in the midst of your difficult circumstances.  Pray and ask God why He's allowed you to be here.  He may be using you (in this dark place)  to shine your light on someone else that needs to be set free.  And if you do, watch and see what the Lord's going to do--not only for the other person, but for you.

Philippians 2:14 tells us to "Do all things without complaining and disputing,...".  Stop complaining...stop talking....start praying!  Start thanking God and praising Him for what He's about to do in your life.  That which may be holding you down or holding you back may simply be because of a wrong heart attitude and a negative mind set.

A GRATEFUL HEART is the right attitude.  And the right ATTITUDE will lift you to a new ALTITUDE....you'll be able to rise above your circumstances.  Try it today, and see it work in your life for His glory.

The God of 2nd Chances

I've always said, "The only thing wrong with churches are that people are in them!"  People make mistakes...people disappoint...people get frightened...people mess up!  John Mark messed-up!  He thought he was ready for ministry, so he signed aboard  to sail with Barnabus and Paul for his 1st mission trip.  But he "bailed-out" and went AWOL!

Sometime later Paul was planning a 2nd missionary trip and he and Barnabus were discussing whom they wanted to team-up with them.  Barnabus wanted John Mark to come, but this infuriated Paul!  It caused such strife and division that Paul and Barnabus split!  John Mark went with Barnabus and Silas went with Paul. 

However, it worked out for God's good, as now there were two missionary teams instead of one, which meant they could cover more ground  for God's  glory.  A lot of time passed, but finally Paul and John Mark reconciled.  John Mark became a faithful and reliable helper-- faithfully supporting and serving  Paul to advance the work of the Lord.

Many, many years ago a friend and I were going to enter the ministry together.  She "bailed-out" the last minute and began to spread rumors that I really wasn't "called" to ministry.  It hurt me deeply.  But--many years later--she came back to ask for my forgiveness.  We are now (again) very good friends.

A pastor once told me, "I don't trust anyone in ministry who hasn't made at least 3 mistakes!"  At first I thought that was odd--but the longer I'm in ministry, the more I realize he was correct.  It humbles us when we mess-up; it teaches us; you can't go through life without making mistakes.  It gives you more compassion for others when you realize how much grace and mercy the Lord has given you when you blew it, stumbled, or missed-the-mark.

Paul (later) thought it over....or God got through to him...that REACTING is the wrong way to deal with people and problems.  The right way (God's Way) is to RESPOND.  The right response is to always FORGIVE,  and then (if they've sincerely asked for forgiveness and have repented, and matured) give them a 2nd chance. 

We all need to be forgiven one or two times....or is it "70 x 7?"  Yea, that's it!   Wasn't there a line in the prayer that Jesus taught the disciples, "Forgive us our trespasses (sins, faults, mistakes, errors as we forgive those who trespass against us?"

HE WHO HAS BEEN FORGIVEN MUCH--LOVES MORE!!!  How much love are you showing towards others?  Don't hold grudges....hurdle over your hurts....and walk in LOVE (and you'll be walking with Jesus)! 

THE GREAT ESCAPE

The early church was really under attack.  King Herod was on a ram-page...head-hunting the apostles.  James had been killed by the sword....and now Peter's been captured and put in prison.  The plan is to execute him after the Passover.  Peter is securely guarded by four squads of soldiers, chained between 2 soldiers, and guards are at the door of the prison.  Nobody would be able to break him out of that security system!!!  Nobody, that is, BUT GOD!!!

God and His "prayer warriors" are mightier than the King's sword or his maximum prison!  These prayer warriors secretly gathered  in Mary's house (the mother of John Mark) and fervently began to war-in-the-spirit (pray).  And you know what happened?  Peter was awakened by an angel, his chains fell off, the prison door opened, the city gate opened, and Peter slipped out while the guards were all asleep!  Why this would make a great movie....better than "Star Wars!"  What a miraculous happening!  Nobody lifted a finger; nobody got hurt; nobody had to physically fight.   THE BATTLE WAS THE LORD'S!  

How do you fight your battles?  How do you overcome your circumstances?  Is it on your own strength....or do you 1st enter into prayer and seek God's face?  Face God 1st; listen to His plan; follow His orders; and march to victory!  Sure, you'll have to put forth some effort...you'll have to endure some difficulties along the way...but you can't lose if you listen to the Lord! 

There's a line from an old hymn that goes like this, "trust and obey...for there's no other way!"  When you come to the end  of your way of doing things....enter His Way, and you'll be on the right road!

Psalm 119:105 says "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."  In that darkened prison, God sent an angel of light to lead Peter to safety.  God will enlighten you today, if you will pray...seek His face, and obey!

The Rotten Fruit of Pride--Prejudice--Partiality!

Our PREJUDICES are generally found in the things  we fear (or don't understand).  Peter put down the Gentiles, for example; Jews  hated Christians.  PRIDE steps in and declares that it's bigger and better than any other way...or any other person.  And PARTIALITY penetrates our thinking.  All these bad character qualities ("stinkin' thinking") are being dealt with in Acts Chapter 10.

Remember the line in the song from SOUTH PACIFIC--"you've got to be taught to hate and fear..."?    Well, it's true--we're taught prejudice ...we become adept at showing partiality...and we're proud of it!!!  Americans--and many so-called Christians--verbalize or demonstrate this prideful attitude all the time.  We "look down" at others who are different instead of "looking up" to Jesus and seeing those who are different through Jesus' eyes.   Jesus showed no PARTIALITY!

God had to sedate Peter, put him in a trance, and give him a vision before he'd change his prejudiced mind about the Gentiles.  After he "woke up" (his eyes were opened to the truth), he immediately went and visited the Gentiles, and enfolded them into the flock of believers.   Then he said this:  "In truth, I perceive that God shows no PARTIALITY!"  In other words--He doesn't show favoritism, nor does He discriminate.  God's love and grace are made available to all and can be received by anyone.

What about YOU...what about ME?  Do we need to deal with some area or attitude of PRIDE, PREJUDICE, or showing PARTIALITY (favoritism) towards someone or something?  Open your eyes...look around you....what do you see?  Where aren't you showing love?  Where are you putting up barriers?  Who are you excluding or judging? 

PRUNE the fruit of prejudices, pride, and sprouts of partiality so that you can bear better fruit....more FRUIT of the SPIRIT!  [See:  Galatians 5:22-23]

You Want Me To Do What?

On an ordinary day God asks an ordinary Christian to do an extraordinary thing.  Ananias didn't ask for this assignment....he didn't want this assignment....he wasn't expecting an assignment like this.  This was BIG!!!  This was SCAREY!!!   I'm sure Ananias immediately thought something like this:  "Saul--why he's the guy who goes around killing Christians!!!  He just had Stephen stoned-to-death!"  Ananias, like many of us do when God requests we do something out-of-the-ordinary (out of our comfort zone), was quick to remind God why he can't or shouldn't do it. 

The personal word given to Ananias was this:  "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.  For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake."  The message he delivered to Saul was:  "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit."  [See:  Acts 9:10-19]

BE READY....GET PREPARED...God may give you "a message" to deliver!  Would you go?  Or would you make excuses, whimp-out, or rationalize why you shouldn't/couldn't go?  

Remember the movie (and TV show) "MISSION IMPOSSIBLE?"  The assignment always appeared impossible, but those it was assigned to carried out the mission.  Remember, "With God ALL things are possible" and "I can do all things through Christ Jesus...".  That's what the Word tells us! 

If we walk in FAITH (casting down fear), He can work miracles through us.....we can be MESSENGERS OF MIRACLES!!!  We must do our part (what He's called us to do) and He will do His part.  If we did our part more often, we'd see many more miracles!

ARE YOU READY?   GET SET....GO!!!  Go when He sends you; go where He tells you.   Run the race He's set before you....and FINISH the work He's called you to do! 
   

Prioritize and Rise!

Acts 6:1-4 speaks about PRIORITIES.  The church is in a time of adjustment and transition.  It has grown so fast that the apostles are becoming burdened down with too many details that are causing them to veer away from their prayer time and their time in the Word.  Something has to be done!  Didn't it say in the Word to "seek Him 1st" and to "pray without ceasing?"  They were slowly slipping into a trap; satan was lurring them to load up on projects and activities, which cut into their time of prayer and meditating over the Word.

What about our schedules?  How is our time spent?  Do we invest in prayer and Bible time....or are we spending time on everything else?  And, IF there's any time or energy left over....we might manage to squeeze in a quick prayer and  briefly glance at a short devotional....and call it a day!

Then we wonder why we're so exhausted!  We can't understand why God isn't hearing our voice and we're not hearing Him either!  We grow more confused, our lives become more cluttered, and chaos crowds out Christ.

We've put "the cart before the horse[power]!"  We've put things before the King-of-Kings, who endues us with power from on high!  We "bury" Him under a mountain of tasks and time-consuming activities that He never asked us to do.  Oh--if we'd only BE STILL and come to KNOW Him...and FOLLOW Him....and DO what He's asking us to do rather than what we want to do (or what others demand that we do)...our lives would flow with "Living Water" rather than be stagnating!

COME TO THE WATERS this morning....STAY BY HIS SIDE....walk with Him this day by staying in an attitude of prayer....LISTEN to what He has to say....and I guarantee you--you'll HAVE A BLESSED DAY!!!

Who Taught You That?

Acts 4:13 - "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were UNEDUCATED (they had not received formal instruction in the rabbinical schools) and UNTRAINED (laymen--not professional experts) men, they marveled.  And they realized that they had been with Jesus."

The difference between Peter and John vs. the religious leaders of the day was this:  Peter and John had been personally tutored by Jesus; they also had an up-close and personal relationship with Him.  They had been schooled by "The Living Word" (Jesus) and had graduated as "living epistles."  In contrast, the religious leaders could only relate to what had been taught to them by men who read from "tablets of stone"--believing in The Father of Abraham...but not in His Son!
[II Corinthians 3:1-3]

The religious leaders were EXPERTS about what had been taught them by the rabbinical scholars of the day, but they didn't recognize, believe in, or understand "The Living Word" when He stood right in front of them and spoke.

Peter and John's hearts were filled with "godly wisdom" whereas the religious leaders only knew "man's wisdom," which resulted in filling their minds with "head knowledge."  Only those who opened their hearts to Jesus, and developed a close, personal relationship with Him, were able to walk in the boldness of His power.

OPEN your HEART to Jesus....let Him come in...let Him live in you and shine through you so that men can see Jesus!

Turn Up The Heat!

[Acts 2-3]

The church was established on the Day of Pentecost in a miraculous way.  Some 120 believers were gathered together in a home to wait and to pray.  All were in "one accord" (being in agreement, having group unity, having one mind and purpose)--waiting for the "infilling of the Holy Spirit."  Jesus kept His Word!  The Holy Spirit, "like a mighty wind," rushed into the house and filled each believer who was gathered there to pray.  Jesus' own spirit came to live inside their hearts.

The church continued to grow...and GROW!  In Acts 2:42 we're told that the church "CONTINUED (to endure; to go on in a specified way; to cause to remain) STEADFASTLY (firmly fixed; constant) in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in breaking of bread, and in prayer."

So what has happened to weaken many churches today?  Why are churches closing and dying?  Why are so many believers stalled in their faith?  Here are a few reasons:

• Families choose soccer games, sleeping-in, etc. over going to church.
• Many attend only when they feel like it.
• Most only drop a $1 in the offering plate--then go out to dinner, but don't think twice about  tipping the waitress $10.

The "pilot light" (the Holy Spirit) has been "turned off" in many churches today!  The church has become "LUKEWARM!"  And God is turning up the heat--wanting to remove the DROSS...purify the church once again...RESTORE it to its original design...the way He intended it to be.  And what was that original design?

"To continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine (Hebrews 6:1-2) and fellowship, in breaking of bread (communion) , and in prayer!"

No "U" Turns!!!

[Read:  John 21-Acts 1]

Jesus and Peter have just shared an intimate conversation, while walking together on the beach.  Peter has just been restored to a right relationship with Jesus--all has been forgiven--all was right between them.  Jesus even shared some very personal things that would be happening in Peter's future.  Peter never felt closer to Jesus in his life than at this moment.  Jesus concludes the conversation with these words, "FOLLOW ME!'

No more than a few seconds later, Peter turns around (as he realizes that John is following them) and says, "what about him?"  Already Peter is becoming DISTRACTED.  Jesus sternly replies, "what's it to you?"  

Distractions cause you to lose traction!  You begin to "slip-and-slide" down a slippery slope into sin!!!  Peter is close to being tripped-up by jealousy, comparing himself to another, or wanting to compete for position.  Jesus is trying to warn him that "it's none of his business!"  Once again He reminds (sternly warns) Peter to "FOLLOW ME!"  [See:  John 19-22]

When we take our eyes off of Jesus, we lose our way!  
     We will veer off course! 
           We will miss all that He has for us. 
                  We won't be able to complete the work He has for us to do.                                         

If a runner "looks back" in a race (to see where the other runners are), he can step out of his lane and lose the race, or he can slow down his pace.  He could even trip.  If you want to go on with Jesus, run the race He has set for you.

GO FORWARD WITH FAITH....and FINISH YOUR RACE!!!

  

DOORMAT of LOVE

[Read:  John 19-20]

Three women stood at the foot of the cross:  Mary (His mother), Mary (the sister of His mother), and Mary Magdalene.  [John 19:25]  They were so courageous...they were so devoted....their love for Jesus was stronger than their fear.  [I John 4:18]

We're all familiar with Peter, James, and John--but what about these 3 women?  I believe these 3 were as important, and as close, to Jesus as were these 3 men.  These men were strong....they had bigger muscles, but these women were equipped with a strength men do not possess:  The ability to "travail" (endure intense agony) through the tough times.  Women understand, and are equipped, to birth new life.  Jesus was in intense agony on the cross....He was "travailing" in the spirit.  He was "giving birth" to the Holy Spirit and "delivering" the Holy Spirit to His believers here on earth.

Three women, and only one man, stood at the foot of the cross 'til death did part them from Jesus.  I was a hospice chaplain for some 15 years, and I stood at many bedsides of those who were dying.  The women almost always remained at their loved one's side--being steadfast and faithful to the end--few men did.    

Peter (and the rest,) RAN away.  Peter  ran into a "mind field of emotion."  He stepped on a landmine of fear and it exploded --blowing him to pieces!  His wounds of guilt, shame, and sorrow nearly took his life.

The 3 women, on the other hand, remained to pick up Jesus' broken body.  With broken hearts they performed their last act of loving service on His behalf.

Men, in those days, didn't value women.  Women were no more than objects to be used--a necessity for bearing children and doing chores.  When Jesus arrived on the scene, things changed!  Jesus liberated women!   He validated their position in life, which was equal to (but different from) mans.

Jesus allowed women to draw close to Him.  He welcomed women to walk side-by-side with Him.
He invited women to serve with Him in His ministry.  He showered them with agape (perfect) love.

Jesus wouldn't tolerate an "All Boys' Club" mentality!  He threw out the old doormat that read "NO WOMEN ALLOWED," and replaced it with a doormat that said, "COME IN, MY BELOVED."  

      

Stay on the Line!

[Read:  John 17-18]

[John 17:1-26]  "The Lord's Prayer" is recorded in these verses.  (What we've been led to believe to be "The Lord's Prayer," found in Matthew 6:9-13, is simply an "outline" for prayer that Jesus  taught to His disciples.)   This prayer in John Chapter 17 speaks of 3 petitions: 

Vs. 1-5 is a petition Jesus spoke for Himself.  It is not selfish, since His desire is to glorify His Father.   

Vs. 6-19 He asks that the disciples be sanctified (through the Word); that they may be as one; He asks His Father to keep them from evil.  

Vs. 20-26  In His final petition Jesus prayed for the unity of all believers of subsequent generations.  The oneness He requested was not an "organizational" unity, but of "spiritual" unity.

1st He prayed for Himself.  He wanted His life to glorify His Father in heaven.  All that He did, all that He demonstrated, was to give honor and glory to His Father.

2ndly He prayed for His disciples.  He prayed they be kept from the evils of this world.  He prayed they be made clean through the Word and set apart for the work of the ministry.

3rd He prayed for all believers--and all those to come.

Jesus prayed this powerful prayer leading up to The Garden scene.  Then He prayed in The Garden--more earnestly and more privately --just prior to His betrayal and arrest.  Jesus truly was a man who "prayed without ceasing!"  Prayer was His "power line!"

We are famous in the church for forming "prayer chains;" however, chains can be broken--but power lines are woven together into a "3-cord" (The Father, Son, and Holy Chost).  That's the answer to having power in our prayer life. 

Stay connected to your source of power....stay "on-the-line" and your life will turn out fine! 

Praise God for Pruning!

[Read:  John 15-16]


 I've seen how trees are PRUNED...sharp tree trimmers cut off dead (or living) limbs (branches).   I know the REASON why--pruning is "a necessary act"  required for more growth.  But, oh--when the Lord decides to "trim" ME....I know He's about to move me into a new SEASON...things are about to CHANGE (and this could be painful for a while, as "growing pains" hurt)!    

As we enter a new season of growth, we are challenged to change.  It could be a physical change, a location change, a lifestyle change, etc.  We often don't understand why, so change frightens us; therefore we resist it.  Example:  When the mother eagle knows it's time for the baby eaglettes to leave the nest, she starts to remove the cushy lining of the nest (the soft rabbit fur, feathers, etc.).  Then she gently pushes them out of the nest.

Sometimes we RESIST what God is doing rather than SUBMIT to His nudging!  We can't understand why He's doing this to us.  But every time I willingly yield to His nudgings, or accept His chastening (pruning), I am transformed into more of the person He designed me to be.

SEASONS bring change, and change can be painful.  A job loss (downsizing) may lead me to a better job; graduation from high school to college is necessary for me to be trained for a specific career; unhealthy relationships may have to be removed and replaced, etc.  We didn't CHOOSE for any of these prunings to take place.  However, God knows what is best for us.  

John 15:2  says that "...every branch that bears fruit He PRUNES that it may bear more fruit."

He prunes away the past--that season of growth has ended and a new budding has to come forth in its place.  Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 tells us that there is "a season and a time for every purpose under heaven" such as "a time to plant, and a time to pluck what was planted," etc.

Let go of the past and move forward in faith to what awaits you.  Don't die "in the valley"--move on with Him to greener pastures.  Keep growing in your relationship with Christ.  Get to KNOW Him more intimately, so you can GROW and mature in your faith...then you can GO to places you never knew you could reach.  THE SKY'S THE LIMIT!  (We're heaven bound!)







 

LOVE ONE ANOTHER...

[Read:  John 13-14]

Jesus made it so simple!  He summed it up  in one sentence:  "...love one another AS I have loved you...".  [John 13:35]  Simple to say....hard to do!!!  However, He commanded us to do it.  No longer do we have to adhere to "The Law" (The 10 Commandments)--along with the some 800 additions the religious leaders have attached to them....no, just this ONE commandment!  So what does this ONE commandment really mean...what is it saying...how do we do it?

Love is not only a noun ("The Lord" is a personal noun)--it's also a verb; and, a verb requires action!  Jesus demonstrated love every day of His life!  That's the answer, folks....we're to love one another daily in our actions and in our words.

Okay, you argue--"I can't perform miracles!"  Maybe not BIG ones; however, little acts of kindness can miraculously heal the wounds and pain that we all experience.  Examples:  Lonliness, neglect, hunger, abandonment....we can affirm others, accept others, listen to the hearts of others, just show-up at a shut-in's home or a nursing home; sit by the bedside of the sick, go to the side of an abused woman, resue a lost soul, embrace a sick child, share a cup of coffee with a neighbor or co-worker, etc.  The ways are endless!!!

By a kind word, a small deed,  or a warm touch, you can express His kind-of-love towards someone who needs it today.

Jesus expanded on this idea of loving one another as He loved us in 2 parts:  First--love God with your whole heart, mind, soul, and body; and secondly, your neighbor as yourself!  So, who is your neighbor?  Those you run across today--at home, at work, in the mall, the neighbor next door--or whomsoever!!!

Remember.....GOD IS LOVE---LOVE IS A VERB--A VERB REQUIRES ACTION!

(Have a blessed day today by blessing someone!)

In His Time!

[Read:  John 11-12]

Jesus' closest friends (besides a few of the 12 disciples) were Martha, Mary, and Lazarus.  He so enjoyed visiting them in their home in Bethany.  This was the closest place He could call "home" here on earth.  This was where He could relax and "chill-out"--here He could escape the demands of the day, and even take a break from His 12 traveling companions.

While Jesus was out-of-town, Lazarus became very ill.  The sisters sent word to Jesus, but Jesus never arrived until 4 days after their brother's death.  This really upset them!  Jesus hadn't "dragged His feet" --He simply "waited" for the Lord to release Him to go.  His Heavenly Father had a better itinerary for Jesus to follow.

When He was on the outskirts of Bethany, Martha came to Him and confronted Him..."Lord, IF You had been there, my brother would not have died!"  She was reacting out of her hurt and anger!  Then Mary shows up and says the same thing.  She was weeping, as were those who had accompanied her.  Then JESUS WEPT!  Jesus wept out of compassion for them (and maybe because they doubted His loyalty, concern, and love for Lazarus).

Jesus was about to resurrect Lazarus from the dead--for He was the "I AM--the resurrection and the life!"  Then He ordered the people to "take away the stone."  Back in vs. 33 the people heard Him GROAN and again in vs. 38, for He was troubled in His spirit.  (Groaning here was used to express anger--acting with deep feeling, and/or stern admonishment).  Jesus had feelings, too!  Next, He collected Himself and prayed to His Father (out loud), so the people could hear.  He then called Lazarus to "Come forth!"  Lazarus heard THE WORD,  and he arose from the dead!  

Jesus truly was THE WORD IN DEMONSTRATION!!!  He was not only "a hearer of THE WORD" that His Heavenly Father had spoken to Him, but He truly was The Son of God, The Resurrection, and the giver of  (eternal) life!

[See:  John 1-44]