Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Self Service
There seems to be a bit of confusion these days regarding the church. Many seem to believe that the church is there for them. They hold to the idea that the church should have adequate children’s programs, brief and enjoyable worship services filled with great preaching and good music. They choose a church based upon what it will provide to them and their family members—and that is, for them, the reason to attend a particular church. However, the church is not there for them—it is there for God and for His purposes. The church is not a club or an entertainment outlet. It is not product to be packaged to the desires of patrons. It is simply to be and become what God intends. If we seek God the question will not be, “Where can my family’s needs best be met?” but instead, “Where does the Lord wish us to serve?” Anything less is self-service.
Have A Blessed day
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanksgiving
Today on this day of Thanksgiving, we have much to be thankful for. Giving of thanks is God's will for us, but how many actually take the time to do it? In this story in Luke, it was only 1 out of 10 people. Is it possible that in today's times that only 10% of the population will stop to gives praise and thanks to God? How many times has He shown us favor, saved us from accidents, provided us the very necessities of life, yet most never acknowledge God in all their blessings. God created us all. He gave us life. And when we were lost and under the control of the devil, He gave us Jesus to redeem us and give us life to the full. He shows us mercy (so we don't get what we deserve,) and grace so we get what we don't deserve. Yes, we have much to be thankful for this day!
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Pass the Buck
I am finding a most disturbing "spirit" among many believers these days. No it is not a new spirit but an old one that seems to be gaining ground. I am not even sure there is a Scripture reference for it but I do see this ugly creature growing by leaps and bounds. We could call it the spirit of "Pass the Buck". This would not be so evident if we were all part of the world, you know that Scripture...being in the world but not being of the world. Well anyway this is how I see it.
More and more the concept of taking responsibility for oneself in the believing community is dying. Instead of our dying to self it seems that we are all clinging to self. It seems that the event of Adam passing the buck to Eve is very popular, more than ever.
Where there is lack of commitment there is also lack of taking responsibility for our falling so short of God’s standards.
What I am getting to I guess, is lack of faith and definitely as I mentioned before, the lack of commitment is what does it. Complacency is also a huge factor here. If we do not do anything about anything or fess up to our problems, will they go away on their own??? It is so difficult for most to say I am sorry because they simply do not want to admit they are at fault.
I have seen heads of households make it late to services and blame it on their wives and children. Believers make vows and do not keep them with excuses at the last minute. Who are we? Are we children of the living God ? Saints? New creations? Or are we the old man, the one with no backbone? The old creature that can’t stand up tall and take the heat? If we can’t take the heat here we surely aren’t going to be able to withstand the tribulation and turmoil to come. We are fat and comfortable and we want to stay that way!
Have A Blessed day
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
God's Rod of Correction
How does God correct and reprimand His people? Well, a lot of people think that God will just throw a little cancer on you, or cause your house to burn down, or cause you to lose your job, or any and all other sorts of evil. The truth of the matter is, God set forth the blessing and the curse way back at the beginning of the bible and He told man "You choose for yourself this day, life or death." Also, we have an enemy, the devil, whose mission is to kill, steal and destroy. So, how does God correct His people? The same way He teaches and encourages them - with His word. The book of James says that the Word of God is like a mirror. When you look at it, it will tell you what is right and what is wrong in your life. The Holy Spirit will bear witness to this and also remind you and teach you what the word of God says (1 John 2:27). Those people in the world who are rebellious against God and refuse to live their life for Christ have already chosen their path - the path of destruction. But those who are seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, the Holy Spirit will teach them the way they should go, and the Word of God will correct and encourage you on how to be more like Jesus.
Have A Blessed day
Monday, November 22, 2010
Transformation
Coming into the transforming presence of God is something that will open our eyes to a great many things. Drawing near to Him will guarantee that we will begin to rethink the way we think, and question the way we have always considered things to be. We progress forward toward Him until we face areas we may be unwilling to give up, or that we are not wanting to consider changing. It's then that we shelter our eyes from His light as He reveals truth that we choose not to see. The painful reality is most painful to our flesh. Our flesh chooses to cling to that which is loved in the flesh--those things that are of this earth which bring to us a sense of security and comfort. Our flesh is unwilling to part with such things or even to consider doing so. It is not until we can willingly deny ourselves and selfish nature, that we will move forward toward God. It is not until we are willing to abandon all we have ever treasured, believed or thought we knew, that we will truly "throw off everything that hinders" so that we can fully come into the transforming presence of our Lord.
Have A Blessed Day
Friday, November 19, 2010
Self Conscious or God Conscious?
Fear of what others may think or say about you can keep you from moving forward with God. Self-consciousness is a good thing when it pertains to being conscious of your actions, words and motives towards others, etc. However, being self-conscious to the point of being fearful of what others think and say about you can keep you in a place of mediocrity and less than God's best for your life. If God is prompting you to step out in an unfamiliar way or do something that you know is of Him, but out of your comfort zone, don't let self-consciousness hold you back and keep you from being part of something great that God is wanting to do. Even if persecution is inevitable, Be God-conscious and take "self" out of the way. You'll find that when you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, you will be blessed for doing what is right.
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Rise Above with Love
God did not promise that we would not have days in which we would face difficulty. There will always be things to overcome as we rise from faith to faith, and He takes us from glory to glory. What God does promise though, is that through Jesus Christ we are over-comers, more than conquerors, blessed, the head not the tail, above only and not beneath! How does this happen? By acting, operating and walking in love. Love conquers all. Love is not a force that enables you to "bear up under" a situation or circumstance. Love is the power that enables you to rise above the situation and the circumstance! The word translated to "bear" in this verse is the Greek word "stego" which means to "roof over" or "to cover". It implies the thought of "reigning over, to the highest level". Don't let the phrase "bears all things" paint the wrong picture here. In every situation, Love is the power that causes and empowers you to cast down negative thoughts, change your attitude and adjust your actions to the highest degree, so that you are able to rise above and overcome whatever life throws your way. It's what causes your faith and expectation to persevere because the love of God truly does conquer all!
Have A Blessed day
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
A Child
Galatians 4:1-2 (Amplified Bible) NOW WHAT I mean is that as long as the inheritor (heir) is a child and under age, he does not differ from a slave, although he is the master of all the estate; But he is under guardians and administrators or trustees until the date fixed by his father.
A child. He or she can be the recipient of a great inheritance, but until that child reaches the age of maturity he or she is no different than one who owns nothing. A child can't enjoy the benefits of what has been appointed to him because he is a child. Though it all rightfully belongs to him, his immaturity will keep him from it.
The word "child" here in the Greek is the word "nepios" which means "non-speaking; immature Christian". What God is saying here is that the born-again believer who doesn't confess the written Word of God out of his own mouth will not fully enjoy and see the benefits that written word or promise is meant to bring forth. Remember, confession brings possession. God told Joshua when he entered the land of promise, to meditate (ponder, imagine, speak, talk, utter) His Word and do what it says. Then he will make his way successful and he will have good success! Don't be like a child who waits for something off in the future. Speak God's Word and let it transform and change your life!
Have A Blessed day
Monday, November 15, 2010
Pleasant Words
We know that “the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Heb. 4:12). God knows just what we need to hear. He knows just when we need to hear it. He knows when we will be ready to receive it and through whom He will choose to bring it. His words sink deeply into our hearts to lead, love and correct. In a time of pain, sorrow, or trouble, the right words can make all the difference. The well-chosen word can encourage, elate, or simply turn a bad day to good. As God’s children, we share in God’s ministry of His Word; and we share in His ministry of words. With hearts that love Him and love others, we can keep a watchful eye for opportunities to lift up others with kind, thoughtful, and well-timed words. Words that elate. Words that encourage. Words that are “are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
Have A Blessed Day
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Say Something
Going along with the crowd can be a dangerous thing. When people are deceived, they think they are doing right, but they are really doing wrong. The devil is very crafty when it comes to deception. When God has placed you in a position to take authority in a situation, it is always best to speak up for what is right regardless if others are being deceived. Regardless of who they are or who they're supposed to be, it is best to stand your ground. They may have a good argument or be very convincing. Make the right choice. It could mean the difference between a blessing or a curse; a garden of Eden or hell on earth.
Have A Blessed day
Friday, November 12, 2010
Increase
God is the giver of all good things. He created the earth to give. The plants give their seeds so they can produce more. The air gives it's oxygen so we can breathe. The sun and moon give their light so we can see. The clouds give their rain so things will grow. Have you ever noticed that the mentality of the world is to get all you can, and can all you get? Many Christians have the attitude of "As long as I have enough for me and mine, that's good enough!" However, that is not the will of God. God desire's that you have all you need, and plenty left over to share with others. (2 Cor. 9:8) So how do you increase? The same way the plants and trees do - you give from what you have. If all you ever do is try and hold on to everything you get, the more you'll find that it is always escaping you. If you want to increase your faith, your going to have to use what you have and put that faith into action. When you do that, it will produce a greater faith. You can apply this principle in every area of your life. If you want to have a greater love for people, you'll have to give and show the love you have in order to increase it. God has a system of seedtime and harvest, (Genesis 8:22) and if you'll give of what you have when, where and how the spirit of God says, it will work every time.
Have A Blessed Day
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Peace, The Acid Test
Decisions, choices... sometimes the answer isn't clear. Sometimes the answer can't be found in the Word of God. Where to work, where to live, which car to buy or not to buy, etc. The Bible is very clear on a lot of different issues, but sometimes there are those questions that the Bible doesn't answer. Through prayer there is a way that you can be sure every time. God will speak to your "inner self", or what the Bible calls the "heart". God will give you peace in making the right choice. If you follow peace you will do well. If there is no peace, then don't make a move. Let peace be the acid test in your decision making.
Have A Blessed day
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Focus On Love
God's law is holy. The Ten Commandments are holy and reveal our shortcomings while showing us our need for a savior. The Bible says that the person who tries to keep the law and live by the requirements of the law is under a curse. Instead of trying to obey every little command and end up being under a curse, choose rather to focus on showing love. God is love. Perfect love casts out fear. Love honors; does not murder; does not commit adultery; does not steal; does not lie. The perfect love of God keeps you in relationship and right standing with Him. Love is the fulfillment of the law. Love is not touchy-feely, and it is not emotional. The perfect love of God is an attitude and a choice. Choose today to focus on love in your attitude, words and actions. Let the perfect love of God shine through you.
Have A Blessed day
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
The Right to Condemn
Thoughts. Everyone has them. Some are good, while others are bad or negative. Thoughts that wear you down, condemn you, and are contrary to the Word of God only come from one place. In this verse of scripture, the word "tongue" literally means evil speech from an accuser. The Bible says that Satan, the devil, is the accuser of the brethren. Jesus has defeated the devil and He has given you authority to use His word to condemn every negative thought or "voice" of the enemy. When he says you can't, God says you can. When he says there's no way, God says He will make a way. But if the devil can get you to dwell on what he says and begin to speak it out loud, you have just given him authority to wreak havoc in your life. God will not defeat those thoughts for you. However He has given you His Word to use against the devil and the responsibility lies with each one of us to condemn the devil with the written Word of God. So stand on the Word of God. Speak it out loud. When every thought and evil speech from the accuser tries to succeed and pronounce judgment against you, YOU shall condemn it!.
Have A Blessed day
Monday, November 8, 2010
It's The Devil
Someone dies from cancer and people say "God works in mysterious ways." A young person dies in a tragedy and people say "God did this so this person's friends would get saved." Someone has their possessions destroyed or stolen and they get better stuff and people say "God did this so they could get new stuff." Someone goes through a divorce and later marries someone better and people say "God let this happen so they could find someone better." Meanwhile, the true author of these events gets off unnoticed and without blame. On one hand the devil is out seeking whom he may devour, on the other hand God is causing things to work together for good. Good will always triumph over evil. God will ALWAYS triumph over the devil. The devil's worst catastrophe will never be bigger than God's greatest blessing. Thousands of years ago Job didn't know who brought all the grief on him and into his life. However, Jesus came and set the record straight. In the book of John, chapter 10, verse 10 He says "the thief comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come that you might have life abundantly, to the full, till it overflows. God has gotten a bad rap too long. Let's get the record straight according to the word of the Lord, and give credit to whom credit is due.
Have A Blessed Day
Sunday, November 7, 2010
The Promised Harvest
The passion does not have to die. Though you see no evidence of fruits from your labor, the vision does not have to be lost. Round about you, the world, and even the church, may seem to be suffering within a spiritual depression of sorts, but “let not your hearts be troubled....” Do not lose hope. It is the promise of God that His Word will not return to Him empty. He will accomplish His purpose. Our desert times wear on us. They would strip us of our passion and our vision, and our desire to press onward. Yet, though we may not see the evidence of the coming harvest, we must not grow weary and lose heart; but trust that in due season, God will surely bring the harvest. The passion does not have to die, but can remain until the deliverance of the promised harvest.
Have A Blessed day
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Blessed or Stressed?
You are too blessed to be stressed! There will always be trivial things and everyday chores to do. There will always be dishes to wash, trash to take out, floors to sweep, clothes to wash, etc… the list goes on. Meals will need to be prepared and groceries will need to be bought. There will always be satan in your face trying to discourage you, with what people say, because he knows you are truly in the Lords service. Don't let the small things in life steal your joy. The devil may come at you from time to time with a big catastrophe that puts you to the test, but more often it's the little things that go on every day that the enemy uses to wear you down. Remember to cast your cares onto the Lord. If the devil can steal your joy with the little things, he will also be able to steal your time you spend with the Lord each day. Don't let the devil wear you out by getting you into the "Martha syndrome."
Have A Blessed Day