I recently came across this message. It is an indictment of North American Christianity. Paul Washer is the preacher. He is Southern Baptist and is preaching to Southern Baptist youth crowd. It stands in complete contrast to many preachers of the Joel Osteen variety. I believe it is a difficult message, but a message that many of us need to hear. It leaves us with the question - are we bearing the fruit? Are we honoring Jesus Christ with our life?
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Happy Reformation Day
Today is a significant day in the history of the church. Maybe not as significant as the first Good Friday and Easter, but nevertheless it is a significant day. Today is Reformation Day! It marks the day Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses on the Wittenberg Church doors in 1517.
It got me thinking about reformation. Reformation is about change and transition. It is about bringing back truth and clarifying direction. It is about taking what is already formed and giving it a new shape and vision. Reformation is about repentance and tearing down idols.
Reformation starts with an individual. In 1517 the Reformation started with Martin Luther.
Reformation requires boldness and courageousness. Luther was bold to post the Theses on the Church door. It was not about what people thought, but about what was true.
Reformation requires trust. Standing for the truth, Martin Luther put his life on the line. He put his life in God's hand that God would protect him and enable him to do the work to which he had been called.
Reformation requires sacrifice. No doubt, Martin Luther gave up a tremendous amount for the sake of reformation. But he received so much more in return.
My prayer today is a prayer for reformation. First, I pray that God would reform me. I pray he would change my heart. I pray he would remove my hesitancy to depart from the old ways. I pray for an openness to the new and fresh things God is calling me to. I pray for boldness and courage to trust and to step forward with courage. I pray that I would be filled with the His Holy Spirit to assume the role of leadership I have been called to. Finally, I pray for a clear focus, to not be distracted by all the things that so off divert my attention and energy.
Second, I pray for reformation for God's local church - Lord of Life. I pray for passion and enthusiasm for the things of God. I pray for worship that is spontaneous, that is filled with Spirit and truth. I pray that we would be struck with a sense of wonder and awe, left speechless, without words in the presence of God. I pray for a light to shine from this hill like never before. That this is no ordinary place, but this is the place where God lives and dwells in and among his people. No more apathy, no more timidity! That it is all about him. That it is our hearts desire to worship and praise him above all things. That we hunger and thirst to know him in his Word. That we obediently serve him as stewards of the blessings he has poured out into our life.
It got me thinking about reformation. Reformation is about change and transition. It is about bringing back truth and clarifying direction. It is about taking what is already formed and giving it a new shape and vision. Reformation is about repentance and tearing down idols.
Reformation starts with an individual. In 1517 the Reformation started with Martin Luther.
Reformation requires boldness and courageousness. Luther was bold to post the Theses on the Church door. It was not about what people thought, but about what was true.
Reformation requires trust. Standing for the truth, Martin Luther put his life on the line. He put his life in God's hand that God would protect him and enable him to do the work to which he had been called.
Reformation requires sacrifice. No doubt, Martin Luther gave up a tremendous amount for the sake of reformation. But he received so much more in return.
My prayer today is a prayer for reformation. First, I pray that God would reform me. I pray he would change my heart. I pray he would remove my hesitancy to depart from the old ways. I pray for an openness to the new and fresh things God is calling me to. I pray for boldness and courage to trust and to step forward with courage. I pray that I would be filled with the His Holy Spirit to assume the role of leadership I have been called to. Finally, I pray for a clear focus, to not be distracted by all the things that so off divert my attention and energy.
Second, I pray for reformation for God's local church - Lord of Life. I pray for passion and enthusiasm for the things of God. I pray for worship that is spontaneous, that is filled with Spirit and truth. I pray that we would be struck with a sense of wonder and awe, left speechless, without words in the presence of God. I pray for a light to shine from this hill like never before. That this is no ordinary place, but this is the place where God lives and dwells in and among his people. No more apathy, no more timidity! That it is all about him. That it is our hearts desire to worship and praise him above all things. That we hunger and thirst to know him in his Word. That we obediently serve him as stewards of the blessings he has poured out into our life.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
A Horror Story
In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. Hebrews 9:22
How would this be for a horror movie? -
As the screen comes up, a subtitle reads: "2000 years ago . . . "
The story is told. A cross is lifted on a hill. The sacrifice is stripped naked. He is scourged with whips. A crown of thorns is placed on his head. Spikes are driven into his hands and feet. A spear is thrust into his side. Vultures circle in the air. Women are wailing. An earthquake shakes the land. The sky is filled with darkness in the middle of the day. The horror of it all!
Some say it is a myth. Some say it is a legend. Others will say it really happened. The screen fades to black.
We forward to the present day. Time is running out. The end is approaching. The enemy draws near. There is seemingly no way out. Hope is lost.
But an ancient book is discovered. The book indicates that one can be saved from the enemy if they are cleansed with the blood of the sacrifice made 2000 years earlier.
Some believe the story is real. Others doubt.
Some will scoff. They laugh at the idea of putting hope in ancient legends. They see it as a waste of time to be bothered with such nonsense. They grow increasingly irritated towards the believers for bothering them with these fanciful ideas.
But those who believe hold out hope. They are not dissuaded by the scoffers. They seek out a promised Holy Spirit. When they discover the Spirit, it leads them to the saving blood of the sacrifice. They cover themselves with the blood.
The enemy arrives on scene. He is ferocious. He consumes everything in his path. There is nothing spared, except those covered in the blood of the sacrifice. Those who scoffed and doubted they are not as fortunate. Not covered in the blood, there is nothing to protect them. They are consumed by the enemy.
Those who believed - who were covered in blood and who lived- discover a new life that is beyond compare from their previous life. There is happiness and joy.
The enemy is destroyed. He's not coming back. There will not be a sequel to this movie. It is the story of salvation. It's your story and mine.
How would this be for a horror movie? -
As the screen comes up, a subtitle reads: "2000 years ago . . . "
The story is told. A cross is lifted on a hill. The sacrifice is stripped naked. He is scourged with whips. A crown of thorns is placed on his head. Spikes are driven into his hands and feet. A spear is thrust into his side. Vultures circle in the air. Women are wailing. An earthquake shakes the land. The sky is filled with darkness in the middle of the day. The horror of it all!
Some say it is a myth. Some say it is a legend. Others will say it really happened. The screen fades to black.
We forward to the present day. Time is running out. The end is approaching. The enemy draws near. There is seemingly no way out. Hope is lost.
But an ancient book is discovered. The book indicates that one can be saved from the enemy if they are cleansed with the blood of the sacrifice made 2000 years earlier.
Some believe the story is real. Others doubt.
Some will scoff. They laugh at the idea of putting hope in ancient legends. They see it as a waste of time to be bothered with such nonsense. They grow increasingly irritated towards the believers for bothering them with these fanciful ideas.
But those who believe hold out hope. They are not dissuaded by the scoffers. They seek out a promised Holy Spirit. When they discover the Spirit, it leads them to the saving blood of the sacrifice. They cover themselves with the blood.
The enemy arrives on scene. He is ferocious. He consumes everything in his path. There is nothing spared, except those covered in the blood of the sacrifice. Those who scoffed and doubted they are not as fortunate. Not covered in the blood, there is nothing to protect them. They are consumed by the enemy.
Those who believed - who were covered in blood and who lived- discover a new life that is beyond compare from their previous life. There is happiness and joy.
The enemy is destroyed. He's not coming back. There will not be a sequel to this movie. It is the story of salvation. It's your story and mine.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Weekly Email (10/29/07) - Regularity
Happy Reformation Day
October 31 is Reformation Day! On this day in 1517, Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the Wittenberg Church doors. The intended purpose of the 95 Theses was to be a call to debate the teachings and practices of the Church in that day. However, the 95 Theses would spark a reformation that would change the world forever and affirm that salvation is by God’s grace alone.
If you are interested in learning more about Martin Luther and the reformation – you can visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther
Regular Time and Place
We have been talking about consistency. How do we make the reading, studying, and meditating on God’s Word to be a consistent habit? It takes work. It takes encouragement. And it takes regularity.
To be consistent we need to be regular. When it comes to being regular, consider both time and place. I find that the morning is the best time for me to be in God’s Word. If I put it off to later in the day, I will often fail to open up the Word. I make it a point to open God’s Word before I turn on my computer, read the newspaper, or allow myself to become distracted by the day’s events.
I find that when God’s Word is the first experience of my day, my mind will wander less and I will be more focused on what God is saying to me. I also find that I am able to carry that Word with me throughout the day. It continually amazes me how the Word I hear in the morning is so applicable and useful for the day ahead.
Another advantage to having a regular time in God’s Word is that we begin to look forward to that time of the day. We begin to anticipate spending that quiet time allowing God’s Holy Spirit to speak to us.
As important as it is to have a regular time in God’s Word, it is important to have a regular location. Pick a place that is quiet and is free from distraction (this includes visual distraction). Turn off your phone and your radio. Let this be a time where it is just you and God and nothing else.
Keep in mind interruptions occur. Not everything goes as planned. We travel for business, a scheduled meeting gets in the way, or one of our kids gets sick. Our routine is interrupted. When this happens find another time or another place for that particular day. But make sure that as soon as you get past the interruption – you get back to your routine.
I pray you are being blessed as you read, study, and meditate on God's Word. Feel free to drop me a line and let me know how God is speaking to you.
October 31 is Reformation Day! On this day in 1517, Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the Wittenberg Church doors. The intended purpose of the 95 Theses was to be a call to debate the teachings and practices of the Church in that day. However, the 95 Theses would spark a reformation that would change the world forever and affirm that salvation is by God’s grace alone.
If you are interested in learning more about Martin Luther and the reformation – you can visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther
Regular Time and Place
We have been talking about consistency. How do we make the reading, studying, and meditating on God’s Word to be a consistent habit? It takes work. It takes encouragement. And it takes regularity.
To be consistent we need to be regular. When it comes to being regular, consider both time and place. I find that the morning is the best time for me to be in God’s Word. If I put it off to later in the day, I will often fail to open up the Word. I make it a point to open God’s Word before I turn on my computer, read the newspaper, or allow myself to become distracted by the day’s events.
I find that when God’s Word is the first experience of my day, my mind will wander less and I will be more focused on what God is saying to me. I also find that I am able to carry that Word with me throughout the day. It continually amazes me how the Word I hear in the morning is so applicable and useful for the day ahead.
Another advantage to having a regular time in God’s Word is that we begin to look forward to that time of the day. We begin to anticipate spending that quiet time allowing God’s Holy Spirit to speak to us.
As important as it is to have a regular time in God’s Word, it is important to have a regular location. Pick a place that is quiet and is free from distraction (this includes visual distraction). Turn off your phone and your radio. Let this be a time where it is just you and God and nothing else.
Keep in mind interruptions occur. Not everything goes as planned. We travel for business, a scheduled meeting gets in the way, or one of our kids gets sick. Our routine is interrupted. When this happens find another time or another place for that particular day. But make sure that as soon as you get past the interruption – you get back to your routine.
I pray you are being blessed as you read, study, and meditate on God's Word. Feel free to drop me a line and let me know how God is speaking to you.
Something New
By calling this covenant "new," he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear. Hebrews 8:13
This verse is about the covenant God had established with his Old Testament people. Through Jesus we have a new and better covenant. A covenant that is not dependent upon what we do, but upon what God has done.
But there is something else that spoke to me in this verse. It says, "what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear."
It seems our God does not give much time to what is worn out. The tried and true that is no longer very true does not impress him much.
Our God is a God of new beginnings. He is a God of fresh starts. Isaiah 48:6 says, "from now on I will tell you of new things."
Something new is on the horizon. God has a new direction in store for us. How do I know that? With God there is always something new!
Yet, the new is sometimes intimidating. There is fear of the unknown. There is fear of failure. But what is fear? I once heard the definition of fear as: "False Evidence Appearing Real."
We need not fear. We have God's promise - "My Spirit remains among you. Do not fear." Haggai 2:5
So what is God saying? This is what I hear him saying: "And now for something totally different . . ."
This verse is about the covenant God had established with his Old Testament people. Through Jesus we have a new and better covenant. A covenant that is not dependent upon what we do, but upon what God has done.
But there is something else that spoke to me in this verse. It says, "what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear."
It seems our God does not give much time to what is worn out. The tried and true that is no longer very true does not impress him much.
Our God is a God of new beginnings. He is a God of fresh starts. Isaiah 48:6 says, "from now on I will tell you of new things."
Something new is on the horizon. God has a new direction in store for us. How do I know that? With God there is always something new!
Yet, the new is sometimes intimidating. There is fear of the unknown. There is fear of failure. But what is fear? I once heard the definition of fear as: "False Evidence Appearing Real."
We need not fear. We have God's promise - "My Spirit remains among you. Do not fear." Haggai 2:5
So what is God saying? This is what I hear him saying: "And now for something totally different . . ."
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Godliness and Contentment
Yesterday, we celebrated my mother-in-law’s 60th birthday. To celebrate we took a day trip to Lake Geneva which is beautiful this time of the year. While we were there we went on an ice cream social boat tour. The boat tour took us along the shore of the lake that is lined with summer homes and mansions of many of Chicago’s wealthy. As we went past these homes, I have to say that I was left with a bit of jealousy.
It must be nice to live in such luxury and to seemingly have everything. When we look at the possessions of others it is easy to become envious of these things that we don’t have. I know in my heart this is not a godly attitude. 1 Timothy 6:6 says that “godliness with contentment is great gain.” 1 Peter 2:1 that says, “Get rid of all deceit, hypocrisy, envy . . .” We are called to be content and to continually give God thanks in every circumstance whether well fed or hungry.
Contentment starts with Jesus
So how do we avoid jealousy and envy? It all starts with Jesus. If we don’t have Jesus, we’ve got nothing. We are left wanting. We are left bitter. But with Jesus we have more than everything. We have all things.
Paul writes: “What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.” Philippians 3:8
Count your blessings
With Jesus, we can count our blessings! When we lament about what we don’t have, it is good to be reminded of all we do have. There are so many people in this world who are in much worse shape and living in much more desperate situations. As bad as I think I have it, it really is not that bad. I have a roof over my head, food on my table, a family that loves me. Life is good! Be thankful for what you do have.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Our church has participated with an organization called Feed my Starving Children. It is a volunteer organization that works to package and send food internationally to feed malnourished children. It is heartbreaking to see the pictures, but the pictures put in perspective the reality of just how blessed we are. The following email does much the same:
If we woke up this morning with more health than sickness, we are luckier than the million that will not survive this week. If we have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture or the pangs of hunger, then we are ahead of the 500 million inhabitants of this world. If we are able to go to church without fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death, then we are blessed compared to three billion people in the wold. If we have food in our refrigerators, clothing on our backs, a roof over our heads and a place to sleep, then we are richer than 75% of the rest of the world. If we have money in our bank account, in our wallets and spare change somewhere in a container, then we are among the 8% rich people of the world. If our parents are still alive and still married, then we are a rarity, even in the United Status and Canada. If we can read this message, then we are more fortunate than the two billion people in the world that are unable to read.
Reliance on God
When in a position of need, I am left in a position where I need to rely upon God. When we seemingly have everything we need, we begin to fool ourselves that we don’t really need God. We begin to pat ourselves on our back take pride in what we believe we have accomplished and achieved on our own. We forget to give thanks to the one who truly deserves our appreciation.
When I am left lacking, I come to a recognition that I cannot make it on my own. I need God in my life. I need him to supply and provide me with my daily bread.
I think of King David, when he was in a time of need, he writes Psalm 121: “I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from?” David was a man who had seemingly had everything. Why would he ask such a question? The reason was because there was nothing he possessed that was all sufficient to supply his every need. That is why in verse 2 he boldly proclaims: “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” David affirms it was the Lord in whom he relied upon and not his great wealth, the strength of his army, nor power of his position.
The grass is not greener on the other side of the fence
Possessions don’t really make people happy. Why is it that so many movie stars enter rehab? Too often those with the most toys are the most unhappy and unfulfilled people in the world.
I can count on one hand the number of times I have watched Oprah. I believe that her teachings are very dangerous with a subtle anti-Jesus message. But I did happen to catch a show last week.
It was one of the scariest things I had ever seen. Featured on this episode was a couple from California. They lived in a $700,000 home. The husband made slightly more than $100,000 a year. However, because of the nature of his work, he had no health insurance. The wife was a stay at home mom with six kids.
Where it got really scary was when you went into their house. The wife had two walk-in closets filled with clothes and shoes. The walls of the bedroom where covered with thousands of dollars in painting and murals.
Moving to the living room and dining room was much the same thing. The rooms where filled with expensive furnishings to the point of excess.
The tour moved on to the children’s bedrooms. The bedrooms were bare and empty. No pictures on the wall. There was a bed in each of the rooms, but that was about it. No more than five shirts hung in any of the closets of any of the kids. One kid only had one shirt. What clothes and toys the kids did have, the mom would take and sell them in garage sales so that she could buy more clothes for herself.
Part of the mom’s routine was that she would ensure her three daily fixes of Starbucks Coffee. Plus she needed her regular nail, hair, and spa treatments. Meanwhile, one of the daughters had an illness where she needed to have a regular MRI. Yet, the mother would not take her. Her reasons were that she did not have enough time, their family did not have insurance, and they could not afford the procedure.
To prolong the lifestyle that they were living, this family had racked up $150,000 in credit card debt. To meet the weekly mortgage the wife would take out a loan from cash advance stores. The result was that their mortgage was about to double and they were on the verge of losing it all.
This family was messed up, but the real problem with this family was not their money. The real problem was much deeper. They had what many consider the American Dream but it still did not make them happy.
It is a tragic story and a story that is seen far too often. The more we have and the more we accumulate, the more lost we find ourselves. In 1 Timothy 6:8 it says, “people who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction.”
In the letter to the Church at Laodicea, recorded in Revelation 3:14-22, Jesus says: “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 . . .”
The point here is that the grass is not greener on the other side. We look at those who seemingly have it all, but the reality is that they often have nothing at all. For all of their possessions and lifestyles of excess, they are so empty on the inside. They buy more to try to fill a hole in their life, and when they discover their possessions do not fill the hole, they go out and buy more. It creates an endless cycle.
What is worse is that the desire for wealth destroys relationships, families, and marriages. We become so focused on ourselves and the desire to draw attention to ourselves. We look for others to serve us rather than to serve others. We end up alienating and turning away the most precious relationships we have outside of our relationship with Jesus.
The desire for wealth is a dangerous thing. It ruins us. 1 Timothy 6:10 calls the “love of money” the “root of all kids of evil.” Those that love money “pierce themselves with many griefs.”
Ouch! I will stay away if you don’t mind.
True healing, joy, and contentment is found in Jesus. I will be content in every circumstance for I have learned the secret of contentment. The secret is that I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13)
It must be nice to live in such luxury and to seemingly have everything. When we look at the possessions of others it is easy to become envious of these things that we don’t have. I know in my heart this is not a godly attitude. 1 Timothy 6:6 says that “godliness with contentment is great gain.” 1 Peter 2:1 that says, “Get rid of all deceit, hypocrisy, envy . . .” We are called to be content and to continually give God thanks in every circumstance whether well fed or hungry.
Contentment starts with Jesus
So how do we avoid jealousy and envy? It all starts with Jesus. If we don’t have Jesus, we’ve got nothing. We are left wanting. We are left bitter. But with Jesus we have more than everything. We have all things.
Paul writes: “What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.” Philippians 3:8
Count your blessings
With Jesus, we can count our blessings! When we lament about what we don’t have, it is good to be reminded of all we do have. There are so many people in this world who are in much worse shape and living in much more desperate situations. As bad as I think I have it, it really is not that bad. I have a roof over my head, food on my table, a family that loves me. Life is good! Be thankful for what you do have.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Our church has participated with an organization called Feed my Starving Children. It is a volunteer organization that works to package and send food internationally to feed malnourished children. It is heartbreaking to see the pictures, but the pictures put in perspective the reality of just how blessed we are. The following email does much the same:
If we woke up this morning with more health than sickness, we are luckier than the million that will not survive this week. If we have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture or the pangs of hunger, then we are ahead of the 500 million inhabitants of this world. If we are able to go to church without fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death, then we are blessed compared to three billion people in the wold. If we have food in our refrigerators, clothing on our backs, a roof over our heads and a place to sleep, then we are richer than 75% of the rest of the world. If we have money in our bank account, in our wallets and spare change somewhere in a container, then we are among the 8% rich people of the world. If our parents are still alive and still married, then we are a rarity, even in the United Status and Canada. If we can read this message, then we are more fortunate than the two billion people in the world that are unable to read.
Reliance on God
When in a position of need, I am left in a position where I need to rely upon God. When we seemingly have everything we need, we begin to fool ourselves that we don’t really need God. We begin to pat ourselves on our back take pride in what we believe we have accomplished and achieved on our own. We forget to give thanks to the one who truly deserves our appreciation.
When I am left lacking, I come to a recognition that I cannot make it on my own. I need God in my life. I need him to supply and provide me with my daily bread.
I think of King David, when he was in a time of need, he writes Psalm 121: “I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from?” David was a man who had seemingly had everything. Why would he ask such a question? The reason was because there was nothing he possessed that was all sufficient to supply his every need. That is why in verse 2 he boldly proclaims: “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” David affirms it was the Lord in whom he relied upon and not his great wealth, the strength of his army, nor power of his position.
The grass is not greener on the other side of the fence
Possessions don’t really make people happy. Why is it that so many movie stars enter rehab? Too often those with the most toys are the most unhappy and unfulfilled people in the world.
I can count on one hand the number of times I have watched Oprah. I believe that her teachings are very dangerous with a subtle anti-Jesus message. But I did happen to catch a show last week.
It was one of the scariest things I had ever seen. Featured on this episode was a couple from California. They lived in a $700,000 home. The husband made slightly more than $100,000 a year. However, because of the nature of his work, he had no health insurance. The wife was a stay at home mom with six kids.
Where it got really scary was when you went into their house. The wife had two walk-in closets filled with clothes and shoes. The walls of the bedroom where covered with thousands of dollars in painting and murals.
Moving to the living room and dining room was much the same thing. The rooms where filled with expensive furnishings to the point of excess.
The tour moved on to the children’s bedrooms. The bedrooms were bare and empty. No pictures on the wall. There was a bed in each of the rooms, but that was about it. No more than five shirts hung in any of the closets of any of the kids. One kid only had one shirt. What clothes and toys the kids did have, the mom would take and sell them in garage sales so that she could buy more clothes for herself.
Part of the mom’s routine was that she would ensure her three daily fixes of Starbucks Coffee. Plus she needed her regular nail, hair, and spa treatments. Meanwhile, one of the daughters had an illness where she needed to have a regular MRI. Yet, the mother would not take her. Her reasons were that she did not have enough time, their family did not have insurance, and they could not afford the procedure.
To prolong the lifestyle that they were living, this family had racked up $150,000 in credit card debt. To meet the weekly mortgage the wife would take out a loan from cash advance stores. The result was that their mortgage was about to double and they were on the verge of losing it all.
This family was messed up, but the real problem with this family was not their money. The real problem was much deeper. They had what many consider the American Dream but it still did not make them happy.
It is a tragic story and a story that is seen far too often. The more we have and the more we accumulate, the more lost we find ourselves. In 1 Timothy 6:8 it says, “people who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction.”
In the letter to the Church at Laodicea, recorded in Revelation 3:14-22, Jesus says: “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 . . .”
The point here is that the grass is not greener on the other side. We look at those who seemingly have it all, but the reality is that they often have nothing at all. For all of their possessions and lifestyles of excess, they are so empty on the inside. They buy more to try to fill a hole in their life, and when they discover their possessions do not fill the hole, they go out and buy more. It creates an endless cycle.
What is worse is that the desire for wealth destroys relationships, families, and marriages. We become so focused on ourselves and the desire to draw attention to ourselves. We look for others to serve us rather than to serve others. We end up alienating and turning away the most precious relationships we have outside of our relationship with Jesus.
The desire for wealth is a dangerous thing. It ruins us. 1 Timothy 6:10 calls the “love of money” the “root of all kids of evil.” Those that love money “pierce themselves with many griefs.”
Ouch! I will stay away if you don’t mind.
True healing, joy, and contentment is found in Jesus. I will be content in every circumstance for I have learned the secret of contentment. The secret is that I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13)
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Weekly Email (10/23/07) - Halloween and Consistency
Halloween and the Christian’s Response
Next Wednesday, October 31, is Halloween. It leaves many Christians, not sure how to respond. There are some Christians who call it the Devil’s day and will have absolutely nothing to do with it. There are others who will say that it is a harmless day and a lot of good fun.
So how is the Christian to respond? I prepared an article called “Can Christians Celebrate Halloween?” Check it out on my blog at: http://pastorpr.blogspot.com/2007/09/can-christians-celebrate-halloween.html
Stay Consistent in the Reading and Studying of God’s Word
Why is it that bad habits are so hard to break? Take for example smoking, too much television, over eating. Once we get started with these, they are so difficult to stop.
Opposite the bad habits are the good habits. We never have any trouble breaking these. Take for example exercising, healthy eating, and daily reading and studying God’s Word. We stumble once with these good habits and it seems we end up rolling off the edge of the cliff never to return.
I have discovered that when developing good habits consistency is so important. When you break your routine you need to force yourself back into it. And don’t let it fall off for too long because the longer you fall off, the harder it is to get back into it. This is true for many spiritual disciplines such as worship attendance, prayer, and the reading and studying of God’s Word.
I miss one day, being in God’s Word, it is easy to catch up. I miss two days and it becomes more difficult. I miss three days and it becomes most difficult. I miss four days, and I am done.
The key here is being consistent. Make it your priority and not just another item on your to do list. If you miss a day, don’t let yourself miss two days. Do whatever it takes.
When I played golf in college my coach told me that when playing at a high level, that the difference between a good golfer and a bad golfer is one thing. He said every golfer is going to make bad shots, even Tiger Woods. But a good golfer will not make the same mistake twice. In other words, if you miss a shot, don’t miss the second one.
Stay consistent in the reading and studying of God’s Word. Make it more than just a habit but make it a lifestyle.
Next week I will talk more about some practical ways of how to do just that. How do you stay consistent and make it a lifestyle?
I pray you will join me in God’s Word on a daily basis. During 2008, I want to invite you to commit with me reading through either the entire Bible or just the New Testament. I plan to use a reading plan called the One-Year-Bible. You can check it out at www.oneyearbibleonline.com. Here you can print out a reading plan. We will also plan to print this reading plan in this email, the weekly bulletin, and the monthly newsletter at LOL. I pray we are a church that is firmly grounded in the Word.
A Couple of Annoucements
There are a couple items I want to mention about things coming up in the near future at Lord of Life. The first is the Hallelujah Fest. This is a Halloween alternative on Wednesday, October 31 from 6:30-8:00pm. There will be games, hayrides, costume contests, and more. Please note that there are to be no costumes that are “scary, fearful, or evil in nature.” For more information visit www.lolchurch.net. Please note that this event is for the entire family and that we will need people to bring candy and to decorate the trunks of their cars for “Trunk or Treat” at the end of the evening.
The second announcement is for the Men of Lord of Life. We are in the beginning stages of planning the next Men’s Retreat on February 29-March 2. Please consider joining me on this weekend adventure and mark your calendars now to reserve the date.
Next Wednesday, October 31, is Halloween. It leaves many Christians, not sure how to respond. There are some Christians who call it the Devil’s day and will have absolutely nothing to do with it. There are others who will say that it is a harmless day and a lot of good fun.
So how is the Christian to respond? I prepared an article called “Can Christians Celebrate Halloween?” Check it out on my blog at: http://pastorpr.blogspot.com/2007/09/can-christians-celebrate-halloween.html
Stay Consistent in the Reading and Studying of God’s Word
Why is it that bad habits are so hard to break? Take for example smoking, too much television, over eating. Once we get started with these, they are so difficult to stop.
Opposite the bad habits are the good habits. We never have any trouble breaking these. Take for example exercising, healthy eating, and daily reading and studying God’s Word. We stumble once with these good habits and it seems we end up rolling off the edge of the cliff never to return.
I have discovered that when developing good habits consistency is so important. When you break your routine you need to force yourself back into it. And don’t let it fall off for too long because the longer you fall off, the harder it is to get back into it. This is true for many spiritual disciplines such as worship attendance, prayer, and the reading and studying of God’s Word.
I miss one day, being in God’s Word, it is easy to catch up. I miss two days and it becomes more difficult. I miss three days and it becomes most difficult. I miss four days, and I am done.
The key here is being consistent. Make it your priority and not just another item on your to do list. If you miss a day, don’t let yourself miss two days. Do whatever it takes.
When I played golf in college my coach told me that when playing at a high level, that the difference between a good golfer and a bad golfer is one thing. He said every golfer is going to make bad shots, even Tiger Woods. But a good golfer will not make the same mistake twice. In other words, if you miss a shot, don’t miss the second one.
Stay consistent in the reading and studying of God’s Word. Make it more than just a habit but make it a lifestyle.
Next week I will talk more about some practical ways of how to do just that. How do you stay consistent and make it a lifestyle?
I pray you will join me in God’s Word on a daily basis. During 2008, I want to invite you to commit with me reading through either the entire Bible or just the New Testament. I plan to use a reading plan called the One-Year-Bible. You can check it out at www.oneyearbibleonline.com. Here you can print out a reading plan. We will also plan to print this reading plan in this email, the weekly bulletin, and the monthly newsletter at LOL. I pray we are a church that is firmly grounded in the Word.
A Couple of Annoucements
There are a couple items I want to mention about things coming up in the near future at Lord of Life. The first is the Hallelujah Fest. This is a Halloween alternative on Wednesday, October 31 from 6:30-8:00pm. There will be games, hayrides, costume contests, and more. Please note that there are to be no costumes that are “scary, fearful, or evil in nature.” For more information visit www.lolchurch.net. Please note that this event is for the entire family and that we will need people to bring candy and to decorate the trunks of their cars for “Trunk or Treat” at the end of the evening.
The second announcement is for the Men of Lord of Life. We are in the beginning stages of planning the next Men’s Retreat on February 29-March 2. Please consider joining me on this weekend adventure and mark your calendars now to reserve the date.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Faces at Lord of Life
Rob Siessenbuettel and When Rob and Veronica first met, Veronica did programming for the technicians. At the time she was preparing for some competency tests which tested her technical knowledge. Rob helped her prepare and with this help, she was able to pass the tests.
Rob has been attending Lord of Life for a number of years. He comes from a Lutheran background, having been a member and attended a number of Lutheran Churches in the
Rob appreciates the contemporary nature of the worship of Lord of Life and the way that the Word of God is taught by Lord of Life’s Pastors. Rob says, “The message always seems to be right on. I didn’t see them following me around last week, but Pastor Phil and Pastor Barry always seem to know what is going on in my life. I need to make a note to myself to look over my shoulder next week, to make sure they are not following me.”
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Shut up and fish
My favorite episode (I know, this is my third favorite) was a show where the crew was grumbling. They were upset at their captain and felt he was being too hard on them. By this time Sig had enough. He takes a piece of paper. Writes "Shut up and fish." Then posts it in the window for all the crew to see.
Earlier today, I was meeting with someone who said they are tired of all the pontificating and talking that is done in churches. I think there is a lesson we can learn from the crew of the Northwestern. Shut up and fish!
Jesus calls us to be fishers of men. It is time we do some fishing and stop complaining.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Believe what you read
It seems the cartoon did not show up in my previous post, so I will try it again:
Weekly Email (10/17/07) - Accountability
Sunday Messages
My prayer is that you were blessed last Sunday by Pastor Barry’s message, Get a Grip on Your Bible. It was a great encouragement to help us stay in God’s Word and to help us make practical use of it. If you missed the message or would like to experience it again, you can read the transcript at http://docvmp.blogspot.com/2007/10/get-grip-on-your-bible.html .
Many of you who are receiving this email have made a commitment to be in God’s Word on a daily basis and to read through the entire Bible or New Testament in 2008. If you have not made that commitment yet, I would encourage you to do so, and discover a wonderful blessing.
One way that you can encourage me is to forward to me what God is revealing to you through his word. Let me know how being in God’s Word has impacted you, made a difference, and changed your circumstances. If you have thoughts, stories, or something you want to share – drop me a line. Also, feel free to answer the questions from my previous email. It is great to learn who all is a part of this mailing list.
Monday, October 15, 2007
What an idiot!
Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. Proverbs 26:12
The Bible has much to say about wisdom. Wisdom is a precious gift. So precious a gift that Solomon chose wisdom above every other treasure in this world.
The Bible speaks of Jesus as the personification of wisdom. In Isaiah 11:2 it was prophesied that the Spirit of the Lord would be upon Jesus. When the prophecy further describes the Spirit it is first and foremost described as the Spirit of wisdom and understanding.
Do you know any wise people? I am not talking about knowledgeable people, but wise people. There is a difference here. Being smart does not mean I am wise. Wisdom is the ability to make maximum use of the knowledge one has, but knowledge does not equate to much wisdom nor does little knowledge equate to little wisdom.
The Book of Proverbs is often spoken of as the book of wisdom. In my devotion today I came across Proverbs 26:12. Essentially it says that an idiot is worse off than a moron.
Our English word idiot is derived from the Greek work idios which is translated one's own, belonging to one, or personal. An idiot is essentially someone who lives in their own world.
To go along with this, the English word for moron is derived from the Greek word moronos which is translated as fool.
Now keep in mind this passage was originally written in Hebrew and not Greek. But according to the Phil Ressler translation: don't get too wrapped up in yourself and live in your own world. Better yet, listen to what others have to say and value their input. It is bad enough to be a fool, but a fool who thinks they know it all is even worse yet.
There is a great leadership lesson here. It is easy for a leader to think they know what is best for others. And that might be true to a degree. But every good leader also needs to listen and be open to input of others. Too often we do not give credit to others that they deserve. It just might happen that someone else might actually know something.
When Solomon's son, Rehoboam, seceded his father upon the throne of Israel and Judah he decided he would not listen to his father's advisers. It says he gathered around him, his friends from youth who basically told him what he wanted to hear. In his mind his father's advisors did not know what they were talking about. They had only helped to prosper the kingdom beyond anything that had been previously known. Stubbornly, Rehoboam went forward with what he thought and believed was best. We know how the story ends. The kingdom was divided and Rehoboam almost lost his life.
So where do we gain wisdom? It is not from within. Rather wisdom comes from God. It comes through his Word and also through others. To gain wisdom we first listen to God. Then we listen to others. Finally, we listen to ourselves.
If your wisdom comes from yourself, then you are only fooling an idiot.
The Bible has much to say about wisdom. Wisdom is a precious gift. So precious a gift that Solomon chose wisdom above every other treasure in this world.
The Bible speaks of Jesus as the personification of wisdom. In Isaiah 11:2 it was prophesied that the Spirit of the Lord would be upon Jesus. When the prophecy further describes the Spirit it is first and foremost described as the Spirit of wisdom and understanding.
Do you know any wise people? I am not talking about knowledgeable people, but wise people. There is a difference here. Being smart does not mean I am wise. Wisdom is the ability to make maximum use of the knowledge one has, but knowledge does not equate to much wisdom nor does little knowledge equate to little wisdom.
The Book of Proverbs is often spoken of as the book of wisdom. In my devotion today I came across Proverbs 26:12. Essentially it says that an idiot is worse off than a moron.
Our English word idiot is derived from the Greek work idios which is translated one's own, belonging to one, or personal. An idiot is essentially someone who lives in their own world.
To go along with this, the English word for moron is derived from the Greek word moronos which is translated as fool.
Now keep in mind this passage was originally written in Hebrew and not Greek. But according to the Phil Ressler translation: don't get too wrapped up in yourself and live in your own world. Better yet, listen to what others have to say and value their input. It is bad enough to be a fool, but a fool who thinks they know it all is even worse yet.
There is a great leadership lesson here. It is easy for a leader to think they know what is best for others. And that might be true to a degree. But every good leader also needs to listen and be open to input of others. Too often we do not give credit to others that they deserve. It just might happen that someone else might actually know something.
When Solomon's son, Rehoboam, seceded his father upon the throne of Israel and Judah he decided he would not listen to his father's advisers. It says he gathered around him, his friends from youth who basically told him what he wanted to hear. In his mind his father's advisors did not know what they were talking about. They had only helped to prosper the kingdom beyond anything that had been previously known. Stubbornly, Rehoboam went forward with what he thought and believed was best. We know how the story ends. The kingdom was divided and Rehoboam almost lost his life.
So where do we gain wisdom? It is not from within. Rather wisdom comes from God. It comes through his Word and also through others. To gain wisdom we first listen to God. Then we listen to others. Finally, we listen to ourselves.
If your wisdom comes from yourself, then you are only fooling an idiot.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Teach me to number my days aright
So teach us to number our days
that we may get a heart of wisdom. Ps 90:12 ESV
I do not often listen to WMBI radio (Moody) out of Chicago. When I do it is usually the morning show with Mark Elfstrand. I like the quote he uses at the end of his show.
"Every day is a gift from God, let's live like we believe it."
It is a great way to put into perspective the time we have been given on this earth. It is not ours. We have not earned it. Time is a gift from God. We are called to be good stewards of our time and to make the most of it.
I was in Best Buy the other day. A salesman came up to me and asked, "can I help you?"
My reply was, "Oh no, I'm just wasting time."
As soon as I said it, I thought, "what a horrible statement to make." Every moment we have is a precious moment. How can we waste even one?
How much time do we waste? Unfortunately, the answer is often too much.
Psalm 90:12 is one of those verses that is good to put in our heart and mind. It is also a good verse to put in our sight as well. Try taping it to your computer monitor. Or put it above your TV. Put it in on the dashboard of your car. Or maybe in the mirror of your bathroom. It just might alter the way you do the things you do.
that we may get a heart of wisdom. Ps 90:12 ESV
I do not often listen to WMBI radio (Moody) out of Chicago. When I do it is usually the morning show with Mark Elfstrand. I like the quote he uses at the end of his show.
"Every day is a gift from God, let's live like we believe it."
It is a great way to put into perspective the time we have been given on this earth. It is not ours. We have not earned it. Time is a gift from God. We are called to be good stewards of our time and to make the most of it.
I was in Best Buy the other day. A salesman came up to me and asked, "can I help you?"
My reply was, "Oh no, I'm just wasting time."
As soon as I said it, I thought, "what a horrible statement to make." Every moment we have is a precious moment. How can we waste even one?
How much time do we waste? Unfortunately, the answer is often too much.
Psalm 90:12 is one of those verses that is good to put in our heart and mind. It is also a good verse to put in our sight as well. Try taping it to your computer monitor. Or put it above your TV. Put it in on the dashboard of your car. Or maybe in the mirror of your bathroom. It just might alter the way you do the things you do.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Postive Hospitality
We have a new message series approaching at Lord of Life. It is called Positive Energy. This is a three part message series. The titles of the messages are 1) Positive Words, 2) Positive Outlook, and 3) Positive Hospitality. We also have a Thanksgiving Eve Worship in the mix and will likely do something along the lines of Positive Thanksgiving.
There are so many people who are looking for a little positive energy in their lives. Everyday there are so many negative forces that are weighing people down. This negative vibe just sucks the wind out of all of us.
Take a close look at the negative symbol (-). What is it? It is a flat line. When you flat line - you know what that means - your dead!
Now take a close look at the positive symbol (+). What is it? It is a cross. As believers the cross means life and hope and joy - things you don't associate with death. It is in the cross and in Jesus that we find positive energy.
The third part of this message series is called Positive Hospitality. Hospitality has been on my mind much in the last few days. God has hit me over the head in a couple of different ways.
One of the things I am recognizing is that hospitality is found in the small things. I called it insignificant ministry. It's not that the ministry is insignificant, but the tasks of hospitality are often seemingly insignificant. It might be nothing more than saying hello or inviting someone to have a doughnut. God is so often seen so powerfully in the small stuff.
When we talk about negativity there are so many people in this world and especially in our community who are looking for a friend, someone who will accept them and love them for who they are.
My prayer for Lord of Life is that we are not a friendly church, but a welcoming church. I pray that when someone walks in the door for the first time that they recognize this is no ordinary place. This is a place where God lives and dwells, where he walks and talks through the words and actions of his people. My prayer is that we would take to heart the words of Jesus: "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me." (Matthew 18:5) I pray that we would be accused as Jesus was accused that we welcome and eat with sinners (see Luke 15:2).
It seems that God is putting on my heart the importance of hospitality. As I was doing my devotion this morning, my mind wandered. I didn't think much about what I was reading. My mind kept coming back to hospitality, hospitality, hospitality.
We need to do a better job of hospitality at Lord of Life. Of course we can always do a better job. Hospitality is a positive thing. Hospitality builds momentum. Hospitality is a great thing for both the giver and the receiver.
Building hospitality is about building awareness. Here is a short list of some things that I believe to be important to hospitality. It is not a comprehensive list, but serves as a start.
The name
I would imagine there is nothing more important in the ministry of hospitality than the name. Our name is our unique identity. Our name is special. I am not a "hey you." It has got me thinking that we need to reemphasize the name tag at Lord of Life. Again it is something simple that is easily overlooked.
Food
It is without a doubt people love to eat. Food is something that we can all relate to. I might be in a strange environment, but the familiar taste and smell of chocolate chip cookies (my favorite - a great idea for Pastor Appreciation Month - maybe this is a test to see if anyone is reading this) has a way of setting me at ease.
Food also serves as an opportunity for me to be a servant. Not everyone is outgoing. Not everyone is comfortable. There are many people who can serve and offer hospitality in this way that may not be to the point of offering hospitality in other ways.
It was interesting that what put Jesus in association with sinners was not so much that he talked with them, but that he ate with them. Breaking bread with someone else is a show of acceptance that in unrivaled by many things.
Listen
I like to talk. I admit I am not always the best listener. There is a cliche that people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. I believe this to be true. Hospitality is not so much about sharing your story as much as it is allowing others to share their story.
Thank you and appreciation
I was once told that for every one negative comment it takes ten positive comments to counteract it. I have a few people in my life that I admire greatly. When I think about it, one of the main reasons I admire these people so much is because they readily express their appreciation for me. There is just something about positive people that is attractive.
However, beware of flattery. Appreciation needs to be genuine and from the heart. Vain flattery does no one any good.
In the end, our ministy of hospitality is God's ministry of hospitality. We do not do this to draw people to us, but to draw people to Jesus. Our motivation is not ourselves, but those who are hurting, those who are looking for a friend, those who are wondering if anyone cares.
In 1 Timothy 3:2 one of the qualifications of a pastor is to be hospitable. I know that I will encounter a great number of people today. Wednesday is a busy day at Lord of Life. As I welcome each person, I will strive to welcome them with the love of Jesus.
There are so many people who are looking for a little positive energy in their lives. Everyday there are so many negative forces that are weighing people down. This negative vibe just sucks the wind out of all of us.
Take a close look at the negative symbol (-). What is it? It is a flat line. When you flat line - you know what that means - your dead!
Now take a close look at the positive symbol (+). What is it? It is a cross. As believers the cross means life and hope and joy - things you don't associate with death. It is in the cross and in Jesus that we find positive energy.
The third part of this message series is called Positive Hospitality. Hospitality has been on my mind much in the last few days. God has hit me over the head in a couple of different ways.
One of the things I am recognizing is that hospitality is found in the small things. I called it insignificant ministry. It's not that the ministry is insignificant, but the tasks of hospitality are often seemingly insignificant. It might be nothing more than saying hello or inviting someone to have a doughnut. God is so often seen so powerfully in the small stuff.
When we talk about negativity there are so many people in this world and especially in our community who are looking for a friend, someone who will accept them and love them for who they are.
My prayer for Lord of Life is that we are not a friendly church, but a welcoming church. I pray that when someone walks in the door for the first time that they recognize this is no ordinary place. This is a place where God lives and dwells, where he walks and talks through the words and actions of his people. My prayer is that we would take to heart the words of Jesus: "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me." (Matthew 18:5) I pray that we would be accused as Jesus was accused that we welcome and eat with sinners (see Luke 15:2).
It seems that God is putting on my heart the importance of hospitality. As I was doing my devotion this morning, my mind wandered. I didn't think much about what I was reading. My mind kept coming back to hospitality, hospitality, hospitality.
We need to do a better job of hospitality at Lord of Life. Of course we can always do a better job. Hospitality is a positive thing. Hospitality builds momentum. Hospitality is a great thing for both the giver and the receiver.
Building hospitality is about building awareness. Here is a short list of some things that I believe to be important to hospitality. It is not a comprehensive list, but serves as a start.
The name
I would imagine there is nothing more important in the ministry of hospitality than the name. Our name is our unique identity. Our name is special. I am not a "hey you." It has got me thinking that we need to reemphasize the name tag at Lord of Life. Again it is something simple that is easily overlooked.
Food
It is without a doubt people love to eat. Food is something that we can all relate to. I might be in a strange environment, but the familiar taste and smell of chocolate chip cookies (my favorite - a great idea for Pastor Appreciation Month - maybe this is a test to see if anyone is reading this) has a way of setting me at ease.
Food also serves as an opportunity for me to be a servant. Not everyone is outgoing. Not everyone is comfortable. There are many people who can serve and offer hospitality in this way that may not be to the point of offering hospitality in other ways.
It was interesting that what put Jesus in association with sinners was not so much that he talked with them, but that he ate with them. Breaking bread with someone else is a show of acceptance that in unrivaled by many things.
Listen
I like to talk. I admit I am not always the best listener. There is a cliche that people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. I believe this to be true. Hospitality is not so much about sharing your story as much as it is allowing others to share their story.
Thank you and appreciation
I was once told that for every one negative comment it takes ten positive comments to counteract it. I have a few people in my life that I admire greatly. When I think about it, one of the main reasons I admire these people so much is because they readily express their appreciation for me. There is just something about positive people that is attractive.
However, beware of flattery. Appreciation needs to be genuine and from the heart. Vain flattery does no one any good.
In the end, our ministy of hospitality is God's ministry of hospitality. We do not do this to draw people to us, but to draw people to Jesus. Our motivation is not ourselves, but those who are hurting, those who are looking for a friend, those who are wondering if anyone cares.
In 1 Timothy 3:2 one of the qualifications of a pastor is to be hospitable. I know that I will encounter a great number of people today. Wednesday is a busy day at Lord of Life. As I welcome each person, I will strive to welcome them with the love of Jesus.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Train yourself to be godly
Train yourself to be godly. 1 Timothy 4:7
This past weekend the Chicago Marathon was run. It didn't go so well. The temperature soared into the high 80's which is very abnormal for the beginning of October in Chicago. More than 40 people were taken to the hospital and even one person died. However, it was determined that the death was unrelated to the heat.
The people who participated in this marathon likely trained for months. I doubt there was a single person that woke up and said, I want to run a marathon today. Nobody is just going to go out and run 26 miles without training beforehand.
I believe that training is doing what we can do today to the maximum best of our ability. We do this with the intention of doing tomorrow what we are unable to do today.
When I think of training for godliness, I think of Moses. Moses did not become the leader of God's people overnight. There was 80 years of training that went into it. He spent 40 years living as a part of Pharaoh's household. I am sure the lessons he learned during this time equipped him for the task that God would give him. But there was another 40 years where he lived in Midian as a shepherd. Both of these experiences helped him gained insight for the calling that the Lord would soon give him. Unlike anyone else, he had a foot in the house of royalty and the house of peasantry. It give him a unique perspective to be able to do what no one else could have done.
The same is true for us. We are continually in training the tasks the Lord will give to us. We may not know what those task are right now. But as we remain faithful and seek to grow in godliness, God will put his calling on our heart.
I once encouraged someone to follow the example of the Apostle Paul. Their response was that they were no Apostle Paul. My response to them, was that the Apostle Paul was no Apostle Paul at one point in time as well. It was through godly training and discipline that he became the missionary he did.
I think that many people miss the fact that Paul did not immediately go out on his missionary journeys after being called by Jesus. There was a time of training that he went through. This time of training was not days, but years. Paul writes about this in Galatians 3:15-18
God, who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not consult any man, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus. Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Peter . . .
So there were three years of preparation that went into making Paul the man of God that he would become.
We give Jesus our whole heart today, but as we keep doing so, we will find that we have more heart to give. I pray that I am more godly tomorrow than I am today, and that I am more godly today than I was yesterday.
Our training regimen is the spiritual disciplines. God's Word, prayer, worship, service, fasting, and giving are examples of these disciplines. We do today what we are able to do to the the best of our ability with the Spirit's help. As we grow we will do tomorrow more than we ever thought possible as we serve a God who is able to do immeasurably more.
This past weekend the Chicago Marathon was run. It didn't go so well. The temperature soared into the high 80's which is very abnormal for the beginning of October in Chicago. More than 40 people were taken to the hospital and even one person died. However, it was determined that the death was unrelated to the heat.
The people who participated in this marathon likely trained for months. I doubt there was a single person that woke up and said, I want to run a marathon today. Nobody is just going to go out and run 26 miles without training beforehand.
I believe that training is doing what we can do today to the maximum best of our ability. We do this with the intention of doing tomorrow what we are unable to do today.
When I think of training for godliness, I think of Moses. Moses did not become the leader of God's people overnight. There was 80 years of training that went into it. He spent 40 years living as a part of Pharaoh's household. I am sure the lessons he learned during this time equipped him for the task that God would give him. But there was another 40 years where he lived in Midian as a shepherd. Both of these experiences helped him gained insight for the calling that the Lord would soon give him. Unlike anyone else, he had a foot in the house of royalty and the house of peasantry. It give him a unique perspective to be able to do what no one else could have done.
The same is true for us. We are continually in training the tasks the Lord will give to us. We may not know what those task are right now. But as we remain faithful and seek to grow in godliness, God will put his calling on our heart.
I once encouraged someone to follow the example of the Apostle Paul. Their response was that they were no Apostle Paul. My response to them, was that the Apostle Paul was no Apostle Paul at one point in time as well. It was through godly training and discipline that he became the missionary he did.
I think that many people miss the fact that Paul did not immediately go out on his missionary journeys after being called by Jesus. There was a time of training that he went through. This time of training was not days, but years. Paul writes about this in Galatians 3:15-18
God, who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not consult any man, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus. Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Peter . . .
So there were three years of preparation that went into making Paul the man of God that he would become.
We give Jesus our whole heart today, but as we keep doing so, we will find that we have more heart to give. I pray that I am more godly tomorrow than I am today, and that I am more godly today than I was yesterday.
Our training regimen is the spiritual disciplines. God's Word, prayer, worship, service, fasting, and giving are examples of these disciplines. We do today what we are able to do to the the best of our ability with the Spirit's help. As we grow we will do tomorrow more than we ever thought possible as we serve a God who is able to do immeasurably more.
Libby's Testimony on the Power of God's Word
Here is Libby's testimony that I used in my message on Sunday, October 7. The message was about the usefulness and the power of God's Word.
The video is posted in two parts because YouTube limits the sizes of single videos. So watch the first video and then click on the second for the second part. It is a total of about 9 minutes long.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Thursday, October 4, 2007
It's the little things that matter
Who despises the day of small things? Zechariah 4:10
I am watching the Cubs lose in the playoffs. What is new? I must say that I am embarrassed by the Cubs performance. It is in stark contrast to the play of the Arizona D-backs. The Cubs seem to play with a sense of entitlement. I totally do not understand this. You would think that if you have not won a World Series in 99 years, you would play with a little more urgency. But it seems we will not be able to shed the lovable losers tag. Time to start saying, "wait till next year." And celebrate 100 years of futility.
I am impressed with the D-backs team. It is a young upstart team. They were not expected to even make the playoffs, yet they had the best record in the National League. I can see why. What I notice about their team is that they do the little things well. They take advantage of every opportunity that is presented to them. They take nothing for granted. They hustle and run out every play.
It got me thinking about ministry in the Church. Ministry is not something to be taken for granted. It is not something to perform with a sense of entitlement.
We have the power of the Holy Spirit on our side, but that does not mean we are entitled to anything. The Church cannot fall to the mentality that if we build it they will come.
I was sharing with Bob Kessler, the chairman of our Elders, a couple of nights ago that the most significant ministry we will ever do is insignificant minstry. As I watch this baseball game, I see the reason why the D-backs are winning is because they are doing the little things not just well, but very well.
As a Church I believe we need to do the little things well. These are the seemingly insignificant things. Make sure every "i" is dotted and every "t" is crossed. To welcome every single individual that comes through the door. It is showing appreciation and gratitude to each and every servant. It is making sure we are organized and fully prepared. It is taking advantage of every opportunity that presents itself.
This is the difference between good and great. The little things! The insignificant things! These are the big things!
We have plenty of reason to be great, because we have got the most important mission in all the earth. But were not going to accomplish the great unless we take care of the insignificant. Jesus says, to be great you must be the servant of all.
I am watching the Cubs lose in the playoffs. What is new? I must say that I am embarrassed by the Cubs performance. It is in stark contrast to the play of the Arizona D-backs. The Cubs seem to play with a sense of entitlement. I totally do not understand this. You would think that if you have not won a World Series in 99 years, you would play with a little more urgency. But it seems we will not be able to shed the lovable losers tag. Time to start saying, "wait till next year." And celebrate 100 years of futility.
I am impressed with the D-backs team. It is a young upstart team. They were not expected to even make the playoffs, yet they had the best record in the National League. I can see why. What I notice about their team is that they do the little things well. They take advantage of every opportunity that is presented to them. They take nothing for granted. They hustle and run out every play.
It got me thinking about ministry in the Church. Ministry is not something to be taken for granted. It is not something to perform with a sense of entitlement.
We have the power of the Holy Spirit on our side, but that does not mean we are entitled to anything. The Church cannot fall to the mentality that if we build it they will come.
I was sharing with Bob Kessler, the chairman of our Elders, a couple of nights ago that the most significant ministry we will ever do is insignificant minstry. As I watch this baseball game, I see the reason why the D-backs are winning is because they are doing the little things not just well, but very well.
As a Church I believe we need to do the little things well. These are the seemingly insignificant things. Make sure every "i" is dotted and every "t" is crossed. To welcome every single individual that comes through the door. It is showing appreciation and gratitude to each and every servant. It is making sure we are organized and fully prepared. It is taking advantage of every opportunity that presents itself.
This is the difference between good and great. The little things! The insignificant things! These are the big things!
We have plenty of reason to be great, because we have got the most important mission in all the earth. But were not going to accomplish the great unless we take care of the insignificant. Jesus says, to be great you must be the servant of all.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Stand in His Council
They keep saying to those who despise me, "The Lord says: You will have peace." And to all who follow the stubbornness of their hearts they say, "No harm will come to you." But which of them has stood in the council of the Lord to see or to hear his word? Who has listened and heard his word? Jeremiah 23:17-18
Jeremiah is speaking to the false prophets of Judah. Their prophecy and message was not from the Lord. These told the king and the people what they wanted to hear. Their message was not developed out of prayer and the study of the Word.
In contrast, Jeremiah's message was a difficult message. It was not a popular message. It was not a message the people wanted to hear. But Jeremiah's message was from the Lord. It was a message that was developed out of prayer, the study of the Word, and simply listening to God.
Verse 18 is particularly convincting. As a preacher I am obligated to preach and teach the Word of God. It is not always a popular message. It is not always the message people want to hear. It is not always the message I want to preach. But it is God's message, and that is the message which I have been entrusted with.
I pray Lord that I would stand in your council and hear your Word to preach and teach what you would have me share with these people. Give me ears to hear and eyes to see. Give me a mouth to speak the truth and hands to reach out in love. Lord, may I be your servant and not the servant of itching ears. Amen.
Jeremiah is speaking to the false prophets of Judah. Their prophecy and message was not from the Lord. These told the king and the people what they wanted to hear. Their message was not developed out of prayer and the study of the Word.
In contrast, Jeremiah's message was a difficult message. It was not a popular message. It was not a message the people wanted to hear. But Jeremiah's message was from the Lord. It was a message that was developed out of prayer, the study of the Word, and simply listening to God.
Verse 18 is particularly convincting. As a preacher I am obligated to preach and teach the Word of God. It is not always a popular message. It is not always the message people want to hear. It is not always the message I want to preach. But it is God's message, and that is the message which I have been entrusted with.
I pray Lord that I would stand in your council and hear your Word to preach and teach what you would have me share with these people. Give me ears to hear and eyes to see. Give me a mouth to speak the truth and hands to reach out in love. Lord, may I be your servant and not the servant of itching ears. Amen.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
It all goes back to your worldview
I know, O Lord, that a man's life is not his own;
it is not for man to direct his steps. Jeremiah 10:23
One of my interests is photography. A few years back I received a new Canon Rebel Xt DSLR camera. This camera is a step up from the ordinary point and shoot cameras that are so common. This new camera allowed me to interchange lenses for different situations. I could add a wide angle lens for taking group pictures or landscapes. I could add a telephoto lens for sports and close ups of people. I could also add a prime lens that works well in low light situations and often produces the best overall results. Each lens allows the camera to see a certain scene from a different perspective. I can be looking at the same scene with the same camera, but with a different lens I will get a whole different picture.
We all have lenses through which we see the world. These lenses are known as worldviews. Our worldview will influence everything. Our wordview will determine the choices we make, the conclusions we arrive at, and the priorities we elect. In many ways we can be looking at the same issue, but if our lens, our worldviews are different, we will each get a very different picture.
Jeremiah 10:23 is all about worldview and specifically about Biblical Worldview. This is a statement that runs contrary to the worldview of so many. "A man's life is not his own."
Do you believe that? Most people I know, see their life as their own. They will choose to do what they want to do with life, with their money, with their children, and with their time. They have not bought into the idea that we are stewards of what God has entrusted to us.
But if I believe that my life is not my own, my money is not my own, my children are not my own, and my time is not my own. What I do with these things is not my decision to make. It is up to me to discover what God's will is and then to follow that will.
To give you an example of the difference worldview will make. The debate about abortion. Pro-choice supporters will say that the woman has the right to do with her body what she wants. But if you start with a Biblical worldview your body and life are not your own, that argument falls flat on its face. Of course Pro-choice supporters are not approaching the issue from what the Bible has to say, but from what they think is best.
So often we debate the conclusions that we make - whether it be politics, theology, or everyday life. But unless we go back to our worldviews, our debate is not going to make much of a difference. If someone is using a different lens they are going to see a different picture. The issue is not about changing the picture, but changing the lens.
it is not for man to direct his steps. Jeremiah 10:23
One of my interests is photography. A few years back I received a new Canon Rebel Xt DSLR camera. This camera is a step up from the ordinary point and shoot cameras that are so common. This new camera allowed me to interchange lenses for different situations. I could add a wide angle lens for taking group pictures or landscapes. I could add a telephoto lens for sports and close ups of people. I could also add a prime lens that works well in low light situations and often produces the best overall results. Each lens allows the camera to see a certain scene from a different perspective. I can be looking at the same scene with the same camera, but with a different lens I will get a whole different picture.
We all have lenses through which we see the world. These lenses are known as worldviews. Our worldview will influence everything. Our wordview will determine the choices we make, the conclusions we arrive at, and the priorities we elect. In many ways we can be looking at the same issue, but if our lens, our worldviews are different, we will each get a very different picture.
Jeremiah 10:23 is all about worldview and specifically about Biblical Worldview. This is a statement that runs contrary to the worldview of so many. "A man's life is not his own."
Do you believe that? Most people I know, see their life as their own. They will choose to do what they want to do with life, with their money, with their children, and with their time. They have not bought into the idea that we are stewards of what God has entrusted to us.
But if I believe that my life is not my own, my money is not my own, my children are not my own, and my time is not my own. What I do with these things is not my decision to make. It is up to me to discover what God's will is and then to follow that will.
To give you an example of the difference worldview will make. The debate about abortion. Pro-choice supporters will say that the woman has the right to do with her body what she wants. But if you start with a Biblical worldview your body and life are not your own, that argument falls flat on its face. Of course Pro-choice supporters are not approaching the issue from what the Bible has to say, but from what they think is best.
So often we debate the conclusions that we make - whether it be politics, theology, or everyday life. But unless we go back to our worldviews, our debate is not going to make much of a difference. If someone is using a different lens they are going to see a different picture. The issue is not about changing the picture, but changing the lens.
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