Although I'm not a big fan of New Year's resolutions, I do think it's a good idea to evaluate where you've been and where you're heading at the start of a new year. As God's men, we should take time to seriously consider our spiritual walk and James 1 provides a few areas to challenge ourselves.
In verse 22, the Bible says: Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. For us plain and simple guys, this one's clear---take what you read and hear in God's Word and apply it to your life. God promises blessing in our obedience to His Word (v.25). Just do it!
Verse 26 tells us: If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. We need to remember that just a few ill-timed words can damage or destroy our personal testimony.
Finally, in verse 27: Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. We can waste a lot of time trying to score spiritual brownie-points and put on appearances for others, but our omniscient Heavenly Father makes it clear---help others in need, stop living by the world's standard and start living by God's standard.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
God With Us
Just as an angel appeared to Mary to tell her about her role in bringing the greatest Christmas gift into the world, her husband Joseph also had an angel speak to him. The angel of the Lord told him that his bride-to-be would be conceived by the Holy Spirit to fulfill prophesy and their child would be named Jesus (the Lord saves) and called Immanuel (God with us) (Matthew 1:23).
What makes Jesus Christ the greatest Christmas gift of all is that He truly is God with us. Jesus, who was with God the Father from the beginning of time (John 1:1-2), came to earth so that mankind could truly see who God is. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth....No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father's side, has made him known. (John 1:14, 18)
When we examine Jesus' life and His earthly ministry, we get a vivid human picture of the holiness of God. What Jesus taught and what he did are tied inseparably to who he is--fully human and fully God. Through Christ, God made himself visibly and tangibly known--the perfect expression of himself in human form. In Him, we see a Heavenly Father who loves, rejoices, cries, comforts, confronts, helps, heals and forgives. Jesus is the name above all names--the eternal Creator, the One who sustains all things and the source of eternal life for all who call upon His name.
What makes Jesus Christ the greatest Christmas gift of all is that He truly is God with us. Jesus, who was with God the Father from the beginning of time (John 1:1-2), came to earth so that mankind could truly see who God is. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth....No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father's side, has made him known. (John 1:14, 18)
When we examine Jesus' life and His earthly ministry, we get a vivid human picture of the holiness of God. What Jesus taught and what he did are tied inseparably to who he is--fully human and fully God. Through Christ, God made himself visibly and tangibly known--the perfect expression of himself in human form. In Him, we see a Heavenly Father who loves, rejoices, cries, comforts, confronts, helps, heals and forgives. Jesus is the name above all names--the eternal Creator, the One who sustains all things and the source of eternal life for all who call upon His name.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Enjoying the Greatest Christmas Gift
One of the things that I love most about Christmas is the pure joy and excitement my soon-to-be six-year-old daughter Amanda shows when she sees her gifts under the tree and begins opening them. For us parents, the stress and aggravation of fighting crowds and waiting in line to buy gifts can easily diminish our joy and excitement.
To see pure joy and excitement in receiving a gift, we need look no further than the very first and greatest Christmas gift. The angel of the Lord appeared to the shepherds and announced the birth of Jesus: Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:11). Then a host of angels appeared praising God (v.13) prompting the shepherds to joyfully hurry off and see this treasured gift and tell everyone that they had seen the Messiah (v. 15-18). A gift that John the Baptist proclaimed was the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)
Jesus is the greatest gift--a gift from God the Father to give us eternal life. He is truly a gift because He is given freely out of God's love for us. He is given to us even though we don't deserve Him and He is given to us without a thought of what we can give in return. Jesus is the perfect gift--everlasting, always with us, without flaw or imperfection and always loving us and sustaining us. Jesus is the gift for everyone as Luke 2:11 reminds us that He is a Savior born unto each of us. Jesus is unlike any other gift in that we can share Him with others and still keep Him ourselves.
Let us remember to enjoy the greatest gift ever and have a Merry Christmas!
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Lessons From Jesus' Mother
The age-old expression "Mother knows best" comes from the realization that our moms possess much wisdom and insight that is lovingly passed on to their children. Consider then the lessons we can learn from Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, in Luke 1.
1) God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. There were limitless ways God could have chosen to bring the promised Messiah into the world. Mary was a young, poor woman with no special talents or abilities. Yet, God chose her to give birth to His Son to forgive the sins of mankind (v. 26-37).
2) God understands our limited human perspective. As the angel Gabriel explained to Mary that she was to give birth to the Son of God and that He would rule and reign forever (v. 31-33), she had her doubts (v. 34). Yet, the angel confirmed that nothing is impossible for God (v. 37).
3) Obedience to God requires sacrifice and perseverance. What God asked of Mary brought great difficulty into her life---the scorn of being an unwed mother, near loss of her fiance' and watching her son be rejected and murdered. Yet all of this was part of God's plan to bring about our salvation. Sometimes, we too must suffer hardship and wait patiently for God to finish working His plan---allowing His power to sustain us (v. 35).
4) God finds favor in us based on our trust in Him. God favored Mary based on nothing that she had accomplished (v. 28, 30). In explaining that she was conceived by the Holy Spirit, Mary risked being an outcast and labeled crazy. Instead, her response to God's request was: "I am the Lord's servant...May it be to me as you have said. (v. 38)"
1) God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. There were limitless ways God could have chosen to bring the promised Messiah into the world. Mary was a young, poor woman with no special talents or abilities. Yet, God chose her to give birth to His Son to forgive the sins of mankind (v. 26-37).
2) God understands our limited human perspective. As the angel Gabriel explained to Mary that she was to give birth to the Son of God and that He would rule and reign forever (v. 31-33), she had her doubts (v. 34). Yet, the angel confirmed that nothing is impossible for God (v. 37).
3) Obedience to God requires sacrifice and perseverance. What God asked of Mary brought great difficulty into her life---the scorn of being an unwed mother, near loss of her fiance' and watching her son be rejected and murdered. Yet all of this was part of God's plan to bring about our salvation. Sometimes, we too must suffer hardship and wait patiently for God to finish working His plan---allowing His power to sustain us (v. 35).
4) God finds favor in us based on our trust in Him. God favored Mary based on nothing that she had accomplished (v. 28, 30). In explaining that she was conceived by the Holy Spirit, Mary risked being an outcast and labeled crazy. Instead, her response to God's request was: "I am the Lord's servant...May it be to me as you have said. (v. 38)"
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Our True Identity
Of the many things we can think about during the Christmas season, one that should bring joy to all believers is who we are--our true identity--because of Jesus Christ. In the midst of lights and decorations, shopping madness and get-togethers with friends and family; it is easy to forget the greatest gift of all. Here's a list of presents that blows away any Christmas wish list our kids can come up with--all because of a personal relationship with our Savior:
We are no longer guilty of sin (Romans 3:24). We are free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:1-2). We are acceptable, righteous and holy (1 Corinthians 1:2, 30). We are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). We are united with all other believers (Galatians 3:28). We are covered with God's love, adopted as His children and forgiven (Ephesians 1:4-7). We have a permanent, unbreakable bond with the Creator of the Universe (Ephesians 1:13). We are God's work of art (Ephesians 2:10, 13). We can come with freedom and confidence into God's presence (Ephesians 3:12). We are members of Christ's body--the church (Ephesians 5:29-30) and we will have eternal glory (2 Timothy 2:10).
All of this is ours, thanks to the One who was promised in Isaiah 9:6---For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
We are no longer guilty of sin (Romans 3:24). We are free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:1-2). We are acceptable, righteous and holy (1 Corinthians 1:2, 30). We are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). We are united with all other believers (Galatians 3:28). We are covered with God's love, adopted as His children and forgiven (Ephesians 1:4-7). We have a permanent, unbreakable bond with the Creator of the Universe (Ephesians 1:13). We are God's work of art (Ephesians 2:10, 13). We can come with freedom and confidence into God's presence (Ephesians 3:12). We are members of Christ's body--the church (Ephesians 5:29-30) and we will have eternal glory (2 Timothy 2:10).
All of this is ours, thanks to the One who was promised in Isaiah 9:6---For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
A Trustworthy Saying
In his letters to Timothy, Paul poured out a tremendous amount of spiritual wisdom and guidance. He knew the pressures his young disciple would be facing in leading new churches and new believers who were facing many of the same struggles that we face today. Throughout the letters, there are several core fundamental truths that Paul prefaced with the words: "Here is a trustworthy saying..."
In 1 Timothy 3:1 Paul writes, Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. ---stressing the value and importance of leadership. In 1 Timothy 4:9-10 he continues, "This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe." ---reminding that our hope is based on Christ and Christ alone. Then in his second letter to Timothy, Paul writes, "Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us; if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself (2 Timothy 2:11-13) ---reminders that to deny Christ is to accept eternal death, that as believers we have an identity with Christ and assurance of eternal life and that our faithfulness will be rewarded by the One who is always faithful to us.
All of these trustworthy sayings should permeate our lives and our thoughts and none more so than the first one that Paul shared with Timothy: "Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst (1 Timothy 1:15)."
In 1 Timothy 3:1 Paul writes, Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. ---stressing the value and importance of leadership. In 1 Timothy 4:9-10 he continues, "This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe." ---reminding that our hope is based on Christ and Christ alone. Then in his second letter to Timothy, Paul writes, "Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us; if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself (2 Timothy 2:11-13) ---reminders that to deny Christ is to accept eternal death, that as believers we have an identity with Christ and assurance of eternal life and that our faithfulness will be rewarded by the One who is always faithful to us.
All of these trustworthy sayings should permeate our lives and our thoughts and none more so than the first one that Paul shared with Timothy: "Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst (1 Timothy 1:15)."
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
A Certain Outcome of Victory
Imagine for a moment that you are a member of a football team competing for the championship. During your preparation for the big game, you discover that no matter what your opponent can accomplish, no matter what trick plays or formidable ability they possess, you have absolute assurance that your team was going to win.
Now add to that the knowledge that your team's victory has absolutely nothing to do with how well you play or what your individual accomplishment would be. All that was required from you was faith in the ultimate victory and a desire to give your best effort during the game. How confident and secure would you be knowing that, no matter what, victory was certain?
As God's men, this is exactly the game we are in--right now. In spite of what our opponent does or how much difficulty and misery he throws our way, he is defeated. No matter how poorly we play, no matter how many times we fumble and fail--we will emerge victorious. At times, Satan appears to be winning the game but his ultimate defeat came at the cross. Through the shed blood of Jesus Christ alone--and not by our own efforts--we have victory over death and complete assurance of eternal life.
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Now add to that the knowledge that your team's victory has absolutely nothing to do with how well you play or what your individual accomplishment would be. All that was required from you was faith in the ultimate victory and a desire to give your best effort during the game. How confident and secure would you be knowing that, no matter what, victory was certain?
As God's men, this is exactly the game we are in--right now. In spite of what our opponent does or how much difficulty and misery he throws our way, he is defeated. No matter how poorly we play, no matter how many times we fumble and fail--we will emerge victorious. At times, Satan appears to be winning the game but his ultimate defeat came at the cross. Through the shed blood of Jesus Christ alone--and not by our own efforts--we have victory over death and complete assurance of eternal life.
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Choose Whom You Will Serve
Joshua 24:15 contains a very powerful statement that many of us as servant leaders have rightly declared: But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. But notice what the beginning of this verse says--But if serving the Lord seems undesirable for you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.
Joshua declared these words as he gathered the leaders of all of the tribes of Israel shortly before his death. He had reminded them of all their forefathers had been through--slavery in Egypt, delivery to The Promised Land, battles with their enemies (Joshua 24:1-13)---and how God had remained faithful to the covenant He made with them. Joshua knew the nation had it's weak spots and had a tendency to forget their blessings and ignore God's commands. He knew how difficult is was to keep a Kingdom focus living in a world where ungodly influence surrounded them. Sounds familiar, doesn't it?
Joshua's challenge has just as much significance today as it did thousands of years ago. It's just as easy for us today to turn away in quiet rebellion and follow our own gods and live life our own way. Or we can show the strength of our commitment to the Lord. Either way, we have a choice to make. Will it be God, our own limited selves or an imperfect substitute? To whom will you serve?
Joshua declared these words as he gathered the leaders of all of the tribes of Israel shortly before his death. He had reminded them of all their forefathers had been through--slavery in Egypt, delivery to The Promised Land, battles with their enemies (Joshua 24:1-13)---and how God had remained faithful to the covenant He made with them. Joshua knew the nation had it's weak spots and had a tendency to forget their blessings and ignore God's commands. He knew how difficult is was to keep a Kingdom focus living in a world where ungodly influence surrounded them. Sounds familiar, doesn't it?
Joshua's challenge has just as much significance today as it did thousands of years ago. It's just as easy for us today to turn away in quiet rebellion and follow our own gods and live life our own way. Or we can show the strength of our commitment to the Lord. Either way, we have a choice to make. Will it be God, our own limited selves or an imperfect substitute? To whom will you serve?
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Impress or Influence
As men, we constantly evaluate in our minds who we are, what we've accomplished and what we want to be known for. We often refer to this as our legacy. When we're gone, what will people remember most about us?
As we think about the things that drive and motivate us through life, consider a very powerful thought by Rick Warren in his book, The Purpose-Driven Life: "At some point in your life, you must decide whether you want to impress people or influence people."
There are many ways (most of them flawed) to try and impress people, but it takes a real commitment to purpose and authenticity to influence people. It requires us to get close to people and allow them to see who we really are and when we do that people will see our flaws. Our Christian walk and personal testimony is not about perfection but it is all about credibility. We build credibility not by pretending to be perfect, but by being honest.
In building credibility, remember what Jesus said in Matthew 5:16---"let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." We influence others when we show humility, patience, grace, forgiveness, faithfulness and love. We can only point others to Christ when we can show them how much we need Him and depend on Him.
As we think about the things that drive and motivate us through life, consider a very powerful thought by Rick Warren in his book, The Purpose-Driven Life: "At some point in your life, you must decide whether you want to impress people or influence people."
There are many ways (most of them flawed) to try and impress people, but it takes a real commitment to purpose and authenticity to influence people. It requires us to get close to people and allow them to see who we really are and when we do that people will see our flaws. Our Christian walk and personal testimony is not about perfection but it is all about credibility. We build credibility not by pretending to be perfect, but by being honest.
In building credibility, remember what Jesus said in Matthew 5:16---"let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." We influence others when we show humility, patience, grace, forgiveness, faithfulness and love. We can only point others to Christ when we can show them how much we need Him and depend on Him.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Eye-Black Inspiration
It's hard to imagine an athlete who has used his platform to spread the Gospel any better than University of Florida quarterback Tim Tebow. From his 2007 Heisman Trophy speech which he openly shared his faith in Jesus Christ, to his overseas mission trips, to his witnessing to men in prison; Tebow's impact for God's Kingdom has been well documented. He has also become known for putting Bible verses on his eye-black patches--he used John 3:16 during last year's BCS Championship game which resulted in over 93 million Google hits on the verse that is the summation of the Gospel and the source of our eternal security.
Yesterday, for the final home game of his remarkable college career, Tebow said he wanted to use a special verse on his eye-black and he chose Hebrews 12:1-2 ---Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Tebow's choice is a battle cry for each of us who strive to be the servant-leaders that God has called us to be. It is a reminder that we live in a world that is watching us and that we have many distractions that undermine our spiritual growth. It is a reminder that we battle the allure of sin and that our Christian walk requires endurance and perseverance through difficulties. But more importantly, it is a reminder of the One to whom we must always keep our focus upon. Jesus Christ, who knew no sin, became sin, so that we could become righteous. He is now seated with the Father in Heaven; continually serving as an advocate for those of us who call upon His name.
Yesterday, for the final home game of his remarkable college career, Tebow said he wanted to use a special verse on his eye-black and he chose Hebrews 12:1-2 ---Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Tebow's choice is a battle cry for each of us who strive to be the servant-leaders that God has called us to be. It is a reminder that we live in a world that is watching us and that we have many distractions that undermine our spiritual growth. It is a reminder that we battle the allure of sin and that our Christian walk requires endurance and perseverance through difficulties. But more importantly, it is a reminder of the One to whom we must always keep our focus upon. Jesus Christ, who knew no sin, became sin, so that we could become righteous. He is now seated with the Father in Heaven; continually serving as an advocate for those of us who call upon His name.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
How to be Thankful
Tomorrow, we set aside a day to reflect on all of the reasons we have to be thankful. We can find many passages in Scripture that speak to giving thanks. One in particular is Colossians 3:15-17: Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
To have a heart and mind that overflows with thankfulness involves four things---all of which center on Jesus Christ. First, we must let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts; a peace that focuses on truth, purity, righteousness, loveliness and praise and surpasses all human understanding (Philippians 4:7-8). Secondly, we must let the word of Christ dwell richly in us. We must allow the truth of the Bible to renew and transform our minds (Romans 12:2) so that we will be able to know the will of God and apply to every situation in our lives.
Next, we must allow all of our thoughts and all of our actions to bring honor and glory to our Lord. As Christians, we represent Christ at all times and in all places and our personal testimony is only as credible as to the degree that others see Christ in us. And finally, our thankfulness is centered completely and totally on Christ's sacrificial death on the cross to pay our sin debt and secure our eternal home in heaven. Everything we have to be thankful for falls in line behind His grace and mercy.
To have a heart and mind that overflows with thankfulness involves four things---all of which center on Jesus Christ. First, we must let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts; a peace that focuses on truth, purity, righteousness, loveliness and praise and surpasses all human understanding (Philippians 4:7-8). Secondly, we must let the word of Christ dwell richly in us. We must allow the truth of the Bible to renew and transform our minds (Romans 12:2) so that we will be able to know the will of God and apply to every situation in our lives.
Next, we must allow all of our thoughts and all of our actions to bring honor and glory to our Lord. As Christians, we represent Christ at all times and in all places and our personal testimony is only as credible as to the degree that others see Christ in us. And finally, our thankfulness is centered completely and totally on Christ's sacrificial death on the cross to pay our sin debt and secure our eternal home in heaven. Everything we have to be thankful for falls in line behind His grace and mercy.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Pray Like Daniel
If you read the book of Daniel, you read the story of a man who spend most of his life in captivity in Babylon, yet never wavered in his faith and trust in God. He knew the prophet Jeremiah had written that God would not allow Israel to return to their land for 70 years. In Daniel 9:1-19 we see the prayer that Daniel lifted up to God as the lengthy period of exile was about to end.
Daniel begins by acknowledging the greatness of God: O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with all who love him and obey his commands (v.4). Although he was a righteous man living in a wicked and ungodly land, Daniel acknowledged his sinfulness along with the nation's as well: We have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commandments and laws. We have not listened to your servants the prophets (v.5-6). He goes on in verses 7-15 to describe the shame of not following God and the deserved exile imposed on his people. Daniel also recalls that the Lord is merciful and forgiving and pleads for this in verses 16-19.
In times of adversity, it's easy to blame others and makes excuses for our actions. To pray like Daniel means to look inside ourselves and confess our own sinfulness to God. Often we pray hoping to advance our own personal comfort. To pray like Daniel means to surrender to God with complete openness to His purpose and plan for our lives. Often we tune out the truth of God's Word; allowing our disobedience to keep us from seeking God's forgiveness. To pray like Daniel is to have confidence that God hears our prayers and is faithful and just to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
Daniel begins by acknowledging the greatness of God: O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with all who love him and obey his commands (v.4). Although he was a righteous man living in a wicked and ungodly land, Daniel acknowledged his sinfulness along with the nation's as well: We have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commandments and laws. We have not listened to your servants the prophets (v.5-6). He goes on in verses 7-15 to describe the shame of not following God and the deserved exile imposed on his people. Daniel also recalls that the Lord is merciful and forgiving and pleads for this in verses 16-19.
In times of adversity, it's easy to blame others and makes excuses for our actions. To pray like Daniel means to look inside ourselves and confess our own sinfulness to God. Often we pray hoping to advance our own personal comfort. To pray like Daniel means to surrender to God with complete openness to His purpose and plan for our lives. Often we tune out the truth of God's Word; allowing our disobedience to keep us from seeking God's forgiveness. To pray like Daniel is to have confidence that God hears our prayers and is faithful and just to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
In Jesus Name
Now that we've unpacked the model prayer and seen how our Lord and Savior taught us to pray, consider this very important element to prayer found in John 14:13-14 where Jesus said, "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it."
Since Jesus has all authority in Heaven and Earth (Matthew 28:18), praying in His name puts His power behind our requests. Praying in His name grants us access to God (Hebrews 4:16) and allows us to claim His righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). Praying in His name gives us the authority to ask (Matthew 7:7) and the assurance of response (1 John 5:14).
Praying in Jesus' name tells our Heavenly Father that we have full and complete confidence is His infinite knowledge and power. It also ensures that our hearts are right with God and asks that He either grants, delays or denies our requests as He sees fit.
For those times that our prayer life seems stale, remember who we are addressing and by whose authority we address Him.
Since Jesus has all authority in Heaven and Earth (Matthew 28:18), praying in His name puts His power behind our requests. Praying in His name grants us access to God (Hebrews 4:16) and allows us to claim His righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). Praying in His name gives us the authority to ask (Matthew 7:7) and the assurance of response (1 John 5:14).
Praying in Jesus' name tells our Heavenly Father that we have full and complete confidence is His infinite knowledge and power. It also ensures that our hearts are right with God and asks that He either grants, delays or denies our requests as He sees fit.
For those times that our prayer life seems stale, remember who we are addressing and by whose authority we address Him.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
The Blueprint for Prayer (Part 3)
The prayer that Jesus taught his disciples, the one commonly known as the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), is the perfect model for our own prayers. It focuses on placing God first; recognizing that He alone is the source of every blessing and the provider of every need. It helps us maintain a daily reliance on God and reminds us that we need to forgive others as He has forgiven us. Continuing on in Jesus' blueprint for prayer:
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one: Here we are asking God to protect us from our enemy Satan. We seek His power and strength in the spiritual battle we face as Satan attempts to deceive us, discourage us and entice us to sin. The enemy's ultimate goal in spiritual warfare is to keep us separated from our Heavenly Father. Being in daily communion with God, through prayer and reading His Word, is the first step in protecting ourselves from the evil one.
for yours is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen: Here we conclude our prayer by further acknowledging that God's Kingdom is the only one that matters, the only Kingdom that has power over all others, the only Kingdom that will ultimately triumph over evil and the only Kingdom that will last forever.
Just as a builder needs to follow a blueprint to properly build a house, we as God's men need to follow the blueprint Jesus gave us to build a purposeful and fulfilling prayer life.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one: Here we are asking God to protect us from our enemy Satan. We seek His power and strength in the spiritual battle we face as Satan attempts to deceive us, discourage us and entice us to sin. The enemy's ultimate goal in spiritual warfare is to keep us separated from our Heavenly Father. Being in daily communion with God, through prayer and reading His Word, is the first step in protecting ourselves from the evil one.
for yours is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen: Here we conclude our prayer by further acknowledging that God's Kingdom is the only one that matters, the only Kingdom that has power over all others, the only Kingdom that will ultimately triumph over evil and the only Kingdom that will last forever.
Just as a builder needs to follow a blueprint to properly build a house, we as God's men need to follow the blueprint Jesus gave us to build a purposeful and fulfilling prayer life.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
The Blueprint for Prayer (Part 2)
In witnessing Jesus' earthly ministry, the disciples didn't need to ask Jesus how to help the poor or how to minister to the sick and needy. But given how difficult it can be to maintain a consistent and purposeful prayer life, it shouldn't be a surprise to us that the disciples asked "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples." (Luke 11:1). Continuing in the model prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) He taught his disciples:
Give us today our daily bread: This acknowledges our daily dependence on God, the one who provides everything we need, every single day. By asking for daily provision, we are asking Him to provide not what we want, but only what we need---no more and no less---each and every day.
Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors: Here we are asking God to extend his mercy and forgiveness for our sins--a promise that He made in Scripture and fulfilled in Christ's sacrifice on the cross. However, we are also asking for forgiveness only to the same degree that we are willing to extend mercy and forgiveness to others. This part of the model prayer is a stark reminder of how much we can hinder our prayer life if we are unforgiving toward others.
Give us today our daily bread: This acknowledges our daily dependence on God, the one who provides everything we need, every single day. By asking for daily provision, we are asking Him to provide not what we want, but only what we need---no more and no less---each and every day.
Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors: Here we are asking God to extend his mercy and forgiveness for our sins--a promise that He made in Scripture and fulfilled in Christ's sacrifice on the cross. However, we are also asking for forgiveness only to the same degree that we are willing to extend mercy and forgiveness to others. This part of the model prayer is a stark reminder of how much we can hinder our prayer life if we are unforgiving toward others.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
The Blueprint for Prayer (Part 1)
Throughout Jesus' earthly ministry, his disciples saw him perform miracles, help the poor, the sick and misfortuned. They heard him teach about Scripture and the principles we need to live by. They also noticed that he often went off by himself to pray and must have wondered among themselves, "How does Jesus pray to the Father? What does He say? What does He ask for?"
In Luke 11:1, the disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. The prayer that Jesus taught his disciples---the one commonly known as the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13)---is a blueprint as to how we should pray as well.
Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be your name: The first thing to acknowledge in prayer is the position, the power and the preeminence of God. To hallow His name is to make it holy and set it apart from any other name. As the Almighty, Everlasting Creator of Heaven and Earth, there is none greater than He. This points our prayers in the right direction; toward the One who alone can answer.
Your Kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven: This acknowledges that God's Kingdom is everlasting and His purpose and plan is perfect, holy and just. This allows us to focus on accomplishing things that are in alignment with God's will instead of our own. This also recognizes that we need to do our part to carry out His plan here on earth in anticipation of His glory in Heaven.
In Luke 11:1, the disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. The prayer that Jesus taught his disciples---the one commonly known as the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13)---is a blueprint as to how we should pray as well.
Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be your name: The first thing to acknowledge in prayer is the position, the power and the preeminence of God. To hallow His name is to make it holy and set it apart from any other name. As the Almighty, Everlasting Creator of Heaven and Earth, there is none greater than He. This points our prayers in the right direction; toward the One who alone can answer.
Your Kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven: This acknowledges that God's Kingdom is everlasting and His purpose and plan is perfect, holy and just. This allows us to focus on accomplishing things that are in alignment with God's will instead of our own. This also recognizes that we need to do our part to carry out His plan here on earth in anticipation of His glory in Heaven.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Let's Talk About It
The Bible speaks frequently regarding the importance of prayer. King David, described as a man after God's heart, continually sought communion with his Heavenly Father through prayer. During his earthly ministry, Jesus often retreated to be alone with God in prayer--especially during the most difficult times in his life (Matthew 26:36-46). We know, through God's Word, that we are to pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17), we are to pray for others (1 Timothy 2:1) and that our prayers are powerful and effective (James 5:16).
So why is it that prayer is such a challenge for God's men? Why does spending time with the One who created us in His image often take a backseat to all of the other activities in our lives? Why do we often find our prayer time becoming an obligation or worse yet a missed appointment, rather than the life-giving necessity that it is?
Psalm 139:1 says: O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. Since He is all-powerful and all-knowing, God knows not only what we want but also what we need and when we need it. When we limit God to being our cosmic ATM machine, we limit his infinite wisdom to the limits of our limited understanding. We force ourselves to either doubt the power of prayer or the ability of God to answer. Yet, when we pray in Jesus' name, we alter our priorities and open the door for blessing beyond what we can imagine.
We have the promise that our prayers in Jesus' name will be answered in a way to bring glory to God (John 14:13) and we also have the warning that if we pray with the wrong motives, our prayers won't be answered (James 4:3). We also have the assurance that if God makes us wait for an answer, He is strengthening us in the process (Psalm 27:14).
So why is it that prayer is such a challenge for God's men? Why does spending time with the One who created us in His image often take a backseat to all of the other activities in our lives? Why do we often find our prayer time becoming an obligation or worse yet a missed appointment, rather than the life-giving necessity that it is?
Psalm 139:1 says: O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. Since He is all-powerful and all-knowing, God knows not only what we want but also what we need and when we need it. When we limit God to being our cosmic ATM machine, we limit his infinite wisdom to the limits of our limited understanding. We force ourselves to either doubt the power of prayer or the ability of God to answer. Yet, when we pray in Jesus' name, we alter our priorities and open the door for blessing beyond what we can imagine.
We have the promise that our prayers in Jesus' name will be answered in a way to bring glory to God (John 14:13) and we also have the warning that if we pray with the wrong motives, our prayers won't be answered (James 4:3). We also have the assurance that if God makes us wait for an answer, He is strengthening us in the process (Psalm 27:14).
Sunday, November 1, 2009
What Are You Leaving Behind?
When ex-Beatle John Lennon was murdered in 1980, there was an outpouring of emotion throughout the world for the man who penned famous phrases in song such as "All you need is love" and "Give peace a chance". Musically, he left behind a legacy of peace, love and hope for millions.
But what kind of legacy did he really leave behind? In an interview, his son Julian had this to say about his famous father: "My dad was a hypocrite. He could talk about peace and love out loud to the world, but he could never show it to those who supposedly meant the most to him, his wife (whom he left when Julian was five) and son. The only thing he taught me was how not to be a father."
As God's men and spiritual leaders in our homes, the first people who ought to see us as authentic Christians are our children. Scripture warns us that the sins of the father will be passed on to the children and grandchildren--meaning that we have an incredible opportunity and responsibility to shape the spiritual walk of our sons and daughters. Many of us bear the scars of fathers who were physically or emotionally absent. Yet through Christ, we can start a legacy of godliness, faithfulness, honor, integrity and character that points future generations to our Heavenly Father.
1 Timothy 4:12 says Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. So the question is, what kind of example are you leaving behind?
But what kind of legacy did he really leave behind? In an interview, his son Julian had this to say about his famous father: "My dad was a hypocrite. He could talk about peace and love out loud to the world, but he could never show it to those who supposedly meant the most to him, his wife (whom he left when Julian was five) and son. The only thing he taught me was how not to be a father."
As God's men and spiritual leaders in our homes, the first people who ought to see us as authentic Christians are our children. Scripture warns us that the sins of the father will be passed on to the children and grandchildren--meaning that we have an incredible opportunity and responsibility to shape the spiritual walk of our sons and daughters. Many of us bear the scars of fathers who were physically or emotionally absent. Yet through Christ, we can start a legacy of godliness, faithfulness, honor, integrity and character that points future generations to our Heavenly Father.
1 Timothy 4:12 says Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. So the question is, what kind of example are you leaving behind?
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Extending Grace to Others
Colossians 2:13-14 is one of the most powerful truths of the Bible: When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. One chapter later, we see what God wants us to do with this grace that He extended to us: Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you (Colossians 3:13).
Think about it, the most powerful being in the universe emptied himself in order to save us. As sinners, we don't deserve forgiveness but God extends it freely to us through his mercy and grace. His forgiveness restores us as his children and heirs to his eternal Kingdom. By receiving God's mercy and grace we are free to extend it to others. Grace is such a powerful encouragement that Paul wrote six different times in the New Testament, "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all."
Extending grace to others can be one of the most challenging aspects of being God's man. If this is an area where you struggle, ask yourself these three questions: 1) Did God wait until we repented before sending Jesus to die for our sins? 2) Does holding a grudge hurt the other person? and 3) Does holding a grudge help you? After answering no to these questions, take your grievances and nail them to the cross!
Think about it, the most powerful being in the universe emptied himself in order to save us. As sinners, we don't deserve forgiveness but God extends it freely to us through his mercy and grace. His forgiveness restores us as his children and heirs to his eternal Kingdom. By receiving God's mercy and grace we are free to extend it to others. Grace is such a powerful encouragement that Paul wrote six different times in the New Testament, "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all."
Extending grace to others can be one of the most challenging aspects of being God's man. If this is an area where you struggle, ask yourself these three questions: 1) Did God wait until we repented before sending Jesus to die for our sins? 2) Does holding a grudge hurt the other person? and 3) Does holding a grudge help you? After answering no to these questions, take your grievances and nail them to the cross!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
The Better the Fit
How often do we marvel at people who are naturally gifted for what they do? We can watch a star athlete or listen to a great recording artist and enjoy them do what they do best. Yet, the truth is every single one of us---created in God's image---is naturally gifted for something and that something has a place in His Kingdom.
In his book The Purpose-Driven Life, Rick Warren said, "You will be most effective when you use your spiritual gifts and abilities in the area of your heart's desire and in a way that best expresses your personality and experiences. The better the fit, the more successful you will be. (emphasis added)." So often, people avoid serving others in the church because what they are asked to do does not fit their spiritual gifts, abilities and personalities, nor does it meet the desires of their heart. They also often miss out on opportunities to minister in areas where they are truly gifted.
Romans 12:5-8 covers a wide range of spiritual gifts: prophesy, serving others, teaching, encouraging, leadership, helping others and showing mercy. This passage encourages us to give our best effort at what we're best at because in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others (v.5).
If you don't enjoy being around young children, then being a youth Sunday School teacher is not a good fit but if you have a heart for college students or young professionals, then being a mentor to people in that age group would be a great fit. Prayerfully examine your abilities, your personality and your experiences and ask the Lord to open a path for you to serve Him out of your heart's desire.
In his book The Purpose-Driven Life, Rick Warren said, "You will be most effective when you use your spiritual gifts and abilities in the area of your heart's desire and in a way that best expresses your personality and experiences. The better the fit, the more successful you will be. (emphasis added)." So often, people avoid serving others in the church because what they are asked to do does not fit their spiritual gifts, abilities and personalities, nor does it meet the desires of their heart. They also often miss out on opportunities to minister in areas where they are truly gifted.
Romans 12:5-8 covers a wide range of spiritual gifts: prophesy, serving others, teaching, encouraging, leadership, helping others and showing mercy. This passage encourages us to give our best effort at what we're best at because in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others (v.5).
If you don't enjoy being around young children, then being a youth Sunday School teacher is not a good fit but if you have a heart for college students or young professionals, then being a mentor to people in that age group would be a great fit. Prayerfully examine your abilities, your personality and your experiences and ask the Lord to open a path for you to serve Him out of your heart's desire.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Warn, Encourage, Help
In addition to evangelizing and teaching, much of the apostle Paul's ministry involved encouraging believers. Scripture records his keen spiritual insight in solving many problems in the early churches--some of the same problems that often exist today. Paul wrote frequently regarding interpersonal relationships; knowing that the body of Christ needs to be in harmony to function at its best.
Harmony is at best difficult to achieve because even among believers, there are different levels of spiritual maturity, a wide range of personalities, varied abilities and giftedness, as well as human shortcomings. Keenly aware that dealing with people is not a one-size-fits-all proposition, Paul wrote: And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone (1 Thessalonians 5:14).
Some translations use the word "unruly" instead of idle and Paul noted that those falling into those categories needed to be admonished for their behavior in hindering the church. Encouragement is needed because fear can paralyze us into inactivity and lack of visible success can cause disappointment and doubt. There are also those among us who have real needs that the Lord chooses to meet through the efforts of other believers.
By exhibiting patience--a fruit of The Holy Spirit--toward everyone and looking for opportunities to warn, encourage and help those around us as needed, we can help the body of Christ love others as He loves us.
Harmony is at best difficult to achieve because even among believers, there are different levels of spiritual maturity, a wide range of personalities, varied abilities and giftedness, as well as human shortcomings. Keenly aware that dealing with people is not a one-size-fits-all proposition, Paul wrote: And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone (1 Thessalonians 5:14).
Some translations use the word "unruly" instead of idle and Paul noted that those falling into those categories needed to be admonished for their behavior in hindering the church. Encouragement is needed because fear can paralyze us into inactivity and lack of visible success can cause disappointment and doubt. There are also those among us who have real needs that the Lord chooses to meet through the efforts of other believers.
By exhibiting patience--a fruit of The Holy Spirit--toward everyone and looking for opportunities to warn, encourage and help those around us as needed, we can help the body of Christ love others as He loves us.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
This One Thing I Do
Most men put great value in being known for something and God certainly created us to be doers and to accomplish things in His creation. The apostle Paul certainly had many things he could point to in regard to his accomplishments. Yet, notice what he said about his life purpose in Philippians 3:13-14: Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
As a religious scholar and zealous persecutor of the early church prior to his coming to Christ, Paul didn't allow himself to wallow in guilt, nor did he take undue pride in his significant success in evangelizing the Gentiles. He chose not to rest on his past laurels and stop working fervently to spread the Gospel. He knew that he still had much to learn, much to do and that the process of becoming Christ-like is a lifelong journey. Paul realized what the prize really was--the joy in accomplishing God's purposes in his life and the eternal reward in Heaven for reaching this goal on earth.
In a world filled with distractions and meaningless pursuits where dreams and hopes can die in a moment's notice, we would be wise to define and examine our true purpose and whether or not it has any eternal significance. Are we pressing on toward the mark of a high calling or are we stuck in neutral due to guilt, fear, doubt or lack of purpose? Make sure this one thing you do puts you on a path for an eternal prize.
As a religious scholar and zealous persecutor of the early church prior to his coming to Christ, Paul didn't allow himself to wallow in guilt, nor did he take undue pride in his significant success in evangelizing the Gentiles. He chose not to rest on his past laurels and stop working fervently to spread the Gospel. He knew that he still had much to learn, much to do and that the process of becoming Christ-like is a lifelong journey. Paul realized what the prize really was--the joy in accomplishing God's purposes in his life and the eternal reward in Heaven for reaching this goal on earth.
In a world filled with distractions and meaningless pursuits where dreams and hopes can die in a moment's notice, we would be wise to define and examine our true purpose and whether or not it has any eternal significance. Are we pressing on toward the mark of a high calling or are we stuck in neutral due to guilt, fear, doubt or lack of purpose? Make sure this one thing you do puts you on a path for an eternal prize.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Who Cut in on You?
One thing that irritates most anyone driving a car is when someone cuts in front of them in traffic. "What makes them think they are so important" or "Don't they realize I have someplace important to be" are probably two of the tamer responses you might have when this happens to you. We are generally very focused on where we need to get to and are usually in a hurry to get there--if we aren't already running late. How dare someone interfere with us getting where we need to be?
In his letter to the church in Galatia, Paul makes this rather pointed observation: You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you (Galatians 6:7-8). Paul could see that Galatians were making great spiritual progress, but had gotten tripped up by legalism and traditions of man that had nothing to do with God's Word.
Though many years have passed, God's man is still fighting the same problem today. As much as we want to get to where we need to be, when we allow worldly philosophy, meaningless rituals and traditions to take hold and eventually control our lives, we've allowed our enemy to cut in on us and keep us from the truth. Trying to follow Him while trying to follow the world makes us a double-minded man, unstable in all he does (James 1:8).
Fortunately, the One who calls us is truth (John 14:6) and faithfulness to His Word will keep us from getting cut in on; allowing us to proclaim: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7).
In his letter to the church in Galatia, Paul makes this rather pointed observation: You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you (Galatians 6:7-8). Paul could see that Galatians were making great spiritual progress, but had gotten tripped up by legalism and traditions of man that had nothing to do with God's Word.
Though many years have passed, God's man is still fighting the same problem today. As much as we want to get to where we need to be, when we allow worldly philosophy, meaningless rituals and traditions to take hold and eventually control our lives, we've allowed our enemy to cut in on us and keep us from the truth. Trying to follow Him while trying to follow the world makes us a double-minded man, unstable in all he does (James 1:8).
Fortunately, the One who calls us is truth (John 14:6) and faithfulness to His Word will keep us from getting cut in on; allowing us to proclaim: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7).
Sunday, October 11, 2009
A Prayer for Inner Growth
In his letter to the church in Ephesus, Paul offers us up a prayer for inner growth; a prayer that speaks to our need today just as it did to the church he planted almost two thousand years ago: I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all of the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge---that you may be filled to the measure of all of the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:16-19).
Paul is making three powerful requests here. First, he is asking that they be strengthened by the Holy Spirit--who resides in every believer--so that they will be divinely enabled to successfully live the Christian life. Secondly, he is praying that the church would be able to understand the magnitude of the enormous love that Christ has for them. And finally, he prays the life, character and virtues of God Himself would be fully developed in them, which is what we commonly define as spiritual growth.
The idea "dwell" means to settle in and be at ease. As we allow the Holy Spirit to dwell, to strengthen us, our lives become more and more pleasing to God. Knowing the depth of His love for us through Jesus Christ allow us to dwell in a deeper relationship with Him. Our inner growth is both a product of and enabled by the fullness of the love of God---the One who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (v.20)
Is it any wonder that Paul, during one of the more difficult times in his life, could boldly proclaim: I can do everything through Him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13) ?
Paul is making three powerful requests here. First, he is asking that they be strengthened by the Holy Spirit--who resides in every believer--so that they will be divinely enabled to successfully live the Christian life. Secondly, he is praying that the church would be able to understand the magnitude of the enormous love that Christ has for them. And finally, he prays the life, character and virtues of God Himself would be fully developed in them, which is what we commonly define as spiritual growth.
The idea "dwell" means to settle in and be at ease. As we allow the Holy Spirit to dwell, to strengthen us, our lives become more and more pleasing to God. Knowing the depth of His love for us through Jesus Christ allow us to dwell in a deeper relationship with Him. Our inner growth is both a product of and enabled by the fullness of the love of God---the One who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (v.20)
Is it any wonder that Paul, during one of the more difficult times in his life, could boldly proclaim: I can do everything through Him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13) ?
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Every Man's Battle
Research studies have determined that 5 out of every 10 Christian men have a major struggle with pornography. This is a statistic that will either horrify you or make you shrug your shoulders like it's no big deal. But our Lord Jesus Christ drew a pretty hard line in the sand when he told us at the Sermon on the Mount: "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. (Matthew 5:27-28)".
Why did Jesus set the bar so high regarding sexual purity? Because our Savior knows how strongly men are visually stimulated by women. And judging from the fact that there are over one million pornographic websites on the Internet, you can be sure Satan knows this as well. Yet unlike our enemy, who wants us to accept suggestive photos or computer-generated images to satisfy our sexual desire, our Savior knows that pornography degrades women, distorts our image of our wives--the ones we're called to sacrificially love--and it cheapens God's perfect plan for sexual fulfillment between a husband and a wife.
Men's Ministry leaders Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker wrote a book about this struggle to maintain sexual purity and titled it "Every Man's Battle". I highly recommend this book and I also don't think for one minute that their title is an exaggeration. It is crucial for God's men to win this battle, and yes it can be won! www.x3watch.com has several great resources for anyone who is struggling with online pornography.
There are, however, two ways you won't win this battle---alone in isolation and without authentic male accountability built into your life. Our enemy wants you to believe that this sin is so shameful that you must remain in secrecy or that it's no big deal so go ahead an indulge---the same way he tempted Eve in the Garden (Genesis 3:4) and told her "You will not surely die." Make a covenant with your eyes and your heart that you will maintain sexual purity and do whatever it takes to live by it.
Why did Jesus set the bar so high regarding sexual purity? Because our Savior knows how strongly men are visually stimulated by women. And judging from the fact that there are over one million pornographic websites on the Internet, you can be sure Satan knows this as well. Yet unlike our enemy, who wants us to accept suggestive photos or computer-generated images to satisfy our sexual desire, our Savior knows that pornography degrades women, distorts our image of our wives--the ones we're called to sacrificially love--and it cheapens God's perfect plan for sexual fulfillment between a husband and a wife.
Men's Ministry leaders Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker wrote a book about this struggle to maintain sexual purity and titled it "Every Man's Battle". I highly recommend this book and I also don't think for one minute that their title is an exaggeration. It is crucial for God's men to win this battle, and yes it can be won! www.x3watch.com has several great resources for anyone who is struggling with online pornography.
There are, however, two ways you won't win this battle---alone in isolation and without authentic male accountability built into your life. Our enemy wants you to believe that this sin is so shameful that you must remain in secrecy or that it's no big deal so go ahead an indulge---the same way he tempted Eve in the Garden (Genesis 3:4) and told her "You will not surely die." Make a covenant with your eyes and your heart that you will maintain sexual purity and do whatever it takes to live by it.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
What Good is it?
One of the most effective ways to make a point is to ask a rhetorical question--a question that begs an obvious answer. Accordingly, we can find rhetorical questions in the Bible that effectively point out something that on the surface appears to have great benefit, but in reality amounts to nothing.
Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us that we are saved by grace through faith in Christ, not of our own works. Yet notice how James 2:14 tells us how works are still important: "What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?" For those who put their emphasis on material things, Mark 8:36 asks: "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?"
Scripture continues to identify things that seem important, but have no lasting eternal value. Good deeds (Galatians 5:2), physical fitness (1 Timothy 4:8), hard work (Ecclesiastes 2:11) and self-sacrifice without love (1 Corinthians 13:3) are all worthless in the economy of God's Kingdom apart from a relationship and a desire to please and glorify Him.
At the end of the day, if we want to be able to answer the question, "What Good is it?" in a way that has eternal significance, let's make sure the glory is pointed in the right direction---upward and not inward.
Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us that we are saved by grace through faith in Christ, not of our own works. Yet notice how James 2:14 tells us how works are still important: "What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?" For those who put their emphasis on material things, Mark 8:36 asks: "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?"
Scripture continues to identify things that seem important, but have no lasting eternal value. Good deeds (Galatians 5:2), physical fitness (1 Timothy 4:8), hard work (Ecclesiastes 2:11) and self-sacrifice without love (1 Corinthians 13:3) are all worthless in the economy of God's Kingdom apart from a relationship and a desire to please and glorify Him.
At the end of the day, if we want to be able to answer the question, "What Good is it?" in a way that has eternal significance, let's make sure the glory is pointed in the right direction---upward and not inward.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Pleasing in Your Sight
My daughter Amanda came home from school recently with a new Bible memory verse, Psalm 19:14---May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. One of the amazing things about Scripture is how you can read or hear a verse many times, but if you really listen and allow it to speak to your heart, the Holy Spirit provides new insight or sometimes just a hightened awareness of what God is saying. Amanda's new memory verse had just that type of impact on me.
The two things that define us more than anything are our words and our actions. The Bible reminds us how small, yet how very powerful the tongue is and it's potential for harm (James 3:5-12). Yet it also reminds us that our words can bring peace and build up others (Proverbs 15:1-2, 4, 7). God's Word also reminds us how desperately wicked our hearts can be (Jeremiah 17:9) while calling us love to God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30).
Amanda's memory verse, which she now proudly recites, should be a daily prayer for every one of us who follows Christ. God is not only our Rock, our source of strength, but He is also our Redeemer who freed us from the bondage of sin. The things we say and the things we think should bring honor and glory to the One who created us in His image. When our words and our hearts follow after our Lord Jesus Christ, who saved us by his shed blood, we are indeed pleasing in His sight.
The two things that define us more than anything are our words and our actions. The Bible reminds us how small, yet how very powerful the tongue is and it's potential for harm (James 3:5-12). Yet it also reminds us that our words can bring peace and build up others (Proverbs 15:1-2, 4, 7). God's Word also reminds us how desperately wicked our hearts can be (Jeremiah 17:9) while calling us love to God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30).
Amanda's memory verse, which she now proudly recites, should be a daily prayer for every one of us who follows Christ. God is not only our Rock, our source of strength, but He is also our Redeemer who freed us from the bondage of sin. The things we say and the things we think should bring honor and glory to the One who created us in His image. When our words and our hearts follow after our Lord Jesus Christ, who saved us by his shed blood, we are indeed pleasing in His sight.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Compromise...Once
My favorite TV show is 24, where the lead character is Jack Bauer--a counter-terrorism agent. Bauer's life is a constant confrontation with people and groups whose ultimate purpose is to commit evil. Some of those he confronts were at one time the "good guys"--people who were committed to the cause of protecting America but chose to become it's enemy. During one episode, when another character asked Bauer how someone could make the choice to switch, he replied, "You can look the other way once, and it's no big deal, except it makes it easier for you to compromise the next time, and pretty soon that's all your doing; compromising, because that's the way you think things are done. You know the guys I busted? You think they were the bad guys? Because they weren't, they weren't bad guys, they were just like you and me. Except they compromised....once."
Ask anyone who has ruined their life by making sinful choices, and you can pretty much trace it back to the decision to compromise...once. Rarely does one set out intentionally to do evil; rather it is typically a bad first choice where the reward momentarily outweighs the feeling of guilt. People who steal are usually caught after multiple attempts, because after trying it once and succeeding, the next time it becomes easier to compromise. The decision to continue visiting pornographic websites becomes easier if the first attempt succeeds without repercussions. An affair that destroys a marriage always starts with one decision: to flirt, to take an undue interest in a member of the opposite sex, to respond inappropriately to flattery, to compromise.
Notice what James 1:14-15 says about the decision to compromise: but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. The decision to compromise is easier to defeat when we stop it at the starting point---our own evil desires. Immersing ourselves in God's Word, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts and building accountability into our lives will help us keep these desires from being born into sin.
Ask anyone who has ruined their life by making sinful choices, and you can pretty much trace it back to the decision to compromise...once. Rarely does one set out intentionally to do evil; rather it is typically a bad first choice where the reward momentarily outweighs the feeling of guilt. People who steal are usually caught after multiple attempts, because after trying it once and succeeding, the next time it becomes easier to compromise. The decision to continue visiting pornographic websites becomes easier if the first attempt succeeds without repercussions. An affair that destroys a marriage always starts with one decision: to flirt, to take an undue interest in a member of the opposite sex, to respond inappropriately to flattery, to compromise.
Notice what James 1:14-15 says about the decision to compromise: but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. The decision to compromise is easier to defeat when we stop it at the starting point---our own evil desires. Immersing ourselves in God's Word, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts and building accountability into our lives will help us keep these desires from being born into sin.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
One + One + One = One
There is no other human relationship that reflects the character of God and the love of Christ like marriage. We see early in Scripture that God declared "It is not good for the man to be alone, I will make a suitable helper for him (Genesis 2:18). God's perfect design for marriage is for one man and one woman to be joined together as one flesh. (Genesis 2:24). Take one God plus one man plus one woman, all joined together, and you have one great marriage.
Through the marriage relationship, many of God's greatest attributes come into play. Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25) and to lovingly lead their families (5:23). Wives are called to submit to their husbands as unto the Lord (5:22, 24) and to respect them (5:33). Since God is love (1 John 4:7-18), our marriages are stronger when we center ourselves on God and his love. A love that is patient and kind, that isn't jealous, boastful, proud, rude, self-seeking or easily angered. A love that keeps no record of wrongs, does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. A love that always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres and never fails (1 Corinthians 13:4-8).
A marriage conference entitled Vision, Love, Hope, Building a Great Marriage featuring guest speaker and author Winston Smith will be held at Ogletown Baptist Church on October 16 and 17. (the link on the right provides more information and registration details). This conference provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate and grow our marriages. As servant leaders in our homes, I urge every married man reading this blog to come out for this event and invest in building the most important personal relationship in your life. See you there!!
Through the marriage relationship, many of God's greatest attributes come into play. Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25) and to lovingly lead their families (5:23). Wives are called to submit to their husbands as unto the Lord (5:22, 24) and to respect them (5:33). Since God is love (1 John 4:7-18), our marriages are stronger when we center ourselves on God and his love. A love that is patient and kind, that isn't jealous, boastful, proud, rude, self-seeking or easily angered. A love that keeps no record of wrongs, does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. A love that always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres and never fails (1 Corinthians 13:4-8).
A marriage conference entitled Vision, Love, Hope, Building a Great Marriage featuring guest speaker and author Winston Smith will be held at Ogletown Baptist Church on October 16 and 17. (the link on the right provides more information and registration details). This conference provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate and grow our marriages. As servant leaders in our homes, I urge every married man reading this blog to come out for this event and invest in building the most important personal relationship in your life. See you there!!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Our Final Performance Appraisal
Usually, a least once a year, those of us in the workforce have a "Performance Appraisal". This is a time that may bring joy (hopefully) in the form of a pay increase and positive feedback from our bosses or a time of uncomfortable critique and examination of our shortcomings. In preparation for our performance appraisal, we may keep a running list of our accomplishments and achievements and bring them up to enhance our evaluation. Even if our performance appraisal turns out positive, there is probably at least some sense of fear and anxiety going into the experience.
As much as we pay attention to our job-related performance appraisals, there is a much more important one to come---our final performance appraisal. Every person who has ever lived--believers and non-believers---will have a final performance appraisal before God. As we stand before our perfect, holy and just Creator, there will be no opportunity to sell the value of what we've achieved or embellish our accomplishments. There will be no excuses or arguments. All we will have to show and all that we will be evaluated on will be what we did in His name.
Matthew 25:31-46 gives us a vivid picture of what our final performance appraisal will look like. Our Lord Jesus Christ will be sitting on his Heavenly throne (v.31) and everyone will appear before him and be judged (v.32-33). Christ will separate the true believers who ministered to others and served those in need (v. 34-40) from those who did nothing to serve or minister to others (v. 42-45). Those who served others in His name will be rewarded (v. 34) and those who didn't will be punished (v. 41).
There is one way to ensure that our final performance appraisal will result in eternal reward. We must continually examine our hearts and pray that the Holy Spirit will reveal to us how to use our God-given gifts and talents to serve others in a way that honors and glorifies Him. Then our final performance appraisal will be our best ever; resulting in our Lord saying to us "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" (Matthew 25:21)
As much as we pay attention to our job-related performance appraisals, there is a much more important one to come---our final performance appraisal. Every person who has ever lived--believers and non-believers---will have a final performance appraisal before God. As we stand before our perfect, holy and just Creator, there will be no opportunity to sell the value of what we've achieved or embellish our accomplishments. There will be no excuses or arguments. All we will have to show and all that we will be evaluated on will be what we did in His name.
Matthew 25:31-46 gives us a vivid picture of what our final performance appraisal will look like. Our Lord Jesus Christ will be sitting on his Heavenly throne (v.31) and everyone will appear before him and be judged (v.32-33). Christ will separate the true believers who ministered to others and served those in need (v. 34-40) from those who did nothing to serve or minister to others (v. 42-45). Those who served others in His name will be rewarded (v. 34) and those who didn't will be punished (v. 41).
There is one way to ensure that our final performance appraisal will result in eternal reward. We must continually examine our hearts and pray that the Holy Spirit will reveal to us how to use our God-given gifts and talents to serve others in a way that honors and glorifies Him. Then our final performance appraisal will be our best ever; resulting in our Lord saying to us "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" (Matthew 25:21)
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Respect, Honor, Love and Fear
The Bible has a great deal to say about how we should treat others. Passage after passage instructs us how to interact with each other--exhorting us to care for one another, help one another, meet each others needs and value others above ourselves. Yet notice the specific detail provided in 1 Peter 2:17: Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
Some translations use the same word honor in how we relate to others, but the message is clear. We are to treat all people with respect and to show respect to those in authority, so clearly Scripture is teaching us that everyone has value and we should treat them accordingly as people created in God's image (Genesis 1:27). We are then called specifically to love other believers; meaning that we should treat the family of God with an even greater closeness and care--bearing each other's burdens (Galatians 6:2). The church functions more effectively when we function as the body of Christ, each one of us using our spiritual gifts to benefit each other (Romans 12:4-8) and bring honor and glory to Him.
Finally, we are to fear God--not be afraid of God---but give Him a place in our lives above anything else. Proverbs 3:7 tells us: Do not be wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord and shun evil. The fear of the Lord provides many benefits to us as believers: it is the beginning of wisdom and understanding (Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 9:10), it sustains us (Proverbs 10:27), it gives us a strong confidence and place of refuge (Proverbs 14:26) and is a fountain of life (Proverbs 14:27).
The fear of God and His perfect love casts out all other fear (1 John 4:18) and allows us to claim: Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me (Psalm 23:4).
Some translations use the same word honor in how we relate to others, but the message is clear. We are to treat all people with respect and to show respect to those in authority, so clearly Scripture is teaching us that everyone has value and we should treat them accordingly as people created in God's image (Genesis 1:27). We are then called specifically to love other believers; meaning that we should treat the family of God with an even greater closeness and care--bearing each other's burdens (Galatians 6:2). The church functions more effectively when we function as the body of Christ, each one of us using our spiritual gifts to benefit each other (Romans 12:4-8) and bring honor and glory to Him.
Finally, we are to fear God--not be afraid of God---but give Him a place in our lives above anything else. Proverbs 3:7 tells us: Do not be wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord and shun evil. The fear of the Lord provides many benefits to us as believers: it is the beginning of wisdom and understanding (Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 9:10), it sustains us (Proverbs 10:27), it gives us a strong confidence and place of refuge (Proverbs 14:26) and is a fountain of life (Proverbs 14:27).
The fear of God and His perfect love casts out all other fear (1 John 4:18) and allows us to claim: Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me (Psalm 23:4).
Monday, September 14, 2009
Being Perfect
None of us would probably be bold (or foolish) enough to claim to be perfect. As believers, we know that our Lord Jesus Christ was the only perfect man who ever lived and his perfection was necessary to be the acceptable sacrifice for our sins. Yet listen to what Matthew 5:48 says: Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. How in the world can we be perfect, especially like God?
The word perfect in this verse comes from the Greek word teleios, which means complete. What Jesus preached about here in the Sermon on the Mount was the process of becoming more like Him--a process called sanctification. From the moment we accept Christ until the time we breathe our last breath here on earth, God is in the process of changing our old sinful patterns and creating in us a new identity in Christ. While our status in God's family is instant, permanent and secure when we accept Christ, the process of becoming like Christ is a continuous journey for the rest of our earthly existence.
As believers, we can become easily frustrated as we battle sin in our lives; perhaps wishing that sanctification was as instant a process as our salvation. But remember that God does some of his greatest work through the sanctification of believers; drawing many more into His presence through what others can see in us. Hold fast to the words of Philippians 1:6: being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
The word perfect in this verse comes from the Greek word teleios, which means complete. What Jesus preached about here in the Sermon on the Mount was the process of becoming more like Him--a process called sanctification. From the moment we accept Christ until the time we breathe our last breath here on earth, God is in the process of changing our old sinful patterns and creating in us a new identity in Christ. While our status in God's family is instant, permanent and secure when we accept Christ, the process of becoming like Christ is a continuous journey for the rest of our earthly existence.
As believers, we can become easily frustrated as we battle sin in our lives; perhaps wishing that sanctification was as instant a process as our salvation. But remember that God does some of his greatest work through the sanctification of believers; drawing many more into His presence through what others can see in us. Hold fast to the words of Philippians 1:6: being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Trying to Make Sense of it All
Probably the biggest struggle believers face is trying to understand why a perfect, gracious, loving, merciful, everlasting, all-powerful, all-knowing God of all creation would allow His people to experience pain, suffering, hurt and broken-heartedness. Once again, this question comes to mind as one of the men on my ministry team, my friend, Matt Hall and his wife Katie have learned that their unborn child is now in Heaven--depriving them of the joy of raising their child here on earth. What makes this even more painful is that this is the second time this has happened to Matt and Katie--a husband and wife who love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.
At times like these, words often fall woefully short of providing comfort and hope. The prayers and encouragement of friends and fellow believers do help, but they can't dry the tears. Verses like Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 12:9, Isaiah 41:10, Jeremiah 29:11 and Hebrews 4:15 are reminders of the love, care and hope we have in Christ, yet the pain is still all too real. While I can't begin to know or understand what our Heavenly Father's plan is in this or any other painful situation, I do find great encouragement and strength in the way His people respond to their suffering. Being able to praise Him during the storms of life provides hope to others who face their own difficulties.
In her personal blog, http://www.katielynnhall.blogspot.com/ Katie shares the wide range of emotions she's feeling: sadness, grief, confusion, anger, disappointment, defeat along with this powerful thought: "So I'm clenching tightly to something else..securing my grip on something that has and always will have me in the center of Grace and perfect and unending love." Matt posted this quote on Facebook from Francios Fenelon, which I know reflects his heart: "No one has ever developed a deep level of spirituality or holiness without experiencing a great deal of suffering. When a person who suffers reaches a point where he can be calm and carefree, inwardly smiling at his own suffering, and no longer asking God to be delivered from it, then the suffering has accomplished its blessed ministry, perseverance has finished its work."
Thank you, Matt and Katie for your powerful testimony and your faithfulness to the One who sustains us!
At times like these, words often fall woefully short of providing comfort and hope. The prayers and encouragement of friends and fellow believers do help, but they can't dry the tears. Verses like Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 12:9, Isaiah 41:10, Jeremiah 29:11 and Hebrews 4:15 are reminders of the love, care and hope we have in Christ, yet the pain is still all too real. While I can't begin to know or understand what our Heavenly Father's plan is in this or any other painful situation, I do find great encouragement and strength in the way His people respond to their suffering. Being able to praise Him during the storms of life provides hope to others who face their own difficulties.
In her personal blog, http://www.katielynnhall.blogspot.com/ Katie shares the wide range of emotions she's feeling: sadness, grief, confusion, anger, disappointment, defeat along with this powerful thought: "So I'm clenching tightly to something else..securing my grip on something that has and always will have me in the center of Grace and perfect and unending love." Matt posted this quote on Facebook from Francios Fenelon, which I know reflects his heart: "No one has ever developed a deep level of spirituality or holiness without experiencing a great deal of suffering. When a person who suffers reaches a point where he can be calm and carefree, inwardly smiling at his own suffering, and no longer asking God to be delivered from it, then the suffering has accomplished its blessed ministry, perseverance has finished its work."
Thank you, Matt and Katie for your powerful testimony and your faithfulness to the One who sustains us!
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Lessons from Amanda
I couldn't adequately describe in a blog entry what a blessing my 5-1/2 year-old daughter Amanda (see picture to the right) is in my life. I've taught and written frequently on the role of being a godly father and it's an area where I all too frequently fall short. Yet as I look back on my brief time as a father, I recognize many occasions that God has used her to teach me. Here are some of the life lessons I've learned from Amanda.
1) God's love for us is deeper and more incredible than anyone could ever imagine: When Amanda smiles at me, when she draws a picture for me, when I see joy on her face, when she curls up in my lap to watch TV, when she gives me hugs and kisses, when we tell each other "I love you"---I'm reminded that God loved me so much that he sent His only Son Jesus to die on the cross, so that I could live with Him forever. That's a love that's beyond description.
2) God's creation is a wonder we should never take for granted: Amanda's first memory verse in Kindergarten is Genesis 1:1, but the reality is she's marveled at God's creation for quite some time. When she discovers something new or talks about things she's seen, she often reminds me that God made it and that He made us as well.
3) God takes great joy in our obedience: I love it when Amanda listens to me and does what I ask her to do. For those times when she doesn't and I get frustrated, I try to think about how God feels when I disobey Him. After Jesus was baptized, Luke 3:22 tells us how the Holy Spirit came upon Him and God's voice came from Heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased."
4) God's grace, mercy and forgiveness are ours for the asking: One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is genuine honesty, which includes admitting when we are wrong and asking for forgiveness. Amanda is always quick to forgive me when I ask for it and it allows me to teach her the truth of 1 John 1:9, which tells us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
5) God desires our undivided attention and time alone with us: Amanda takes great joy in "Daddy time"--which could be playing together, reading together, watching a movie together, running errands, going to the playground---anything as long as we're together. This reminds me that God also desires time with me alone in His Word and in prayer and how much I am blessed when I spend quality time with Him.
Every night, I pray this prayer for Amanda when Cheryl and I put her to bed: "Protect her from evil, cover her with Christ's blood, fulfill Your purpose in her life." Teaching me is certainly one of those purposes.
1) God's love for us is deeper and more incredible than anyone could ever imagine: When Amanda smiles at me, when she draws a picture for me, when I see joy on her face, when she curls up in my lap to watch TV, when she gives me hugs and kisses, when we tell each other "I love you"---I'm reminded that God loved me so much that he sent His only Son Jesus to die on the cross, so that I could live with Him forever. That's a love that's beyond description.
2) God's creation is a wonder we should never take for granted: Amanda's first memory verse in Kindergarten is Genesis 1:1, but the reality is she's marveled at God's creation for quite some time. When she discovers something new or talks about things she's seen, she often reminds me that God made it and that He made us as well.
3) God takes great joy in our obedience: I love it when Amanda listens to me and does what I ask her to do. For those times when she doesn't and I get frustrated, I try to think about how God feels when I disobey Him. After Jesus was baptized, Luke 3:22 tells us how the Holy Spirit came upon Him and God's voice came from Heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased."
4) God's grace, mercy and forgiveness are ours for the asking: One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is genuine honesty, which includes admitting when we are wrong and asking for forgiveness. Amanda is always quick to forgive me when I ask for it and it allows me to teach her the truth of 1 John 1:9, which tells us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
5) God desires our undivided attention and time alone with us: Amanda takes great joy in "Daddy time"--which could be playing together, reading together, watching a movie together, running errands, going to the playground---anything as long as we're together. This reminds me that God also desires time with me alone in His Word and in prayer and how much I am blessed when I spend quality time with Him.
Every night, I pray this prayer for Amanda when Cheryl and I put her to bed: "Protect her from evil, cover her with Christ's blood, fulfill Your purpose in her life." Teaching me is certainly one of those purposes.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Dead with Christ
What most people recall about Jesus' earthly ministry were the miracles and the people he healed. Often overlooked are some very important teachings as he went toe-to-toe with the religious leaders of his time. The Pharisees knew Scripture and meticulously followed the law, but they also added their own set of rules and standards to elevate themselves about others. We see in Mark 7:11-13 how they even ignored their own family responsibilities while pointing out how others failed to live up to the law. The apostle Paul even had to deal with this prevailing attitude in the early church: Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules (Colossians 2:20).
Sadly, this notion of adding rituals and responsibilities to God's Word still surfaces in today's churches in the form of legalism. Scripture is very clear that our salvation is a free gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ and not of our own doing (Ephesians 2:8-9). Legalism chokes the life out of believers and drives non-believers away in droves--perhaps depriving them of ever hearing the life-changing message of the Gospel. Since the Gospel frees us from attempting to gain Heaven by self-effort, there is absolutely no reason to subject ourselves--or anyone else--to legalistic ordinances. Colossians 2:8 also warns us be on guard against deceptive philosophy based on human traditions that can distort the truth of God's Word.
Listen to Jesus' response to the Pharisees and their legalistic traditions: He replied, "Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men. 'You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men." (Mark 7:6-8).
Being dead with Christ means not only being free from the bondage of sin, but also the entrapment of following legalistic rules---allowing us to victoriously proclaim: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)
Sadly, this notion of adding rituals and responsibilities to God's Word still surfaces in today's churches in the form of legalism. Scripture is very clear that our salvation is a free gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ and not of our own doing (Ephesians 2:8-9). Legalism chokes the life out of believers and drives non-believers away in droves--perhaps depriving them of ever hearing the life-changing message of the Gospel. Since the Gospel frees us from attempting to gain Heaven by self-effort, there is absolutely no reason to subject ourselves--or anyone else--to legalistic ordinances. Colossians 2:8 also warns us be on guard against deceptive philosophy based on human traditions that can distort the truth of God's Word.
Listen to Jesus' response to the Pharisees and their legalistic traditions: He replied, "Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men. 'You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men." (Mark 7:6-8).
Being dead with Christ means not only being free from the bondage of sin, but also the entrapment of following legalistic rules---allowing us to victoriously proclaim: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Not Mine, But Yours
Advertising slogans and motivational speakers we've heard over the past few years have bombarded us with ideas like: "Have it your way", "You deserve it", "If it is to be, it is up to me", "Take the bull by the horns", "You can do it", and so on. Notice a theme here? The message is: It's all about me! Yet probably the biggest key to spiritual growth, which is essential if we are to be men of God, is the notion of submitting to God's will. This goes against our natural, human inclination to want things our way. It also reveals our level of trust in God that He will work all things for our good according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
In the model prayer that Jesus gave to his disciples--the one we call the Lord's prayer--we find these words, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. (Matthew 6:10)" Our Lord very clearly teaches us that above all else, our desire should be that God's will be done, not our own personal wishes. When we wonder why our prayers appear to go unanswered, often James 4:3 provides the answer: "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures."
Obedience to God's will always brings blessing, but it's not always easy. Notice the confidence of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego as they faced the extreme difficulty of following God's will: "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." (Daniel 3:16-18). Our Savior himself, knowing the agony of the cross that He was about to face to pay for our sins, lifted up this prayer: "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." (Luke 22:42)
In the model prayer that Jesus gave to his disciples--the one we call the Lord's prayer--we find these words, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. (Matthew 6:10)" Our Lord very clearly teaches us that above all else, our desire should be that God's will be done, not our own personal wishes. When we wonder why our prayers appear to go unanswered, often James 4:3 provides the answer: "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures."
Obedience to God's will always brings blessing, but it's not always easy. Notice the confidence of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego as they faced the extreme difficulty of following God's will: "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." (Daniel 3:16-18). Our Savior himself, knowing the agony of the cross that He was about to face to pay for our sins, lifted up this prayer: "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." (Luke 22:42)
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Indigenous Sustainability
A core ministry value that I've adopted (courtesy of my old friend Rick Gray) is to encourage "Indigenous Sustainability". These are pretty big words that convey a rather simple and important concept. Indigenous is defined as "innate; inherent; natural", usually referring to characteristics that are native to a particular area. Sustainability is defined as "the ability to keep from give way as under trial or affliction" (source dictionary.com). Indigenous sustainability means having natural ability to move forward in spite of difficulties or obstacles. Or to borrow an old slogan, it means "Keep on keeping on."
We all know how the fallen world we live in makes it hard to keep on keeping on. Yet as servant leaders in our homes, we must strive towards indigenous sustainability because too much is riding on it. Our wives, our children, our friends and our co-workers depend on us. How much more do we reflect God's glory when we push on through difficulties; all the while praising Him for his mercy and goodness. Never forget the importance of encouraging a fellow brother in Christ to continue to press on to win the prize which God has called for us.
Remember this awesome promise from the source of our strength: "The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:28-31)
The Apostle Paul endured great persecution and difficulty in spreading the Gospel, yet notice his words in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."
Keep on keeping on!
We all know how the fallen world we live in makes it hard to keep on keeping on. Yet as servant leaders in our homes, we must strive towards indigenous sustainability because too much is riding on it. Our wives, our children, our friends and our co-workers depend on us. How much more do we reflect God's glory when we push on through difficulties; all the while praising Him for his mercy and goodness. Never forget the importance of encouraging a fellow brother in Christ to continue to press on to win the prize which God has called for us.
Remember this awesome promise from the source of our strength: "The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:28-31)
The Apostle Paul endured great persecution and difficulty in spreading the Gospel, yet notice his words in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."
Keep on keeping on!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
The Truth About Temptation
Temptation is one of the key battlegrounds in spiritual warfare because it always offers a choice between good and evil, an occasion to do right or do wrong and offers either a stepping stone or a stumbling block in our spiritual growth. God certainly isn't the author of temptation, but if He allows it to enter into our lives, it's important for us to understand His purpose behind it.
Rick Warren has a great explanation of His purpose: "God develops the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control) in your life by allowing you to experience circumstances in which you are tempted to express the exact opposite quality." Simply stated, God allows temptation to help transform us into the image of His Son and grow in Christ likeness. The Bible tells us to have great joy in this process that Our Heavenly Father uses to strengthen and complete us (James 1:2-4). He promises to reward our perseverance (James 1:12) and not allow temptation beyond what we can handle and provide escape if needed (1 Corinthians 10:13).
When an opportunity to shade the truth to our own advantage comes along, we have a choice to make. When we're on the computer and a sexually-suggestive website link comes up, we have a choice to make. When an opportunity to serve God or stay within our comfort zone comes up, we have a choice to make. When a chance to put our wife's or our children's needs before our own, we have a choice to make. Let's remember James 1:4 and let perseverance finish it's work so that we may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Rick Warren has a great explanation of His purpose: "God develops the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control) in your life by allowing you to experience circumstances in which you are tempted to express the exact opposite quality." Simply stated, God allows temptation to help transform us into the image of His Son and grow in Christ likeness. The Bible tells us to have great joy in this process that Our Heavenly Father uses to strengthen and complete us (James 1:2-4). He promises to reward our perseverance (James 1:12) and not allow temptation beyond what we can handle and provide escape if needed (1 Corinthians 10:13).
When an opportunity to shade the truth to our own advantage comes along, we have a choice to make. When we're on the computer and a sexually-suggestive website link comes up, we have a choice to make. When an opportunity to serve God or stay within our comfort zone comes up, we have a choice to make. When a chance to put our wife's or our children's needs before our own, we have a choice to make. Let's remember James 1:4 and let perseverance finish it's work so that we may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Star of a Great Story
This week's Men of Integrity devotionals had a great story about a film executive named Micheal Flaherty. Driven by the Columbine tragedy of 1999 where the killers were drawn to dark movies, he and his old college roommate got together and founded Walden Media. Their hope was to provide teachers, parents and pastors with resources to teach children positive, Biblical values. In an industry driven by sex, violence and disturbing imagery, their company has produced great films such as The Chronicles of Narnia and Amazing Grace. "We're after great stories," said Flaherty, "and a key element of a great story is faith."
Flaherty is absolutely right---Faith is a great story. There are some of us who may have overcome drug or alcohol addiction or abuse and neglect that would make a great movie. Yet some of us may have accepted Christ in Sunday School as a child and have a story of lifelong faithfulness and resisting destructive choices all around them. It should be no surprise that Luke 15:10 tells us, "In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
Regardless of how you've come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, one thing is certain---It is a great story and you are the star--thanks to God's everlasting mercy and grace. And great stories need to be told.
Flaherty is absolutely right---Faith is a great story. There are some of us who may have overcome drug or alcohol addiction or abuse and neglect that would make a great movie. Yet some of us may have accepted Christ in Sunday School as a child and have a story of lifelong faithfulness and resisting destructive choices all around them. It should be no surprise that Luke 15:10 tells us, "In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
Regardless of how you've come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, one thing is certain---It is a great story and you are the star--thanks to God's everlasting mercy and grace. And great stories need to be told.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Remember the "Is Nots"
At nearly every wedding, you'll undoubtedly hear the "Love Chapter" (from 1 Corinthians 13) read at some point during the ceremony. Everyone can remember the beginning of it---"Love is patient, love is kind.."---but then the rest of it sort of fades into oblivion. And that's a shame because the rest of this passage tells us a lot about love and more importantly, what love is not.
As we move on through verses 4 through 7, notice all of the things that love is not. Love is not jealous. Love is not proud. Love is not rude. Love is not self-seeking. Love is not easily angered. Love does not keep record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil. Could it be that so many marriages struggle and even fail because we've forgotten the "Is Nots"? How much better would our marriages be if we remembered these words from our wedding day? How great would a marriage be that rejoiced in our wife's well-being, that demonstrated humility, that sought to meet her needs first, that didn't keep score or bring up mistakes from the past and that continually sought the righteousness of God?
The first three verses of the love chapter remind us that we are nothing without love and the chapter ends by reminding us that of faith, hope and love--the greatest is love. As servant leaders in our homes, if we make it a priority to focus on and remember the "Is Nots", then we can truly experience love that always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres and never fails (v.6-7).
As we move on through verses 4 through 7, notice all of the things that love is not. Love is not jealous. Love is not proud. Love is not rude. Love is not self-seeking. Love is not easily angered. Love does not keep record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil. Could it be that so many marriages struggle and even fail because we've forgotten the "Is Nots"? How much better would our marriages be if we remembered these words from our wedding day? How great would a marriage be that rejoiced in our wife's well-being, that demonstrated humility, that sought to meet her needs first, that didn't keep score or bring up mistakes from the past and that continually sought the righteousness of God?
The first three verses of the love chapter remind us that we are nothing without love and the chapter ends by reminding us that of faith, hope and love--the greatest is love. As servant leaders in our homes, if we make it a priority to focus on and remember the "Is Nots", then we can truly experience love that always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres and never fails (v.6-7).
Thursday, August 13, 2009
The Good Thing About Sin
Now that's a title that will get your attention. You might be thinking, Rick is crazy--there is nothing good about sin. God hates sin. Satan tempted Adam and Eve; allowing sin to enter the world and it's been broken ever since. Sin is what damaged the perfect fellowship between God and man.
There really is one good thing about sin and no, I'm not talking about the temporary pleasure we may get from accepting Satan's substitute for God's best. The one good thing about sin is that it reminds us of how great and powerful God is and how fallen and weak we are. Sin reminds us of how much we need God's mercy and grace. Sin reminds us that God spared not even His own Son to save us from our miserable state.
The ten commandments (also referred to in Scripture as the Law) are the best measuring stick we could have to show us how much we can't possibly measure up without Christ. Let the truth of Romans 5:20-21 sink in deeply: "The law was added so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
By accepting Christ's sacrificial death, burial and resurrection from the grave as payment for our sin debt, we are no longer bound by sin and can boldly claim what the apostle Paul did in Galatians 2:20: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
There really is one good thing about sin and no, I'm not talking about the temporary pleasure we may get from accepting Satan's substitute for God's best. The one good thing about sin is that it reminds us of how great and powerful God is and how fallen and weak we are. Sin reminds us of how much we need God's mercy and grace. Sin reminds us that God spared not even His own Son to save us from our miserable state.
The ten commandments (also referred to in Scripture as the Law) are the best measuring stick we could have to show us how much we can't possibly measure up without Christ. Let the truth of Romans 5:20-21 sink in deeply: "The law was added so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
By accepting Christ's sacrificial death, burial and resurrection from the grave as payment for our sin debt, we are no longer bound by sin and can boldly claim what the apostle Paul did in Galatians 2:20: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
Sunday, August 9, 2009
A Title Worth Having
By all accounts, the apostle Paul was a man of wealth, upbringing and influence during his time as a Pharisee. He had all of the intellectual knowledge of Scripture and he zealously persecuted the early church until his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 8). Yet, in spite of impressive credentials, this is how he viewed himself after coming to the saving knowledge of Christ---"Although I am less than the least of all of God's people, this grace was given to me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ (Ephesians 3:8)."
Paul writes in 1 Timothy 1:12-16 that God's love, mercy and grace was poured out on him in spite of the way he violently opposed the early church. He recognized that in spite of all of his scriptural knowledge, his unbelief caused him to be ignorant of the truth. He thanks Christ for the strength he was given to serve Him--in the same passionate way that he had earlier opposed Him. He acknowledges that he is a living example of how Jesus shows unlimited patience to those who would call on Him and receive eternal life. He boldly declares that Christ "came in to the world to save sinners--of whom I am the worst (v.15)."
In a world where so many are defined by their job title, position or economic status, let us not forget that the greatest evangelist ever known gave himself the title "less than the least". Then, we can boldly declare as he did in 2 Corinthians 12:9---"Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."
Paul writes in 1 Timothy 1:12-16 that God's love, mercy and grace was poured out on him in spite of the way he violently opposed the early church. He recognized that in spite of all of his scriptural knowledge, his unbelief caused him to be ignorant of the truth. He thanks Christ for the strength he was given to serve Him--in the same passionate way that he had earlier opposed Him. He acknowledges that he is a living example of how Jesus shows unlimited patience to those who would call on Him and receive eternal life. He boldly declares that Christ "came in to the world to save sinners--of whom I am the worst (v.15)."
In a world where so many are defined by their job title, position or economic status, let us not forget that the greatest evangelist ever known gave himself the title "less than the least". Then, we can boldly declare as he did in 2 Corinthians 12:9---"Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Open Gym Night at Ogletown
Tomorrow night is Open Gym Night at the OEX from 6-9 p.m. We will have dinner starting at 6 (prepared by our chef extraordinaire Ray Raneri) including a brief devotional by our associate pastor Stan Gibson (now a sleep-deprived father of six!!). Then it's a night of fellowship and fun including basketball, volleyball, ping-pong and a three-on-three basketball tournament.
There are some guys that have actually tried to recruit me for their three-on-three teams (which is probably the height of desperation!). There were some rather interesting trios being formed after first service on Sunday, so don't miss out on a good time with the guys!
And as always, I thank the wives of the guys for letting us get together for fun and I promise they won't get in trouble--injured maybe--but not in trouble!
See you there!!
There are some guys that have actually tried to recruit me for their three-on-three teams (which is probably the height of desperation!). There were some rather interesting trios being formed after first service on Sunday, so don't miss out on a good time with the guys!
And as always, I thank the wives of the guys for letting us get together for fun and I promise they won't get in trouble--injured maybe--but not in trouble!
See you there!!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Stay Out of the Dark
There are few things that cause fear more than being in the dark. Statistics show that most crimes are committed at night under the cover of darkness. If someone is said to have "a dark side" that means there is something unpleasant about them. Most of us would also admit that we don't want to wander around alone at night in the dark because that is when we are most vulnerable.
Pastor Curtis had a great quote in today's message--"Sin grows in darkness". Our thoughts and actions can quickly turn away from God if we remain isolated in the dark. If we fail to stay in God's Word and allow it to penetrate our hearts and our minds, we can allow darkness to creep in. And just like a criminal can hide in the dark, we too can hide behind our sins under the cover of darkness. This is why accountability and being connected to other Christian men is critical to our spiritual well being.
As believers, we have no reason to stay in the dark. Ephesians 5:8 tells us "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light." God has delivered us from darkness through the sacrifice of His Son (Colossians 1:13). Because of His rescue, we have an eternal home that can never be taken from us--"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light (1 Peter 2:9)."
Pastor Curtis had a great quote in today's message--"Sin grows in darkness". Our thoughts and actions can quickly turn away from God if we remain isolated in the dark. If we fail to stay in God's Word and allow it to penetrate our hearts and our minds, we can allow darkness to creep in. And just like a criminal can hide in the dark, we too can hide behind our sins under the cover of darkness. This is why accountability and being connected to other Christian men is critical to our spiritual well being.
As believers, we have no reason to stay in the dark. Ephesians 5:8 tells us "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light." God has delivered us from darkness through the sacrifice of His Son (Colossians 1:13). Because of His rescue, we have an eternal home that can never be taken from us--"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light (1 Peter 2:9)."
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Champion the Gospel of Grace
From time to time, I will blog about what I've listed as my core ministry values. I came up with these through prayer and through people who have had a strong spiritual influence in my life. Rick Gray, my best friend from my U of D days, who prayed for my Salvation for years, came up with the term "Champion the Gospel of Grace".
Grace is something that believers talk about, sing hymns and praise songs about, but probably don't fully comprehend. The following acronym defines it as well as anything I've heard: God's Riches At Christ's Expense. God's grace is the only basis we have for an eternal destiny in Heaven--a destiny based on absolutely nothing that we've accomplished but solely on faith in the person of Jesus Christ as a gift from God. Grace frees us from having to earn favor with Him and having to compare ourselves with others. Christ himself is described in John 1:14 as having come from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Grace also allows us boldly approach God with our praises and our requests (Hebrews 4:16). Grace enables us, despite our limitations, to do great things for His Kingdom (Ephesians 3:8). Grace is given to us in limitless supply when we are humble (James 4:6) and perhaps best of all, God's grace is sufficient for any need we have and any problem we face (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Paul David Tripp says grace is "the most transformational word in Scripture. Grace will convince you of your unworthiness without ever making you feel unloved." Championing the Gospel of grace is simply giving what God has so freely given us---love, mercy, kindness, forgiveness, patience, knowledge, virtue, gentleness and peace---and passing it on to benefit others.
Grace is something that believers talk about, sing hymns and praise songs about, but probably don't fully comprehend. The following acronym defines it as well as anything I've heard: God's Riches At Christ's Expense. God's grace is the only basis we have for an eternal destiny in Heaven--a destiny based on absolutely nothing that we've accomplished but solely on faith in the person of Jesus Christ as a gift from God. Grace frees us from having to earn favor with Him and having to compare ourselves with others. Christ himself is described in John 1:14 as having come from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Grace also allows us boldly approach God with our praises and our requests (Hebrews 4:16). Grace enables us, despite our limitations, to do great things for His Kingdom (Ephesians 3:8). Grace is given to us in limitless supply when we are humble (James 4:6) and perhaps best of all, God's grace is sufficient for any need we have and any problem we face (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Paul David Tripp says grace is "the most transformational word in Scripture. Grace will convince you of your unworthiness without ever making you feel unloved." Championing the Gospel of grace is simply giving what God has so freely given us---love, mercy, kindness, forgiveness, patience, knowledge, virtue, gentleness and peace---and passing it on to benefit others.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Are You Ready to Receive?
Scripture tells us that our Heavenly Father stands ready to pour out blessings on his people if they would only ask. Matthew 7:7 and Philippians 4:6 urge us to ask for and seek God's blessing and to bring all of our requests to Him with an attitude of thankfulness. While sometimes God's answer to our prayers is to wait on His prefect timing (Psalm 27:14), we must also be aware that if we ask for the wrong things for the wrong reasons or for our own comfort, He will not bless us (James 4:3).
1 Kings 3:5-14 gives us a beautiful picture of God's desire to bless those who ask for the right things for the right reasons. God appears to Solomon in a dream as he is about to assume the throne from his father (King David) and tells him to ask for whatever he wants. Instead of focusing on himself and his own desires, Solomon first recalls the way God had blessed his father (v. 6) and then humbly acknowledges his own limitations and the greatness of the task before him (v. 7-8). Then Solomon makes his request: "So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours? (v.9)"
Now watch God's response. He recognizes that Solomon didn't ask for personal wealth and pleasures and that he asked for wisdom only so that he could more effectively lead his people. Then God promises Solomon that he will give him wisdom greater than any man who has ever lived (v.12). He also gives him blessings that he never even asked for--wealth, honor and prestige beyond what anyone else would ever have (v.13) and the promise of lifetime reward for his faithfulness (v.14).
Having an attitude like Solomon's---one that acknowledges how great God is and how limited we are, one that seeks blessing to help bless others and one that thirsts for righteousness (Matthew 6:33)---opens the door for Him to give blessings. Are you ready to receive?
1 Kings 3:5-14 gives us a beautiful picture of God's desire to bless those who ask for the right things for the right reasons. God appears to Solomon in a dream as he is about to assume the throne from his father (King David) and tells him to ask for whatever he wants. Instead of focusing on himself and his own desires, Solomon first recalls the way God had blessed his father (v. 6) and then humbly acknowledges his own limitations and the greatness of the task before him (v. 7-8). Then Solomon makes his request: "So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours? (v.9)"
Now watch God's response. He recognizes that Solomon didn't ask for personal wealth and pleasures and that he asked for wisdom only so that he could more effectively lead his people. Then God promises Solomon that he will give him wisdom greater than any man who has ever lived (v.12). He also gives him blessings that he never even asked for--wealth, honor and prestige beyond what anyone else would ever have (v.13) and the promise of lifetime reward for his faithfulness (v.14).
Having an attitude like Solomon's---one that acknowledges how great God is and how limited we are, one that seeks blessing to help bless others and one that thirsts for righteousness (Matthew 6:33)---opens the door for Him to give blessings. Are you ready to receive?
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Most Important Thing We Do
You don't have to spend much time with me to know that I love the Florida Gators (both Cheryl's car and my car are dead giveaways!). So it's no stretch to see that I love Tim Tebow---our quarterback, former Heisman Trophy winner and member of two (hopefully three!!) National Championship teams.
What I really love about Tebow, besides the fact that he is an incredible football player and leader on the field, is his passion for using his platform to honor and glorify his Lord and Savior. His Heisman speech was an incredible testimony to his love for Jesus (Check out the video link to the right--a great testimony seen by millions). This week's issue of Sports Illustrated has a great article that tells us a lot about what is most important to him: http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1158168/index.htm
When asked why he likes to go visit men in prisons and share the Gospel, he replied, "You're talking to guys who have no hope, no support, who have been totally written off by the world."
Whether you are a star athlete, a businessman, a teacher, a construction worker or just an ordinary husband and father---God wants you to share the light of Christ with those around you. Romans 12:1 says "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship." Regardless of what you do or who you are, you have something very important to say. There are lost people around you who also have no hope, who have been written off by the world, who need to hear the live-saving message of the Gospel. Let them hear you!!
What I really love about Tebow, besides the fact that he is an incredible football player and leader on the field, is his passion for using his platform to honor and glorify his Lord and Savior. His Heisman speech was an incredible testimony to his love for Jesus (Check out the video link to the right--a great testimony seen by millions). This week's issue of Sports Illustrated has a great article that tells us a lot about what is most important to him: http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1158168/index.htm
When asked why he likes to go visit men in prisons and share the Gospel, he replied, "You're talking to guys who have no hope, no support, who have been totally written off by the world."
Whether you are a star athlete, a businessman, a teacher, a construction worker or just an ordinary husband and father---God wants you to share the light of Christ with those around you. Romans 12:1 says "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship." Regardless of what you do or who you are, you have something very important to say. There are lost people around you who also have no hope, who have been written off by the world, who need to hear the live-saving message of the Gospel. Let them hear you!!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Ready for Battle (part 3)
Once we know how our enemy operates, it's time to prepare ourselves for battle. Ephesians 6:10-18 is a familiar passage to many of us regarding the armor of God and one that we should revisit often. There are several truths in this passage that are especially worth remembering.
We can only fight our enemy through the strength and power of the Lord (v.10), not ourselves. The armor of God protects us so that we can stand ready for battle (vs. 11 & 13). In verse 14 we find two very important pieces of battle gear. The belt of truth is what holds everything together because the truth of God's Word always counters the lies of Satan. The breastplate of righteousness is what protects our hearts and keeps us focusing on God's purposes and plans; allowing us to maintain a right relationship with Him. The shield of faith (v.16) is our defense against all of his attacks and schemes. Faith is believing that God works all things for our good, that He will never leave us or forsake us and that nothing can separate us from His love. Without faith, we allow fear, doubt and worry to paralyze us.
The one offensive weapon in the armor of God is found in verse 17---the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Our Lord Jesus Christ himself used Scripture to fight Satan's temptations (Matthew 4:1-11). As God's men, we will never go wrong following our Savior's example.
We can only fight our enemy through the strength and power of the Lord (v.10), not ourselves. The armor of God protects us so that we can stand ready for battle (vs. 11 & 13). In verse 14 we find two very important pieces of battle gear. The belt of truth is what holds everything together because the truth of God's Word always counters the lies of Satan. The breastplate of righteousness is what protects our hearts and keeps us focusing on God's purposes and plans; allowing us to maintain a right relationship with Him. The shield of faith (v.16) is our defense against all of his attacks and schemes. Faith is believing that God works all things for our good, that He will never leave us or forsake us and that nothing can separate us from His love. Without faith, we allow fear, doubt and worry to paralyze us.
The one offensive weapon in the armor of God is found in verse 17---the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Our Lord Jesus Christ himself used Scripture to fight Satan's temptations (Matthew 4:1-11). As God's men, we will never go wrong following our Savior's example.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Ready for Battle (part 2)
Since we know that Satan's primary tactics are accusing, deceiving and tempting in order to keep us separated from God, it is important for God's men to have a game plan to deal with each one of these.
1) Accuse the accuser---Satan tries to trap us in our own guilt and pull us away from God when in fact he is guiltier than anyone else God ever created. Sometimes, Satan will try to make us think that even having flash thoughts of sin that we don't even act upon is sinful in an attempt to shame us into believing God's forgiveness is conditional. Never forget that Christ took our sin debt---past, present and future---and nailed it to the cross at Calvary.
2) Turn Satan's lies into God's truth---Never forget that every one of Satan's lies is contrary to God's Word. His first lie to Eve in the Garden ("You shall surely not die") resulted in the original sin and he's been lying and deceiving mankind ever since. He will always try to use our insecurities against us and keep us tangled up in fear and doubt. A steady, daily dose of prayer and Scripture reading will enable us to recognize his lies and replace them with God's truth.
3) Be prepared to battle temptation---Temptation is often Satan's most effective weapon. We must train our minds to focus on the big picture rather than the immediate pleasure he is offering. We must be proactive in identifying our weaknesses---the areas where we are induced to sin---and recognize the conditions under which we are most likely to yield. Trust in the Lord that He is in control and will limit temptation to what we can handle through His strength. Continually allow the discernment of the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts and guide us to make the right choices---choices that bring honor and glory to God.
1) Accuse the accuser---Satan tries to trap us in our own guilt and pull us away from God when in fact he is guiltier than anyone else God ever created. Sometimes, Satan will try to make us think that even having flash thoughts of sin that we don't even act upon is sinful in an attempt to shame us into believing God's forgiveness is conditional. Never forget that Christ took our sin debt---past, present and future---and nailed it to the cross at Calvary.
2) Turn Satan's lies into God's truth---Never forget that every one of Satan's lies is contrary to God's Word. His first lie to Eve in the Garden ("You shall surely not die") resulted in the original sin and he's been lying and deceiving mankind ever since. He will always try to use our insecurities against us and keep us tangled up in fear and doubt. A steady, daily dose of prayer and Scripture reading will enable us to recognize his lies and replace them with God's truth.
3) Be prepared to battle temptation---Temptation is often Satan's most effective weapon. We must train our minds to focus on the big picture rather than the immediate pleasure he is offering. We must be proactive in identifying our weaknesses---the areas where we are induced to sin---and recognize the conditions under which we are most likely to yield. Trust in the Lord that He is in control and will limit temptation to what we can handle through His strength. Continually allow the discernment of the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts and guide us to make the right choices---choices that bring honor and glory to God.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Ready for Battle (part 1)
As Christian men and leaders in our homes, it is crucial for us to be aware of the fact that we are engaged in spiritual warfare with a very real and very formidable enemy. In a 2006 Barna Research study, only 45% of respondents believed that Satan was real and not just a symbol of evil. While I truly believe that virtually every Christian is aware of the reality of Satan, I also believe that there are many among us who are ill-equipped to fight him effectively.
The first thing we need to know in battling our enemy is that his primary goal and mission is to keep us separated from our Heavenly Father. From the original sin in the Garden of Eden to today, Satan has used temptation and deceit to try and keep us disconnected from God. He tempts us to use our God-given desires in ways that God never intended and would dishonor Him. He deceives us into thinking that money, power and possessions are more important than what God has planned for us. He tries to make us think that the ways of the world are more important and relevant than the eternal truth of God's Word. And when we stumble and fall, as the accuser he is more than ready to use guilt and shame to try and keep us from seeking forgiveness and restoring our relationship with Him.
In the coming days, we'll cover more about how to be ready for battle but in the meantime, never forget this---our spiritual enemy has already been defeated by Jesus Christ and His death, burial and resurrection from the grave. Christ's atoning death of the cross paid our sin debt and his glorious rising from the dead defeated death and the power of Satan forever. Our enemy still hasn't stopped trying to keep us separated from God, but through Christ Jesus--our victory is assured!!
The first thing we need to know in battling our enemy is that his primary goal and mission is to keep us separated from our Heavenly Father. From the original sin in the Garden of Eden to today, Satan has used temptation and deceit to try and keep us disconnected from God. He tempts us to use our God-given desires in ways that God never intended and would dishonor Him. He deceives us into thinking that money, power and possessions are more important than what God has planned for us. He tries to make us think that the ways of the world are more important and relevant than the eternal truth of God's Word. And when we stumble and fall, as the accuser he is more than ready to use guilt and shame to try and keep us from seeking forgiveness and restoring our relationship with Him.
In the coming days, we'll cover more about how to be ready for battle but in the meantime, never forget this---our spiritual enemy has already been defeated by Jesus Christ and His death, burial and resurrection from the grave. Christ's atoning death of the cross paid our sin debt and his glorious rising from the dead defeated death and the power of Satan forever. Our enemy still hasn't stopped trying to keep us separated from God, but through Christ Jesus--our victory is assured!!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Ordinary and not needed
Throughout Scripture, we see countless examples of how God used ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. Even more amazing is the fact that as the all-powerful, all-knowing, all present, eternal creator of the universe, He really doesn't need any of us to accomplish anything. Yet His purpose and plan has always been to include His people, the prize of His creation (Genesis 1:26), in what He accomplishes.
Take Peter, an ordinary uneducated fisherman for example. When Jesus called him and his brother Andrew to follow him, he did so without hesitation (Matthew 4:18-20). When we think of Peter, the first recollection is usually how he denied Christ three times the night before his death on the cross. Scripture also records times when he was impulsive and prideful.
Yet what we should really notice about Peter was his passion to boldly follow his Lord and Savior. He declared that Jesus was the Son of The Living God (Matt. 16:16), he eagerly walked on water to meet Jesus (Matt. 14:27-29), he had the glorious opportunity to witness Jesus' transfiguration (Matt. 17:1-5). Peter became a member of Christ's inner circle, not because of his abilities, not because of his accomplishments, but solely upon his desire to be near his Lord. Because of the heart he had for serving Him, God used him mightily in forming and leading the early church after Pentecost (Acts 2-5).
When given the chance to describe ourselves or tell our personal story, it's likely we wouldn't want to admit that we were ordinary and not that important. But that's exactly the type of mindset we need to have to allow God to accomplish His purpose and plan in our lives.
Take Peter, an ordinary uneducated fisherman for example. When Jesus called him and his brother Andrew to follow him, he did so without hesitation (Matthew 4:18-20). When we think of Peter, the first recollection is usually how he denied Christ three times the night before his death on the cross. Scripture also records times when he was impulsive and prideful.
Yet what we should really notice about Peter was his passion to boldly follow his Lord and Savior. He declared that Jesus was the Son of The Living God (Matt. 16:16), he eagerly walked on water to meet Jesus (Matt. 14:27-29), he had the glorious opportunity to witness Jesus' transfiguration (Matt. 17:1-5). Peter became a member of Christ's inner circle, not because of his abilities, not because of his accomplishments, but solely upon his desire to be near his Lord. Because of the heart he had for serving Him, God used him mightily in forming and leading the early church after Pentecost (Acts 2-5).
When given the chance to describe ourselves or tell our personal story, it's likely we wouldn't want to admit that we were ordinary and not that important. But that's exactly the type of mindset we need to have to allow God to accomplish His purpose and plan in our lives.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Saving the best for last
In June, Pastor Curtis issued the Proverbs challenge--read a chapter a day for the entire month. Since there are only 30 days in June, I hope those of you who took the challenge (especially you husbands) didn't stop and miss chapter 31:10-31 (the last passage in Proverbs) that speaks about the virtuous woman.
The qualities mentioned regarding the virtuous woman are simply incredible---she is more valuable that precious jewels (v.10), she has her husband's trust (v.11), she does good instead of evil (v.12), she works hard (v.13-17), she helps others (v.20), she takes care of her home (v.21), she is strong and dignified (v.25), she speaks wisely with kindness (v.26) and she is loved by her husband and children (v.28)---more than sufficient reminders to us about the value, abilities and importance of our helpmates. The Lord certainly knew what he was doing when he decreed "it is not good for man to be alone, I will make a helper suitable for him" (Genesis 2:18).
My wife Cheryl is certainly one of the greatest blessings in my life. When we were doing the "Love Dare" study a few months ago, I had an opportunity to list the things I love about her and within a few minutes I had compiled over 25 different things! I thank God every single day for giving me a virtuous woman to be my wife--a woman who has these qualities and who "fears the Lord and is to be praised (v. 30)".
I pray that all of us who are fortunate enough to be married to godly women would give praise to our Heavenly Father for the incredible gift He has given each of us.
The qualities mentioned regarding the virtuous woman are simply incredible---she is more valuable that precious jewels (v.10), she has her husband's trust (v.11), she does good instead of evil (v.12), she works hard (v.13-17), she helps others (v.20), she takes care of her home (v.21), she is strong and dignified (v.25), she speaks wisely with kindness (v.26) and she is loved by her husband and children (v.28)---more than sufficient reminders to us about the value, abilities and importance of our helpmates. The Lord certainly knew what he was doing when he decreed "it is not good for man to be alone, I will make a helper suitable for him" (Genesis 2:18).
My wife Cheryl is certainly one of the greatest blessings in my life. When we were doing the "Love Dare" study a few months ago, I had an opportunity to list the things I love about her and within a few minutes I had compiled over 25 different things! I thank God every single day for giving me a virtuous woman to be my wife--a woman who has these qualities and who "fears the Lord and is to be praised (v. 30)".
I pray that all of us who are fortunate enough to be married to godly women would give praise to our Heavenly Father for the incredible gift He has given each of us.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
A very simple instruction
Like most guys, I like to keep things simple. If I'm working on a project or I'm assembling something, the success of the project is usually in direct proportion to how simple the instructions are. That's why I think God had us guys in mind when he inspired the apostle Paul to write this very simple instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:17---pray continually.
Even if we start our day in prayer and personal devotion time with our Lord, this verse clearly tells us not to stop there. Our Heavenly Father wants to communicate with us throughout our busy day and the best news of all is we don't need to check our daytimer, schedule a meeting or set up a conference call to spend time with Him. When I feel my frustration level rise due to various circumstances going on in my life, it's almost always an accurate litmus test as to how well I've prayed continually. On both sides of this simple instruction, the Bible calls us to "be joyful always" (v.16) and "give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (v.18).
Spend some time in the book of Psalms and you'll see many passages where David (described as a man after God's heart) spent time with the Lord in prayer; pouring out his thanks, his joy, his praise, his fears, his frustrations---all the while knowing it was God alone who could meet his every need.
As servant leaders in our homes, we would do well to follow his example!
Even if we start our day in prayer and personal devotion time with our Lord, this verse clearly tells us not to stop there. Our Heavenly Father wants to communicate with us throughout our busy day and the best news of all is we don't need to check our daytimer, schedule a meeting or set up a conference call to spend time with Him. When I feel my frustration level rise due to various circumstances going on in my life, it's almost always an accurate litmus test as to how well I've prayed continually. On both sides of this simple instruction, the Bible calls us to "be joyful always" (v.16) and "give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (v.18).
Spend some time in the book of Psalms and you'll see many passages where David (described as a man after God's heart) spent time with the Lord in prayer; pouring out his thanks, his joy, his praise, his fears, his frustrations---all the while knowing it was God alone who could meet his every need.
As servant leaders in our homes, we would do well to follow his example!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
A Lifestyle--Not a "To Do" list
I can't help but think back to what a great time we had at Men's Night 222. It was a blessing to see so many men from Ogletown and other churches--of all ages and backgrounds--come out for a great night of worship and fellowship. It was a special blessing to me to have so many guys help out to make it such a great night. Among many things, this night proved to me that the men of Ogletown love their Lord and Savior and the heart of worship is beating strongly among us!
It was fun to share my story about working out and getting is shape and tying that to working on spiritual health. Just like exercising becomes effective only when we adopt it as a lifestyle, spiritual health works the exact same way---if we view personal devotions, church, Bible study and service as a "to do" list, it becomes a chore rather than an essential part of who we are.
Strive for Five (personal devotions, church, small group, one-on-one accountability, service to others), just like a good workout routine, is more effective as a lifestyle choice---and a very healthy one at that!!
It was fun to share my story about working out and getting is shape and tying that to working on spiritual health. Just like exercising becomes effective only when we adopt it as a lifestyle, spiritual health works the exact same way---if we view personal devotions, church, Bible study and service as a "to do" list, it becomes a chore rather than an essential part of who we are.
Strive for Five (personal devotions, church, small group, one-on-one accountability, service to others), just like a good workout routine, is more effective as a lifestyle choice---and a very healthy one at that!!
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Welcome to OBC Men's Ministry
For those of you who know how technology-challanged I am, this is an exciting time for me. I am excited to have finally created this blog for the men of Ogletown Baptist Church as well as others who strive to be men of God. This blog is the result of many hours of prayer, many hours of trial and error and the wonderful patience of my wife Cheryl and my daughter Amanda.
The purpose of this blog is to help the men grow in their relationship with our Lord and Savior, to provide resources to encourage men in their daily walk, to help men fulfill their God-given roles as servant-leaders, husbands and fathers in their homes, to help men get connected to other men who desire to lead godly lives and to help keep men up to date on upcoming men's ministry events at OBC.
I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior on June 2, 1998 at a funeral. Pastor Gary Hayden (Senior Pastor at Midway Baptist Church in Rehoboth, DE) preached at the funeral, shared the Gospel and gave the invitation that changed my life for good. God had been working on my heart for years as I tried to continually do things in my own strength, never realizing that anything done apart from a relationship with Him is meaningless. Like millions of other men, I always believed in God, but I didn't know Jesus Christ. I believed that if I did enough good things and didn't commit any of the BIG sins, I would someday be able to convince God to let me in Heaven. It wasn't until I finally put all of the pieces together and realized that I was a hopeless sinner who could only be saved by believing that Christ lived a perfect sinless life and died on the cross to pay for my sins and accepted his sacrificial death as payment for my sin debt that I could be forgiven and accept His free gift of everlasting life. What an awesome Savior!!
My involvement in men's ministry is the result of an alter call response I made at a Promise Keepers event in 2005. My family and I had just started coming to OBC and I had been prayerfully seeking His will in where He would have me serve and use my spiritual gifts and talents. It was during this event that I realized that there were many challanges facing Christian men in our world and these challanges could never be met apart from a strong personal relationship with Christ and a connection with other godly men who were seeking to grow in their faith. The Lord laid on my heart the reality that the world does everything possible to distance and distract men from leading God-honoring lives and pursuing His Kingdom and His righteousness. It was then and there that I committed my life to helping men fulfill their God-given roles to love and lead their families.
There isn't a day that goes by in my personal devotional time with God that I don't ask him to speak to me as to what He wants me to do to serve Him. I praise Him for giving me a passion for serving the men of our church and a passion for reaching out and helping men outside of our church as well.
I pray that God will use me through this ministry and through this blog to minister to the men of Ogletown Baptist Church in a way that brings Him honor and glory!
The purpose of this blog is to help the men grow in their relationship with our Lord and Savior, to provide resources to encourage men in their daily walk, to help men fulfill their God-given roles as servant-leaders, husbands and fathers in their homes, to help men get connected to other men who desire to lead godly lives and to help keep men up to date on upcoming men's ministry events at OBC.
I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior on June 2, 1998 at a funeral. Pastor Gary Hayden (Senior Pastor at Midway Baptist Church in Rehoboth, DE) preached at the funeral, shared the Gospel and gave the invitation that changed my life for good. God had been working on my heart for years as I tried to continually do things in my own strength, never realizing that anything done apart from a relationship with Him is meaningless. Like millions of other men, I always believed in God, but I didn't know Jesus Christ. I believed that if I did enough good things and didn't commit any of the BIG sins, I would someday be able to convince God to let me in Heaven. It wasn't until I finally put all of the pieces together and realized that I was a hopeless sinner who could only be saved by believing that Christ lived a perfect sinless life and died on the cross to pay for my sins and accepted his sacrificial death as payment for my sin debt that I could be forgiven and accept His free gift of everlasting life. What an awesome Savior!!
My involvement in men's ministry is the result of an alter call response I made at a Promise Keepers event in 2005. My family and I had just started coming to OBC and I had been prayerfully seeking His will in where He would have me serve and use my spiritual gifts and talents. It was during this event that I realized that there were many challanges facing Christian men in our world and these challanges could never be met apart from a strong personal relationship with Christ and a connection with other godly men who were seeking to grow in their faith. The Lord laid on my heart the reality that the world does everything possible to distance and distract men from leading God-honoring lives and pursuing His Kingdom and His righteousness. It was then and there that I committed my life to helping men fulfill their God-given roles to love and lead their families.
There isn't a day that goes by in my personal devotional time with God that I don't ask him to speak to me as to what He wants me to do to serve Him. I praise Him for giving me a passion for serving the men of our church and a passion for reaching out and helping men outside of our church as well.
I pray that God will use me through this ministry and through this blog to minister to the men of Ogletown Baptist Church in a way that brings Him honor and glory!
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