Tares among the Wheat
“Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, ‘First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.’ ”—Matthew 13:30
Ananias and Sapphira had a choice: They could give a lot to the early church, or they could give a little. Nothing was required of them, but they decided to act as though they were giving a lot when they really were not. This was a sin of hypocrisy.
The Bible also says they lied to the Holy Spirit. This was a specific sin against the Spirit of God. Ananias and Sapphira found out that you can’t fool God. It is interesting that the name Ananias means “God is gracious,” but he found out that God is also holy. The name Sapphira means “beautiful,” but her heart was ugly with sin. It is easy for us to condemn Ananias and Sapphira for their dishonesty. But maybe we need to examine our own lives to see if our profession is backed up by our practice.
The devil loves to counterfeit the genuine. He appears to operate by the adage, “If you can’t beat them, join them.” He has his tares among the wheat. There are false Christians. There are false preachers. There are false teachers, false apostles, and false prophets. There are Ananiases and Sapphiras in our ranks. The Judas Iscariots are out there too. They go to the same churches as we do. They live in the same neighborhoods. They go to the same schools.
But one of these days God, who knows all hearts, will separate the wheat from the chaff and the true from the false. It is not for us to do, however. It is for Him to do.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/30/07
No Condemnation
There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.—Romans 8:1
We all have our moments of hypocrisy—times when we are not behaving as we ought to behave as Christians, times where we really let the Lord down in our witness. The Bible tells us that hypocrites find out the hard way that you can’t pull the wool over God’s eyes. God deals with them very harshly because, in all honesty, He hates the sin of hypocrisy.
When Jesus walked this earth, He saved His most scathing words not for the sinners of the day, but for the self-righteous, religious hypocrites. In fact, with the sinners He could be quite gentle. Remember the woman caught in the act of adultery? He said to her, “Where are those accusers of yours?”
“No one, Lord,” she told Him.
Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more” (see John 8:10–11).
Does this mean Jesus approved of the way she lived? Far from it—God is very clear about how He wants us to live. Jesus knew the real problem was that her sin needed to be resolved.
It was the same thing with the woman at the well, who was known for her immorality. Yet as Jesus spoke to her that day in Samaria, He did not condemn her for her lifestyle as much as He appealed to her inner spiritual thirst.
The bottom line is that people are empty, and they need to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Expend your energy there. Expend your energy in proclaiming the gospel. The heart of the matter is that people are lost. They need Christ. And we need to take that message to them.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.—Romans 8:1
We all have our moments of hypocrisy—times when we are not behaving as we ought to behave as Christians, times where we really let the Lord down in our witness. The Bible tells us that hypocrites find out the hard way that you can’t pull the wool over God’s eyes. God deals with them very harshly because, in all honesty, He hates the sin of hypocrisy.
When Jesus walked this earth, He saved His most scathing words not for the sinners of the day, but for the self-righteous, religious hypocrites. In fact, with the sinners He could be quite gentle. Remember the woman caught in the act of adultery? He said to her, “Where are those accusers of yours?”
“No one, Lord,” she told Him.
Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more” (see John 8:10–11).
Does this mean Jesus approved of the way she lived? Far from it—God is very clear about how He wants us to live. Jesus knew the real problem was that her sin needed to be resolved.
It was the same thing with the woman at the well, who was known for her immorality. Yet as Jesus spoke to her that day in Samaria, He did not condemn her for her lifestyle as much as He appealed to her inner spiritual thirst.
The bottom line is that people are empty, and they need to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Expend your energy there. Expend your energy in proclaiming the gospel. The heart of the matter is that people are lost. They need Christ. And we need to take that message to them.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/29/07
Ability vs. Availability
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.—2 Corinthians 4:7
When Peter and John were brought before the Sanhedrin, it was a source of complete amazement that these untrained laymen could be so well-versed in the Scriptures—and more importantly, in their understanding. They were ordinary fishermen, salt-of-the-earth-type people. This doesn’t mean they were illiterate. But they had not attended the rabbinical schools or spent their lives in the study of the Scripture.
Acts 4:13 tells us that when these religious leaders “saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.” These simple fishermen appeared to be better-equipped than the professionals were. How did this happen? The disciples had been with Jesus. They were boldly sharing their faith. They knew the Scriptures. They were men who prayed.
This should give hope and encouragement to those who think of themselves as ordinary people. Maybe God has not called you to be a pastor, a missionary, or some professional ministry position. But God can use you too. It is clear that He is looking for ordinary men and women to bring the gospel message to others.
God can use you where you are. The opportunities are there. There is a mission field where you work. There is a mission field where you go to school. There is a mission field in your neighborhood. You are God’s representative, and He is calling you to go into this world and speak up for Him. God is not looking so much for ability as He is looking for availability. So make yourself available to Him.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.—2 Corinthians 4:7
When Peter and John were brought before the Sanhedrin, it was a source of complete amazement that these untrained laymen could be so well-versed in the Scriptures—and more importantly, in their understanding. They were ordinary fishermen, salt-of-the-earth-type people. This doesn’t mean they were illiterate. But they had not attended the rabbinical schools or spent their lives in the study of the Scripture.
Acts 4:13 tells us that when these religious leaders “saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.” These simple fishermen appeared to be better-equipped than the professionals were. How did this happen? The disciples had been with Jesus. They were boldly sharing their faith. They knew the Scriptures. They were men who prayed.
This should give hope and encouragement to those who think of themselves as ordinary people. Maybe God has not called you to be a pastor, a missionary, or some professional ministry position. But God can use you too. It is clear that He is looking for ordinary men and women to bring the gospel message to others.
God can use you where you are. The opportunities are there. There is a mission field where you work. There is a mission field where you go to school. There is a mission field in your neighborhood. You are God’s representative, and He is calling you to go into this world and speak up for Him. God is not looking so much for ability as He is looking for availability. So make yourself available to Him.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Looking forward to My Quick Trip to Richmond
Today is my day off so I am going down to Richmond in a few minutes. I am meeting my former workout partner from the YMCA and still really good friend, Paul Craig for lunch this afternoon. I am also planning to stop by Crosslight and see Pastor Mike, Barry and Betty. Hopefully, I will see a few more people on this brief trip. Next Wednesday, I will be heading back down to preach for Crosslight's Youth Group...I can't wait.
Also on the way down, I am going to stop at every Target on the way to grab towels for this weekend's services at NCC. Pastor Mark will be doing a message on the Towel, he will challenge everyone to serve and get involved into ministry at NCC. In my personal opinion there is no greater blessing than serving God and serving other with the giftings and passions that God has given you.
Looking forward to my drive and hanging out with good friends, a great mentor and being around some really amazing people.
Also on the way down, I am going to stop at every Target on the way to grab towels for this weekend's services at NCC. Pastor Mark will be doing a message on the Towel, he will challenge everyone to serve and get involved into ministry at NCC. In my personal opinion there is no greater blessing than serving God and serving other with the giftings and passions that God has given you.
Looking forward to my drive and hanging out with good friends, a great mentor and being around some really amazing people.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/28/07
A Walking Light Bulb
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”—Matthew 5:16
The religious leaders thought they had eliminated the problem when they crucified Jesus. But now, His disciples were preaching and performing miracles. It was as though Jesus had returned. He was back in the hearts and lives of His people.
This reminds us that one of the best arguments for the Christian faith is a transformed life. Believers are the best advertising God could have because their lifestyles change, their attitudes change, and even their countenances change. The greatest biography of Jesus is written in the words and actions of His people. Your godly lifestyle is a testimony, just as if you were a walking miracle like the lame man whom Peter and John healed.
Jesus told us we are to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth. There is a place to let our lights shine and proclaim the truth of God. And there is a place for us to be salt.
Even if you don’t tell people you are a Christian, they will sense something is different about you. They will watch you. You are like a walking light bulb. You are a representative of Christ.
If you are being the kind of Christian that God wants you to be, if you are being a “salty” Christian, then your lifestyle will stimulate a thirst for God in others. The greatest compliment is when someone wants to know more, when he or she approaches you and says, “What is it about you?” That is your opportunity to shine the light of the gospel.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”—Matthew 5:16
The religious leaders thought they had eliminated the problem when they crucified Jesus. But now, His disciples were preaching and performing miracles. It was as though Jesus had returned. He was back in the hearts and lives of His people.
This reminds us that one of the best arguments for the Christian faith is a transformed life. Believers are the best advertising God could have because their lifestyles change, their attitudes change, and even their countenances change. The greatest biography of Jesus is written in the words and actions of His people. Your godly lifestyle is a testimony, just as if you were a walking miracle like the lame man whom Peter and John healed.
Jesus told us we are to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth. There is a place to let our lights shine and proclaim the truth of God. And there is a place for us to be salt.
Even if you don’t tell people you are a Christian, they will sense something is different about you. They will watch you. You are like a walking light bulb. You are a representative of Christ.
If you are being the kind of Christian that God wants you to be, if you are being a “salty” Christian, then your lifestyle will stimulate a thirst for God in others. The greatest compliment is when someone wants to know more, when he or she approaches you and says, “What is it about you?” That is your opportunity to shine the light of the gospel.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, August 27, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/27/07
Responsibility
But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”—Luke 11:28
When Peter and John came before the priests, elders, and scribes to answer for their preaching the gospel, who was there? Acts 4:6 says that Annas, the high priest Caiaphas, and others were gathered together in Jerusalem.
Annas and Caiaphas were the very men who were responsible for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Caiaphas was the ruling high priest, and Annas was his father-in-law, the former high priest. In those times, judicial and religious responsibilities were intertwined. Caiaphas had great authority as both a religious figure and a legal figure. This was a man who should have known better. This was a man who had dedicated his life to the study of Scripture. This was a man who had dedicated his life to the pursuit of God. Yet this was the man who was responsible for the persecution and death of Jesus.
Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, is the one who actually sent Christ to His death. Pilate is the one who commanded the soldiers who pounded the spikes into the hands of Jesus Christ. Pilate is the one who ordered the whipping of Jesus. Yet Jesus said to him, “The one who delivered Me to you is guilty of a greater sin” (John 18:11). How can that be? Pilate was an ignorant nonbeliever. He didn’t know any better. But Caiaphas was a man who knew the Scriptures.
Knowledge brings responsibility. If you have heard the truth of God, if you have been exposed to the gospel message, then God will hold you accountable for what you know. Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it (see Luke 11:28)!
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”—Luke 11:28
When Peter and John came before the priests, elders, and scribes to answer for their preaching the gospel, who was there? Acts 4:6 says that Annas, the high priest Caiaphas, and others were gathered together in Jerusalem.
Annas and Caiaphas were the very men who were responsible for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Caiaphas was the ruling high priest, and Annas was his father-in-law, the former high priest. In those times, judicial and religious responsibilities were intertwined. Caiaphas had great authority as both a religious figure and a legal figure. This was a man who should have known better. This was a man who had dedicated his life to the study of Scripture. This was a man who had dedicated his life to the pursuit of God. Yet this was the man who was responsible for the persecution and death of Jesus.
Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, is the one who actually sent Christ to His death. Pilate is the one who commanded the soldiers who pounded the spikes into the hands of Jesus Christ. Pilate is the one who ordered the whipping of Jesus. Yet Jesus said to him, “The one who delivered Me to you is guilty of a greater sin” (John 18:11). How can that be? Pilate was an ignorant nonbeliever. He didn’t know any better. But Caiaphas was a man who knew the Scriptures.
Knowledge brings responsibility. If you have heard the truth of God, if you have been exposed to the gospel message, then God will hold you accountable for what you know. Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it (see Luke 11:28)!
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/26/07
Our Plans and God's Plans
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails. - Proverbs 19:21
Have you ever heard of someone who spent years of preparation for one vocation only to end up doing something completely different? Perhaps this could be said of you. Quite often we have in our minds what we believe we want to do only to have a course correction. Often the course correction comes through a major crisis that forces us into an area that we would never have considered.
Such was the case for Samuel Morse. Born in 1791, Morse grew up desiring to be an artist, and he eventually became very talented and internationally known. However, it was difficult to make a living as an artist in America during that time. A series of crises further complicated his vocational desire when his wife died; then his mother and father also died soon after. He went to Europe to paint and reflect on his life. On his return trip aboard a ship, he was captivated by discussions at dinner about new experiments in electromagnetism. During that important occasion, Morse made the following comment, "If the presence of electricity can be made visible in any part of the circuit, I see no reason why intelligence may not be transmitted by electricity." In the face of many difficulties and disappointments, he determinedly perfected a new invention, and, in 1837, applied for a patent that became what we know today as the telegraph. He also created Morse code. It was only later, after many more setbacks and disappointments, that his projects received funding.
Samuel Morse later commented, "The only gleam of hope, and I cannot underrate it, is from confidence in God. When I look upward it calms any apprehension for the future, and I seem to hear a voice saying: 'If I clothe the lilies of the field, shall I not also clothe you?' Here is my strong confidence, and I will wait patiently for the direction of Providence." Morse went on to create several other inventions and can be recognized today as the father of faxes, modems, e-mail, the internet and other electronic communication. ["Glimpses," Issue #99 (Worcester, Pennsylvania: Christian History Institute, 1998).]
God's plans may not always seem to follow our natural inclination. Perhaps God has you taking a path that may not lead to His ultimate destination for you. Trust in the Lord, lean not on your own understanding, acknowledge Him in all you do, and He shall direct your path (see Prov. 3:5-6).
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails. - Proverbs 19:21
Have you ever heard of someone who spent years of preparation for one vocation only to end up doing something completely different? Perhaps this could be said of you. Quite often we have in our minds what we believe we want to do only to have a course correction. Often the course correction comes through a major crisis that forces us into an area that we would never have considered.
Such was the case for Samuel Morse. Born in 1791, Morse grew up desiring to be an artist, and he eventually became very talented and internationally known. However, it was difficult to make a living as an artist in America during that time. A series of crises further complicated his vocational desire when his wife died; then his mother and father also died soon after. He went to Europe to paint and reflect on his life. On his return trip aboard a ship, he was captivated by discussions at dinner about new experiments in electromagnetism. During that important occasion, Morse made the following comment, "If the presence of electricity can be made visible in any part of the circuit, I see no reason why intelligence may not be transmitted by electricity." In the face of many difficulties and disappointments, he determinedly perfected a new invention, and, in 1837, applied for a patent that became what we know today as the telegraph. He also created Morse code. It was only later, after many more setbacks and disappointments, that his projects received funding.
Samuel Morse later commented, "The only gleam of hope, and I cannot underrate it, is from confidence in God. When I look upward it calms any apprehension for the future, and I seem to hear a voice saying: 'If I clothe the lilies of the field, shall I not also clothe you?' Here is my strong confidence, and I will wait patiently for the direction of Providence." Morse went on to create several other inventions and can be recognized today as the father of faxes, modems, e-mail, the internet and other electronic communication. ["Glimpses," Issue #99 (Worcester, Pennsylvania: Christian History Institute, 1998).]
God's plans may not always seem to follow our natural inclination. Perhaps God has you taking a path that may not lead to His ultimate destination for you. Trust in the Lord, lean not on your own understanding, acknowledge Him in all you do, and He shall direct your path (see Prov. 3:5-6).
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/25/07
The Art of Waiting
By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them.... - Exodus 13:21
How are you at waiting on God? How do you determine if God is giving you the green light to move forward? Many workplace believers make the mistake of adding up all the pluses and then concluding that God has given them the green light. Several factors go into making a decision from the Lord.
It is important to do three things before you make a decision on a matter. First, you should gather facts. Fact gathering allows you to determine all the realities of a given situation. However, this does not ultimately drive your decision, but it can put a stop to it. For instance, if you were planning to build a shopping center and you knew the only way to lease the space was to rent to a porn shop, your decision would be made. God would not lead you to enter into unrighteous ventures.
Second, is the Holy Spirit guiding you in your decision? "If the Lord delights in a man's way, He makes his steps firm" (Ps. 37:23). George Mueller cites that the steps are also "by the Lord." God puts hedges around us, but many times we bull our way through the hedges under the guise of tenacity and perseverance. This too is unrighteousness. One wise workplace believer stated that the greatest success one can have in business is to know when it is time to pull the plug rather than keep forcing a situation. Not all businesses last forever.
Third, has your decision been confirmed? God has placed others around us to be used as instruments in our lives to confirm decisions and keep us from the deceit of our own heart. "Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses" (2 Cor. 13:1b). This is God's way of keeping us within the hedge of His protection.
"Write your plans in pencil and give God the eraser."
By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them.... - Exodus 13:21
How are you at waiting on God? How do you determine if God is giving you the green light to move forward? Many workplace believers make the mistake of adding up all the pluses and then concluding that God has given them the green light. Several factors go into making a decision from the Lord.
It is important to do three things before you make a decision on a matter. First, you should gather facts. Fact gathering allows you to determine all the realities of a given situation. However, this does not ultimately drive your decision, but it can put a stop to it. For instance, if you were planning to build a shopping center and you knew the only way to lease the space was to rent to a porn shop, your decision would be made. God would not lead you to enter into unrighteous ventures.
Second, is the Holy Spirit guiding you in your decision? "If the Lord delights in a man's way, He makes his steps firm" (Ps. 37:23). George Mueller cites that the steps are also "by the Lord." God puts hedges around us, but many times we bull our way through the hedges under the guise of tenacity and perseverance. This too is unrighteousness. One wise workplace believer stated that the greatest success one can have in business is to know when it is time to pull the plug rather than keep forcing a situation. Not all businesses last forever.
Third, has your decision been confirmed? God has placed others around us to be used as instruments in our lives to confirm decisions and keep us from the deceit of our own heart. "Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses" (2 Cor. 13:1b). This is God's way of keeping us within the hedge of His protection.
"Write your plans in pencil and give God the eraser."
Friday, August 24, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/24/07
The Lust of the Eyes
For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.—1 John 2:16
Why do we get tempted in our minds? Because it is command central. It is here that we reason. It is here that we intellectualize. It is here that we contemplate. It is here that we dream. It is here that we fantasize. The Bible tells us, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:3–4).
That is how Eve was tempted—through the lust of the eyes: Eve, check it out. Have you ever seen a piece of fruit like this? Satan attacked Eve’s mind. The lust of the eyes is mental temptation, temptation that comes through the realm of the mind.
As the apostle Paul wrote to the church at Corinth, “But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3).
It is in our minds that we can commit horrible sins. We can reach into the past through our memories. We can reach into the future through our imagination. Often, the devil will get us to just think about it: You don’t have to do it. Just think about it. That is all. It doesn’t have to go any further than this. You can handle it.
But after a while, thinking about it isn’t enough. After a while, fantasizing about it isn’t enough. We want to take it to the next level. So we start flirting. We start touching. We start tasting. We start playing with it. Then, the next thing we know, we are caught in it.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.—1 John 2:16
Why do we get tempted in our minds? Because it is command central. It is here that we reason. It is here that we intellectualize. It is here that we contemplate. It is here that we dream. It is here that we fantasize. The Bible tells us, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:3–4).
That is how Eve was tempted—through the lust of the eyes: Eve, check it out. Have you ever seen a piece of fruit like this? Satan attacked Eve’s mind. The lust of the eyes is mental temptation, temptation that comes through the realm of the mind.
As the apostle Paul wrote to the church at Corinth, “But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3).
It is in our minds that we can commit horrible sins. We can reach into the past through our memories. We can reach into the future through our imagination. Often, the devil will get us to just think about it: You don’t have to do it. Just think about it. That is all. It doesn’t have to go any further than this. You can handle it.
But after a while, thinking about it isn’t enough. After a while, fantasizing about it isn’t enough. We want to take it to the next level. So we start flirting. We start touching. We start tasting. We start playing with it. Then, the next thing we know, we are caught in it.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/23/07
Under God’s Protection
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.—1 Corinthians 10:13
In the New Testament, we have the account of Jesus saying to Peter, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren” (Luke 22:31–32).
Put yourself in Peter’s sandals. You are sitting around with the Lord when He turns to you, calls you by name, and says, “Satan has been asking excessively that you be taken out of the care and protection of God. The devil has been asking for you by name.” I don’t know about you, but if Jesus Christ, the Son of God, said that to me, it would be cause for great concern.
Peter was such a big fish that the devil personally went after him. I wonder if the Lord paused for effect: “Satan has been asking for you . . . by name. . . . But I have good news, Peter. I have prayed for you.”
It is a good reminder to us that when the devil comes knocking at our door, we should say, “Lord, would you mind getting that?” We are no match for the devil. Though he is a powerful foe, he certainly is not as powerful as God. Even so, we don’t want to tangle with him. We want to stand behind God’s protection.
In spite of the devil’s power and wicked agenda, he must first ask permission when it comes to the children of God, because of the hedge of protection that God has placed around us.
God knows what you are ready for. And He won’t give you more than you can handle.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.—1 Corinthians 10:13
In the New Testament, we have the account of Jesus saying to Peter, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren” (Luke 22:31–32).
Put yourself in Peter’s sandals. You are sitting around with the Lord when He turns to you, calls you by name, and says, “Satan has been asking excessively that you be taken out of the care and protection of God. The devil has been asking for you by name.” I don’t know about you, but if Jesus Christ, the Son of God, said that to me, it would be cause for great concern.
Peter was such a big fish that the devil personally went after him. I wonder if the Lord paused for effect: “Satan has been asking for you . . . by name. . . . But I have good news, Peter. I have prayed for you.”
It is a good reminder to us that when the devil comes knocking at our door, we should say, “Lord, would you mind getting that?” We are no match for the devil. Though he is a powerful foe, he certainly is not as powerful as God. Even so, we don’t want to tangle with him. We want to stand behind God’s protection.
In spite of the devil’s power and wicked agenda, he must first ask permission when it comes to the children of God, because of the hedge of protection that God has placed around us.
God knows what you are ready for. And He won’t give you more than you can handle.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/22/07
Our Choice in Life
“Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?”—Romans 6:16
As a guest on Larry King Live a few years ago, Billy Graham was asked to comment on the rash of violence on high school campuses as well as other problems in our culture. He said, “One thing that is being missed by many people is the devil is at work.”
That is so true. The devil is at work. When you get down to it, it is the only logical and plausible explanation for the madness that humanity is capable of. Just as surely as there is a God in heaven who loves you, there is a devil from hell who hates you. Jesus summed it up succinctly when He said, speaking of Satan, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). There is our choice in life, really: God or the devil.
A lot of people say they don’t choose either. But in reality, by not choosing God, they choose the devil by default. There are no other choices. One of Satan’s most brilliant strategies is to convince people he does not exist, when all the while, he is manipulating their lives. Humanity is basically bad. And it is the devil who works through the fallen nature of human beings, getting them to do the evil things that he does.
God gives us a choice in life. We are not forced to choose Him. Nor are we forced to choose the devil. But God has given us something called free will. We can choose sin, which leads to death. Or we can choose obedience to God, which leads to righteousness.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?”—Romans 6:16
As a guest on Larry King Live a few years ago, Billy Graham was asked to comment on the rash of violence on high school campuses as well as other problems in our culture. He said, “One thing that is being missed by many people is the devil is at work.”
That is so true. The devil is at work. When you get down to it, it is the only logical and plausible explanation for the madness that humanity is capable of. Just as surely as there is a God in heaven who loves you, there is a devil from hell who hates you. Jesus summed it up succinctly when He said, speaking of Satan, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). There is our choice in life, really: God or the devil.
A lot of people say they don’t choose either. But in reality, by not choosing God, they choose the devil by default. There are no other choices. One of Satan’s most brilliant strategies is to convince people he does not exist, when all the while, he is manipulating their lives. Humanity is basically bad. And it is the devil who works through the fallen nature of human beings, getting them to do the evil things that he does.
God gives us a choice in life. We are not forced to choose Him. Nor are we forced to choose the devil. But God has given us something called free will. We can choose sin, which leads to death. Or we can choose obedience to God, which leads to righteousness.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/21/07
New and Improved
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.—2 Corinthians 5:17
Madison Avenue discovered long ago that a good way to sell a product is to add the words “new and improved.” The only thing that may be new and improved is the box, but we believe the product is better. There is something in us that loves the newest and the latest.
But everything that is new soon becomes old. We purchase a new car, but it gets dented. We get a new gadget, but it breaks the day after the warranty expires. We buy new toys for our children, but they run out of batteries.
So we say, “If I just get a new wardrobe . . . if I get a new haircut . . . if I change my friends . . . if I change my house . . . if I change my career . . . that will make everything better.” It may make things a little bit different, but it won’t make them better. It all will come down to the same old problems, because it is still the same old you inside. New surroundings or a new appearance aren’t going to change us. We have to change.
Here is what God says we need to do. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things are passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
God is the true Giver of new things. He gives us things that will last forever. When we come to Him through a new birth by faith in Christ, He gives us a new nature, a new heart, a new life, a new hope, and a new purpose. He takes ordinary people and makes them extraordinary.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.—2 Corinthians 5:17
Madison Avenue discovered long ago that a good way to sell a product is to add the words “new and improved.” The only thing that may be new and improved is the box, but we believe the product is better. There is something in us that loves the newest and the latest.
But everything that is new soon becomes old. We purchase a new car, but it gets dented. We get a new gadget, but it breaks the day after the warranty expires. We buy new toys for our children, but they run out of batteries.
So we say, “If I just get a new wardrobe . . . if I get a new haircut . . . if I change my friends . . . if I change my house . . . if I change my career . . . that will make everything better.” It may make things a little bit different, but it won’t make them better. It all will come down to the same old problems, because it is still the same old you inside. New surroundings or a new appearance aren’t going to change us. We have to change.
Here is what God says we need to do. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things are passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
God is the true Giver of new things. He gives us things that will last forever. When we come to Him through a new birth by faith in Christ, He gives us a new nature, a new heart, a new life, a new hope, and a new purpose. He takes ordinary people and makes them extraordinary.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, August 20, 2007
Great Message This Weekend
Here at NCC we have an amazing teaching team lead by our Lead Pastor Mark Batterson. Well this weekend, we were blessed to hear from our Discipleship Pastor Heather Zempel.
I want to first say this, it is not that I am old fashioned or not living in the 21st Century, but if there would be a female pastorI could set under and listen to each week it would be Pastor Heather. She is an amazing communicator and a gifted speaker. Pastor Heather speaks with an amazing amount of passion and energy, she truly grabs your attention. I always look forward to hearing her share.
Pastor Heather shared this weekend about Transformational Relationships. She shared the experiences of King David as an example. David surrounded himself with friends and relationships that formed and transformed his life, men like Jonathan, Nathan, the 30 Might Men, and even Mephibosheth. Each one of these relationships were unique however they formed and transformed David's life.
I am so thankful for the relationships in my life. I have amazing friends in my life who tell me like it is, who are complete honest with, me, people who hold me accountable, people who are not afraid to ask me the tough questions to sharpen me and to help grow in my relationship with God. People like Mike Colon, Pastor Mike Buckley, John and Teresa Stillion, Barry Effeirt, and John Zauner. I am so thankful for these people I can count on and absolutely trust with my life.
I want to first say this, it is not that I am old fashioned or not living in the 21st Century, but if there would be a female pastorI could set under and listen to each week it would be Pastor Heather. She is an amazing communicator and a gifted speaker. Pastor Heather speaks with an amazing amount of passion and energy, she truly grabs your attention. I always look forward to hearing her share.
Pastor Heather shared this weekend about Transformational Relationships. She shared the experiences of King David as an example. David surrounded himself with friends and relationships that formed and transformed his life, men like Jonathan, Nathan, the 30 Might Men, and even Mephibosheth. Each one of these relationships were unique however they formed and transformed David's life.
I am so thankful for the relationships in my life. I have amazing friends in my life who tell me like it is, who are complete honest with, me, people who hold me accountable, people who are not afraid to ask me the tough questions to sharpen me and to help grow in my relationship with God. People like Mike Colon, Pastor Mike Buckley, John and Teresa Stillion, Barry Effeirt, and John Zauner. I am so thankful for these people I can count on and absolutely trust with my life.
Living Within A Stones Throw of Your Dreams
Dreams! We all have them. We all have a desire to accomplish those dreams, especially God given, God inspired dreams. There is no greater feeling, no greater satisfaction, no greater contentment in achieving those dreams.
My dream: To plant a community of faith...a church community that I can lead, a group of people I have the opportunity to influence, a community that I can be used to transform through God's Word and love.
To most people a dream like this is intimidating, it may seem unobtainable, it might even seem far fetched to some. To me it is God given, it is something that God is moving me closer to, even closer than many may have expected.
To be honest, I am not the type of person who sets back behind a computer and stares at a screen for eight hours...my ADD can't handle this. I love to be around people, I have a desire to be out doing, I have burning passion to out among those within the community and living out my faith in a practical way. This is why I always enjoyed for the most part working part time outside the church, I feel this allows me to be among people and not allow myself to become institutionalized within the church walls. To be honest, I think every full time pastor needs to have the experience of working outside the church. I have done it for 13 years of ministry, I would never trade in that experience.
I also allow God to put me in positions to move closer to my dream. Rather it is once in a lifetime learning experience with an amazing staff and an equally amazing church community here at NCC or serving at two awesome churches with amazing pastors over the last 13 years that was birthed out of church plants. I have also had the opportunity to manage and lead a staff at Family Christian Stores. I even had a chance to fill a pulpit for 2 1/2 months at a church in Bedford, VA. Every unique position, every opportunity has moved me closer to my dream. Each position has given me unique experiences and opportunities.
Right now, I feel as if I am living within a stones throw of my dream. You know what I am talking about? Yes, I am serving at a great church with huge and amazing vision...but when the vision that God has given you personally infuses your mind and heart and just consumes , you know you are getting closer to what God wants you to do.
Can I be totally honest and candid? God has given me a clearer vision and clearer picture of what He wants me to do and accomplish. He has even placed key people whom Lora and I have relationships with, to be a part of this dream with us. He has motivated me to move forward begin some preliminary leg work. God has given me insight and perspective of what He wants and how He desires to us my gifts and passions that He has given me.
He has also placed me in a unique position to gather invaluable experiences and learn first hand some much needed things as we progress forward.
I am not a person who lets things come to me, but I go after things, I go after my dreams. I also don't allow others to stand in the way of God allowing me to achieve those dreams.
One final thought, every bit of success that Lora and I have had, every well thought out plan we have come with came directly from God. God is into the details, everything is done in His perfect timing. I am sure and more confident now than ever that Lora and I are living with a stones throw of our dreams. We are looking forward to moving forward!
My dream: To plant a community of faith...a church community that I can lead, a group of people I have the opportunity to influence, a community that I can be used to transform through God's Word and love.
To most people a dream like this is intimidating, it may seem unobtainable, it might even seem far fetched to some. To me it is God given, it is something that God is moving me closer to, even closer than many may have expected.
To be honest, I am not the type of person who sets back behind a computer and stares at a screen for eight hours...my ADD can't handle this. I love to be around people, I have a desire to be out doing, I have burning passion to out among those within the community and living out my faith in a practical way. This is why I always enjoyed for the most part working part time outside the church, I feel this allows me to be among people and not allow myself to become institutionalized within the church walls. To be honest, I think every full time pastor needs to have the experience of working outside the church. I have done it for 13 years of ministry, I would never trade in that experience.
I also allow God to put me in positions to move closer to my dream. Rather it is once in a lifetime learning experience with an amazing staff and an equally amazing church community here at NCC or serving at two awesome churches with amazing pastors over the last 13 years that was birthed out of church plants. I have also had the opportunity to manage and lead a staff at Family Christian Stores. I even had a chance to fill a pulpit for 2 1/2 months at a church in Bedford, VA. Every unique position, every opportunity has moved me closer to my dream. Each position has given me unique experiences and opportunities.
Right now, I feel as if I am living within a stones throw of my dream. You know what I am talking about? Yes, I am serving at a great church with huge and amazing vision...but when the vision that God has given you personally infuses your mind and heart and just consumes , you know you are getting closer to what God wants you to do.
Can I be totally honest and candid? God has given me a clearer vision and clearer picture of what He wants me to do and accomplish. He has even placed key people whom Lora and I have relationships with, to be a part of this dream with us. He has motivated me to move forward begin some preliminary leg work. God has given me insight and perspective of what He wants and how He desires to us my gifts and passions that He has given me.
He has also placed me in a unique position to gather invaluable experiences and learn first hand some much needed things as we progress forward.
I am not a person who lets things come to me, but I go after things, I go after my dreams. I also don't allow others to stand in the way of God allowing me to achieve those dreams.
One final thought, every bit of success that Lora and I have had, every well thought out plan we have come with came directly from God. God is into the details, everything is done in His perfect timing. I am sure and more confident now than ever that Lora and I are living with a stones throw of our dreams. We are looking forward to moving forward!
Daily Caffeination 08/20/07
The Source of Happiness
You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.—Psalm 16:11
It has been said the best cure for hedonism is an attempt to practice it.
If you chase after pleasure, you eventually will come to the same conclusion as King Solomon: “I said to myself, ‘Come on, let’s try pleasure. Let’s look for the “good things” in life.’ But I found that this, too, was meaningless. So I said, ‘Laughter is silly. What good does it do to seek pleasure?’ ” (Ecclesiastes 2:1–2).
The Bible tells us that if our intense desire is to please ourselves, then it will be the source of all of our problems: “What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it . . . ” (James 4:1–2).
It comes down to this: If you live for yourself and your happiness and your pleasure, then you will be a miserable person. It’s ironic that the people who live for happiness never find it, while the people who live for God find happiness as a byproduct. The people who chase after pleasure never really experience it—they may find little bits here and there, but nothing to speak of. Yet the people who live for God experience the ultimate pleasure.
Pleasure is not in itself a bad thing, although you might get that impression from some Christians. I think the Christian life is the most pleasurable life around. Why? Because the Bible teaches, speaking of God, “You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever” (Psalm 16:11). True happiness comes from God.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.—Psalm 16:11
It has been said the best cure for hedonism is an attempt to practice it.
If you chase after pleasure, you eventually will come to the same conclusion as King Solomon: “I said to myself, ‘Come on, let’s try pleasure. Let’s look for the “good things” in life.’ But I found that this, too, was meaningless. So I said, ‘Laughter is silly. What good does it do to seek pleasure?’ ” (Ecclesiastes 2:1–2).
The Bible tells us that if our intense desire is to please ourselves, then it will be the source of all of our problems: “What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it . . . ” (James 4:1–2).
It comes down to this: If you live for yourself and your happiness and your pleasure, then you will be a miserable person. It’s ironic that the people who live for happiness never find it, while the people who live for God find happiness as a byproduct. The people who chase after pleasure never really experience it—they may find little bits here and there, but nothing to speak of. Yet the people who live for God experience the ultimate pleasure.
Pleasure is not in itself a bad thing, although you might get that impression from some Christians. I think the Christian life is the most pleasurable life around. Why? Because the Bible teaches, speaking of God, “You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever” (Psalm 16:11). True happiness comes from God.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/19/07
Overcoming All Odds
..."Because you have prayed to Me...." - Isaiah 37:21
Have you ever had your back against the wall so badly that if something didn't happen to change your situation, you were sunk? King Hezekiah was one of Israel's greatest godly kings. One of the greatest challenges to his reign came when the king of Assyria threatened to attack Israel and wipe them out. The Assyrians were the local bullies of the region and had wiped out all other enemies in their region.
They mocked the idea of having a God who could save them.
Do not let Hezekiah deceive you. He cannot deliver you! Do not let Hezekiah persuade you to trust in the Lord when he says, "The Lord will surely deliver us; this city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria" (Isaiah 36:14b-15).
The workplace is full of "Assyrian kings" who mock the idea of a living God who delivers. Without God's help, Israel would not overcome. Their backs were against the wall. They would be destroyed.
King Hezekiah saved Israel because of one act. He prayed; and because he prayed, God moved on his behalf. In fact, God moved so powerfully that Hezekiah did not even have to fight the battle.
Then the angel of the Lord went out and put to death a hundred and eighty-five thousand men in the Assyrian camp. When the people got up the next morning, there were all the dead bodies! (Isaiah 37:36)
The king of Assyria was even murdered by his own sons. Imagine seeing your enemy totally destroyed without one hand raised in battle!
God wants to act on behalf of His children if they will call on Him. One of the motives Hezekiah had in seeking God's help was "so that all kingdoms on earth may know that You alone, O Lord, are God" (Is. 37:20). This is what happened. God was glorified.
God wants to let your workplace know that God is a living God. He can deliver. Seek Him today for the crisis in your life. Keep your motive pure and God will surely answer.
..."Because you have prayed to Me...." - Isaiah 37:21
Have you ever had your back against the wall so badly that if something didn't happen to change your situation, you were sunk? King Hezekiah was one of Israel's greatest godly kings. One of the greatest challenges to his reign came when the king of Assyria threatened to attack Israel and wipe them out. The Assyrians were the local bullies of the region and had wiped out all other enemies in their region.
They mocked the idea of having a God who could save them.
Do not let Hezekiah deceive you. He cannot deliver you! Do not let Hezekiah persuade you to trust in the Lord when he says, "The Lord will surely deliver us; this city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria" (Isaiah 36:14b-15).
The workplace is full of "Assyrian kings" who mock the idea of a living God who delivers. Without God's help, Israel would not overcome. Their backs were against the wall. They would be destroyed.
King Hezekiah saved Israel because of one act. He prayed; and because he prayed, God moved on his behalf. In fact, God moved so powerfully that Hezekiah did not even have to fight the battle.
Then the angel of the Lord went out and put to death a hundred and eighty-five thousand men in the Assyrian camp. When the people got up the next morning, there were all the dead bodies! (Isaiah 37:36)
The king of Assyria was even murdered by his own sons. Imagine seeing your enemy totally destroyed without one hand raised in battle!
God wants to act on behalf of His children if they will call on Him. One of the motives Hezekiah had in seeking God's help was "so that all kingdoms on earth may know that You alone, O Lord, are God" (Is. 37:20). This is what happened. God was glorified.
God wants to let your workplace know that God is a living God. He can deliver. Seek Him today for the crisis in your life. Keep your motive pure and God will surely answer.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/18/07
The Response of Faith
..."Everything is all right".... - 2 Kings 4:26
The prophet Elisha often would travel through the town of Shunem, and in that town was a well-to-do couple who extended hospitality to him. At first, they simply offered Elisha a meal when he came through town. Then, seeing that Elisha needed a place to stay and study, they built a room for him above their house so that each time he came through town, he had a place to stay. He was so appreciative of their kindness that one day he asked the wife what he could do for her. His servant Gehazi later informed Elisha that the woman was barren and her husband was old. " 'About this time next year,' Elisha said, 'you will hold a son in your arms' " (2 Kings 4:16). A year later the son arrived.
One day the father was working in the field, and the son became ill and died. The woman ran to meet Elisha to inform him. When Elisha asked what was wrong, she did not panic and react in fear. Her response to Elisha seemed almost unnatural. "Everything is all right," she said. Elisha went to the boy and raised him from the dead. It was a glorious miracle. (See Second Kings 4.)
Faith looks at situations through God's eyes, not the eyes of our limited understanding. This woman did not panic, for she knew something more than the current circumstance. Faith does not panic, but realizes that what looks like devastating circumstances may be God's plan to bring glory to Himself by demonstrating His power. When Jesus appeared on the water to the disciples in the middle of the night, they exclaimed, "It's a ghost!" (see Mt. 14:26) First appearances can bring great fear upon us even to the point of paralyzing us. Find the Lord in your circumstance today. Exercise your faith today and trust Him for His outcome in the situation.
..."Everything is all right".... - 2 Kings 4:26
The prophet Elisha often would travel through the town of Shunem, and in that town was a well-to-do couple who extended hospitality to him. At first, they simply offered Elisha a meal when he came through town. Then, seeing that Elisha needed a place to stay and study, they built a room for him above their house so that each time he came through town, he had a place to stay. He was so appreciative of their kindness that one day he asked the wife what he could do for her. His servant Gehazi later informed Elisha that the woman was barren and her husband was old. " 'About this time next year,' Elisha said, 'you will hold a son in your arms' " (2 Kings 4:16). A year later the son arrived.
One day the father was working in the field, and the son became ill and died. The woman ran to meet Elisha to inform him. When Elisha asked what was wrong, she did not panic and react in fear. Her response to Elisha seemed almost unnatural. "Everything is all right," she said. Elisha went to the boy and raised him from the dead. It was a glorious miracle. (See Second Kings 4.)
Faith looks at situations through God's eyes, not the eyes of our limited understanding. This woman did not panic, for she knew something more than the current circumstance. Faith does not panic, but realizes that what looks like devastating circumstances may be God's plan to bring glory to Himself by demonstrating His power. When Jesus appeared on the water to the disciples in the middle of the night, they exclaimed, "It's a ghost!" (see Mt. 14:26) First appearances can bring great fear upon us even to the point of paralyzing us. Find the Lord in your circumstance today. Exercise your faith today and trust Him for His outcome in the situation.
Friday, August 17, 2007
My Blog Rating :-)
Mingle2
I am pleased with my rating, this means you can allow your children to read my blog. I am a G rated type guy anyways so I guess this fits who I am.
Daily Caffeination 08/17/07
Why We Need Unity
There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling.—Ephesians 4:4
When you put your faith in Jesus Christ, you became a part of the church. You are a part of the body of Christ. We are all together in this new family, and we should do nothing to unnecessarily disrupt it. In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul likens the church, the body of believers, to the human body.
All the parts of the body need to work together. For example, when I am speaking, I might gesture. I don’t think about my gestures ahead of time. But as I am saying a certain thing, my hand is gesturing. My hand movements accentuate what I am saying verbally. The brain sends a signal to the hands, and the hands work together with the brain. But what if my hands suddenly decided to break loose and do their own thing while I was speaking? My hands could be contradicting what I am saying. Or, what if I was apologizing for something when my eyes decided to do their own thing and start rolling? My eyes would be contradicting what my mouth was saying.
Just as we need cooperation in the human body, we also need it in the body of Christ. We are working together as a body. But let’s not misunderstand. Paul was not saying that it doesn’t matter what we believe, that as long as we are spiritual and believe in a higher power, then we are God’s children. Sometimes in our desire for unity, we can end up embracing the wrong beliefs.
Paul has told us that we need to be unified, but this is all predicated on biblical truth. And then we build that unity on the truth of what we have learned.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling.—Ephesians 4:4
When you put your faith in Jesus Christ, you became a part of the church. You are a part of the body of Christ. We are all together in this new family, and we should do nothing to unnecessarily disrupt it. In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul likens the church, the body of believers, to the human body.
All the parts of the body need to work together. For example, when I am speaking, I might gesture. I don’t think about my gestures ahead of time. But as I am saying a certain thing, my hand is gesturing. My hand movements accentuate what I am saying verbally. The brain sends a signal to the hands, and the hands work together with the brain. But what if my hands suddenly decided to break loose and do their own thing while I was speaking? My hands could be contradicting what I am saying. Or, what if I was apologizing for something when my eyes decided to do their own thing and start rolling? My eyes would be contradicting what my mouth was saying.
Just as we need cooperation in the human body, we also need it in the body of Christ. We are working together as a body. But let’s not misunderstand. Paul was not saying that it doesn’t matter what we believe, that as long as we are spiritual and believe in a higher power, then we are God’s children. Sometimes in our desire for unity, we can end up embracing the wrong beliefs.
Paul has told us that we need to be unified, but this is all predicated on biblical truth. And then we build that unity on the truth of what we have learned.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/16/07
Is Meekness a Weakness?
Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love.—Ephesians 4:1–2
In classical Greek, the word for “humility” is a derogatory term suggesting low-mindedness and groveling servanthood. The Greeks had no place in their language or beliefs for humility. It was looked upon as a bad thing. That is even true in our culture, as evidenced by attitudes that say, “Look out for number-one” and “What’s in it for me?”
Contrary to conventional wisdom of today, the Bible tells us to put the needs of others above ourselves and to be humble. It also tells us to function in meekness.
Meekness is sometimes perceived as weakness. But that is not what the Bible is saying. The word “meekness” as used in the Bible means “power under constraint.” A meek person may have the ability to hurt you, but chooses not to. That is power under constraint.
Jesus was described as meek and mild. That doesn’t mean He was weak. He was far from it. He was strong. He did not return insult for insult. He did not strike back. He gave us the example to follow in humility and weakness and in dealing with others in gentleness.
This means humbling ourselves. Sometimes, it means going to a person and saying, “I don’t know if I have done something to harm you or if you think I have done something, but let’s try to work it out,” even if you think you are right and that person is wrong. That is where humility and meekness come in.
We need to get rid of any me-first, what’s-in-it-for-me attitudes and start thinking biblically. And we need to be asking, What can I do to help others? How can I learn to resolve conflicts? It can change your life.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love.—Ephesians 4:1–2
In classical Greek, the word for “humility” is a derogatory term suggesting low-mindedness and groveling servanthood. The Greeks had no place in their language or beliefs for humility. It was looked upon as a bad thing. That is even true in our culture, as evidenced by attitudes that say, “Look out for number-one” and “What’s in it for me?”
Contrary to conventional wisdom of today, the Bible tells us to put the needs of others above ourselves and to be humble. It also tells us to function in meekness.
Meekness is sometimes perceived as weakness. But that is not what the Bible is saying. The word “meekness” as used in the Bible means “power under constraint.” A meek person may have the ability to hurt you, but chooses not to. That is power under constraint.
Jesus was described as meek and mild. That doesn’t mean He was weak. He was far from it. He was strong. He did not return insult for insult. He did not strike back. He gave us the example to follow in humility and weakness and in dealing with others in gentleness.
This means humbling ourselves. Sometimes, it means going to a person and saying, “I don’t know if I have done something to harm you or if you think I have done something, but let’s try to work it out,” even if you think you are right and that person is wrong. That is where humility and meekness come in.
We need to get rid of any me-first, what’s-in-it-for-me attitudes and start thinking biblically. And we need to be asking, What can I do to help others? How can I learn to resolve conflicts? It can change your life.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Daily Caffeination 08/15/07
A Worthy Walk
I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called.—Ephesians 4:1
I remember when both my sons took their first steps. We so desperately wanted to see our kids take them. We were so excited. Then once they started walking, we wished we never would have taught them how to do it. We had to constantly keep an eye on them.
My youngest son Jonathan fell so many times when he was taking his first steps that he had a permanent bruise on his forehead. He would fall. The bruise would start to heal. He would fall again. We didn’t recognize him without that bruise in the middle of his forehead.
Walking spiritually can be like that, especially when you take your first steps as a new believer. You stumble and fall. You get up again. You stumble and fall. It is all part of growing spiritually.
In Ephesians 4, we are encouraged to walk forward spiritually. Walking speaks of effort, of having direction with a destination in mind. And the first thing we are told is “to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called” (verse 1).
The word “worthy” used in verse 1 could be translated, “balance the scales.” This means that what is on one side of the scale should be equal in weight to what is on the other side. This word could be applied to anything that was expected to correspond to something else. Paul was saying there needs to be a balance between our belief and our practice. In other words, our doctrine and belief should affect us in the way we live.
We need the balance of having both these areas working together in our lives. That is what it means to walk worthy of the Lord.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called.—Ephesians 4:1
I remember when both my sons took their first steps. We so desperately wanted to see our kids take them. We were so excited. Then once they started walking, we wished we never would have taught them how to do it. We had to constantly keep an eye on them.
My youngest son Jonathan fell so many times when he was taking his first steps that he had a permanent bruise on his forehead. He would fall. The bruise would start to heal. He would fall again. We didn’t recognize him without that bruise in the middle of his forehead.
Walking spiritually can be like that, especially when you take your first steps as a new believer. You stumble and fall. You get up again. You stumble and fall. It is all part of growing spiritually.
In Ephesians 4, we are encouraged to walk forward spiritually. Walking speaks of effort, of having direction with a destination in mind. And the first thing we are told is “to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called” (verse 1).
The word “worthy” used in verse 1 could be translated, “balance the scales.” This means that what is on one side of the scale should be equal in weight to what is on the other side. This word could be applied to anything that was expected to correspond to something else. Paul was saying there needs to be a balance between our belief and our practice. In other words, our doctrine and belief should affect us in the way we live.
We need the balance of having both these areas working together in our lives. That is what it means to walk worthy of the Lord.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/14/07
Use What You Have
Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life.—Romans 5:18
When God released the children of Israel from bondage in Egypt, it took them a while to get to the Promised Land—a lot longer than it needed to. When they finally arrived, Moses had died, and Joshua had been appointed to lead the Israelites into this new land. God said to Joshua, “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them—the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you . . . ” (Joshua 1:2–3).
The Israelites could have stood at the border of the Promised Land and said, “Will you look at that? Wow. Isn’t it nice?” But they had to go in and possess their possessions.
In the same way, sometimes we will stand around and admire a certain thing, but we don’t actually utilize it. It is like buying an SUV, but never actually taking it four-wheeling. In the same way, we can stand around and admire biblical principles like justification and say, “Isn’t it great what God has given to us?” But do we actually use it? Many times the answer is no.
We have to possess our possessions. Justification by faith is not just a simple legal matter between God and us; it is a living relationship. Therefore, we don’t have to pray for victory. We need to pray from victory. We don’t fight for success. We fight from it. We don’t need to go out and win the battle. The battle has been won. So we need to go in the authority and power of our Commander-in-Chief, Jesus Christ.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life.—Romans 5:18
When God released the children of Israel from bondage in Egypt, it took them a while to get to the Promised Land—a lot longer than it needed to. When they finally arrived, Moses had died, and Joshua had been appointed to lead the Israelites into this new land. God said to Joshua, “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them—the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you . . . ” (Joshua 1:2–3).
The Israelites could have stood at the border of the Promised Land and said, “Will you look at that? Wow. Isn’t it nice?” But they had to go in and possess their possessions.
In the same way, sometimes we will stand around and admire a certain thing, but we don’t actually utilize it. It is like buying an SUV, but never actually taking it four-wheeling. In the same way, we can stand around and admire biblical principles like justification and say, “Isn’t it great what God has given to us?” But do we actually use it? Many times the answer is no.
We have to possess our possessions. Justification by faith is not just a simple legal matter between God and us; it is a living relationship. Therefore, we don’t have to pray for victory. We need to pray from victory. We don’t fight for success. We fight from it. We don’t need to go out and win the battle. The battle has been won. So we need to go in the authority and power of our Commander-in-Chief, Jesus Christ.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, August 13, 2007
Yesterday I Had the Opportunity to Preach
Yesterday, I had the amazing opportunity to go back home to Crosslight to preach. We had an amazing service yesterday. I want to really thank Pastor Mike Buckley for given me this opportunity to come back to preach. It means so much to me that not only do I have an incredible church family supporting me both financially and lovingly with our internship here in DC. But they welcome me back with open arms to be able use my gifting.
Many pastors and churches, once a staff member departs they really cut off all ties, however Pastor Mike and Crosslight is so far removed from that and I absolutely appreciate that. Not only did I get to preach yesterday I also got to spend sometime after the service with my Crosslight family. They are such a blessing.
I know I have said this many times over the years on this blog...but I absolutely love my calling that God has blessed me with. I also love how through days like yesterday and even last weekend after officiating my nephew's wedding, how God puts things in a greater perspective for me. I love the vision and dreams that god has given me. It one things serving along and helping fulfill someone else's vision and dreams, but there is nothing like fulfilling the vision and dreams that God has given you personally.
God has been so faithful to me about confirming to me what He wants and desires for my future. I just see each step and each opportunity as another step of fulfilling what He ultimately has for Lora and me. If I could share one thing with a young pastor or someone who has something God has place on your life, it is this...Hold on to His dreams and promises for your life. Take every opportunity to grow and learn to move towards that promise as He prepares you for that dream. I know for me personally I am not there yet, but He has given me an opportunity to learn and a once in a life time experience to grow and move towards that dream. I don't take that for granted at all.
Here is an outline of my message from yesterday...
Many pastors and churches, once a staff member departs they really cut off all ties, however Pastor Mike and Crosslight is so far removed from that and I absolutely appreciate that. Not only did I get to preach yesterday I also got to spend sometime after the service with my Crosslight family. They are such a blessing.
I know I have said this many times over the years on this blog...but I absolutely love my calling that God has blessed me with. I also love how through days like yesterday and even last weekend after officiating my nephew's wedding, how God puts things in a greater perspective for me. I love the vision and dreams that god has given me. It one things serving along and helping fulfill someone else's vision and dreams, but there is nothing like fulfilling the vision and dreams that God has given you personally.
God has been so faithful to me about confirming to me what He wants and desires for my future. I just see each step and each opportunity as another step of fulfilling what He ultimately has for Lora and me. If I could share one thing with a young pastor or someone who has something God has place on your life, it is this...Hold on to His dreams and promises for your life. Take every opportunity to grow and learn to move towards that promise as He prepares you for that dream. I know for me personally I am not there yet, but He has given me an opportunity to learn and a once in a life time experience to grow and move towards that dream. I don't take that for granted at all.
Here is an outline of my message from yesterday...
Living Out Your Life On Mission
What Is Your True Purpose?
What Is Your Mission?
Passage Luke 19:10:
10For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost."
LUKE 15
Christ never called anyone to go to church…
Christ never told anyone to set in a pew and just listen to sermon, sing a few songs or pray a certain prayer.
Everyone that Christ called, He invited them “to come follow Me.”
He has also called us to be “fishers of men.”
"Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." 20At once they left their nets and followed him.” Matthew 4:19
In many churches today, there is a ceaseless quoting of tired adjectives and endless “christian” cliches. We so often hear people say, "We want to share our faith." It's not your faith when you share about how wonderful you are or what wonderful things God did for you. You are to witness to Jesus Christ, who He is and what He did for you.
To be a Christ follower we are called to a much higher purpose, to greater mission than sitting in a church chair on Sunday morning. We are called to follow Christ, to follow His ways, to live in obedience to His word, we are called to live out our faith in honest and practical way. We are to live out our faith in such a way that it draws people to follow Him.
If you are not actively following Christ you are resisting Him. If you are not living a life on mission you are not actively following Christ.
Jesus tapped me on the shoulder and said, Bob, why are you resisting me? I said, I'm not resisting you! He said, You gonna follow me? I said, I've never thought about that before! He said, When you're not following me, you're resisting me. --Bob Dylan
It is not enough to say you are a Christian, you must be living it out…it is a lifestyle it is an action, The whole Bible is book of action…
Those who teach by their doctrine must teach by their life, or else they pull down with one hand what they build up with the other. --Matthew Henry
Two Thoughts I want you takeaway this morning…Two ideas I pray that you will embrace and apply to your everyday life.
1. Our Faith must be lived out with a purpose
...Christ did not appoint professors, but followers. If Christianity ... is not reduplicated in the life of the person expounding it, then he does not expound Christianity, for Christianity is a message about living and can only be expounded by being realized in men's lives. --Soren Kierkegaard
"Lost people matter to God, and so they must matter to us." -- Keith Wright
We must go out of way to reach those who lost without Jesus.
We must reach people where they are at…not where we expect them to be.
Jesus went to where the people were at…he went to wells, where the Samaritan woman was at. He went to the marketplaces. He hung out by the boats.
As Christ follower we must go where the people are. Let me give you a little insight, people will not just stumble into the church.
"God is pursuing with omnipotent passion a worldwide purpose of gathering joyful worshipers for Himself from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. He has an inexhaustible enthusiasm for the supremacy of His name among the nations. Therefore, let us bring our affections into line with His, and, for the sake of His name, let us renounce the quest for worldly comforts and join His global purpose." -- John Piper
"Some wish to live within the sound of a chapel bell; I wish to run a rescue mission within a yard of hell." -- C.T. Studd
As Christ followers we are in the world but not of the world. How as we live out faith with purpose and we live on mission. We must hear the questions that the culture and the world is asking so we can give the proper Biblical perspective.
We cannot disengage from the world, we cannot hide in our little Christian bubble. We need to deal with the messy world around us.
1 Chronicles 12:32 - 32 men of Issachar, who understood the times and knew what Israel should do
Even Paul at Areopageus in Acts 17, understood what the poets and writers of the time was saying and he quoted them in the middle of the marketplace.
God desire for each one of us today is to always be on mission, always live out our faith with purpose…our purpose and mission is to go after those who are lost without Jesus.
2. Our Faith must draw people to God and Not Repel them Away.
The story of the prodigal son is a lesson of what happens when we reach out to those who have gotten away from the faith.
When you're really reaching the unchurched or even the dechurched it is messy!
It is God’s power that draws. It is His love that draws. It is His conviction that draws. It is His word that transform. It is our self righteousness and it is our condemnation that repels people away. It is the elder brother attitude that we need to be careful of.
If the younger brother had run into his elder brother he would have never made it inside the house! Unfortunately, too many churches are filled with the elder brother spirit. And sometimes it is the religiousity or the churchianity of elder brothers that can actually keep prodigals from reuniting with their Heavenly Father!
There is a difference between loving people before they change and after they get cleaned up. That is the challenge and the trick! Here is a little insight: people won't change until they are fully loved.
People will not stay inside the church until they are fully embraced. People will not be transformed until the Word is lived out first.
“Preach the gospel always and use words if necessary.” St Francis of Asissi
Daily Caffeination 08/13/07
Know, Know, Know
Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.—Romans 6:6
A Christian’s defeat on the spiritual battlefield lies largely in his or her ignorance of the facts. In Jesus Christ there is the power to no longer be under sin’s control and to live a new life. But a lot of Christians don’t realize this. They think they always will be the devil’s punching bag. They need to know what God has done for them.
Believers may think the way to overcome sin is by saying “no, no, no.” But the apostle Paul’s method for overcoming sin was by teaching “know, know, know.” We can say “no” to sin, but we don’t have the strength to do so in our own ability. We need to know what God has done for us, know about the resources at our disposal, and know what can be appropriated in our lives. It can change the way sin affects us.
Often we are defeated in our day-to-day living as believers because we don’t understand what God has done for us. It would be like trying to fight a battle without ammunition, when all the time, we have more than we could utilize in a thousand battles.
But we cannot avoid sin’s power by merely imitating Jesus. It is not trying to humanly live a divine life; it is divinely living a human life. It is God’s power in us and Christ through us, fulfilling what He has called us to do. It is not imitation, but impartation. It is appropriating the divine provision that God has for us. It is finding and using our ammunition. It is possessing our possessions.
Let Christ who is in you give you the power to do what He has called you to do.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.—Romans 6:6
A Christian’s defeat on the spiritual battlefield lies largely in his or her ignorance of the facts. In Jesus Christ there is the power to no longer be under sin’s control and to live a new life. But a lot of Christians don’t realize this. They think they always will be the devil’s punching bag. They need to know what God has done for them.
Believers may think the way to overcome sin is by saying “no, no, no.” But the apostle Paul’s method for overcoming sin was by teaching “know, know, know.” We can say “no” to sin, but we don’t have the strength to do so in our own ability. We need to know what God has done for us, know about the resources at our disposal, and know what can be appropriated in our lives. It can change the way sin affects us.
Often we are defeated in our day-to-day living as believers because we don’t understand what God has done for us. It would be like trying to fight a battle without ammunition, when all the time, we have more than we could utilize in a thousand battles.
But we cannot avoid sin’s power by merely imitating Jesus. It is not trying to humanly live a divine life; it is divinely living a human life. It is God’s power in us and Christ through us, fulfilling what He has called us to do. It is not imitation, but impartation. It is appropriating the divine provision that God has for us. It is finding and using our ammunition. It is possessing our possessions.
Let Christ who is in you give you the power to do what He has called you to do.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/11/07
Reflecting His Glory
They will tell of the glory of Your kingdom and speak of Your might, so that all men may know of Your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of Your kingdom. - Psalm 145:11-12
How do you measure your effectiveness in God, or should you even be thinking like this? The early Church turned the world upside down in that first century. What made them so effective? Was it their theology? Was it great preaching? Was it due to one man's influence apart from Jesus?
The Scriptures are clear as to what made the early Church effective. It is at the core of God's heart, and it is quite simple. God desires to reflect His nature and power through every individual. When this happens, the world is automatically changed because those who reflect His glory affect the world.
We serve a jealous God. He is a God who will not share His glory with anyone. God sets up situations in order to demonstrate His power through them. He has done this since the day He created man. His desire is to reflect His glory through you and me, so that all men may know of His mighty acts and the glorious splendor of His Kingdom.
The apostle Paul understood this principle: "My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power" (1 Cor. 2:4-5).
If you do not see His glory being reflected through your life, then you need to ask why. He has promised to do so if we will walk in obedience to His commands.
They will tell of the glory of Your kingdom and speak of Your might, so that all men may know of Your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of Your kingdom. - Psalm 145:11-12
How do you measure your effectiveness in God, or should you even be thinking like this? The early Church turned the world upside down in that first century. What made them so effective? Was it their theology? Was it great preaching? Was it due to one man's influence apart from Jesus?
The Scriptures are clear as to what made the early Church effective. It is at the core of God's heart, and it is quite simple. God desires to reflect His nature and power through every individual. When this happens, the world is automatically changed because those who reflect His glory affect the world.
We serve a jealous God. He is a God who will not share His glory with anyone. God sets up situations in order to demonstrate His power through them. He has done this since the day He created man. His desire is to reflect His glory through you and me, so that all men may know of His mighty acts and the glorious splendor of His Kingdom.
The apostle Paul understood this principle: "My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power" (1 Cor. 2:4-5).
If you do not see His glory being reflected through your life, then you need to ask why. He has promised to do so if we will walk in obedience to His commands.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/10/07
Peace and Victory
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”—John 16:33
There are two primary sources of spiritual attack in the life of the Christian: outward and inward. While an inward attack comes in the form of infiltration, an outward attack is persecution. And for many, an outward attack takes them down.
Persecution is one of Satan’s primary methods of attack in the life of the Christian. Jesus talked about persecution in the parable of the sower, in which the seed symbolizes the Word of God. He explained, “But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles” (Matthew 13:20–21).
If you are going to be a true follower of Jesus Christ, then you will be persecuted. But Jesus said, “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:11–12). You are in good company: the prophets were persecuted as well.
When you suffer persecution, remember what Jesus said: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Let’s be persecuted for the right reasons. Let’s be persecuted because we are like Jesus Christ and reflect Him to a lost world. And let’s never forget that in Him we have peace and victory over persecution and tribulation.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”—John 16:33
There are two primary sources of spiritual attack in the life of the Christian: outward and inward. While an inward attack comes in the form of infiltration, an outward attack is persecution. And for many, an outward attack takes them down.
Persecution is one of Satan’s primary methods of attack in the life of the Christian. Jesus talked about persecution in the parable of the sower, in which the seed symbolizes the Word of God. He explained, “But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles” (Matthew 13:20–21).
If you are going to be a true follower of Jesus Christ, then you will be persecuted. But Jesus said, “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:11–12). You are in good company: the prophets were persecuted as well.
When you suffer persecution, remember what Jesus said: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Let’s be persecuted for the right reasons. Let’s be persecuted because we are like Jesus Christ and reflect Him to a lost world. And let’s never forget that in Him we have peace and victory over persecution and tribulation.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/09/07
Telltale Signs
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.—Acts 4:13
We can often tell where people have been just by looking at them. For instance, if someone walked by wearing a wet swimming suit and sand-encrusted sandals, we would conclude that person had just come from the beach. We could see the telltale signs.
The Bible tells us there was something about Peter and John, something about the way they lived and the things they said, that were telltale signs to unbelievers that they had been with Jesus. One day on their way to pray in the temple, they met a crippled man. He asked them for money, but Peter told him, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk” (Acts 3:6). It was a dramatic, radical miracle.
The religious leaders didn’t like this. They thought they had already dealt with this problem when they eliminated that man from Nazareth known as Jesus. But now His followers were popping up everywhere. So they called Peter and John to appear before them. Acts 4:13 tells us, “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.”
If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? You may put Christian stickers on your car. Perhaps you have three or four Bibles in your home. Your wardrobe might include several T-shirts with Christian slogans on them. But what about your behavior? Would there be enough evidence to prove that you have been with Jesus?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.—Acts 4:13
We can often tell where people have been just by looking at them. For instance, if someone walked by wearing a wet swimming suit and sand-encrusted sandals, we would conclude that person had just come from the beach. We could see the telltale signs.
The Bible tells us there was something about Peter and John, something about the way they lived and the things they said, that were telltale signs to unbelievers that they had been with Jesus. One day on their way to pray in the temple, they met a crippled man. He asked them for money, but Peter told him, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk” (Acts 3:6). It was a dramatic, radical miracle.
The religious leaders didn’t like this. They thought they had already dealt with this problem when they eliminated that man from Nazareth known as Jesus. But now His followers were popping up everywhere. So they called Peter and John to appear before them. Acts 4:13 tells us, “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.”
If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? You may put Christian stickers on your car. Perhaps you have three or four Bibles in your home. Your wardrobe might include several T-shirts with Christian slogans on them. But what about your behavior? Would there be enough evidence to prove that you have been with Jesus?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/08/07
Practical Power
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”—Acts 1:8
Before He ascended into heaven, Jesus told His disciples that He had a job for them to do. He would come back and establish His kingdom (see Acts 1:6–8), but until then, He wanted them to go out and bring the gospel message to others and see His kingdom established in their lives.
It was a daunting task. The apostles were not ready for such a work. There were things they still did not understand. Their faith was relatively weak. How could they be expected to stand up before thousands and proclaim the gospel?
They could do this with a power they had never known: “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
Power is an exciting thing, isn’t it? We always want a faster car or a more powerful computer. We work out to get stronger. God says, “I have power for you. It is power with purpose. It is practical power.” The resurrection of Jesus Christ gives us power to live the Christian life.
It is impossible to live the Christian life successfully, except by the power of the Holy Spirit. But the glorious thing about Christianity is that even though we can’t measure up to God’s standards, God will take residence in our hearts so we can live this life through His power. God’s calling is God’s enabling. He will enable us to do what He has called us to do.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”—Acts 1:8
Before He ascended into heaven, Jesus told His disciples that He had a job for them to do. He would come back and establish His kingdom (see Acts 1:6–8), but until then, He wanted them to go out and bring the gospel message to others and see His kingdom established in their lives.
It was a daunting task. The apostles were not ready for such a work. There were things they still did not understand. Their faith was relatively weak. How could they be expected to stand up before thousands and proclaim the gospel?
They could do this with a power they had never known: “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
Power is an exciting thing, isn’t it? We always want a faster car or a more powerful computer. We work out to get stronger. God says, “I have power for you. It is power with purpose. It is practical power.” The resurrection of Jesus Christ gives us power to live the Christian life.
It is impossible to live the Christian life successfully, except by the power of the Holy Spirit. But the glorious thing about Christianity is that even though we can’t measure up to God’s standards, God will take residence in our hearts so we can live this life through His power. God’s calling is God’s enabling. He will enable us to do what He has called us to do.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Our Monthly Newsletter
“The single most effective evangelistic methodology under heaven is planting new churches.”
-- C. Peter Wagner
Baptism by the Bay is one of the major annual events of NCC and it took place this month. What an amazing experience, not only to see 25 people get baptized, but to do it on a public beach. Chris was responsible for having towels made as a token for each baptism candidate. It served in a practical way (used for drying off) and also as a reminder of the day they made their commitment to Christ public.
Another event this month was the annual Variety Show. Chris was instrumental in putting the event together. Not only did he work hard to organize the event, he also worked hard during the event. He lent his expertise in lighting, sound and breakdancing. Yes, you read that correctly. And even more impressive than that is the fact that he did that while dressed in the Chick-fil-A cow costume. There’s no way to prove that Chris is actually in there, but if you know him, you won’t have a hard time believing he’d do something like that!
This has been another challenging month. Despite the fatigue, traffic and craziness that our life has become, we are thankful for this opportunity and even more thankful that you are part of this journey with us. There is no way we could do this without you. Thank you for being such a blessing to us. And don’t forget, the Jarrell B&B is open for business!
In Christ,
Chris & Lora Jarrell
Daily Caffeination 08/07/07
A Radical Difference
Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?—1 John 5:5
The Book of Acts tells the story of a handful of men and women who, by the power of the Holy Spirit, did not leave their world the same way they found it. They were ordinary people whom God enabled to do extraordinary things. It was the beginning of a movement that continues to this very day.
On the Day of Pentecost, about 120 believers were gathered together when the Holy Spirit was poured out. Everywhere they went, they were ridiculed and opposed and persecuted and physically assaulted for their beliefs. Some were even put to death. Yet within a period of about 30 years, this original group of 120 and their converts came to be known as those who turned their world upside down. When we see their fearless preaching and their expectant prayer and willingness to obey, these Christians almost seem radical.
But it isn’t that they were radical; it is just that we’re not radical enough. We are living a watered-down version of the Christian life. What we see in the Book of Acts is normal, New Testament Christianity.
Could what happened in Acts happen again? Could we see another great movement of the Holy Spirit? The answer is yes, we could. But it starts with you. It starts with me. Let me ask you this: What if everyone in the church behaved just as you do? How well would the church know the Bible? What kind of a prayer life would the church have? How many people would be hearing the gospel? What kind of church would it be?
The church is made up of people like us. And we can make a radical difference.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?—1 John 5:5
The Book of Acts tells the story of a handful of men and women who, by the power of the Holy Spirit, did not leave their world the same way they found it. They were ordinary people whom God enabled to do extraordinary things. It was the beginning of a movement that continues to this very day.
On the Day of Pentecost, about 120 believers were gathered together when the Holy Spirit was poured out. Everywhere they went, they were ridiculed and opposed and persecuted and physically assaulted for their beliefs. Some were even put to death. Yet within a period of about 30 years, this original group of 120 and their converts came to be known as those who turned their world upside down. When we see their fearless preaching and their expectant prayer and willingness to obey, these Christians almost seem radical.
But it isn’t that they were radical; it is just that we’re not radical enough. We are living a watered-down version of the Christian life. What we see in the Book of Acts is normal, New Testament Christianity.
Could what happened in Acts happen again? Could we see another great movement of the Holy Spirit? The answer is yes, we could. But it starts with you. It starts with me. Let me ask you this: What if everyone in the church behaved just as you do? How well would the church know the Bible? What kind of a prayer life would the church have? How many people would be hearing the gospel? What kind of church would it be?
The church is made up of people like us. And we can make a radical difference.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, August 06, 2007
Everyone Is Invited to Join the NFL (NCC Fantasy League)
I have created a Fantasy Football League over at ESPN.com, the NFL or NCC Fantasy League. There are only12 teams, sign up quick...
The live draft will be this Wednesday, August 8th at 7:00 pm. Come join and make this football season fun and more exciting.
Everyone is invited to play even if you aren't part of the NCC Community.
Go to ESPN.com and go to the draft on August 8th at 7:00 PM and look for NCC Fantasy League.
What are you waiting? Go here now!
The live draft will be this Wednesday, August 8th at 7:00 pm. Come join and make this football season fun and more exciting.
Everyone is invited to play even if you aren't part of the NCC Community.
Go to ESPN.com and go to the draft on August 8th at 7:00 PM and look for NCC Fantasy League.
What are you waiting? Go here now!
Great Weekend That Solidifies my Calling
I had a great weekend spending time with my family. I had the opportunity to visit with my parents, see my brother, nephews and niece, as well as seeing my uncles and aunt.
Again, it was such a special honor and an amazing opportunity to be able to officiate my nephew's wedding. It was absolutely a joy for me to be able to a part of this celebration and occasion. I know I am not in ministry just to officiate weddings, but it is definitely a benefit of being a minister. I most definitely rather do a wedding than a funeral.
More and more as time goes by and as I get older (and hopefully wiser) I see myself as a lead pastor. I say that with great excitement and anticipation. I don't want to take away from my past ministry experiences or where I am currently at right now. I am thankful for my past ministry experiences and the pastors that I served with. I have learned so much from these experiences and I wouldn't be where I am at today without having that experience. And being here at NCC is an opportunity of a lifetime, it is a great experience and I am here to learn and serve for as long as the Lord has me here.
I do see myself more as a lead pastor, I feel more comfortable in the role of leading and being the one where I can have the final say. To be honest and quite candid, it has been really hard going from position at Crosslight where I had the opportunity to lead, give input, train, be involved with all the day to day operations of the church, use my ministry and my spiritual giftings to the fullest, and had a lot of autonomy to where many of those things are very limited.
This great weekend truly solidifies my personal calling. It gave me a peace of heart and peace mind of what God has called me to do. Please don't get me wrong I never want to do ministry out of memory. I also want to always stay innovative and intentional in everything I do as a lead pastor (actually in many ways I have been like this over the last 13 years in ministry). As I am about to embrace my 34th birthday (wow, I am getting old) and my 14th year in ministry I feel that I have so much to offer as a lead pastor, through my experiences, training, giftings and more importantly my calling.
I thank God so much for reassuring that to me through a time like this weekend. Next weekend. I get to preach at Crosslight, I am looking forward to that. I have so much I want to share but I know I can't share everything (less is more). There is nothing like utilizing the gifts that God has given you.
Thank you God for your calling and allowing me to do what I do. I want to to pleasing to you and be used to bring you glory and fame. Amen
Again, it was such a special honor and an amazing opportunity to be able to officiate my nephew's wedding. It was absolutely a joy for me to be able to a part of this celebration and occasion. I know I am not in ministry just to officiate weddings, but it is definitely a benefit of being a minister. I most definitely rather do a wedding than a funeral.
More and more as time goes by and as I get older (and hopefully wiser) I see myself as a lead pastor. I say that with great excitement and anticipation. I don't want to take away from my past ministry experiences or where I am currently at right now. I am thankful for my past ministry experiences and the pastors that I served with. I have learned so much from these experiences and I wouldn't be where I am at today without having that experience. And being here at NCC is an opportunity of a lifetime, it is a great experience and I am here to learn and serve for as long as the Lord has me here.
I do see myself more as a lead pastor, I feel more comfortable in the role of leading and being the one where I can have the final say. To be honest and quite candid, it has been really hard going from position at Crosslight where I had the opportunity to lead, give input, train, be involved with all the day to day operations of the church, use my ministry and my spiritual giftings to the fullest, and had a lot of autonomy to where many of those things are very limited.
This great weekend truly solidifies my personal calling. It gave me a peace of heart and peace mind of what God has called me to do. Please don't get me wrong I never want to do ministry out of memory. I also want to always stay innovative and intentional in everything I do as a lead pastor (actually in many ways I have been like this over the last 13 years in ministry). As I am about to embrace my 34th birthday (wow, I am getting old) and my 14th year in ministry I feel that I have so much to offer as a lead pastor, through my experiences, training, giftings and more importantly my calling.
I thank God so much for reassuring that to me through a time like this weekend. Next weekend. I get to preach at Crosslight, I am looking forward to that. I have so much I want to share but I know I can't share everything (less is more). There is nothing like utilizing the gifts that God has given you.
Thank you God for your calling and allowing me to do what I do. I want to to pleasing to you and be used to bring you glory and fame. Amen
Daily Caffeination 08/06/07
In Conclusion…
“Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher; “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity.”—Ecclesiastes 1:2
Before I became a Christian, I was like most young people, looking for purpose and meaning in life. The thinking of the day was that we, the young people, were going to change our world. The adult establishment did not have the answers. Our faith in government was shattered. So we thought we would change things.
But after a little time, I began to realize that the youth movement had the same phony love and hypocrisy I had seen in the adult world. It was the same selfishness and emptiness of the generation that preceded it and the generations that would follow. It was only a pale version of what can really be known in a relationship with God and as you walk with His people.
On my high school campus, there was a very outspoken group of Christians who were not ashamed of the gospel. I went to one of their meetings and ended up hearing the gospel and giving my life to Christ. My life was radically impacted. God’s promises started being fulfilled in my own life, and then I knew personally that Jesus Christ was real.
Having lived in the world for 17 years and having sampled many of the pleasures it had to offer, I knew the futility and emptiness of it all. I knew it was a dead-end street. I knew then that this world was empty. And it still is. As Solomon said, “Vanity of vanities . . . all is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2).
So what is the answer? “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Without God, life is vain and empty.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher; “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity.”—Ecclesiastes 1:2
Before I became a Christian, I was like most young people, looking for purpose and meaning in life. The thinking of the day was that we, the young people, were going to change our world. The adult establishment did not have the answers. Our faith in government was shattered. So we thought we would change things.
But after a little time, I began to realize that the youth movement had the same phony love and hypocrisy I had seen in the adult world. It was the same selfishness and emptiness of the generation that preceded it and the generations that would follow. It was only a pale version of what can really be known in a relationship with God and as you walk with His people.
On my high school campus, there was a very outspoken group of Christians who were not ashamed of the gospel. I went to one of their meetings and ended up hearing the gospel and giving my life to Christ. My life was radically impacted. God’s promises started being fulfilled in my own life, and then I knew personally that Jesus Christ was real.
Having lived in the world for 17 years and having sampled many of the pleasures it had to offer, I knew the futility and emptiness of it all. I knew it was a dead-end street. I knew then that this world was empty. And it still is. As Solomon said, “Vanity of vanities . . . all is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2).
So what is the answer? “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Without God, life is vain and empty.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/05/07
Two by Two
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work. - Ecclesiastes 4:9
Have you discovered yet that you are incomplete by yourself? During my "warrior" stage of life you would have been hard-pressed to convince me that I needed you or anyone else. I know few people willing to admit their need for others, but many who live according to this principle. However, sooner or later we discover God's truth regarding our need for others.
God made us to need others. We may not discover this until we fail -- fail in a business, a marriage, a close friendship, or in a client relationship. We are incomplete without the ongoing input from others into our lives. An independent spirit is one of the most detestable sins from God's viewpoint. It is the highest form of pride. "Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice" (Prov. 13:10).
God has made each of us so that we have only so many gifts. He did not give any of us all the available gifts. Hence, we learn to depend on others and to humbly trust others to complete us where we are deficient.
David had Jonathan. Paul had Silas. John Wesley had George Whitefield. Martin Luther had Philip Melanchthon, who was 14 years younger. Martin Luther learned that he needed someone in his life to complete the work God called him to do. Luther had the greatest respect for this friend who helped him reform the Church of their day, and the Church as we know it at present. Luther learned a great deal from Melanchthon, who was a great scholar at a young age. He could speak several languages, and he became Professor of Greek at the new University of Wittenberg at 21 years of age. This was ten months after Luther posted his famous theses on the church door in Wittenberg. Melanchthon helped shape the Protestant movement of the sixteenth century through his research, writings, moral purpose, and religious conscience. Luther and Melanchthon became inseparable, and when they died, they were buried next to each other.
Who has God placed in your life to complete you? Perhaps it is a mate. Perhaps it is a close friend. Perhaps it is a business partner. If you lack this in your life, I encourage you to seek someone out who can speak into your life. If you have someone like this, tell him or her how much you appreciate the role he or she plays in your life.
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work. - Ecclesiastes 4:9
Have you discovered yet that you are incomplete by yourself? During my "warrior" stage of life you would have been hard-pressed to convince me that I needed you or anyone else. I know few people willing to admit their need for others, but many who live according to this principle. However, sooner or later we discover God's truth regarding our need for others.
God made us to need others. We may not discover this until we fail -- fail in a business, a marriage, a close friendship, or in a client relationship. We are incomplete without the ongoing input from others into our lives. An independent spirit is one of the most detestable sins from God's viewpoint. It is the highest form of pride. "Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice" (Prov. 13:10).
God has made each of us so that we have only so many gifts. He did not give any of us all the available gifts. Hence, we learn to depend on others and to humbly trust others to complete us where we are deficient.
David had Jonathan. Paul had Silas. John Wesley had George Whitefield. Martin Luther had Philip Melanchthon, who was 14 years younger. Martin Luther learned that he needed someone in his life to complete the work God called him to do. Luther had the greatest respect for this friend who helped him reform the Church of their day, and the Church as we know it at present. Luther learned a great deal from Melanchthon, who was a great scholar at a young age. He could speak several languages, and he became Professor of Greek at the new University of Wittenberg at 21 years of age. This was ten months after Luther posted his famous theses on the church door in Wittenberg. Melanchthon helped shape the Protestant movement of the sixteenth century through his research, writings, moral purpose, and religious conscience. Luther and Melanchthon became inseparable, and when they died, they were buried next to each other.
Who has God placed in your life to complete you? Perhaps it is a mate. Perhaps it is a close friend. Perhaps it is a business partner. If you lack this in your life, I encourage you to seek someone out who can speak into your life. If you have someone like this, tell him or her how much you appreciate the role he or she plays in your life.
Saturday, August 04, 2007
Few Pictures From My Nephew's Wedding
Today, I had honor to officiate my nephew, Michael's wedding to his beautiful bride Stephanie. I really do consider this a great opportunity and I am glad I was asked to be able to preside over the ceremony today.
Michael and Stephanie Jarrell
The Groomsmen
The Bridesmaids
My 3 Nephews and Niece
Michael, Stephanie and Me
The Groomsmen
The Bridesmaids
My 3 Nephews and Niece
Michael, Stephanie and Me
Daily Caffeination 08/04/07 - Live from Tullahoma, TN
The Door of Full Surrender
But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold. - Job 23:10
I was recently sitting with the leader of a workplace organization as he described a question he poses to workplace believers. "What if there were two doors to choose from; behind one door was the complete will of God for your life and behind the other door was how life could be according to your own preference. Which door would you choose?" The struggle for most lies in the desire to follow God completely and the fear of what might be behind the door of full surrender. Most of us desire to follow God, but few of us will do it at any cost. We do not really believe that God loves us to the degree that we are willing to give Him complete permission to do as He wills in us.
If we desire to fully walk with Christ, there is a cost. We may give intellectual assent and go along with His principles and do fine; however, if we are fully given over to Him and His will for our life, it will be a life that will have adversity. The Bible is clear that humans do not achieve greatness without having their sinful will broken. This process is designed to create a nature change in each of us, not just a habit change. The Bible calls it circumcision. Circumcision is painful, bloody, and personal.
If God has plans to greatly use you in the lives of others, you can expect your trials to be even greater than those of others. Why? Because, like Joseph who went through greater trials than most patriarchs, your calling may have such responsibility that God cannot afford to entrust it to you without ensuring your complete faithfulness to the call. He has much invested in you on behalf of others. He may want to speak through your life to a greater degree than through another. The events of your life would become the frame for the message He wants to speak through you.
Do not fear the path that God may lead you on. Embrace it. For God may bring you down a path in your life to ensure the reward of your inheritance. "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (2 Cor. 4:17)
But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold. - Job 23:10
I was recently sitting with the leader of a workplace organization as he described a question he poses to workplace believers. "What if there were two doors to choose from; behind one door was the complete will of God for your life and behind the other door was how life could be according to your own preference. Which door would you choose?" The struggle for most lies in the desire to follow God completely and the fear of what might be behind the door of full surrender. Most of us desire to follow God, but few of us will do it at any cost. We do not really believe that God loves us to the degree that we are willing to give Him complete permission to do as He wills in us.
If we desire to fully walk with Christ, there is a cost. We may give intellectual assent and go along with His principles and do fine; however, if we are fully given over to Him and His will for our life, it will be a life that will have adversity. The Bible is clear that humans do not achieve greatness without having their sinful will broken. This process is designed to create a nature change in each of us, not just a habit change. The Bible calls it circumcision. Circumcision is painful, bloody, and personal.
If God has plans to greatly use you in the lives of others, you can expect your trials to be even greater than those of others. Why? Because, like Joseph who went through greater trials than most patriarchs, your calling may have such responsibility that God cannot afford to entrust it to you without ensuring your complete faithfulness to the call. He has much invested in you on behalf of others. He may want to speak through your life to a greater degree than through another. The events of your life would become the frame for the message He wants to speak through you.
Do not fear the path that God may lead you on. Embrace it. For God may bring you down a path in your life to ensure the reward of your inheritance. "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (2 Cor. 4:17)
Friday, August 03, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/03/07
Heroes Wanted
“Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”—Deuteronomy 31:6
The world has never been more advanced technologically, yet we have never been in worse shape spiritually and morally. It can be frightening to wonder what kind of world we are going to face and what kind of world our children and grandchildren will grow up in.
We need courage to live in these days as followers of Jesus Christ. Yet courage seems to be something that is in short supply today. Sometimes we forget what real heroism and real courage really are. We wonder where all the heroes are now.
I believe that anyone today who is a true follower of Jesus Christ and will stand up for what he or she believes is a true hero. It takes courage to be a follower of Jesus, to live an uncompromised life, to do the right thing, and to proclaim the gospel. Those who do that are heroes in my book.
It takes courage for a young Christian to resist peer pressure and remain sexually pure until marriage and then to be faithful in that marriage. It takes courage for a family to stay together and to resist the temptation to cave in at the first sight of a problem or a challenge to the vows they have made to one another. It takes courage today to be honest and not cheat. It takes courage to follow Jesus. It takes a real man and a real woman to be a follower of Christ.
Is this a description of your life right now? Are you someone who fears nothing but sin and desires nothing but God? Have courage. He is with you, and He will not forsake you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
“Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”—Deuteronomy 31:6
The world has never been more advanced technologically, yet we have never been in worse shape spiritually and morally. It can be frightening to wonder what kind of world we are going to face and what kind of world our children and grandchildren will grow up in.
We need courage to live in these days as followers of Jesus Christ. Yet courage seems to be something that is in short supply today. Sometimes we forget what real heroism and real courage really are. We wonder where all the heroes are now.
I believe that anyone today who is a true follower of Jesus Christ and will stand up for what he or she believes is a true hero. It takes courage to be a follower of Jesus, to live an uncompromised life, to do the right thing, and to proclaim the gospel. Those who do that are heroes in my book.
It takes courage for a young Christian to resist peer pressure and remain sexually pure until marriage and then to be faithful in that marriage. It takes courage for a family to stay together and to resist the temptation to cave in at the first sight of a problem or a challenge to the vows they have made to one another. It takes courage today to be honest and not cheat. It takes courage to follow Jesus. It takes a real man and a real woman to be a follower of Christ.
Is this a description of your life right now? Are you someone who fears nothing but sin and desires nothing but God? Have courage. He is with you, and He will not forsake you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/02/07
Courage in His Presence
But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”—Matthew 14:27
Jesus had told His disciples to go over to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. They were in their little boat, rowing across, when a huge storm suddenly came out of nowhere (see Matthew 14:22–33). As the storm grew worse, they began to despair of their lives.
Now these men had their sea legs. They were seasoned sailors. But they were despairing of life, which tells us that this was a dangerous storm. It got darker and darker, and suddenly they saw Jesus walking toward them on the water. They were terrified and thought it was a ghost. “But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid’ ” (Matthew 14:27). So for the disciples in the storm, His presence brought courage.
One of the most frightening and difficult things in life is having to face your problems alone. We can be a lot braver when we know someone is standing with us. It’s good to know that others are standing by us in our hardships. And it’s even better to know that God is standing with us. Whatever we are facing, we can be encouraged and find courage because Jesus is there with us.
Keep in mind that Jesus had sent the disciples to the other side. He didn’t promise them smooth sailing, but He promised them safe arrival. The Christian life is not one that guarantees we will have smooth sailing. But I can promise you this: it will be exciting. There will be a lot of joy, a lot of blessings, and a lot of changes. And I assure you, you will get to your destination safely. Be of good cheer. He is with you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”—Matthew 14:27
Jesus had told His disciples to go over to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. They were in their little boat, rowing across, when a huge storm suddenly came out of nowhere (see Matthew 14:22–33). As the storm grew worse, they began to despair of their lives.
Now these men had their sea legs. They were seasoned sailors. But they were despairing of life, which tells us that this was a dangerous storm. It got darker and darker, and suddenly they saw Jesus walking toward them on the water. They were terrified and thought it was a ghost. “But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid’ ” (Matthew 14:27). So for the disciples in the storm, His presence brought courage.
One of the most frightening and difficult things in life is having to face your problems alone. We can be a lot braver when we know someone is standing with us. It’s good to know that others are standing by us in our hardships. And it’s even better to know that God is standing with us. Whatever we are facing, we can be encouraged and find courage because Jesus is there with us.
Keep in mind that Jesus had sent the disciples to the other side. He didn’t promise them smooth sailing, but He promised them safe arrival. The Christian life is not one that guarantees we will have smooth sailing. But I can promise you this: it will be exciting. There will be a lot of joy, a lot of blessings, and a lot of changes. And I assure you, you will get to your destination safely. Be of good cheer. He is with you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Daily Caffeination 08/01/07
Tapping into God’s Power
And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”—Luke 8:48
As Jesus made His way to the home of Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue whose daughter was ill, there was a woman in the crowd who had been sick for 12 years. It almost appears that Jesus was unaware of her in the crowd. But in reality, He had been waiting for her.
This woman had spent all her money trying to find a cure for her disease. She thought, If I could just touch Him when He passes by, I know I will be healed (see Luke 8:43–48). So as Jesus passed by, she reached out and touched the hem of His garment. And suddenly, instantaneously, right there on the spot, she was healed.
When she touched Him, Jesus stopped and said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me” (Luke 8:46). The word “power” that Jesus used speaks of the dynamite power of God. It is the Greek word from which we get the word “dynamite.” So Jesus was essentially saying, “Someone just tapped into my dynamic, explosive power.”
As the crowd parted, the woman fell down before Jesus. He assured her, ”Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace” (Luke 8:48). In this woman’s moment of need, His power healed her and gave her courage.
The same power that impacted this woman can impact you today. The same power came from the Holy Spirit to the disciples on the Day of Pentecost, and they went out to turn their world upside down. And the same power is available to every Christian, to give us courage to live the Christian life and to share our faith. So let’s reach out for it.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”—Luke 8:48
As Jesus made His way to the home of Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue whose daughter was ill, there was a woman in the crowd who had been sick for 12 years. It almost appears that Jesus was unaware of her in the crowd. But in reality, He had been waiting for her.
This woman had spent all her money trying to find a cure for her disease. She thought, If I could just touch Him when He passes by, I know I will be healed (see Luke 8:43–48). So as Jesus passed by, she reached out and touched the hem of His garment. And suddenly, instantaneously, right there on the spot, she was healed.
When she touched Him, Jesus stopped and said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me” (Luke 8:46). The word “power” that Jesus used speaks of the dynamite power of God. It is the Greek word from which we get the word “dynamite.” So Jesus was essentially saying, “Someone just tapped into my dynamic, explosive power.”
As the crowd parted, the woman fell down before Jesus. He assured her, ”Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace” (Luke 8:48). In this woman’s moment of need, His power healed her and gave her courage.
The same power that impacted this woman can impact you today. The same power came from the Holy Spirit to the disciples on the Day of Pentecost, and they went out to turn their world upside down. And the same power is available to every Christian, to give us courage to live the Christian life and to share our faith. So let’s reach out for it.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
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