Here at your feet
I'll always be
With the angels
Crying holy
There's not one thing
That means as much to me as
You my God, as You my King
Here in the darkness
I lift my eyes to You
Your light comes shining through
(Chorus:)
Jesus, I surrender
I draw nearer, I fall down
Master, be my Savior
Be my shelter, be my God
There's no one else
Who can compare to you
The righteous One, the perfect Son
Here in the silence
I hear You speak my name
And I cry out to You
Monday, March 31, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/31/08
Revive Us Again!
"Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?" -Psalm 85:6
Has it ever seemed as if you were out there all alone as a Christian? Sometimes it feels like you are the only one who is serving the Lord or speaking up for Him at your workplace or school. You know others who are Christians, but they are afraid to stand up and be counted as such.
As dark as things are, remember this. Isaiah 59:19 says, "When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will raise up a standard against him." So here is the good news: when things are really wicked, when things are really dark, you can anticipate that God will do something.
That is why, as I look at the way things are going, I am praying and hoping for a work of God in our generation. When you look back at the great revivals in history, biblical and otherwise, you find five traits that are true of every revival:
1. All revivals began during a time of national depression and deep moral distress.
2. Revivals usually began with an individual, someone whom God would work on or work through. It may have been someone who would pray or someone who would preach.
3. Every revival was built on the Word of God being preached, taught boldly, and obeyed.
4. Every revival brought about an awareness of sin and the need to repent of it.
5. Every revival brought about a change in the moral climate; something happened in the culture as a result.
When God is forgotten, a moral breakdown soon will follow. But when we are really doing what God wants us to do, it will have an impact on our culture.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?" -Psalm 85:6
Has it ever seemed as if you were out there all alone as a Christian? Sometimes it feels like you are the only one who is serving the Lord or speaking up for Him at your workplace or school. You know others who are Christians, but they are afraid to stand up and be counted as such.
As dark as things are, remember this. Isaiah 59:19 says, "When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will raise up a standard against him." So here is the good news: when things are really wicked, when things are really dark, you can anticipate that God will do something.
That is why, as I look at the way things are going, I am praying and hoping for a work of God in our generation. When you look back at the great revivals in history, biblical and otherwise, you find five traits that are true of every revival:
1. All revivals began during a time of national depression and deep moral distress.
2. Revivals usually began with an individual, someone whom God would work on or work through. It may have been someone who would pray or someone who would preach.
3. Every revival was built on the Word of God being preached, taught boldly, and obeyed.
4. Every revival brought about an awareness of sin and the need to repent of it.
5. Every revival brought about a change in the moral climate; something happened in the culture as a result.
When God is forgotten, a moral breakdown soon will follow. But when we are really doing what God wants us to do, it will have an impact on our culture.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Friday, March 28, 2008
Consuming Fire Video
There must be more than this
O breath of God, come breathe within
There must be more than this
Spirit of God we wait for You
Fill us anew we pray
Fill us anew we pray
Consuming fire, fan into flames
A passion for Your name
Spirit of God, fall in this place
Lord have Your way
Lord have Your way with us
Come like a rushing wind
Clothe us with power from on high
Now set the captives free
Leave us abandoned to Your praise
Lord let Your glory fall
Lord let Your glory fall
O breath of God, come breathe within
There must be more than this
Spirit of God we wait for You
Fill us anew we pray
Fill us anew we pray
Consuming fire, fan into flames
A passion for Your name
Spirit of God, fall in this place
Lord have Your way
Lord have Your way with us
Come like a rushing wind
Clothe us with power from on high
Now set the captives free
Leave us abandoned to Your praise
Lord let Your glory fall
Lord let Your glory fall
Daily Caffeination 03/28/08
God's Way
"To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity. To the pure you show yourself pure, but to the wicked you show yourself hostile." -Psalm 18:25--26
It is interesting how God came to different people in the Bible. To Abraham, God came as a traveler. Abraham was outside his tent when three messengers arrived. Two were angels, while one was God himself. We know that Jesus said, "Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad" (John 8:56). Why did the Lord come to Abraham as a sojourner? That is what Abraham was.
The night before Israel began their siege of Jericho, God came to Joshua, the commander of Israel's armies, as Commander of the Lord's army.
When God came to Jacob, He came as a wrestler, and Jacob wrestled with Him. Why? Jacob was always fighting, conniving, resisting, and wrestling to get what he wanted.
Maybe you can relate to Jacob. Maybe there is something you want from God, even a good thing, like the salvation of a husband or wife. Maybe you are tired of being single and want to get married. Or maybe you want to serve God in a ministry.
Don't resort to conniving, because you may get what you want, but at a great cost. Jacob got what he wanted and paid dearly for it. I believe that if he had waited on God, he would have received what he needed and what God had promised.
God wants to do His will in our lives in His way and in His time. If you need something from God, be patient and wait on Him. God will meet you wherever you are to lift you to where He wants you to be.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity. To the pure you show yourself pure, but to the wicked you show yourself hostile." -Psalm 18:25--26
It is interesting how God came to different people in the Bible. To Abraham, God came as a traveler. Abraham was outside his tent when three messengers arrived. Two were angels, while one was God himself. We know that Jesus said, "Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad" (John 8:56). Why did the Lord come to Abraham as a sojourner? That is what Abraham was.
The night before Israel began their siege of Jericho, God came to Joshua, the commander of Israel's armies, as Commander of the Lord's army.
When God came to Jacob, He came as a wrestler, and Jacob wrestled with Him. Why? Jacob was always fighting, conniving, resisting, and wrestling to get what he wanted.
Maybe you can relate to Jacob. Maybe there is something you want from God, even a good thing, like the salvation of a husband or wife. Maybe you are tired of being single and want to get married. Or maybe you want to serve God in a ministry.
Don't resort to conniving, because you may get what you want, but at a great cost. Jacob got what he wanted and paid dearly for it. I believe that if he had waited on God, he would have received what he needed and what God had promised.
God wants to do His will in our lives in His way and in His time. If you need something from God, be patient and wait on Him. God will meet you wherever you are to lift you to where He wants you to be.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/27/08
The Peril of Prayerlessness
"If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking." -James 1:5
The Bible's first recorded prayer of Jacob's is found in Genesis 32:9--16. Up to this point, seven chapters of Genesis have been devoted to Jacob's life, with no mention of prayer on his part.
It makes me wonder if Jacob had ever prayed up to this point. It is possible, but the Bible doesn't specifically mention it. It may have been Jacob's very lack of prayer and lack of dependence on God that made him feel as though he had to manipulate his circumstances.
It was commendable that Jacob was reaching out to God, and there are even some good things about his prayer. He acknowledged the God of Abraham and Isaac as the true God. He confessed his own unworthiness. He brought his petition to the Lord.
But it would have been better if he had said, "Lord, what should I do now?" Instead, he prayed and made his plans. In other words, he decided what he was going to do and then asked God to bless it.
Is that not like us? We make our plan and then ask God to bless it. But that is not really praying about a matter. Instead, we should pray along the lines of, "Lord, give me wisdom from your Word and from godly people who will guide me scripturally. Help me do the right thing."
But Jacob did not do that. He wanted what was right, but he went about it in the wrong way.
God helps those who can't help themselves. This is what Jacob needed to realize. Let's learn to seek out God's will rather than bypass it.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking." -James 1:5
The Bible's first recorded prayer of Jacob's is found in Genesis 32:9--16. Up to this point, seven chapters of Genesis have been devoted to Jacob's life, with no mention of prayer on his part.
It makes me wonder if Jacob had ever prayed up to this point. It is possible, but the Bible doesn't specifically mention it. It may have been Jacob's very lack of prayer and lack of dependence on God that made him feel as though he had to manipulate his circumstances.
It was commendable that Jacob was reaching out to God, and there are even some good things about his prayer. He acknowledged the God of Abraham and Isaac as the true God. He confessed his own unworthiness. He brought his petition to the Lord.
But it would have been better if he had said, "Lord, what should I do now?" Instead, he prayed and made his plans. In other words, he decided what he was going to do and then asked God to bless it.
Is that not like us? We make our plan and then ask God to bless it. But that is not really praying about a matter. Instead, we should pray along the lines of, "Lord, give me wisdom from your Word and from godly people who will guide me scripturally. Help me do the right thing."
But Jacob did not do that. He wanted what was right, but he went about it in the wrong way.
God helps those who can't help themselves. This is what Jacob needed to realize. Let's learn to seek out God's will rather than bypass it.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/26/08
Temporary Pleasures
" 'Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.' " -Luke 12:21
There is a story in the Bible about a man named Esau who gave up everything for a little temporal pleasure. As the firstborn, Esau had been given the family birthright, which meant that he would one day be the spiritual leader of his family and would be in the ancestral line of the Messiah. But Esau didn't seem to care much about that.
One day, his brother Jacob came along and proposed a trade: Esau's birthright for some stew that Jacob was cooking. It sounded like a good deal to Esau at the time. Later, he realized how cheaply he had sold out. But it was too late.
Esau had no regard for spiritual things, and there are a lot of people like that today. They could care less about God until they are in a bind or until some tragedy hits. Then suddenly, miraculously, they have time for God. Then when the crisis is past, they return to their old ways.
Jesus spoke about a farmer whose crop had produced generously. The farmer decided to tear down his barns and build larger ones to store everything. That way, he could say to himself, "My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!" (Luke 12:19)
But God said, "You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get it all?" (Luke 12:20)
Are things on this earth more important to you than treasures in heaven? Everything you may hold dear will be left behind one day. And the only thing that will matter is what is waiting in heaven for you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
" 'Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.' " -Luke 12:21
There is a story in the Bible about a man named Esau who gave up everything for a little temporal pleasure. As the firstborn, Esau had been given the family birthright, which meant that he would one day be the spiritual leader of his family and would be in the ancestral line of the Messiah. But Esau didn't seem to care much about that.
One day, his brother Jacob came along and proposed a trade: Esau's birthright for some stew that Jacob was cooking. It sounded like a good deal to Esau at the time. Later, he realized how cheaply he had sold out. But it was too late.
Esau had no regard for spiritual things, and there are a lot of people like that today. They could care less about God until they are in a bind or until some tragedy hits. Then suddenly, miraculously, they have time for God. Then when the crisis is past, they return to their old ways.
Jesus spoke about a farmer whose crop had produced generously. The farmer decided to tear down his barns and build larger ones to store everything. That way, he could say to himself, "My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!" (Luke 12:19)
But God said, "You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get it all?" (Luke 12:20)
Are things on this earth more important to you than treasures in heaven? Everything you may hold dear will be left behind one day. And the only thing that will matter is what is waiting in heaven for you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/25/08
Sowing and Reaping
"For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life." (Galatians 6:8)
A successful building contractor called in one of his employees, a skilled carpenter, and told him that he was putting him in charge of the next house the company was building. He instructed the carpenter to order all of the materials and oversee the entire process from the ground up.
The carpenter excitedly accepted his assignment. It was his first opportunity to actually oversee an entire building project. He studied the blueprints and checked every measurement.
Then he thought, "If I am really in charge, why can't I cut a few corners, use less expensive materials, and put the extra money in my pocket? Who would know the difference? After we paint the place, no one would be able to tell."
The carpenter set about with his scheme. He used second-grade lumber and ordered inexpensive concrete for the foundation. He put in cheap wiring. He cut every corner he possibly could, but reported the use of higher-quality building materials.
When the home was completed, he asked his boss to come and see it. His boss looked it over and said, "This is incredible. You did a fantastic job. You have been such a good and faithful worker and have been so honest all of these years that I am showing my gratitude by giving you this house."
We will reap what we sow. Just as we can't plant weeds and reap flowers, we can't sin and reap righteousness. There are reactions to our actions. Think about it: every day, we are either sowing to the Spirit or we are sowing to the flesh.
What kind of seeds will you sow today?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life." (Galatians 6:8)
A successful building contractor called in one of his employees, a skilled carpenter, and told him that he was putting him in charge of the next house the company was building. He instructed the carpenter to order all of the materials and oversee the entire process from the ground up.
The carpenter excitedly accepted his assignment. It was his first opportunity to actually oversee an entire building project. He studied the blueprints and checked every measurement.
Then he thought, "If I am really in charge, why can't I cut a few corners, use less expensive materials, and put the extra money in my pocket? Who would know the difference? After we paint the place, no one would be able to tell."
The carpenter set about with his scheme. He used second-grade lumber and ordered inexpensive concrete for the foundation. He put in cheap wiring. He cut every corner he possibly could, but reported the use of higher-quality building materials.
When the home was completed, he asked his boss to come and see it. His boss looked it over and said, "This is incredible. You did a fantastic job. You have been such a good and faithful worker and have been so honest all of these years that I am showing my gratitude by giving you this house."
We will reap what we sow. Just as we can't plant weeds and reap flowers, we can't sin and reap righteousness. There are reactions to our actions. Think about it: every day, we are either sowing to the Spirit or we are sowing to the flesh.
What kind of seeds will you sow today?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Happy Birthday!!!
Today is Lora, my amazing wife's birthday! I just want to wish her a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I am so blessed to have her in my life. I feel she is a gift given to me by our awesome God.
Happy Birthday sweetheart, I love you so much. I hope you have a wonderful day.
Happy Birthday sweetheart, I love you so much. I hope you have a wonderful day.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/24/08
Power with a Purpose
"'But when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power and will tell people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.' " -Acts 1:8
What comes to mind when you hear the word dynamite? I automatically think of something explosive. And when something is described as dynamic, I know it is something unusual or special, something that stands out.
Jesus told the disciples they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them. The word that Jesus used for power is from the Greek word dunamis, the same word from which we get our words dynamite and dynamic.
Have you ever seen a fire hose on the loose? It can knock people and things over. It can be very destructive. But if you get hold of it and aim it in the right direction, you can do a lot of good.
Power is exciting if it is used for something productive. In the same way, God has given us the power of the Holy Spirit for a purpose. God's power is practical. He did not give us the Holy Spirit so that we would behave strangely. He gave us the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses and to effectively share our faith. It is power with a purpose.
When the Holy Spirit came upon those first-century believers on the Day of Pentecost, the Bible says that about 3,000 people made commitments to Jesus Christ (see Acts 2:41). Peter made an important statement about the Holy Spirit back then: the power they had received was not only available to them, but would be available to future generations of believers as well (see Acts 2:39).
This means that the same power is available to us to change our world.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"'But when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power and will tell people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.' " -Acts 1:8
What comes to mind when you hear the word dynamite? I automatically think of something explosive. And when something is described as dynamic, I know it is something unusual or special, something that stands out.
Jesus told the disciples they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them. The word that Jesus used for power is from the Greek word dunamis, the same word from which we get our words dynamite and dynamic.
Have you ever seen a fire hose on the loose? It can knock people and things over. It can be very destructive. But if you get hold of it and aim it in the right direction, you can do a lot of good.
Power is exciting if it is used for something productive. In the same way, God has given us the power of the Holy Spirit for a purpose. God's power is practical. He did not give us the Holy Spirit so that we would behave strangely. He gave us the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses and to effectively share our faith. It is power with a purpose.
When the Holy Spirit came upon those first-century believers on the Day of Pentecost, the Bible says that about 3,000 people made commitments to Jesus Christ (see Acts 2:41). Peter made an important statement about the Holy Spirit back then: the power they had received was not only available to them, but would be available to future generations of believers as well (see Acts 2:39).
This means that the same power is available to us to change our world.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Friday, March 21, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/21/08
What's Inside?
"My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go; my heart shall not reproach me as long as I live." -Job 27:6
I heard the story of a pastor who boarded a bus one Monday morning, paid his fare, and took his seat. A few minutes later, he realized that the driver had given him too much change. Some people might have put it in their pocket and said, "Lord, thank you for your provision." But this pastor knew that would be wrong.
At the next stop, he walked to the front of the bus with the extra change and said to the driver, "Excuse me, sir, you gave me too much change, and I wanted to return it to you, because obviously you made a mistake."
The driver said, "Pastor, I didn't make a mistake. I was at your church last night and heard you preach on honesty. I wanted to see if you practiced what you preached." Fortunately, he did.
People are watching you as a Christian. They are scrutinizing your every move. You should know they are not hoping you will be a godly witness. They are hoping you will slip up so they will have something on which to conveniently hang their doubts and unbelief.
Humorist Will Rogers said, "So live that you would not mind selling your pet parrot to the town gossip." That is the idea of integrity: having nothing in our lives to be ashamed of. This personal integrity is something we are developing on a daily basis with every thought we think and every action we take. We are either building up character or tearing it down.
What kind of character do you have? Who are you in private? For all practical purposes, that is the real you.
"My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go; my heart shall not reproach me as long as I live." -Job 27:6
I heard the story of a pastor who boarded a bus one Monday morning, paid his fare, and took his seat. A few minutes later, he realized that the driver had given him too much change. Some people might have put it in their pocket and said, "Lord, thank you for your provision." But this pastor knew that would be wrong.
At the next stop, he walked to the front of the bus with the extra change and said to the driver, "Excuse me, sir, you gave me too much change, and I wanted to return it to you, because obviously you made a mistake."
The driver said, "Pastor, I didn't make a mistake. I was at your church last night and heard you preach on honesty. I wanted to see if you practiced what you preached." Fortunately, he did.
People are watching you as a Christian. They are scrutinizing your every move. You should know they are not hoping you will be a godly witness. They are hoping you will slip up so they will have something on which to conveniently hang their doubts and unbelief.
Humorist Will Rogers said, "So live that you would not mind selling your pet parrot to the town gossip." That is the idea of integrity: having nothing in our lives to be ashamed of. This personal integrity is something we are developing on a daily basis with every thought we think and every action we take. We are either building up character or tearing it down.
What kind of character do you have? Who are you in private? For all practical purposes, that is the real you.
Super Exciting and Super Crazy Weekend is Here
It begins today...the super exciting and super crazy weekend. Should be fun!
Today, we begin packing the truck for our 7th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza that takes place tomorrow. Tonight, we have two Good Friday services at 6:00 and 7:30, as we honor and celebrate what Christ did on the cross for all of our sins. He paid our debt of sin in full for each of us!
After, the services I will be preparing the baptismal for tomorrow night's Baptism Celebration service.
Tomorrow morning, it will be an early day with set up of the Easter Eggstravaganza and the event itself from 1:00-3:00, then of course clean up afterwards. Tomorrow night, two services 5:00 and 6:30 at Ebenezers and a Baptism Celebration service after the 6:30 service. Then afterwards, draining the baptismal and tearing it down.
Sunday three Easter Sunday services at Union Station as we celebrate the resurrection of our Savior and King, get back home at 1:30ish and sleep. :-)
Believe it or not I am actually looking forward to this weekend and I am so glad to take part in what God is doing here at National Community Church.
Today, we begin packing the truck for our 7th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza that takes place tomorrow. Tonight, we have two Good Friday services at 6:00 and 7:30, as we honor and celebrate what Christ did on the cross for all of our sins. He paid our debt of sin in full for each of us!
After, the services I will be preparing the baptismal for tomorrow night's Baptism Celebration service.
Tomorrow morning, it will be an early day with set up of the Easter Eggstravaganza and the event itself from 1:00-3:00, then of course clean up afterwards. Tomorrow night, two services 5:00 and 6:30 at Ebenezers and a Baptism Celebration service after the 6:30 service. Then afterwards, draining the baptismal and tearing it down.
Sunday three Easter Sunday services at Union Station as we celebrate the resurrection of our Savior and King, get back home at 1:30ish and sleep. :-)
Believe it or not I am actually looking forward to this weekend and I am so glad to take part in what God is doing here at National Community Church.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/20/08
What's Inside?
"My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go; my heart shall not reproach me as long as I live." -Job 27:6
I heard the story of a pastor who boarded a bus one Monday morning, paid his fare, and took his seat. A few minutes later, he realized that the driver had given him too much change. Some people might have put it in their pocket and said, "Lord, thank you for your provision." But this pastor knew that would be wrong.
At the next stop, he walked to the front of the bus with the extra change and said to the driver, "Excuse me, sir, you gave me too much change, and I wanted to return it to you, because obviously you made a mistake."
The driver said, "Pastor, I didn't make a mistake. I was at your church last night and heard you preach on honesty. I wanted to see if you practiced what you preached." Fortunately, he did.
People are watching you as a Christian. They are scrutinizing your every move. You should know they are not hoping you will be a godly witness. They are hoping you will slip up so they will have something on which to conveniently hang their doubts and unbelief.
Humorist Will Rogers said, "So live that you would not mind selling your pet parrot to the town gossip." That is the idea of integrity: having nothing in our lives to be ashamed of. This personal integrity is something we are developing on a daily basis with every thought we think and every action we take. We are either building up character or tearing it down.
What kind of character do you have? Who are you in private? For all practical purposes, that is the real you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go; my heart shall not reproach me as long as I live." -Job 27:6
I heard the story of a pastor who boarded a bus one Monday morning, paid his fare, and took his seat. A few minutes later, he realized that the driver had given him too much change. Some people might have put it in their pocket and said, "Lord, thank you for your provision." But this pastor knew that would be wrong.
At the next stop, he walked to the front of the bus with the extra change and said to the driver, "Excuse me, sir, you gave me too much change, and I wanted to return it to you, because obviously you made a mistake."
The driver said, "Pastor, I didn't make a mistake. I was at your church last night and heard you preach on honesty. I wanted to see if you practiced what you preached." Fortunately, he did.
People are watching you as a Christian. They are scrutinizing your every move. You should know they are not hoping you will be a godly witness. They are hoping you will slip up so they will have something on which to conveniently hang their doubts and unbelief.
Humorist Will Rogers said, "So live that you would not mind selling your pet parrot to the town gossip." That is the idea of integrity: having nothing in our lives to be ashamed of. This personal integrity is something we are developing on a daily basis with every thought we think and every action we take. We are either building up character or tearing it down.
What kind of character do you have? Who are you in private? For all practical purposes, that is the real you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/19/08
Conditional Obedience
"Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but followed the counsels and the dictates of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward." -Jeremiah 7:24
My dog practices selective listening. When he doesn't like what I am saying, he acts as though he doesn't understand me. If he is in my room at bedtime and I tell him to leave, he looks at me as if to say, "What?" It's as though his hearing is gone. On the other hand, he can be asleep behind closed doors, and if I go downstairs, open the cupboard, and pull out his leash, he suddenly has supersonic hearing. He is right there at my side.
When he likes what I want him to do, my dog hears and obeys me. But when he doesn't like what I want him to do, my dog doesn't hear and doesn't obey.
We can be the same with God. When God tells us to do something we like, we say, "Yes, Lord!" But when He tells us to stop doing something, we say, "God, I think you're cutting out on me. I'm not hearing you clearly."
Jesus said, "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you" (John 15:14). He didn't say, "You are My friends if you do the things that you personally agree with." God has told us in His Word how we are to live. It is not for us to pick and choose sections of the Bible we like and toss the rest aside.
If God tells you to do something, He says it for good reason, and you need to obey Him. If God says not to do something, He also says it for good reason. Even if you don't understand it, obey Him.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but followed the counsels and the dictates of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward." -Jeremiah 7:24
My dog practices selective listening. When he doesn't like what I am saying, he acts as though he doesn't understand me. If he is in my room at bedtime and I tell him to leave, he looks at me as if to say, "What?" It's as though his hearing is gone. On the other hand, he can be asleep behind closed doors, and if I go downstairs, open the cupboard, and pull out his leash, he suddenly has supersonic hearing. He is right there at my side.
When he likes what I want him to do, my dog hears and obeys me. But when he doesn't like what I want him to do, my dog doesn't hear and doesn't obey.
We can be the same with God. When God tells us to do something we like, we say, "Yes, Lord!" But when He tells us to stop doing something, we say, "God, I think you're cutting out on me. I'm not hearing you clearly."
Jesus said, "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you" (John 15:14). He didn't say, "You are My friends if you do the things that you personally agree with." God has told us in His Word how we are to live. It is not for us to pick and choose sections of the Bible we like and toss the rest aside.
If God tells you to do something, He says it for good reason, and you need to obey Him. If God says not to do something, He also says it for good reason. Even if you don't understand it, obey Him.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/18/08
The Dangerous Question
"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." -1 Corinthians 10:31
What does it mean to test God? It is the mentality that asks the question, "As a Christian, how much can I get away with and still be saved? How far can I go and still be a child of God?" In other words, "How far to the edge can I get without falling off?" It is a dangerous question to ask.
The church at Corinth had developed a similar problem. It was located in the midst of a metropolitan city, with visitors coming from all around the world. The city of Corinth was entrenched in sin. The problem with the believers there was that they thought they could commit certain sins and it would be acceptable to God.
Paul had to set the record straight. He wrote to the Corinthian believers, "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify" (1 Corinthians 10:23).
Let's not push the limits and see how much we can get away with as believers. Let's go the other direction. We should be asking, "How much more can I know this One who died for me and forgave me and has done so much on my behalf? How can I become more like Him? How can I make an impact in my world for Him?"
Let's not take for granted all that God has done for us in our lives. May we never see how far we can go and be guilty of testing the Lord. Rather, let's stay as close to Him as we possibly can.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." -1 Corinthians 10:31
What does it mean to test God? It is the mentality that asks the question, "As a Christian, how much can I get away with and still be saved? How far can I go and still be a child of God?" In other words, "How far to the edge can I get without falling off?" It is a dangerous question to ask.
The church at Corinth had developed a similar problem. It was located in the midst of a metropolitan city, with visitors coming from all around the world. The city of Corinth was entrenched in sin. The problem with the believers there was that they thought they could commit certain sins and it would be acceptable to God.
Paul had to set the record straight. He wrote to the Corinthian believers, "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify" (1 Corinthians 10:23).
Let's not push the limits and see how much we can get away with as believers. Let's go the other direction. We should be asking, "How much more can I know this One who died for me and forgave me and has done so much on my behalf? How can I become more like Him? How can I make an impact in my world for Him?"
Let's not take for granted all that God has done for us in our lives. May we never see how far we can go and be guilty of testing the Lord. Rather, let's stay as close to Him as we possibly can.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, March 17, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/17/08
Death and Birth of a Vision
I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. - John 12:24
Almost every significant thing God births He allows to die before the vision is fulfilled in His own way.
Abraham had a vision of being the father of a great nation (birth). Sarah was barren and became too old to have children (death). God gave Abraham and Sarah a son in their old age. He became the father of a great nation (fulfillment).
Joseph had a vision that he would be a great leader and that many would bow down to him (birth). Joseph's brothers sold him to some merchants and he became a slave. Later he was falsely condemned to spend his years in prison (death). God allowed Joseph to interpret the dreams of the butler and baker and later the king, whereupon, he was made a ruler in the land (fulfillment).
Moses had a vision of leading his people out of the bondage of Egypt (birth). Pharaoh as well as his own people drove Moses out of Egypt after Moses' first attempt to relieve their bondage (death). God gave Moses signs and wonders to convince Pharaoh to free the people and bring them out of Egypt and into the Promised Land (fulfillment).
The disciples had a vision of establishing the Kingdom of God with Jesus (birth). The very ones He came to save killed Jesus, and the disciples saw Him buried in a tomb (death). God raised Jesus from the dead, and the disciples performed great miracles until the gospel had spread through all the world (fulfillment).
A grain of wheat has a "vision" of reproducing itself and many more grains of wheat (birth). The grain dies in the ground (death). A harvest springs up out of the very process of "death" in the ground (fulfillment).
Has God given you a vision that is yet unfulfilled? If that vision is born of God, He will raise it up in His own way. Do not try to raise the vision in your own strength. Like Moses, who tried to fulfill the vision of freeing the Hebrews by killing the Egyptian, it will only fail. But wait on your heavenly Father to fulfill the vision. Then you will know that it was His vision when He fulfills it in the way only He can do.
I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. - John 12:24
Almost every significant thing God births He allows to die before the vision is fulfilled in His own way.
Abraham had a vision of being the father of a great nation (birth). Sarah was barren and became too old to have children (death). God gave Abraham and Sarah a son in their old age. He became the father of a great nation (fulfillment).
Joseph had a vision that he would be a great leader and that many would bow down to him (birth). Joseph's brothers sold him to some merchants and he became a slave. Later he was falsely condemned to spend his years in prison (death). God allowed Joseph to interpret the dreams of the butler and baker and later the king, whereupon, he was made a ruler in the land (fulfillment).
Moses had a vision of leading his people out of the bondage of Egypt (birth). Pharaoh as well as his own people drove Moses out of Egypt after Moses' first attempt to relieve their bondage (death). God gave Moses signs and wonders to convince Pharaoh to free the people and bring them out of Egypt and into the Promised Land (fulfillment).
The disciples had a vision of establishing the Kingdom of God with Jesus (birth). The very ones He came to save killed Jesus, and the disciples saw Him buried in a tomb (death). God raised Jesus from the dead, and the disciples performed great miracles until the gospel had spread through all the world (fulfillment).
A grain of wheat has a "vision" of reproducing itself and many more grains of wheat (birth). The grain dies in the ground (death). A harvest springs up out of the very process of "death" in the ground (fulfillment).
Has God given you a vision that is yet unfulfilled? If that vision is born of God, He will raise it up in His own way. Do not try to raise the vision in your own strength. Like Moses, who tried to fulfill the vision of freeing the Hebrews by killing the Egyptian, it will only fail. But wait on your heavenly Father to fulfill the vision. Then you will know that it was His vision when He fulfills it in the way only He can do.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/14/08
What's on Your Mind?
" 'So commit yourselves completely to these words of mine. Tie them to your hands as a reminder, and wear them on your forehead. Teach them to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are away on a journey, when you are lying down and when you are getting up again.' " -Deuteronomy 11:18-19
People sometimes ask me to sign their Bibles, which is not something I like to do, because I didn't write it. But when someone insists, I usually write this inscription in his or her Bible: "Sin will keep you from this book and this book will keep you from sin."
I have found that sin will always keep you away from the Bible, because the devil wants to keep you out of God's Word. He doesn't care if you read magazines. He doesn't care if you watch television. He doesn't care if you read the latest novel on the bestseller list. He doesn't care if you watch movies. But the minute you pick up the Bible and crack it open, you had better believe that he will try to distract you with everything he has. He doesn't want you to read it.
On the other hand, if you follow what the Bible teaches, it will keep you from sin. That is why we need to know the Bible. That is why we need to study it. While it is a great idea to carry a Bible in your briefcase, pocket, or purse, the best place to carry it is in your heart. Know it well. Fill the memory banks God has given you with Scripture, because the devil will attack you in the realm of your mind. The best defense is a mind that is filled with God's Word.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
" 'So commit yourselves completely to these words of mine. Tie them to your hands as a reminder, and wear them on your forehead. Teach them to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are away on a journey, when you are lying down and when you are getting up again.' " -Deuteronomy 11:18-19
People sometimes ask me to sign their Bibles, which is not something I like to do, because I didn't write it. But when someone insists, I usually write this inscription in his or her Bible: "Sin will keep you from this book and this book will keep you from sin."
I have found that sin will always keep you away from the Bible, because the devil wants to keep you out of God's Word. He doesn't care if you read magazines. He doesn't care if you watch television. He doesn't care if you read the latest novel on the bestseller list. He doesn't care if you watch movies. But the minute you pick up the Bible and crack it open, you had better believe that he will try to distract you with everything he has. He doesn't want you to read it.
On the other hand, if you follow what the Bible teaches, it will keep you from sin. That is why we need to know the Bible. That is why we need to study it. While it is a great idea to carry a Bible in your briefcase, pocket, or purse, the best place to carry it is in your heart. Know it well. Fill the memory banks God has given you with Scripture, because the devil will attack you in the realm of your mind. The best defense is a mind that is filled with God's Word.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/13/08
Obeying the Spirit of God
"Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, 'Go south to the road - the desert road - that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.'" - Acts 8:26
Philip was conducting what we might today call a revival meeting. God was blessing the meeting, and many were being healed and delivered from demonic influence. Here is the scene:
Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said. With shrieks, evil spirits came out of many, and many paralytics and cripples were healed. So there was great joy in that city (Acts 8:5-8).
And yet, in the midst of this great event, the Holy Spirit spoke to Philip and told him to remove himself and go to a completely different area to speak to one individual. Philip was so sensitive to the directive of the Holy Spirit that he left what would be deemed a successful event to go speak to another - an Ethiopian eunuch. The result of his obedience was that Philip led the eunuch to faith in Christ and baptized him. The Lord then took Philip away supernaturally to another region many miles away.
God's ways of determining where we invest our time and energy often have little to do with results. The danger for each of us is to determine that we are in the center of God's will simply by the success or failure of the events we are involved in. Our plumb line for determining success can be only one thing: obedience. Philip responded in obedience to the direction of the Holy Spirit.
Are you listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit? Has God prompted you to speak, go, or come alongside another? Ask God today to help you hear the Holy Spirit's voice so that you might be used mightily in your workplace.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, 'Go south to the road - the desert road - that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.'" - Acts 8:26
Philip was conducting what we might today call a revival meeting. God was blessing the meeting, and many were being healed and delivered from demonic influence. Here is the scene:
Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said. With shrieks, evil spirits came out of many, and many paralytics and cripples were healed. So there was great joy in that city (Acts 8:5-8).
And yet, in the midst of this great event, the Holy Spirit spoke to Philip and told him to remove himself and go to a completely different area to speak to one individual. Philip was so sensitive to the directive of the Holy Spirit that he left what would be deemed a successful event to go speak to another - an Ethiopian eunuch. The result of his obedience was that Philip led the eunuch to faith in Christ and baptized him. The Lord then took Philip away supernaturally to another region many miles away.
God's ways of determining where we invest our time and energy often have little to do with results. The danger for each of us is to determine that we are in the center of God's will simply by the success or failure of the events we are involved in. Our plumb line for determining success can be only one thing: obedience. Philip responded in obedience to the direction of the Holy Spirit.
Are you listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit? Has God prompted you to speak, go, or come alongside another? Ask God today to help you hear the Holy Spirit's voice so that you might be used mightily in your workplace.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/12/08
Understanding the Source of Anger
"A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control." - Proverbs 29:11
The workplace can be a pressure-packed world. The demands that are often put on us can bring out things that we never knew were there. Sometimes we begin to think that the source of that pressure is to blame for our response to the pressure. It could be an event, a spouse, a boss, a client, a child, or even a driver who cuts us off in traffic.
I recall responding to a close friend one time, "If you had not done that, I would never have responded that way." Later I learned that this response had little truth to it. We all choose to get angry. No one else is to blame for our anger.
"The circumstances of life, the events of life, and the people around me in life, do not make me the way I am, but reveal the way I am" [Dr. Sam Peeples].
This simple quote has had a profound impact on how I view my anger now. Anger only reveals what is inside of me. I can't blame anyone but me for my response to a situation. I have learned that anger is only the symptom of something else that is going on inside of me. This quote now resides on my refrigerator door as a daily reminder of the truth about my response to life's situations.
It has been said that anger is like the warning panel on the dash of your car. It is the light that tells us something is going on under the hood and we need to find out what is the source of the problem. I discovered that the source of anger is often unmet expectations or personal rights. We believe we are entitled to a particular outcome to a situation. When this doesn't happen, it triggers something in us. At the core of this is fear, often a fear of failure or rejection, fear of what others think, fear of the unknown.
If you struggle with anger, ask God to reveal the source of that anger. Ask Him to heal you of any fears that may be the root of your anger. Ask God to help you take responsibility for your response to difficult situations.
"A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control." - Proverbs 29:11
The workplace can be a pressure-packed world. The demands that are often put on us can bring out things that we never knew were there. Sometimes we begin to think that the source of that pressure is to blame for our response to the pressure. It could be an event, a spouse, a boss, a client, a child, or even a driver who cuts us off in traffic.
I recall responding to a close friend one time, "If you had not done that, I would never have responded that way." Later I learned that this response had little truth to it. We all choose to get angry. No one else is to blame for our anger.
"The circumstances of life, the events of life, and the people around me in life, do not make me the way I am, but reveal the way I am" [Dr. Sam Peeples].
This simple quote has had a profound impact on how I view my anger now. Anger only reveals what is inside of me. I can't blame anyone but me for my response to a situation. I have learned that anger is only the symptom of something else that is going on inside of me. This quote now resides on my refrigerator door as a daily reminder of the truth about my response to life's situations.
It has been said that anger is like the warning panel on the dash of your car. It is the light that tells us something is going on under the hood and we need to find out what is the source of the problem. I discovered that the source of anger is often unmet expectations or personal rights. We believe we are entitled to a particular outcome to a situation. When this doesn't happen, it triggers something in us. At the core of this is fear, often a fear of failure or rejection, fear of what others think, fear of the unknown.
If you struggle with anger, ask God to reveal the source of that anger. Ask Him to heal you of any fears that may be the root of your anger. Ask God to help you take responsibility for your response to difficult situations.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/11/08
No Other Gods
"Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry." -1 Corinthians 10:14
When God gave the Ten Commandments, He began by saying that we should have no other gods before Him.
Idols can be a lot of things. Essentially, an idol could be defined as anyone or anything that takes the place of God in our lives. An idol is any object, idea, philosophy, habit, occupation, sport, or thing that has one's primary concern and loyalty, or decreases one's trust and loyalty to God by any amount.
Alan Redpath defined idolatry this way: "Our god is the person we think is the most precious, for whom we would make the greatest sacrifice, who moves our hearts with the warmest love. He or it is the person who, if we lost him, would leave us desolate."
This definition really opens up the possibilities, doesn't it? A lot of things could qualify as idols in our lives. It is a true but terrifying fact that a person can attend church every Sunday and still practice idolatry.
Is there one thing in your life that, if God asked you for it, you would say, "Absolutely not"? Is there one thing that, if the Lord required it of you, you would say, "Anything but this"? If so, then that thing, that pursuit, or that passion may be an idol in your life.
Is there an idol in your heart today? Is there someone or something more precious to you than God Himself? Any person or pursuit that takes the place of God in your life will not satisfy. Let Him be your Lord. Let Him be your God. He will satisfy you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry." -1 Corinthians 10:14
When God gave the Ten Commandments, He began by saying that we should have no other gods before Him.
Idols can be a lot of things. Essentially, an idol could be defined as anyone or anything that takes the place of God in our lives. An idol is any object, idea, philosophy, habit, occupation, sport, or thing that has one's primary concern and loyalty, or decreases one's trust and loyalty to God by any amount.
Alan Redpath defined idolatry this way: "Our god is the person we think is the most precious, for whom we would make the greatest sacrifice, who moves our hearts with the warmest love. He or it is the person who, if we lost him, would leave us desolate."
This definition really opens up the possibilities, doesn't it? A lot of things could qualify as idols in our lives. It is a true but terrifying fact that a person can attend church every Sunday and still practice idolatry.
Is there one thing in your life that, if God asked you for it, you would say, "Absolutely not"? Is there one thing that, if the Lord required it of you, you would say, "Anything but this"? If so, then that thing, that pursuit, or that passion may be an idol in your life.
Is there an idol in your heart today? Is there someone or something more precious to you than God Himself? Any person or pursuit that takes the place of God in your life will not satisfy. Let Him be your Lord. Let Him be your God. He will satisfy you.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Monday, March 10, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/10/08
Keep Moving!
"Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from what we believe; they will follow lying spirits and teachings that come from demons." -1 Timothy 4:1
It is clear that we are living in the last days. All around us, the signs that Jesus and the prophets told us to look for are taking place before our very eyes. The devil and his demons are doing their dirty work, and this should not surprise us. The Bible warns that in the last days, things will go from bad to worse.
One of the signs will be an abandonment of the faith, or an apostasy. Some will fall away and will follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.
Could you or I ever become one of these spiritual casualties? Could you or I ever fall away from the Lord? Without question, the potential and even the propensity for sin lies within us. I have the potential to fall. You do to.
That is why we must give careful attention to potential pitfalls for believers that are given to us in Scripture. There are things we must be aware of as we live in the last days. As the apostle Paul wrote, "The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So don't live in darkness. Get rid of your evil deeds. Shed them like dirty clothes. Clothe yourselves with the armor of right living, as those who live in the light" (Romans 13:12).
Your relationship with Jesus Christ needs constant maintenance and cultivation. The day that you stop growing spiritually is the day you start to become weak and vulnerable to the devil's attacks. The best way to not go backward is to keep moving forward.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from what we believe; they will follow lying spirits and teachings that come from demons." -1 Timothy 4:1
It is clear that we are living in the last days. All around us, the signs that Jesus and the prophets told us to look for are taking place before our very eyes. The devil and his demons are doing their dirty work, and this should not surprise us. The Bible warns that in the last days, things will go from bad to worse.
One of the signs will be an abandonment of the faith, or an apostasy. Some will fall away and will follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.
Could you or I ever become one of these spiritual casualties? Could you or I ever fall away from the Lord? Without question, the potential and even the propensity for sin lies within us. I have the potential to fall. You do to.
That is why we must give careful attention to potential pitfalls for believers that are given to us in Scripture. There are things we must be aware of as we live in the last days. As the apostle Paul wrote, "The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So don't live in darkness. Get rid of your evil deeds. Shed them like dirty clothes. Clothe yourselves with the armor of right living, as those who live in the light" (Romans 13:12).
Your relationship with Jesus Christ needs constant maintenance and cultivation. The day that you stop growing spiritually is the day you start to become weak and vulnerable to the devil's attacks. The best way to not go backward is to keep moving forward.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Living Out A Huge Dream
Tonight, I had the huge honor and the great opportunity to live out one my greatest dreams...to be specific it is a ministry/career dream. I preached my first message at National Community Church. Actually, I had the chance to preach twice tonight at Ebenezers and I will be preaching three times tomorrow morning. Myself, along with the two other campus pastors are preaching at our respective locations.
I am very appreciative of this huge opportunity. I am so grateful for Pastor Mark, for first taking a risk to hire me on staff at NCC and for allowing to me step up and use my gifts. I am thankful to have a boss, a pastor, and a friend who is willing to take a chance on me. Thanks PM!
Here the manuscript from my message...
Last Words
Big Idea – Forgiving Others and Being Forgiven
Text: Luke 23:32-34
Everybody likes to be forgiven don’t we? It’s kind of like wiping the slate clean. Wouldn’t it be great to get a letter in the mail saying “Notice: Your school loans have been forgiven” or maybe your Credit Card debt has been forgiven. For me personally, my mortgage has been paid off.
The truth is that we all need forgiveness of some sort.
This weekend, we continue the Last Words series. A series based around the last words of Jesus Christ from the cross. We are going to look at the first statement from the cross that Jesus made found in Luke 23 it you want to starting turning there.
When I think about it I would love to leave behind some profound last words before I leave this earth. I just don’t want it to be ugggghhh. I would love for it to be something that is meaningful and something someone would remember.
As read Luke 23 verse 32-34, We are going to look at a prayer of forgiveness from the cross, a prayer of intercession for all those who were there that day, let us take a look at our scripture verses…
Luke 23:32-34 - Two others, both criminals, were led out to be executed with him. 33 When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left.
34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.
Before we begin to unpackage this prayer to God the Father from Christ, I want to paint the picture of the events that unfolded before he prayed these words that we are going to look at this weekend and the significance of these words.
Let us step back about 24 hours before this scene we find ourselves in now and see Jesus at the Mount of Olives, praying alone as the Scripture puts it with such great agony that sweat fell to the ground like drops of blood.
In this moment those that Christ was closest to abandoned him for sleep.
That same evening he was betrayed by his friend Judas and then arrested by the captain of the temple guards, religious rulers.
Then his friend Peter denies him three times.
Then Jesus faced the council of chief priests and religious elders who tried to entrap him.
From there he went before Pilate, King Herod and Pilate again to face mock trials. Jesus faced three trials in one day.
Then those who followed him the week before have now turned against him and now are demanding him to be crucified.
Through out this process Jesus was repeatedly mocked and spit on.
And now he was handed over to Roman soldiers to be beaten 39 times with a whip laced with glass, bones, and chips of rocks. He also had his beard pulled from his face, he was tortured to the point of being unrecognized. It has been said that people would be tortured so bad that their internal organs would be exposed.
Then we know that he was nailed to the cross and placed between two common thieves.
If anyone had the right to sing, nobody loves me, everybody hates me, I think I am going to eat some worms. It was Jesus…
Instead of praying for himself or lashing out at those who did these horrendous acts he prayed a prayer of intercession for those who did this to him…”Father, forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.”
This prayer of intercessions was prophesied about 700 years earlier… Isaiah 53:12, speaking of Jesus, that “he poured out his life unto death, and he was numbered with the transgressors,” a criminal on the left and a criminal on the right. The Bible says, “For he bore the sin of many, and he made intercession.”
That’s a big word that means He prayed on their behalf. He prayed for the transgressors, for His offenders. “Father, forgive them.” With this prayer, Jesus fulfilled a seven hundred year old prophecy.
Through the fulfillment of this prophecy on the cross we see…
The model of forgiveness
Jesus through this prayer of intercession asks for forgiveness for all those who did this to him.
Jesus, just as His blood started running down the cross, called out to God the Father to forgive those who tortured him, those who sentenced him, those who mocked him, those who turned against him, those who sat there and watched and did nothing while an innocent man was tortured.
What a model of forgiveness! What an act of love! What an act of grace and mercy! What an act of unselfishness!
On the other hand if that would have been me, there is huge chance that I may have not responded in the same way. I may have asked for retribution or cursed those who did this to me.
My prayer may have sounded something like this…Father Strike all these fools down with lightning. Or maybe, Father, why me?
It is in my human tendency and justice to say an eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth. Maybe everyone is a little more spiritual than me…but I would want something bad to happen to these people.
I get ticked off when someone cuts me off in traffic. Trust me I am not saying bless you or praying Father forgive them they don’t know what they are doing.
Not Jesus, he displayed the model of true forgiveness. What does it mean to forgive? Here is the Biblical meaning of forgivenss…, "cancel, remit, pardon," used of loans (Matthew 18:27) as well as referring to the remission of guilt. Forgiveness is choosing to no longer hold something against a person. In Jesus' case, he was asking the Father not to hold his execution against his killers, "for they do not know what they are doing."
Here we see in this prayer, an active example of what Jesus himself spoke and lived out in his life and ministry and now in his final hours on the cross - Luke 6:28 - bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Matthew 5:43-44 - "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
As I look at this prayer from the cross, it wasn’t a prayer of condemnation or one of guilt. This is a prayer that comes from who Jesus is, one of grace and mercy.
It is a beautiful picture of grace and mercy… Even when these people least deserved forgiveness…Christ was interceding for their forgiveness from God the Father, that is Grace. They neither earned or deserved forgiveness. Even when they deserved the same fate, he with held his revenge and I would also say his anger, this is mercy.
What an amazing model of forgiveness.
I believe through this amazing model of forgiveness we are challenged to…
Forgive Others
With the model of forgiveness that Jesus laid out for us from the cross.
Are you willing to offer forgiveness to those who may not even deserve it?
Author Dr. M. Scott Peck says: "The reason to forgive is for your own sake, for our own health. It is needed for healing, because if we hold onto our anger, we stop growing and our souls begin to shrivel."
I want to read two passages of Scripture…these two passages are hard for many of us to read Matthew 6:14-15 - “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Colossians 3:12-13 - Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
Forgiveness is an ongoing attitude of the heart and the will.
In my experience, the strongest motivation for forgiveness is always the sense of having received forgiveness or the awareness that, like everyone in the human race, we all have faults and have done things we need to be forgiven for.
To forgive someone with words is only a start and not the completion. To forgive is a process and not a one time thing.
I know many of you may struggle with the thought of forgiving someone else. Many of you have been so deeply hurt and have scars that haven’t been totally healed yet and it is hard for you to consider forgiveness.
For others, you may have done things that you need to be forgiven for and because of pain or hurt that has been inflicted you can’t imagine being forgiven for what you have done.
Can I have permission to open myself up to you and be totally honest?
Growing up, I had to go through the struggles of living with a mom who was physically, mentally, and verbally abusive towards me. I dealt with this abuse for about 5 years before she finally gave up custody of me to my wonderful dad and step mom.
I had to endure some of the harshest words that a child should never hear from a parent, go through a lot of physical pain and in return it caused a lot of emotional issues within me that I held on to until my early 20s. In many ways I felt trapped and became a very angry person and took it out on others by hurting them.
After, I came to faith in Christ when I was 18, I felt like my faith wasn’t growing like it should. I felt like at two years that I was struggling with the same issues. Then I came to the realization in my life that I was holding onto a lot of unforgiveness, which created bitterness and an extreme unhealthy amount of anger in my life.
I came to a point where I had to forgive my mom of many of the wrongs she did to me and the hurts that I was dealing with.
I made it a point to not only decide in my heart and with my will to forgive her but to tell her that I forgive her. This was on of the hardest things I have ever done in my 34 year life.
Quite honestly, deep down inside I felt justified to hold this against her and to hate her. But this passage of Scripture that we are looking at this weekend…kept jumping into my mind.
She did not receive my forgiveness liked I hoped for, she didn’t even ask for it. But for me I felt the freedom of truly forgiving her and today I can honestly say that I love my mom and that I don’t harbor any resentment or ill will towards her.
Through this process I have learned to truly appreciate the forgiveness of Christ towards me. I also began to see my faith begin to grow and even my attitude changing.
I want to reiterate it is an ongoing process, because there are thoughts that try to creep back up and if I am not careful I could let this consume my life again.
I have learned to live my life with being intentional about forgiveness and forgiving those who have hurt me.
I love what Martin Luther King Jr.said, – “Forgiveness is not an occasional act. It is a permanent attitude.”
To forgive others is more than just saying I forgive you. I think it is an act of truly not holding anything against the one who hurt you. It is to allow room for error and weakness.
When Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.”
Jesus recognized their ignorance. But ignorance does not equal innocence.
He prayed for their forgiveness before anyone even asked for it. He prayed for their forgiveness before they even recognized they did anything wrong.
I believe forgiveness happens in three stages: 1. We rediscover the humanity of the person who wronged us, 2. we surrender our right to get even, and 3. we wish that person well. (that’s how we know we’ve truly forgiven someone, when we truly wish them well)
Today, Jesus offers to each of us the..
Forgiveness of our sins
We have a promise and a hope of forgiveness for each of us, that promise is this – 1 John 1:9 - But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.
The same Christ who was interceding on behalf of those that were gathered around the foot of cross that day is still interceding on our behalf today.
1 John 2:1- My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.
Every human’s greatest need is the forgiveness of sin.
Romans 3:23-26 - For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.
Christ extends the gift of forgiveness to each of us through the sacrifice he made on the cross.
These last words of Christ, reveals his heart and motivation for all of us. We are able to see the full scope and sacrifice he has made on our behalf so each one of us can be forgiven.
Jesus came to fulfill the Old Testament or Old Covenant requirement of shed bled for the forgiveness of our sins with his own blood.
Hebrews 9:22 - In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.
It is through the shed blood of Christ on the cross that each us can be forgiven of all our sins.
I want to bring this to a close by sharing one final thing about myself.
As teenager, I was pretty messed and I not only made my fair share of mistakes, but I made enough mistakes for about ten people.
I also hurt a lot of people along the way. Some people I hurt in bad ways, in ways that seem unforgivable.
One of those people came across my path within the last year. This person, I affected pretty badly to a point where they were holding on to what I did to them for about 17 years and it was fresh on their minds like it was a few days ago.
For me to hear how I hurt this person and how they held on to this hurt and pain just really caused me to take full responsibility for my actions, no excuses for what I did and just ask for forgiveness. I simply didn’t know what else I could do. The weight of how I hurt this person was so heavy.
When I took responsibility of what I did and realized how I hurt them. The person was willing to forgive me. I am not sure if I deserved their forgiveness, but they assured me that accepted my apologies, acknowledge a difference in me and was willing to forgive me.
I am humbled to receive that forgiveness and it took me awhile to forgive myself after that night, I simply couldn’t let myself off the hook even though this person forgave me.
Can I tell you that forgiveness is one of the most liberating things I have experienced in my life. Again, even though I didn’t deserve forgiveness, this person made a conscious choice to forgive, for that I am so grateful.
This weekend, perhaps you are here and you have gone through a similar situation, perhaps you need to seek forgiveness from someone you have hurt. I would encourage you to make things right.
Or perhaps, you are here and you need to forgive someone of a hurt you have experienced in your past. I understand that as well, I have been on both sides of this. It may be one of the hardest and most difficult things that you will ever do…I want to encourage you to look at the example of Christ on the cross and be willing to forgive.
Finally, in just a few moments we are going to be receiving communion together. Here at NCC we don’t ask that you be members but we do ask that you understand what is to have made a commitment to Christ and to receive forgiveness of your sin through Jesus shed blood on the cross.
So as we prepare ourselves for communion, the scripture tells us to examine ourselves. I want encourage to you, if there is any sin in your life to bring before Christ and allow Him to forgive you. Allow free you from that sin through his forgiveness.
Let us pray…
Lord, we come to the cross this weekend to ask for your forgiveness. Forgive us Father, for we have sinned. We need you almighty God to cleanse us of all of our iniquities, imperfections, problems. And today, Lord, we also ask that you would help us to forgive ourselves. Let us hold nothing in our hearts, that you would not hold. Let there be no condemnation in this place for those who are in Christ Jesus. And strengthen us, today, father, to forgive those who know not what they do. Who have sinned against us. Move in our hearts to be conduits of your grace. Amen.
I am very appreciative of this huge opportunity. I am so grateful for Pastor Mark, for first taking a risk to hire me on staff at NCC and for allowing to me step up and use my gifts. I am thankful to have a boss, a pastor, and a friend who is willing to take a chance on me. Thanks PM!
Here the manuscript from my message...
Last Words
Big Idea – Forgiving Others and Being Forgiven
Text: Luke 23:32-34
Everybody likes to be forgiven don’t we? It’s kind of like wiping the slate clean. Wouldn’t it be great to get a letter in the mail saying “Notice: Your school loans have been forgiven” or maybe your Credit Card debt has been forgiven. For me personally, my mortgage has been paid off.
The truth is that we all need forgiveness of some sort.
This weekend, we continue the Last Words series. A series based around the last words of Jesus Christ from the cross. We are going to look at the first statement from the cross that Jesus made found in Luke 23 it you want to starting turning there.
When I think about it I would love to leave behind some profound last words before I leave this earth. I just don’t want it to be ugggghhh. I would love for it to be something that is meaningful and something someone would remember.
As read Luke 23 verse 32-34, We are going to look at a prayer of forgiveness from the cross, a prayer of intercession for all those who were there that day, let us take a look at our scripture verses…
Luke 23:32-34 - Two others, both criminals, were led out to be executed with him. 33 When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left.
34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.
Before we begin to unpackage this prayer to God the Father from Christ, I want to paint the picture of the events that unfolded before he prayed these words that we are going to look at this weekend and the significance of these words.
Let us step back about 24 hours before this scene we find ourselves in now and see Jesus at the Mount of Olives, praying alone as the Scripture puts it with such great agony that sweat fell to the ground like drops of blood.
In this moment those that Christ was closest to abandoned him for sleep.
That same evening he was betrayed by his friend Judas and then arrested by the captain of the temple guards, religious rulers.
Then his friend Peter denies him three times.
Then Jesus faced the council of chief priests and religious elders who tried to entrap him.
From there he went before Pilate, King Herod and Pilate again to face mock trials. Jesus faced three trials in one day.
Then those who followed him the week before have now turned against him and now are demanding him to be crucified.
Through out this process Jesus was repeatedly mocked and spit on.
And now he was handed over to Roman soldiers to be beaten 39 times with a whip laced with glass, bones, and chips of rocks. He also had his beard pulled from his face, he was tortured to the point of being unrecognized. It has been said that people would be tortured so bad that their internal organs would be exposed.
Then we know that he was nailed to the cross and placed between two common thieves.
If anyone had the right to sing, nobody loves me, everybody hates me, I think I am going to eat some worms. It was Jesus…
Instead of praying for himself or lashing out at those who did these horrendous acts he prayed a prayer of intercession for those who did this to him…”Father, forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.”
This prayer of intercessions was prophesied about 700 years earlier… Isaiah 53:12, speaking of Jesus, that “he poured out his life unto death, and he was numbered with the transgressors,” a criminal on the left and a criminal on the right. The Bible says, “For he bore the sin of many, and he made intercession.”
That’s a big word that means He prayed on their behalf. He prayed for the transgressors, for His offenders. “Father, forgive them.” With this prayer, Jesus fulfilled a seven hundred year old prophecy.
Through the fulfillment of this prophecy on the cross we see…
The model of forgiveness
Jesus through this prayer of intercession asks for forgiveness for all those who did this to him.
Jesus, just as His blood started running down the cross, called out to God the Father to forgive those who tortured him, those who sentenced him, those who mocked him, those who turned against him, those who sat there and watched and did nothing while an innocent man was tortured.
What a model of forgiveness! What an act of love! What an act of grace and mercy! What an act of unselfishness!
On the other hand if that would have been me, there is huge chance that I may have not responded in the same way. I may have asked for retribution or cursed those who did this to me.
My prayer may have sounded something like this…Father Strike all these fools down with lightning. Or maybe, Father, why me?
It is in my human tendency and justice to say an eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth. Maybe everyone is a little more spiritual than me…but I would want something bad to happen to these people.
I get ticked off when someone cuts me off in traffic. Trust me I am not saying bless you or praying Father forgive them they don’t know what they are doing.
Not Jesus, he displayed the model of true forgiveness. What does it mean to forgive? Here is the Biblical meaning of forgivenss…, "cancel, remit, pardon," used of loans (Matthew 18:27) as well as referring to the remission of guilt. Forgiveness is choosing to no longer hold something against a person. In Jesus' case, he was asking the Father not to hold his execution against his killers, "for they do not know what they are doing."
Here we see in this prayer, an active example of what Jesus himself spoke and lived out in his life and ministry and now in his final hours on the cross - Luke 6:28 - bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Matthew 5:43-44 - "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
As I look at this prayer from the cross, it wasn’t a prayer of condemnation or one of guilt. This is a prayer that comes from who Jesus is, one of grace and mercy.
It is a beautiful picture of grace and mercy… Even when these people least deserved forgiveness…Christ was interceding for their forgiveness from God the Father, that is Grace. They neither earned or deserved forgiveness. Even when they deserved the same fate, he with held his revenge and I would also say his anger, this is mercy.
What an amazing model of forgiveness.
I believe through this amazing model of forgiveness we are challenged to…
Forgive Others
With the model of forgiveness that Jesus laid out for us from the cross.
Are you willing to offer forgiveness to those who may not even deserve it?
Author Dr. M. Scott Peck says: "The reason to forgive is for your own sake, for our own health. It is needed for healing, because if we hold onto our anger, we stop growing and our souls begin to shrivel."
I want to read two passages of Scripture…these two passages are hard for many of us to read Matthew 6:14-15 - “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Colossians 3:12-13 - Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
Forgiveness is an ongoing attitude of the heart and the will.
In my experience, the strongest motivation for forgiveness is always the sense of having received forgiveness or the awareness that, like everyone in the human race, we all have faults and have done things we need to be forgiven for.
To forgive someone with words is only a start and not the completion. To forgive is a process and not a one time thing.
I know many of you may struggle with the thought of forgiving someone else. Many of you have been so deeply hurt and have scars that haven’t been totally healed yet and it is hard for you to consider forgiveness.
For others, you may have done things that you need to be forgiven for and because of pain or hurt that has been inflicted you can’t imagine being forgiven for what you have done.
Can I have permission to open myself up to you and be totally honest?
Growing up, I had to go through the struggles of living with a mom who was physically, mentally, and verbally abusive towards me. I dealt with this abuse for about 5 years before she finally gave up custody of me to my wonderful dad and step mom.
I had to endure some of the harshest words that a child should never hear from a parent, go through a lot of physical pain and in return it caused a lot of emotional issues within me that I held on to until my early 20s. In many ways I felt trapped and became a very angry person and took it out on others by hurting them.
After, I came to faith in Christ when I was 18, I felt like my faith wasn’t growing like it should. I felt like at two years that I was struggling with the same issues. Then I came to the realization in my life that I was holding onto a lot of unforgiveness, which created bitterness and an extreme unhealthy amount of anger in my life.
I came to a point where I had to forgive my mom of many of the wrongs she did to me and the hurts that I was dealing with.
I made it a point to not only decide in my heart and with my will to forgive her but to tell her that I forgive her. This was on of the hardest things I have ever done in my 34 year life.
Quite honestly, deep down inside I felt justified to hold this against her and to hate her. But this passage of Scripture that we are looking at this weekend…kept jumping into my mind.
She did not receive my forgiveness liked I hoped for, she didn’t even ask for it. But for me I felt the freedom of truly forgiving her and today I can honestly say that I love my mom and that I don’t harbor any resentment or ill will towards her.
Through this process I have learned to truly appreciate the forgiveness of Christ towards me. I also began to see my faith begin to grow and even my attitude changing.
I want to reiterate it is an ongoing process, because there are thoughts that try to creep back up and if I am not careful I could let this consume my life again.
I have learned to live my life with being intentional about forgiveness and forgiving those who have hurt me.
I love what Martin Luther King Jr.said, – “Forgiveness is not an occasional act. It is a permanent attitude.”
To forgive others is more than just saying I forgive you. I think it is an act of truly not holding anything against the one who hurt you. It is to allow room for error and weakness.
When Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.”
Jesus recognized their ignorance. But ignorance does not equal innocence.
He prayed for their forgiveness before anyone even asked for it. He prayed for their forgiveness before they even recognized they did anything wrong.
I believe forgiveness happens in three stages: 1. We rediscover the humanity of the person who wronged us, 2. we surrender our right to get even, and 3. we wish that person well. (that’s how we know we’ve truly forgiven someone, when we truly wish them well)
Today, Jesus offers to each of us the..
Forgiveness of our sins
We have a promise and a hope of forgiveness for each of us, that promise is this – 1 John 1:9 - But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.
The same Christ who was interceding on behalf of those that were gathered around the foot of cross that day is still interceding on our behalf today.
1 John 2:1- My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.
Every human’s greatest need is the forgiveness of sin.
Romans 3:23-26 - For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.
Christ extends the gift of forgiveness to each of us through the sacrifice he made on the cross.
These last words of Christ, reveals his heart and motivation for all of us. We are able to see the full scope and sacrifice he has made on our behalf so each one of us can be forgiven.
Jesus came to fulfill the Old Testament or Old Covenant requirement of shed bled for the forgiveness of our sins with his own blood.
Hebrews 9:22 - In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.
It is through the shed blood of Christ on the cross that each us can be forgiven of all our sins.
I want to bring this to a close by sharing one final thing about myself.
As teenager, I was pretty messed and I not only made my fair share of mistakes, but I made enough mistakes for about ten people.
I also hurt a lot of people along the way. Some people I hurt in bad ways, in ways that seem unforgivable.
One of those people came across my path within the last year. This person, I affected pretty badly to a point where they were holding on to what I did to them for about 17 years and it was fresh on their minds like it was a few days ago.
For me to hear how I hurt this person and how they held on to this hurt and pain just really caused me to take full responsibility for my actions, no excuses for what I did and just ask for forgiveness. I simply didn’t know what else I could do. The weight of how I hurt this person was so heavy.
When I took responsibility of what I did and realized how I hurt them. The person was willing to forgive me. I am not sure if I deserved their forgiveness, but they assured me that accepted my apologies, acknowledge a difference in me and was willing to forgive me.
I am humbled to receive that forgiveness and it took me awhile to forgive myself after that night, I simply couldn’t let myself off the hook even though this person forgave me.
Can I tell you that forgiveness is one of the most liberating things I have experienced in my life. Again, even though I didn’t deserve forgiveness, this person made a conscious choice to forgive, for that I am so grateful.
This weekend, perhaps you are here and you have gone through a similar situation, perhaps you need to seek forgiveness from someone you have hurt. I would encourage you to make things right.
Or perhaps, you are here and you need to forgive someone of a hurt you have experienced in your past. I understand that as well, I have been on both sides of this. It may be one of the hardest and most difficult things that you will ever do…I want to encourage you to look at the example of Christ on the cross and be willing to forgive.
Finally, in just a few moments we are going to be receiving communion together. Here at NCC we don’t ask that you be members but we do ask that you understand what is to have made a commitment to Christ and to receive forgiveness of your sin through Jesus shed blood on the cross.
So as we prepare ourselves for communion, the scripture tells us to examine ourselves. I want encourage to you, if there is any sin in your life to bring before Christ and allow Him to forgive you. Allow free you from that sin through his forgiveness.
Let us pray…
Lord, we come to the cross this weekend to ask for your forgiveness. Forgive us Father, for we have sinned. We need you almighty God to cleanse us of all of our iniquities, imperfections, problems. And today, Lord, we also ask that you would help us to forgive ourselves. Let us hold nothing in our hearts, that you would not hold. Let there be no condemnation in this place for those who are in Christ Jesus. And strengthen us, today, father, to forgive those who know not what they do. Who have sinned against us. Move in our hearts to be conduits of your grace. Amen.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/07/08
Against All Odds
"And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord." 2 Chronicles 20:3-4
Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, faced a dilemma. His enemies greatly outnumbered him. To make matters worse, his enemies had joined forces with Israel's other enemies and were coming to destroy him.
One day, someone came to King Jehoshaphat and warned him that a gigantic army was headed his way, bent on his destruction. It was hopeless. There was no way that he could meet this army with what he had. He was going to be destroyed.
What did Jehoshaphat do? The Bible says that he "set himself to seek the Lord." He prayed, "O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You" (2 Chronicles 20:12).
The Lord told Jehoshaphat, "Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's. . . . Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you" (2 Chronicles 20:15--17).
Jehoshaphat and his army went out to meet their enemies, but they put the worship team out front. The Bible says that when they began to sing and praise the Lord, the enemy started fighting among themselves and destroyed each other.
Maybe you are facing what seems like an impossible situation right now. You may not be able to see a way out. But God can. Call on Him. Then stand still and see what He will do.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord." 2 Chronicles 20:3-4
Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, faced a dilemma. His enemies greatly outnumbered him. To make matters worse, his enemies had joined forces with Israel's other enemies and were coming to destroy him.
One day, someone came to King Jehoshaphat and warned him that a gigantic army was headed his way, bent on his destruction. It was hopeless. There was no way that he could meet this army with what he had. He was going to be destroyed.
What did Jehoshaphat do? The Bible says that he "set himself to seek the Lord." He prayed, "O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You" (2 Chronicles 20:12).
The Lord told Jehoshaphat, "Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's. . . . Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you" (2 Chronicles 20:15--17).
Jehoshaphat and his army went out to meet their enemies, but they put the worship team out front. The Bible says that when they began to sing and praise the Lord, the enemy started fighting among themselves and destroyed each other.
Maybe you are facing what seems like an impossible situation right now. You may not be able to see a way out. But God can. Call on Him. Then stand still and see what He will do.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/06/08
Half-Hearted Commitment
" 'Look how far you have fallen from your first love! Turn back to me again and work as you did at first. . . .' " -Revelation 2:5
At first glance, you might think that Abraham and his nephew Lot were both spiritual men. But a closer examination reveals that this was not the case.
You see, Abraham lived for God. Lot, on the other hand, lived for himself. Abraham walked in the Spirit. Lot walked in the flesh. Abraham lived by faith. Lot lived by sight. And most significantly, Abraham walked with God, and Lot walked with Abraham.
Unfortunately, because of Lot's half-hearted commitment to the Lord, he was becoming a spiritual drain on Abraham. The relationship they had was pulling Abraham down. That is why, earlier in Genesis, God said to Abraham, "Leave your country, your relatives, and your father's house, and go to the land that I will show you" (Genesis 12:1).
But Abraham was reluctant to part ways with Lot. When a famine came, Abraham actually went down to Egypt. It was a definite step backward. But Abraham eventually came to his senses and realized he was in a backslidden state. He decided to return to God and to the place where He had called him.
Sadly for Abraham, he reaped in the years ahead the results of that wrong choice. It was in Egypt that a woman named Hagar became Sarah's servant. Abraham ended up having a child with Hagar. The child's name was Ishmael, and conflicts between his descendents and the descendents of Isaac continue to this very day.
Have ungodly influences been wearing you down lately? Has a certain relationship or pursuit become a spiritual drain in your life? Have you been compromising? Then make a change. It isn't too late.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
" 'Look how far you have fallen from your first love! Turn back to me again and work as you did at first. . . .' " -Revelation 2:5
At first glance, you might think that Abraham and his nephew Lot were both spiritual men. But a closer examination reveals that this was not the case.
You see, Abraham lived for God. Lot, on the other hand, lived for himself. Abraham walked in the Spirit. Lot walked in the flesh. Abraham lived by faith. Lot lived by sight. And most significantly, Abraham walked with God, and Lot walked with Abraham.
Unfortunately, because of Lot's half-hearted commitment to the Lord, he was becoming a spiritual drain on Abraham. The relationship they had was pulling Abraham down. That is why, earlier in Genesis, God said to Abraham, "Leave your country, your relatives, and your father's house, and go to the land that I will show you" (Genesis 12:1).
But Abraham was reluctant to part ways with Lot. When a famine came, Abraham actually went down to Egypt. It was a definite step backward. But Abraham eventually came to his senses and realized he was in a backslidden state. He decided to return to God and to the place where He had called him.
Sadly for Abraham, he reaped in the years ahead the results of that wrong choice. It was in Egypt that a woman named Hagar became Sarah's servant. Abraham ended up having a child with Hagar. The child's name was Ishmael, and conflicts between his descendents and the descendents of Isaac continue to this very day.
Have ungodly influences been wearing you down lately? Has a certain relationship or pursuit become a spiritual drain in your life? Have you been compromising? Then make a change. It isn't too late.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/05/08
Learning to Yield
"For our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever!" -2 Corinthians 4:17
I read a story about a radio exchange that took place some time ago between a U.S. Navy ship and Canadian authorities off the coast of Newfoundland. The Canadians warned the Americans, "Please divert your course 15 degrees to the south to avoid a collision."
The Americans responded, "Recommend you divert your course 15 degrees to the north to avoid a collision."
The Canadians said, "Negative. You will have to divert your course 15 degrees to the south to avoid a collision."
The Americans: "This is the captain of a U.S. Navy Ship. I say again, divert your course."
"No. I say again, you divert your course."
"This is the aircraft carrier USS Lincoln, the second largest ship in the United States Atlantic fleet. We are accompanied by three destroyers, three cruisers, and numerous support vessels. I demand that you change your course 15 degrees north. I say again, that is 15 degrees north or countermeasures will be undertaken to assure the safety of our ship."
After brief moment of silence, the Canadians responded: "This is a lighthouse. It is your call."
Sometimes we don't like what God wants us to do, and we want Him to change course when, in reality, it is us who ought to change course.
We need to understand that God's plans are better than ours. Having said that, it does not mean that they are always the easiest or even the most appealing at the moment. There are times when we are going through life that we might not like the plan of God. But God's plans are always better for us in the long run.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"For our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever!" -2 Corinthians 4:17
I read a story about a radio exchange that took place some time ago between a U.S. Navy ship and Canadian authorities off the coast of Newfoundland. The Canadians warned the Americans, "Please divert your course 15 degrees to the south to avoid a collision."
The Americans responded, "Recommend you divert your course 15 degrees to the north to avoid a collision."
The Canadians said, "Negative. You will have to divert your course 15 degrees to the south to avoid a collision."
The Americans: "This is the captain of a U.S. Navy Ship. I say again, divert your course."
"No. I say again, you divert your course."
"This is the aircraft carrier USS Lincoln, the second largest ship in the United States Atlantic fleet. We are accompanied by three destroyers, three cruisers, and numerous support vessels. I demand that you change your course 15 degrees north. I say again, that is 15 degrees north or countermeasures will be undertaken to assure the safety of our ship."
After brief moment of silence, the Canadians responded: "This is a lighthouse. It is your call."
Sometimes we don't like what God wants us to do, and we want Him to change course when, in reality, it is us who ought to change course.
We need to understand that God's plans are better than ours. Having said that, it does not mean that they are always the easiest or even the most appealing at the moment. There are times when we are going through life that we might not like the plan of God. But God's plans are always better for us in the long run.
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/04.08
Knowledge + Action = Faith
"For we also have had the gospel preached to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who heard did not combine it with faith." - Hebrews 4:2
The people of Israel were called out of the bondage of Egyptian slavery. God said they would be brought out of 400 years of slavery so that they might worship Him. God desired to bring them into a place of milk and honey - the Promised Land. Yet that generation never entered into the Promised Land. Why? They never took what they knew in their head and transferred it to their heart. Finally, it never resulted in actions that were based on what they believed.
When I was a new Christian I heard an illustration of what belief and faith looked like when combined. If you were a trapeze artist and were skilled at walking across tightropes over high places, you might even be willing to walk across Niagara Falls. In fact, I would have confidence that you could because I had seen your abilities as a trapeze artist. However, if you asked me if you could push me in a wheelbarrow across Niagara Falls, you would be challenging me to put my beliefs into action. This requires faith, participation, and risk, which, until now, was based only on mental assent.
The writer of Hebrews is telling us that if we believe God but do not enter in to those promises, we are like the man who chooses not to get into the wheelbarrow. If we don't act on our beliefs, then we remain in the desert like the people of Israel who never received God's promises. They did not combine what they knew in their head with a faith that was put into action.
Has God spoken to you about an area in your life that requires a step of faith? Let God provide the courage, as He does the knowledge, to act in faith on what you believe.
"For we also have had the gospel preached to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who heard did not combine it with faith." - Hebrews 4:2
The people of Israel were called out of the bondage of Egyptian slavery. God said they would be brought out of 400 years of slavery so that they might worship Him. God desired to bring them into a place of milk and honey - the Promised Land. Yet that generation never entered into the Promised Land. Why? They never took what they knew in their head and transferred it to their heart. Finally, it never resulted in actions that were based on what they believed.
When I was a new Christian I heard an illustration of what belief and faith looked like when combined. If you were a trapeze artist and were skilled at walking across tightropes over high places, you might even be willing to walk across Niagara Falls. In fact, I would have confidence that you could because I had seen your abilities as a trapeze artist. However, if you asked me if you could push me in a wheelbarrow across Niagara Falls, you would be challenging me to put my beliefs into action. This requires faith, participation, and risk, which, until now, was based only on mental assent.
The writer of Hebrews is telling us that if we believe God but do not enter in to those promises, we are like the man who chooses not to get into the wheelbarrow. If we don't act on our beliefs, then we remain in the desert like the people of Israel who never received God's promises. They did not combine what they knew in their head with a faith that was put into action.
Has God spoken to you about an area in your life that requires a step of faith? Let God provide the courage, as He does the knowledge, to act in faith on what you believe.
Monday, March 03, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/03/08
When God Seems Late
"Then he told them plainly, 'Lazarus is dead. And for your sake, I am glad I wasn't there, because this will give you another opportunity to believe in me.' " -John 11:14-15
Sometimes God will not come through as quickly as we want Him to. Mary and Martha, two friends of Jesus, faced this dilemma. Their brother Lazarus was sick. It was a serious illness. So they sent word to Jesus.
I think they probably believed that Jesus would make a beeline to Bethany to get Lazarus off his sickbed. But Jesus intentionally delayed His arrival. Mary and Martha were thinking of what was temporarily good. But Jesus was thinking of what was eternally good. This delay was for their sake. It was for them to learn a lesson.
Meanwhile, Mary and Martha had probably been saying, "Jesus will be here. He will drop whatever He is doing and be here." But He didn't show up on the day they wanted Him to. And He didn't come the next day or the day after that. Lazarus had now passed from sickness to death. In their minds, all hope was gone. By the time Jesus arrived in Bethany, Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days.
Here was the problem: Mary and Martha wanted a healing. But Jesus wanted a resurrection. He brought Lazarus back to life and, as a result, many believed in Jesus. Mary and Martha's faith was strengthened, as well as that of the disciples.
Like Mary and Martha, we will say, "God, if you loved me, you would do this. You would take care of that." But God says, "Because I love you, I am not going to give you these things." God wants to do something greater in your life. Will you let Him?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
"Then he told them plainly, 'Lazarus is dead. And for your sake, I am glad I wasn't there, because this will give you another opportunity to believe in me.' " -John 11:14-15
Sometimes God will not come through as quickly as we want Him to. Mary and Martha, two friends of Jesus, faced this dilemma. Their brother Lazarus was sick. It was a serious illness. So they sent word to Jesus.
I think they probably believed that Jesus would make a beeline to Bethany to get Lazarus off his sickbed. But Jesus intentionally delayed His arrival. Mary and Martha were thinking of what was temporarily good. But Jesus was thinking of what was eternally good. This delay was for their sake. It was for them to learn a lesson.
Meanwhile, Mary and Martha had probably been saying, "Jesus will be here. He will drop whatever He is doing and be here." But He didn't show up on the day they wanted Him to. And He didn't come the next day or the day after that. Lazarus had now passed from sickness to death. In their minds, all hope was gone. By the time Jesus arrived in Bethany, Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days.
Here was the problem: Mary and Martha wanted a healing. But Jesus wanted a resurrection. He brought Lazarus back to life and, as a result, many believed in Jesus. Mary and Martha's faith was strengthened, as well as that of the disciples.
Like Mary and Martha, we will say, "God, if you loved me, you would do this. You would take care of that." But God says, "Because I love you, I am not going to give you these things." God wants to do something greater in your life. Will you let Him?
Copyright © 2007 by Harvest Ministries
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Daily Caffeination 03/01/08
Knowing Versus Doing
"I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection...." - Philippians 3:10
If I asked you the purpose for which God made you, what might you say? You might give a lot of answers that required some action on your part. However, the simplest answer to that question relates to one primary thing: fellowship. The most important thing God desires from us today is to have a deep and intimate fellowship with each of us.
The apostle Paul said he wanted to know Christ, and by knowing Christ he could experience the power of His resurrection. I find this to be the hardest thing for many of us workplace believers to do. So often it is much easier to be busy with the urgent (or even Christian) activity than spending quiet moments before the Lord. Before we realize it, days have passed since our last quiet time with Jesus.
Jesus understood how important quiet moments were with the Father. "After He had dismissed them, He went up on a mountainside by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone" (Mt. 14:23). The more mature I become in my relationship with the Lord, the more precious this time becomes to me. It is a time I look forward to almost daily. It offers me a time to reflect, to share my concerns with my Lord, and to hear Him speak. In the last few years I have begun prayer walks, which accomplish three things: fellowship, prayer, and exercise. It has changed my prayer life. I have come to understand that Jesus views us as His friend and He wants to spend time with us. We are depriving Him of His time when we put Him aside for the urgent. An interesting thing happens when we make prayer a priority: Urgent things seem to wane as we focus on Him. He makes all these other things fall into place.
Are you taking the time to get to know Him today?
"I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection...." - Philippians 3:10
If I asked you the purpose for which God made you, what might you say? You might give a lot of answers that required some action on your part. However, the simplest answer to that question relates to one primary thing: fellowship. The most important thing God desires from us today is to have a deep and intimate fellowship with each of us.
The apostle Paul said he wanted to know Christ, and by knowing Christ he could experience the power of His resurrection. I find this to be the hardest thing for many of us workplace believers to do. So often it is much easier to be busy with the urgent (or even Christian) activity than spending quiet moments before the Lord. Before we realize it, days have passed since our last quiet time with Jesus.
Jesus understood how important quiet moments were with the Father. "After He had dismissed them, He went up on a mountainside by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone" (Mt. 14:23). The more mature I become in my relationship with the Lord, the more precious this time becomes to me. It is a time I look forward to almost daily. It offers me a time to reflect, to share my concerns with my Lord, and to hear Him speak. In the last few years I have begun prayer walks, which accomplish three things: fellowship, prayer, and exercise. It has changed my prayer life. I have come to understand that Jesus views us as His friend and He wants to spend time with us. We are depriving Him of His time when we put Him aside for the urgent. An interesting thing happens when we make prayer a priority: Urgent things seem to wane as we focus on Him. He makes all these other things fall into place.
Are you taking the time to get to know Him today?
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