Saturday, September 29, 2012
Some Myths About Politics
Special thanks to Dr. Jeff Myers, PhD, of Summit Ministries for this great insight! Check out Summit at www.summit.org!
Over time four myths have developed that keep Christians in a state of suspended animation when it comes to political involvement. Worse, some consider their adherence to these myths as virtuous, viewing their passivity as an exalted state. Let's take a look at each of the four myths as well as the biblical reality that breaks the spell under which many Christians have fallen.
Myth #1: "God doesn't care about politics."
Saying "God doesn't care about politics" is a kind of "get out of argument free" card when under withering assault from the secular elite. It is the equivalent of saying, "Yes, I am a Christian but the one true God doesn't care about politics, so please don't judge me by the political viewpoints of my fellow believers." God cares about politics because He cares about everything. The reality is that God is concerned with His glory, and Psalm 57 says that His glory covers all of the earth.
Washington, D.C., and your state capital are not black holes where no concern need be taken for God's glory. As Baptist pastor Adrian Rogers said, "It is inconceivable that God would ordain government and then ask His people to stay out of it."
This is not to say that Christians should get involved in politics merely to claim their fair share of power. Rather, involvement proceeds from this: the end of every life pursuit is to know God and make Him known. Politics is a form of discipleship, our involvement in which helps shape us into the image of Christ.
Myth #2: "It's not my problem."
Let's say you walk in the break room at work and it's a mess. You have several choices, including cleaning it up or using the occasion to inspire others to an ethic of cleanliness. But most of us would be tempted to say, "I didn't make this mess - I'm not cleaning it up at all." It seems entirely fair and reasonable that we would respond this way.
In terms of community, though, the problems faced by some are ultimately going to be faced by all. In a democratic republic the people - not government employees - are in charge. Problems that aren't solved while small become bigger ones we'll have to face later. It's like the auto mechanic in the commercial who admonishes viewers to get their oil changed: "You can pay me now, or you can pay me later."
It's not enough merely to refrain from bad behavior. No one has ever received
a good citizen award by virtue of disciplining himself to not rob convenience stores. Public virtue means choosing to do good, at personal expense, as an example to our fellows and for the sake of those who come after us. We must do this. As
Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, "Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act."
Myth #3: "Choosing between the lesser of two evils is evil."
Of all the objections Christians lodge against political involvement, this one sounds the most noble: "I refuse to traffic in evil, and politics is evil; therefore my passivity is virtuous."
The reality though, may surprise you: Politics is evil - just like you and me. We live in a fallen world. And it is not that Christians are the pure few who must simply bear the weight of evil perpetrated by others. Romans 3:10 says, "None is righteous, no, not one." Proclaiming that a person running for office is the "lesser of two evils" is to deny at some level the truth about our own state before God. As theologian RC Sproul often says, all of us are really a lot more like Adolf Hitler than we are like Jesus Christ.
"But," you protest, "are we not capable of discerning the difference between good and evil?" Certainly. But let's look at the "choosing the lesser of two evils" statement in the light of our sin nature:
1. Choice. Making politics about a one-time choice, a vote, is misguided. After voting, we acknowledge the authority of our public officials and do good to them.
2. Lesser. To say that both candidates are evil and one marginally less so is to misuse the principle of discerning good from evil. The entire world is fallen. All our choices - not just political ones - are corrupted.
3. Evil. Romans 12:21 says "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." The word "overcome" in Greek is nikao which means to have superiority over. We are to be so proactive in doing good that evil loses its grip.
Myth #4: "Politics doesn't matter."
Virtue has a public component, not just a private one. Unwise political policies have destroyed the lives of tens of millions of people. Wise policies have brought freedom to tens of millions.
Properly conceived, politics offers a platform from which to encourage virtue, and virtue is at the heart of good government. To those who think it is only about liberty, consider the warning of the great British statesman Edmund Burke: "But what is liberty without wisdom and without virtue? It is the greatest of all possible evils; for it is folly, vice, and madness, without tuition or restraint."
The big things America is proud of - the freeing of oppressed peoples around the world, the welcoming of the "poor, huddled masses yearning to be free," the right of people to live their lives and carry out their business without the threat of unlawful search and seizure - all of these are political products that came about only when good people got involved in politics.
It's safe to say that there is not a single act you take in any given day that is not either facilitated or hampered by political decision-making at some level. Most of us have never really thought about it, and that's part of the problem. Thomas Paine said "What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly."
Call 2 Fall - Please Pray for the Election
It's time to concentrate on praying and acting in a positive way to influence the upcoming election. Please consider what you can do to make a difference . www.call2fall.com
Friday, September 28, 2012
Get Ready To VOTE! Biblical Guidelines
Biblical Guidelines for Voting
Here are some thoughts worth considering, praying over and acting on!
1. Don't equate the biblical kingdom of God with any human political party or nation. Remember the difference between God's kingdom and the kingdoms of this world. Don't mix the two up. (John 18:36; Matt. 6:33).
2. Look carefully at the candidates and the issues. Compare their stances to Biblical Truth. HOW do they compare? Do not give in to media spin. Stay true to the values God puts forth in His Word.
Be influenced by God's standards, not necessarily what is best for you, personally. God calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross...and follow HIM, not our own success. (Matt 16:24)
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." - Matt 16:24
3. Pray for God's help in motivating people to follow His plan. Ask God to heal our land. Continue to pray daily, especially until the election. (2Chron 7:14)
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble
themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from
their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will
forgive their sin and will heal their land. -2Chronicles7:14
4. Don't elevate a politician to messianic status. People often falsely think a politician can
single-handedly produce supernatural social results. We have one Lord, and we must resist any
attempt to exalt politicians to unrealistic heights (Matt. 7:15; 1 Pet. 3:15).
Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. -- Matt 7:15
5. Don't just vote, but pray for the leaders of all political parties. Christians can be tempted to
bless the politician of their choice, and curse his or her opponent, but remember, we must pray
even for our enemies (1 Tim. 2:1-2; Matt. 5:44).
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. - 1 Tim 2:1-2
6. Don't engage in angry, hostile confrontation. Present your political convictions through
civil debate and rational dialogue instead. Confrontational arguments demonstrate an ugly pride
that demeans Jesus Christ (James 1:19-20; 2 Tim. 2:14).
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. - James 1: 19-20
7. Don't become so intertwined with one political party that you forfeit your independence.
When you do, you lose your right to be heard and to speak and clarify Biblical Truth to all
politicians and political parties (1 Tim.3:15; Rom. 3:4).
8. Don't allow yourself to support attempts to divide races, male and female, rich and poor,
or young and old. Partisan politics often divides society into voting blocks, and separates
society instead of uniting it. Christians should function as peacemakers and reconcilers in the
public square and should resist every temptation to join the game of dividing people for political
gain (Matt. 5:9; 2 Cor. 5:18-19).
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: - Corin 5:18
9. Get Involved. We are called, not only to curse the darkness in our world, but to act as
illuminating light and preserving salt. We must share the light of God's Truth and work to maintain the common welfare of our nation by overcoming evil through doing good (Matt. 5:13-16 Romans 12:17-21).
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. - Romans 12:17
10. Don't forget that your ultimate security is in the unshakeable kingdom of God. Many
Christians often elevate the outcome of presidential elections to an apocalyptic status. If a
particular presidential candidate does not win, we begin to think or act as if theworld will end. In
so doing, however, we express an unbelief in the active sovereignty of God over human affairs.
(Heb. 12:26-29).
I am aware that the outcome of the upcoming presidential election could have significant, and even negative, consequences for people's lives, but we don't need to worry. In the larger
scheme of history, no matter who becomes our next president, God is still King, and He is still in control!— Andrew Jackson
Here are some thoughts worth considering, praying over and acting on!
1. Don't equate the biblical kingdom of God with any human political party or nation. Remember the difference between God's kingdom and the kingdoms of this world. Don't mix the two up. (John 18:36; Matt. 6:33).
2. Look carefully at the candidates and the issues. Compare their stances to Biblical Truth. HOW do they compare? Do not give in to media spin. Stay true to the values God puts forth in His Word.
Be influenced by God's standards, not necessarily what is best for you, personally. God calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross...and follow HIM, not our own success. (Matt 16:24)
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." - Matt 16:24
3. Pray for God's help in motivating people to follow His plan. Ask God to heal our land. Continue to pray daily, especially until the election. (2Chron 7:14)
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble
themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from
their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will
forgive their sin and will heal their land. -2Chronicles7:14
4. Don't elevate a politician to messianic status. People often falsely think a politician can
single-handedly produce supernatural social results. We have one Lord, and we must resist any
attempt to exalt politicians to unrealistic heights (Matt. 7:15; 1 Pet. 3:15).
Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. -- Matt 7:15
5. Don't just vote, but pray for the leaders of all political parties. Christians can be tempted to
bless the politician of their choice, and curse his or her opponent, but remember, we must pray
even for our enemies (1 Tim. 2:1-2; Matt. 5:44).
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. - 1 Tim 2:1-2
6. Don't engage in angry, hostile confrontation. Present your political convictions through
civil debate and rational dialogue instead. Confrontational arguments demonstrate an ugly pride
that demeans Jesus Christ (James 1:19-20; 2 Tim. 2:14).
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. - James 1: 19-20
7. Don't become so intertwined with one political party that you forfeit your independence.
When you do, you lose your right to be heard and to speak and clarify Biblical Truth to all
politicians and political parties (1 Tim.3:15; Rom. 3:4).
8. Don't allow yourself to support attempts to divide races, male and female, rich and poor,
or young and old. Partisan politics often divides society into voting blocks, and separates
society instead of uniting it. Christians should function as peacemakers and reconcilers in the
public square and should resist every temptation to join the game of dividing people for political
gain (Matt. 5:9; 2 Cor. 5:18-19).
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: - Corin 5:18
9. Get Involved. We are called, not only to curse the darkness in our world, but to act as
illuminating light and preserving salt. We must share the light of God's Truth and work to maintain the common welfare of our nation by overcoming evil through doing good (Matt. 5:13-16 Romans 12:17-21).
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. - Romans 12:17
10. Don't forget that your ultimate security is in the unshakeable kingdom of God. Many
Christians often elevate the outcome of presidential elections to an apocalyptic status. If a
particular presidential candidate does not win, we begin to think or act as if theworld will end. In
so doing, however, we express an unbelief in the active sovereignty of God over human affairs.
(Heb. 12:26-29).
I am aware that the outcome of the upcoming presidential election could have significant, and even negative, consequences for people's lives, but we don't need to worry. In the larger
scheme of history, no matter who becomes our next president, God is still King, and He is still in control!— Andrew Jackson
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Romans Chapter 13
Check out this chapter, dear readers! Don't be scared about the "authority" stuff. We are all under some kind of authority. God calls us to act respectfully, but He does not call us to disobey His supreme authority. This is a balance we must pray to keep.
Read the chapter below (note that my subtitles are in red, I did not take these from the Bible!) I'll share more thoughts later! - - Laurie
ROMANS 13
Our Bosses and Us
13 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.
6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
If you are struggling with someone in authority over you, consider the way in which you interact with them. God calls us to LOVE -- even our enemies.
If the authority is asking you to disobey God, then you should consider a right and honorable way to protest. Pray about it.
In our culture today, we may find authority figures demanding we do things that do not honor God. Again, as the Romans 12 says: "Do not conform to the pattern of the world, but be transformed..."
Stand for what is right - Think how this fits into this election year. Please pray about this.
Debt and Love
8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,”[a] and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”[b] 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
This speaks volumes to our CREDIT CARD mania! Consider your amount of debt. Guard your spending. As Romans 13:8 says -- don't let your debt remain outstanding.
LOVE is a debt we owe to Jesus. Continue to pay this debt to all mankind. But...watch that financial stuff. God calls us to be good, frugal, and thoughtful stewards of His money.
It's time to take a stand
11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.[c]
We talked about this at Mothers DeLIGHT. Never have we seen so much DARKNESS celebrated as "good" It IS time to stop sleeping. Put on the armor of God and make your voice heard!
We should not simply accept the media messages. We should protest the oversexualization of everything from food to clothing lines -- from women to toddlers in tiaras. You can speak through those sponsors who advertise - DON'T BUY... WRITE...CALL... let them know what they are promoting through their ads!
To tell you the truth - many companies - mass buy ads and do not even know the content of some of their sponsored shows. They buy by demographics. Let them know what the show promotes!
Also - help your children be discerning about what they see and hear. You cannot totally insulate them from the messages, but please don't be shy about telling them what is TRUE and PURE and HONORABLE!
Romans Chapter 13: 11-13 is almost chilling in its depiction of our culture today.
Let's listen to verse 14 and continue to focus on Jesus and His Word so much we are "clothed" in the GOOD STUFF! Only then can we step away from the world and take a stand.
Read the chapter below (note that my subtitles are in red, I did not take these from the Bible!) I'll share more thoughts later! - - Laurie
ROMANS 13
Our Bosses and Us
13 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.
6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
If you are struggling with someone in authority over you, consider the way in which you interact with them. God calls us to LOVE -- even our enemies.
If the authority is asking you to disobey God, then you should consider a right and honorable way to protest. Pray about it.
In our culture today, we may find authority figures demanding we do things that do not honor God. Again, as the Romans 12 says: "Do not conform to the pattern of the world, but be transformed..."
Stand for what is right - Think how this fits into this election year. Please pray about this.
Debt and Love
8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,”[a] and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”[b] 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
This speaks volumes to our CREDIT CARD mania! Consider your amount of debt. Guard your spending. As Romans 13:8 says -- don't let your debt remain outstanding.
LOVE is a debt we owe to Jesus. Continue to pay this debt to all mankind. But...watch that financial stuff. God calls us to be good, frugal, and thoughtful stewards of His money.
It's time to take a stand
11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.[c]
We talked about this at Mothers DeLIGHT. Never have we seen so much DARKNESS celebrated as "good" It IS time to stop sleeping. Put on the armor of God and make your voice heard!
We should not simply accept the media messages. We should protest the oversexualization of everything from food to clothing lines -- from women to toddlers in tiaras. You can speak through those sponsors who advertise - DON'T BUY... WRITE...CALL... let them know what they are promoting through their ads!
To tell you the truth - many companies - mass buy ads and do not even know the content of some of their sponsored shows. They buy by demographics. Let them know what the show promotes!
Also - help your children be discerning about what they see and hear. You cannot totally insulate them from the messages, but please don't be shy about telling them what is TRUE and PURE and HONORABLE!
Romans Chapter 13: 11-13 is almost chilling in its depiction of our culture today.
Let's listen to verse 14 and continue to focus on Jesus and His Word so much we are "clothed" in the GOOD STUFF! Only then can we step away from the world and take a stand.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Romans 12 - Guide for LIFE!
I am thrilled to be looking at Romans Chapter 12! This Chapter speaks to the heart of the Christian Church! Oh....please read this. I was in a Bible Study once that asked us to read Romans 12 every day. Why don't you try that? Pray about how this applies to you and your life! Remember these words and apply them to your day. I will add notes later!
Here we go, folks! I've added some thoughts in Red. Don't let me clutter your conversation with God, however -- My notes are humble thoughts -- I'm praying they spur further conversation with your Heavenly Father!
Romans 12
New International Version (NIV)
A Living Sacrifice
12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Ever wondered what God wants from you? According to Paul, what God wants most from you...is you.
Now, don't be scared by this. If you truly know how much God loves you (i.e. He DIED for you) you will want to give Him everything. (More on this: check out SALVATION in this blog!)
Problem: The WORLD. Boy, does the world distract us, corrupt us, and deceive us into thinking God is not enough. Verse 2 tells us not to CONFORM or "give in" to the pattern of this world.
Verse 2 also tells us to "be transformed" - WOOOHOOO -- Boy, do I love these words! God has the power to change (as the dictionary says) my condition, nature and function! I'm glad He can put this old "cracked pot" to good use!
Finally, in closing, we need to give God everything and pray that we understand His will for us...which is pleasing and perfect (not always comfortable)!
Are you willing to say to God, "I'm all in." ?
Humble Service in the Body of Christ
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Humilty - This is a concept long lost in this "me-centered" world. Yet, I have found the greatest leaders are humble leaders. They are decisive and strong, yet humble and focused on GOD, not themselves.
Verses 3 - 8 speak volumes to anyone living/working/relating to others. Think about your church a moment, or even your family. Everyone has a role to play. God has gifted people in different ways. We should respect those gifts.
Let's get real here folks. Even the most annoying person in your life may have been placed there to reveal something to you...to advance your work for Christ...to contribute to the body of Christ.
Soooo....grant grace in your relationships. Let go of disputes and focus on the BIG PICTURE:
serving Jesus!
Love in Action
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Oh, my...these are marching orders! Move forward and cling to these concepts. If you memorize verses 9 - 13, you will avoid so many wasted, frustration-filled moments!
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[c] Do not be conceited.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”[d] says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
Here we go, folks! I've added some thoughts in Red. Don't let me clutter your conversation with God, however -- My notes are humble thoughts -- I'm praying they spur further conversation with your Heavenly Father!
Romans 12
New International Version (NIV)
A Living Sacrifice
12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Ever wondered what God wants from you? According to Paul, what God wants most from you...is you.
Now, don't be scared by this. If you truly know how much God loves you (i.e. He DIED for you) you will want to give Him everything. (More on this: check out SALVATION in this blog!)
Problem: The WORLD. Boy, does the world distract us, corrupt us, and deceive us into thinking God is not enough. Verse 2 tells us not to CONFORM or "give in" to the pattern of this world.
Verse 2 also tells us to "be transformed" - WOOOHOOO -- Boy, do I love these words! God has the power to change (as the dictionary says) my condition, nature and function! I'm glad He can put this old "cracked pot" to good use!
Finally, in closing, we need to give God everything and pray that we understand His will for us...which is pleasing and perfect (not always comfortable)!
Are you willing to say to God, "I'm all in." ?
Humble Service in the Body of Christ
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Humilty - This is a concept long lost in this "me-centered" world. Yet, I have found the greatest leaders are humble leaders. They are decisive and strong, yet humble and focused on GOD, not themselves.
Verses 3 - 8 speak volumes to anyone living/working/relating to others. Think about your church a moment, or even your family. Everyone has a role to play. God has gifted people in different ways. We should respect those gifts.
Let's get real here folks. Even the most annoying person in your life may have been placed there to reveal something to you...to advance your work for Christ...to contribute to the body of Christ.
Soooo....grant grace in your relationships. Let go of disputes and focus on the BIG PICTURE:
serving Jesus!
Love in Action
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Oh, my...these are marching orders! Move forward and cling to these concepts. If you memorize verses 9 - 13, you will avoid so many wasted, frustration-filled moments!
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[c] Do not be conceited.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”[d] says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”[e]
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Pastor Dennis Morgan once said: The true test of a Christian is often what spills out when we get bumped.
Think of yourself as a glass filled to the brim. When someone bumps you, what splashes out? Is it "Living Water" (John 4:10)
It's impossible to live in this world and avoid conflict. God sent verses 14 - 21 to give you instructions on dealing with conflict, confrontation, and, yes, unfair persecution.
Keep these verses in mind next time your glass is bumped!
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Right On - Dennis & Barbara Rainey!
I encourage you to investigate Family Life Today: www.familylife.com. Be sure to look into getting these daily devotionals. -- What gems!
Wrong or Right
He has made everything beautiful in its time. -- Ecclesiastes 3:11
When you made a covenant to your spouse, it wasn’t just a promise to stay married. It wasn’t a pass/fail exam. It was a sacred pledge to care for and nourish each other—to meet the other’s needs and receive the other—to accept and embrace each other as God’s personal provision for your needs.
But obviously, your wedding vows are made long before you really know the person you are marrying—before years of sharing the same house, the same bathroom, the same dishwasher, the same everything. By then you are aware of the maddening little things that just get under your skin.
It’s at points like these when some husbands and wives conclude, “I think I married the wrong person.” That thought is not abnormal, but it is dangerous.
If that thought has ever crossed your mind, I ask you to think carefully about this timeless advice from author and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar: “I have no way of knowing whether or not you married the wrong person. But I do know that if you treat the wrong person like the right person, you could well end up having married the right person after all. It is far more important to be the right kind of person than it is to marry the right person.”
All of us inevitably come to places in marriage where our objectives and attitudes clash with each other, sometimes pretty strongly. We don’t make it all the way through without encountering stretches of road that are filled with potholes, bridges out and some steep grades. But what would happen if we chose to accept rather than reject, to be thankful rather than spiteful, to give encouragement rather than disapproval?
I guarantee you, Mr. and Mrs. Right are the people in your wedding pictures, even if it hasn’t been looking like it recently.
Discuss
In what ways has your perspective changed toward your spouse since you were married? Reaffirm your commitment to one another in a short letter to one another.
Pray
Ask the Lord to keep your heart contented, committed to a lifetime of not just living but loving one another well.
Wrong or Right
He has made everything beautiful in its time. -- Ecclesiastes 3:11
When you made a covenant to your spouse, it wasn’t just a promise to stay married. It wasn’t a pass/fail exam. It was a sacred pledge to care for and nourish each other—to meet the other’s needs and receive the other—to accept and embrace each other as God’s personal provision for your needs.
But obviously, your wedding vows are made long before you really know the person you are marrying—before years of sharing the same house, the same bathroom, the same dishwasher, the same everything. By then you are aware of the maddening little things that just get under your skin.
It’s at points like these when some husbands and wives conclude, “I think I married the wrong person.” That thought is not abnormal, but it is dangerous.
If that thought has ever crossed your mind, I ask you to think carefully about this timeless advice from author and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar: “I have no way of knowing whether or not you married the wrong person. But I do know that if you treat the wrong person like the right person, you could well end up having married the right person after all. It is far more important to be the right kind of person than it is to marry the right person.”
All of us inevitably come to places in marriage where our objectives and attitudes clash with each other, sometimes pretty strongly. We don’t make it all the way through without encountering stretches of road that are filled with potholes, bridges out and some steep grades. But what would happen if we chose to accept rather than reject, to be thankful rather than spiteful, to give encouragement rather than disapproval?
I guarantee you, Mr. and Mrs. Right are the people in your wedding pictures, even if it hasn’t been looking like it recently.
Discuss
In what ways has your perspective changed toward your spouse since you were married? Reaffirm your commitment to one another in a short letter to one another.
Pray
Ask the Lord to keep your heart contented, committed to a lifetime of not just living but loving one another well.
Friday, September 14, 2012
A sneak peek into Romans Chapter 12
I could not HELP it! I took a peek at Romans Chapter 12 and I am excited! This is great stuff folks!
Go ahead - read the chapter today: www.biblegateway.com. Here are tips for life!
See you next week for more of Romans 12!
12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. -- Romans 12:1,2
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Thoughts on 9/11
I've been reading these wonderful couples' devotionals from Family Life Today, If you'd like to learn more about receiving them in your daily e-mails, contact http://www.familylife.com
9/11
By Dennis Rainey
Blessed is the man (and nation!) who trusts in the LORD.
-- Jeremiah 17:7
For some reason I stayed home from work on September 11, 2001. I had just finished a three-mile run when Barbara met me on the highway near our home with a concerned look on her face. She blurted out the words, “We’ve been attacked!”
After watching television and learning more about the terrorist attacks, I showered and rushed to the office, where I met with leaders of our ministry. We prayed and discussed how we would encourage followers of Christ to respond to days that were filled with fear and uncertainty.
Many of the reflections that I captured in the days following 9/11 are just as appropriate in these days of insecurity:
Trust in God, not men (see Jeremiah 17:5-8). God and His plans are not upset by the actions of men. He is the anchor in a storm.
Live for eternity and God’s kingdom (see Matthew 25:14-30). The things of the world seem trivial in a time of crisis. Determine God’s purpose for you. How does He want to use you to reach, influence and serve others in the cause of Christ?
Share the gospel boldly (see 2 Corinthians 5:20-21). People could be one breath away from meeting God face to face.
Embrace biblical family values now, not just when there’s a crisis (see 2 Peter 3:10-13).
Give others courage to live for Christ today and not wait for tomorrow (see Hebrews 3:13).
One of my favorite hymns in the days after 9/11 was Martin Luther’s “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” Perhaps you sang it in your church:
Those are words to remember whenever we need courage to live in these troubled times.
Discuss
What do you remember from 9/11? How was your faith affected?
Pray
Pray that you and your family would make God your “mighty fortress” in the days to come.
9/11
By Dennis Rainey
Blessed is the man (and nation!) who trusts in the LORD.
-- Jeremiah 17:7
For some reason I stayed home from work on September 11, 2001. I had just finished a three-mile run when Barbara met me on the highway near our home with a concerned look on her face. She blurted out the words, “We’ve been attacked!”
After watching television and learning more about the terrorist attacks, I showered and rushed to the office, where I met with leaders of our ministry. We prayed and discussed how we would encourage followers of Christ to respond to days that were filled with fear and uncertainty.
Many of the reflections that I captured in the days following 9/11 are just as appropriate in these days of insecurity:
Trust in God, not men (see Jeremiah 17:5-8). God and His plans are not upset by the actions of men. He is the anchor in a storm.
Live for eternity and God’s kingdom (see Matthew 25:14-30). The things of the world seem trivial in a time of crisis. Determine God’s purpose for you. How does He want to use you to reach, influence and serve others in the cause of Christ?
Share the gospel boldly (see 2 Corinthians 5:20-21). People could be one breath away from meeting God face to face.
Embrace biblical family values now, not just when there’s a crisis (see 2 Peter 3:10-13).
Give others courage to live for Christ today and not wait for tomorrow (see Hebrews 3:13).
One of my favorite hymns in the days after 9/11 was Martin Luther’s “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” Perhaps you sang it in your church:
A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.
Those are words to remember whenever we need courage to live in these troubled times.
Discuss
What do you remember from 9/11? How was your faith affected?
Pray
Pray that you and your family would make God your “mighty fortress” in the days to come.
Romans Chapter 11 - Paul breaks out into SONG!
You know, Romans Chapter 11 is a little tough to understand. I have to admit, I struggled a bit with all those references to God's people, the gentiles, the prophets,Israelites, history, grafting, etc...
I'm thinking Paul was sorting some things out with his audience, something having to do with God's awesome relationship with ALL of them and how they better start accepting God's plan, even if they don't understand it.
My favorite passage follows. All of a sudden, Paul throws his head back and starts to sing!
I can RELATE! Paul sings at the top of his lungs (According to Laurie's commentary).
He just has to tell the people how AWESOME God is.
I think he's basically saying:
"Listen all you people from different stations and economic levels and religious backgrounds...GOD IS GOD!
LET'S GIVE HIM THE GLORY!
Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom
and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
“Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?”
“Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay them?”
For from him and through him
and for him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
-- Romans 11:33-36
-- Romans 11:33-36
Sunday, September 9, 2012
These movies looks interesting!
These look like thought-provoking movies.
Let me know what you think of them!
www.lastouncethemovie.com
www.monumentalmovie.com
http://courageousthemovie.com/
http://2016themovie.com
http://afastore.afa.net/p/646/paper-dream-dvd
http://afastore.afa.net/p/671/october-baby
Let me know what you think of them!
www.lastouncethemovie.com
www.monumentalmovie.com
http://courageousthemovie.com/
http://2016themovie.com
http://afastore.afa.net/p/646/paper-dream-dvd
http://afastore.afa.net/p/671/october-baby
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Romans Chapter 10 -- Let's TALK about it!
I guess you can say I'm a mixed bag. I was raised in church - loved that place - sang for them - taught Sunday School - went every week.
I attended Catholic Schools in East St. Louis - grateful for that - good education - they actually could mention God in school - good stuff.
I sang in masses - went to Jewish services - attended a variety of churches. -I really didn't read the Bible.
BOY - for a person who went to a lot of religious ceremonies - I was lost!
What was my problem? I had never read Romans! No one had ever taught me about commitment to Christ! I loved Jesus. I followed His rules (with a few exceptions). I went to church on Sunday.
But...something was missing. By Monday morning, I was floundering in my insecurities.
I really did not understand the significance of stopping, thinking, CHOOSING, SAYING: "I give my life to you, Jesus."
I was wondering around in my spiritual mediocrity.
ENTER: Jackie.
I admired my beautiful friend Jackie whose laugh came easily and friendliness spilled over everyone she met.
She ran her household with a peace, faith and spontaneous spirit of love and joy that I had always yearned for. I wondered what her secret was.
My dear friend Jackie taught me the concepts in the book of Romans. She explained that it takes more than being a "good" person to get into Heaven. She talked about committing my life to Christ.
Jackie taught me that, once you give your life to Jesus, you can really ENJOY HIM.
Jackie told me, if you sincerely "confess" and "believe" in Jesus, you are saved.
By golly, that's what Romans Chapter 10 says!
I certainly have a mouth. It needs to talk about Jesus.
I certainly have feet. I just hope they are "beautiful feet"
So....I better run tell someone else.
See you in Chapter 11.
I attended Catholic Schools in East St. Louis - grateful for that - good education - they actually could mention God in school - good stuff.
I sang in masses - went to Jewish services - attended a variety of churches. -I really didn't read the Bible.
BOY - for a person who went to a lot of religious ceremonies - I was lost!
What was my problem? I had never read Romans! No one had ever taught me about commitment to Christ! I loved Jesus. I followed His rules (with a few exceptions). I went to church on Sunday.
But...something was missing. By Monday morning, I was floundering in my insecurities.
I really did not understand the significance of stopping, thinking, CHOOSING, SAYING: "I give my life to you, Jesus."
I was wondering around in my spiritual mediocrity.
ENTER: Jackie.
I admired my beautiful friend Jackie whose laugh came easily and friendliness spilled over everyone she met.
She ran her household with a peace, faith and spontaneous spirit of love and joy that I had always yearned for. I wondered what her secret was.
My dear friend Jackie taught me the concepts in the book of Romans. She explained that it takes more than being a "good" person to get into Heaven. She talked about committing my life to Christ.
Jackie taught me that, once you give your life to Jesus, you can really ENJOY HIM.
Jackie told me, if you sincerely "confess" and "believe" in Jesus, you are saved.
By golly, that's what Romans Chapter 10 says!
If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. Romans 10:9-10
For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. Romans 10:9-10
I titled this post "Let's talk about it." That's something I never did before I committed my life to Christ. This whole "talk about Jesus" stuff spooked me a bit.
Once I committed my life to Christ, however, I could not help but talk about Him. How could I not share my best friend with others?
Jesus is my best friend. He loves me, flaws and all. He is the one who cheers me on when I trip again and again. Jesus is my ticket to eternity.
Why not share that with others? Don't they deserve to know the Prince of Peace in this crazy world?
Besides, like the Romans 10 says. Who will know if I don't tell them?
Once I committed my life to Christ, however, I could not help but talk about Him. How could I not share my best friend with others?
Jesus is my best friend. He loves me, flaws and all. He is the one who cheers me on when I trip again and again. Jesus is my ticket to eternity.
Why not share that with others? Don't they deserve to know the Prince of Peace in this crazy world?
Besides, like the Romans 10 says. Who will know if I don't tell them?
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in?
And how can they believe in the one
of whom they have not heard?
And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?
And how can anyone preach unless they are sent?
As it is written:
“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
Romans 10: 14-15
I certainly have a mouth. It needs to talk about Jesus.
I certainly have feet. I just hope they are "beautiful feet"
So....I better run tell someone else.
See you in Chapter 11.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Good thought for the day - Please know where to go for PEACE
"I have told you these
things, so that in me you
may have peace. In this
world you will have
trouble. But take heart! I
have overcome the world."
--John 16:33
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