Take Jesus to work today (and every day). Watch your blessings increase!
Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
At my workplace, Christian music is played and bible tracks and sometimes my bible are out for all to see. In almost two years, I nor my employers have never received any complaints, only words of encouragement: from both co workers and clients. I experience the same pro Christ attitude at my bank as well, so I know I’m not the only one out in the world that proclaims God at my worksite.
I’m sure one of these days the complaints will come. I can only hope I will have the courage Peter did, stating “we ought to obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). I have learned the Lord has my back, so I know my job is safe, until the Lord has other plans for me. Besides, who wants to fire someone who continues to pray blessings upon their employer and their clients? (Oh yea, I forgot. An agent of Satan would!) :-0
As Christians, we have been too passive in our faith for too long. We need to display our faith, and make it known where that faith is. Let others ask questions. Let your actions answer them. Pray the Holy Spirit gives you the words you need to answer them. Pray that you will be given the courage to stand up for Christ at your work – this was not an overnight decision on my part – this challenge I place before you took me a full year to get up the nerve! Finally, pray for your employers and clients. It is good to bless non believers as well as believers; after all, how else can a non believer turn to God except with the help of someone like us?
December 27, 2011
December 26, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 75
Why would God send anyone to hell? Especially if He loves all of us??
Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Without a doubt, there is not one of us; be it Christian, Muslim, Jew, Buddhist, Pagan or Atheist; that has not sinned - not broken one of God’s commandments -over the last 24 hours. We may not think it’s not that bad, but remember, God’s standards are much higher than ours.
We may work excessively in pursuit of money. Many have placed money in front of God on our priority list. Or perhaps we place ourselves over God with a selfish pride. How many other pursuits do we have that we have placed a higher priority than God? Have we cursed God? Do we keep a traditional Sabbath; on Saturday? Do we disrespect our parents? Do we murder (or hate others), commit adultery (or simply lust after another) steal, lie or covet? Maybe not all of them today, but all of us do one or more of these things daily. Sometimes multiple times a day! (Exodus 20)
So, we all deserve eternity in Hell. At the very least, we deserve the death we face. And this is where God’s love comes in. He gives us a way out, through His son, Jesus Christ, who was God in the flesh (John 1:14). Christ took your place; your death sentence, when he died on the cross 2000 years ago. As a result, the physical death of your body becomes irrelevant. You have been offered a free gift of eternal life.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Accept this free gift, as you are, and you will be spared from Hell. Better yet, you live with Jesus in paradise, with no pain, suffering, tears, all that bad stuff we experience on earth. Don’t worry about cleaning up your life first – Jesus changes millions of lives each day. Humble yourself and surrender your life to Jesus. Get involved with a church where sinners like you and I meet weekly to give glory to God.
But it’s your choice. You can accept or reject this free gift. You can send yourself to heaven or to hell. You have been offered a free gift, a free pass into absolute paradise. But if you would rather spend eternity apart form God (in hell) God will respect your choice.
You see, it’s not God that will send you to hell. You will send yourself there.
Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Without a doubt, there is not one of us; be it Christian, Muslim, Jew, Buddhist, Pagan or Atheist; that has not sinned - not broken one of God’s commandments -over the last 24 hours. We may not think it’s not that bad, but remember, God’s standards are much higher than ours.
We may work excessively in pursuit of money. Many have placed money in front of God on our priority list. Or perhaps we place ourselves over God with a selfish pride. How many other pursuits do we have that we have placed a higher priority than God? Have we cursed God? Do we keep a traditional Sabbath; on Saturday? Do we disrespect our parents? Do we murder (or hate others), commit adultery (or simply lust after another) steal, lie or covet? Maybe not all of them today, but all of us do one or more of these things daily. Sometimes multiple times a day! (Exodus 20)
So, we all deserve eternity in Hell. At the very least, we deserve the death we face. And this is where God’s love comes in. He gives us a way out, through His son, Jesus Christ, who was God in the flesh (John 1:14). Christ took your place; your death sentence, when he died on the cross 2000 years ago. As a result, the physical death of your body becomes irrelevant. You have been offered a free gift of eternal life.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Accept this free gift, as you are, and you will be spared from Hell. Better yet, you live with Jesus in paradise, with no pain, suffering, tears, all that bad stuff we experience on earth. Don’t worry about cleaning up your life first – Jesus changes millions of lives each day. Humble yourself and surrender your life to Jesus. Get involved with a church where sinners like you and I meet weekly to give glory to God.
But it’s your choice. You can accept or reject this free gift. You can send yourself to heaven or to hell. You have been offered a free gift, a free pass into absolute paradise. But if you would rather spend eternity apart form God (in hell) God will respect your choice.
You see, it’s not God that will send you to hell. You will send yourself there.
November 14, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 74
When was the last time you prayed for courage?
1 Samuel 23:3,4 But David's men said to him, "Look, we are afraid here in Judah. How much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?" Then David inquired of the LORD once again. And the LORD answered him and said, "Arise, go down to Keilah. For I will deliver the Philistines into your hand."
On a daily basis, I hear about followers of Christ being persecuted simply for sharing Jesus with others. These reports create the impression that it’s getting more difficult to share the gospel with others without intimidation from others.
Yet at the same time, I have never been encouraged more by others to share my faith. At my workplace, I keep a bible out (inconspicuously) and have Christian music softly playing on the radio. And since I have started this policy, I receive positive feedback several times a week, a couple of inquiries as well, and I have yet to hear one complaint or negative comment!
I have come to the conclusion the following:
1. People of the United States of America and Canada are still primarily Christian. At the very least, they are not strongly anti-Christian. If they are not, they are curious enough to ask.
2. The media (regardless of political persuasion) is overplaying an anti Christian message to the point where we believe it, thus sending us and our faith unnecessarily into a prayer closet. Sure, there are atheist groups out there that will give you some grief, but even they can and will be polite about it. And you can always stop.
3. People want to hear about God. If you publicly display your faith, the curious and the inquisitive will ask you questions, for which you should have a ready reply. Even if the reply is, “I can’t explain it, all I know is when I put Christ first in my life, everything goes all right! I know someone who can answer your questions, though”. You can post these questions in the Christian FB groups will surely get you some answers. (Warning: you may get multiple opinions. Three theologians usually means four opinions.)
Fear not! The Lord will be with you whenever you do the Lord’s work. The Holy Spirit will be with you and guide your words. (Mark 13:11) And Christ said he will be with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). One thing I have learned is when you are worried about what others will think about you and your faith in Christ, lift up a simple prayer for courage to the Lord
1 Samuel 23:3,4 But David's men said to him, "Look, we are afraid here in Judah. How much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?" Then David inquired of the LORD once again. And the LORD answered him and said, "Arise, go down to Keilah. For I will deliver the Philistines into your hand."
On a daily basis, I hear about followers of Christ being persecuted simply for sharing Jesus with others. These reports create the impression that it’s getting more difficult to share the gospel with others without intimidation from others.
Yet at the same time, I have never been encouraged more by others to share my faith. At my workplace, I keep a bible out (inconspicuously) and have Christian music softly playing on the radio. And since I have started this policy, I receive positive feedback several times a week, a couple of inquiries as well, and I have yet to hear one complaint or negative comment!
I have come to the conclusion the following:
1. People of the United States of America and Canada are still primarily Christian. At the very least, they are not strongly anti-Christian. If they are not, they are curious enough to ask.
2. The media (regardless of political persuasion) is overplaying an anti Christian message to the point where we believe it, thus sending us and our faith unnecessarily into a prayer closet. Sure, there are atheist groups out there that will give you some grief, but even they can and will be polite about it. And you can always stop.
3. People want to hear about God. If you publicly display your faith, the curious and the inquisitive will ask you questions, for which you should have a ready reply. Even if the reply is, “I can’t explain it, all I know is when I put Christ first in my life, everything goes all right! I know someone who can answer your questions, though”. You can post these questions in the Christian FB groups will surely get you some answers. (Warning: you may get multiple opinions. Three theologians usually means four opinions.)
Fear not! The Lord will be with you whenever you do the Lord’s work. The Holy Spirit will be with you and guide your words. (Mark 13:11) And Christ said he will be with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). One thing I have learned is when you are worried about what others will think about you and your faith in Christ, lift up a simple prayer for courage to the Lord
November 11, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 13
1Thessalonians 5:16,17 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing.
What happens when we pray? We communicate with God. We talk to him, make requests from Him for ourselves, family, friends or anyone we know that has a need.
God also talks to us. It is during this quiet time you may get to actually hear Him, in a still soft voice (I Kings 19:12) He will tell you what outrageous, crazy and often very basic and simple things He needs you to do.
You may like it. You may not. But go against it and you will regret it. Change your stinkin thinkin, do it anyway, rejoycing all the while, and you may find a new skill or talent (as in spiritual gift) you didn’t have before. Cooolllllll!!!
Pray while you wake up, eat, get ready for work, during the commute, at your workplace, at lunch, while you fight with your kids (this gets very interesting!), while winding down at night, and even as you go to sleep. Impossible? Yes, but perfection is not required. The more you succeed at this; however, the more you will actually find your day goes better, your job performance improves, your kids will not get the best of you, and overall, you are a much happier person!
The more you rejoice in the Lord, the more you pray and give praise, and the more you rejoice in the Lord!
What happens when we pray? We communicate with God. We talk to him, make requests from Him for ourselves, family, friends or anyone we know that has a need.
God also talks to us. It is during this quiet time you may get to actually hear Him, in a still soft voice (I Kings 19:12) He will tell you what outrageous, crazy and often very basic and simple things He needs you to do.
You may like it. You may not. But go against it and you will regret it. Change your stinkin thinkin, do it anyway, rejoycing all the while, and you may find a new skill or talent (as in spiritual gift) you didn’t have before. Cooolllllll!!!
Pray while you wake up, eat, get ready for work, during the commute, at your workplace, at lunch, while you fight with your kids (this gets very interesting!), while winding down at night, and even as you go to sleep. Impossible? Yes, but perfection is not required. The more you succeed at this; however, the more you will actually find your day goes better, your job performance improves, your kids will not get the best of you, and overall, you are a much happier person!
The more you rejoice in the Lord, the more you pray and give praise, and the more you rejoice in the Lord!
November 9, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 73
The price of compromise with God’s principles?
Rev. 2:14-16 But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.
Compromise dilutes integrity. Politicians, in their attempt to pass legislation, bribe one another and will make concessions to the legislation being considered. This was originally designed to assure any bad laws would not get passed. Instead, today the result is good bills are diluted and become bad, and bad bills become even worse.
When a business or individual compromises their standards, the world tags them as a “hypocrite” and shuns them. We are furious with the leadership of Enron, Worldcom, the financial industry, and a host of other institutions and corporations who have profited from corporate welfare when they don’t even deserve to exist any longer. All have lost their integrity.
Compromise tolerates sin. Later, it endorses, and then later embraces. Drugs, violence in entertainment and sex, for example; once considered taboo, are now acceptable in society. The result is a global civilization becoming more self centered, more violent, and more apathetic.
Compromise dilutes your relationship with God. God wants all of you: hook line and sinker; lock stock and barrel. He doesn’t want you one day a week, or a few hours one day a week. He wants you 24/7/365. (And 366 days next year!) Yes you have a job and other responsibilities. Take God with you! Jesus would love to spend your workday with you, and the Holy Spirit will guide you and help you say and do the things that will help your day go better for you. You will most definitely strengthen your relationship with God.
Compromise caused the early Israelites to accept the teachings and idols of their neighbors, resulting in the weakening and eventual fall of Israel. Compromise enabled Balak ( mentioned above), King of Midian, to invite the Israelites to commit adultery with the Midianites. As a result, a plague destroyed 24,000 Israelites. (Numbers 25).
Where have you sacrificed your integrity for convenience? Where have you compromised your standards: with your work, your family, or with God? Reestablishing integrity is not an easy process. Your peers will find your repentance, “hard to believe” at first, but will later appreciate the change as they trust you more and more. Remember those with the strongest integrity are the ones who have the most value in the workplace, as well as with God. They are the ones who have the respect of others.
Rev. 2:14-16 But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.
Compromise dilutes integrity. Politicians, in their attempt to pass legislation, bribe one another and will make concessions to the legislation being considered. This was originally designed to assure any bad laws would not get passed. Instead, today the result is good bills are diluted and become bad, and bad bills become even worse.
When a business or individual compromises their standards, the world tags them as a “hypocrite” and shuns them. We are furious with the leadership of Enron, Worldcom, the financial industry, and a host of other institutions and corporations who have profited from corporate welfare when they don’t even deserve to exist any longer. All have lost their integrity.
Compromise tolerates sin. Later, it endorses, and then later embraces. Drugs, violence in entertainment and sex, for example; once considered taboo, are now acceptable in society. The result is a global civilization becoming more self centered, more violent, and more apathetic.
Compromise dilutes your relationship with God. God wants all of you: hook line and sinker; lock stock and barrel. He doesn’t want you one day a week, or a few hours one day a week. He wants you 24/7/365. (And 366 days next year!) Yes you have a job and other responsibilities. Take God with you! Jesus would love to spend your workday with you, and the Holy Spirit will guide you and help you say and do the things that will help your day go better for you. You will most definitely strengthen your relationship with God.
Compromise caused the early Israelites to accept the teachings and idols of their neighbors, resulting in the weakening and eventual fall of Israel. Compromise enabled Balak ( mentioned above), King of Midian, to invite the Israelites to commit adultery with the Midianites. As a result, a plague destroyed 24,000 Israelites. (Numbers 25).
Where have you sacrificed your integrity for convenience? Where have you compromised your standards: with your work, your family, or with God? Reestablishing integrity is not an easy process. Your peers will find your repentance, “hard to believe” at first, but will later appreciate the change as they trust you more and more. Remember those with the strongest integrity are the ones who have the most value in the workplace, as well as with God. They are the ones who have the respect of others.
November 6, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 72
Philippians 4:11,12 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
Having personally gone from owning a successful, growing business to bankruptcy in less than 6 months back in 2008; having been homeless as well as a landlord; having no certainty as to where my next meal will come from and having a well stocked pantry, I have learned to appreciate every situation I am in. Even the impoverished ones, for I know God will meet my needs, although usually at the last minute. You see, God likes to work on my greatest flaw, a lack of patience, whenever He can.
Most of us are fortunate to be fully employed, and are content with their standard of living. A few of us are unemployed or underemployed; yet by the grace of God can make ends meet. Maybe these people are not content, but in this case, a lack of contentment should serve as a motivator for them to push forward and excel, hopefully to the glory of God.
Then, you have the “occupy” crowd. This is a relatively small group of self proclaimed victims who have a wide assortment of gripes and have received a huge amount of publicity from a mostly sympathetic media. Meanwhile, videos of violence by these protesters can be found on the internet, with over 1000 (and growing) “victims” arrested as of this post. In addition, claims of support for them from labor unions, communists and anti American Muslim groups and even our own executive government are circulating across the internet. Since the media is ignoring these claims, no one has any idea as to their accuracy. Indeed, the love for one another is growing cold, as Jesus said it would.
You may not have everything you want, but do you have everything you need? This is what contentment brings about. Sure, you may still pursue greater things - to have more - to save, invest, play and of course give away to those less fortunate, but when Jesus is your life and your love, everything else becomes irrelevant.
And this is what the “occupy” protesters need to know.
Having personally gone from owning a successful, growing business to bankruptcy in less than 6 months back in 2008; having been homeless as well as a landlord; having no certainty as to where my next meal will come from and having a well stocked pantry, I have learned to appreciate every situation I am in. Even the impoverished ones, for I know God will meet my needs, although usually at the last minute. You see, God likes to work on my greatest flaw, a lack of patience, whenever He can.
Most of us are fortunate to be fully employed, and are content with their standard of living. A few of us are unemployed or underemployed; yet by the grace of God can make ends meet. Maybe these people are not content, but in this case, a lack of contentment should serve as a motivator for them to push forward and excel, hopefully to the glory of God.
Then, you have the “occupy” crowd. This is a relatively small group of self proclaimed victims who have a wide assortment of gripes and have received a huge amount of publicity from a mostly sympathetic media. Meanwhile, videos of violence by these protesters can be found on the internet, with over 1000 (and growing) “victims” arrested as of this post. In addition, claims of support for them from labor unions, communists and anti American Muslim groups and even our own executive government are circulating across the internet. Since the media is ignoring these claims, no one has any idea as to their accuracy. Indeed, the love for one another is growing cold, as Jesus said it would.
You may not have everything you want, but do you have everything you need? This is what contentment brings about. Sure, you may still pursue greater things - to have more - to save, invest, play and of course give away to those less fortunate, but when Jesus is your life and your love, everything else becomes irrelevant.
And this is what the “occupy” protesters need to know.
November 1, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 12
You may not know God, but God knows you.
Psalm 139:1-3 You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.
He knows our strengths and your weaknesses; our likes and dislikes; our (past present future) successes and failures. And He uses them all to His glory.
God gets it. That’s why when we are weak in ourselves, we are stong in Him. It’s why we can do the very things we dislike doing, and actually find ourselves discovering great joy in them, when God is with us. And our failures don’t get us down, for even when bad stuff happens, God does work for the good for us who love him (Romans 8:28).
So, when you are feeling beat up, knocked down, and you are wallowing in your own sinfull nature, don’t give up. Talk to that great psychologist, coach, mentor and our best friend, Jesus. The Holy Spirit will help you get up, dust yourself off, and get you back in that spiritual fight we all face.
Psalm 139:1-3 You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.
He knows our strengths and your weaknesses; our likes and dislikes; our (past present future) successes and failures. And He uses them all to His glory.
God gets it. That’s why when we are weak in ourselves, we are stong in Him. It’s why we can do the very things we dislike doing, and actually find ourselves discovering great joy in them, when God is with us. And our failures don’t get us down, for even when bad stuff happens, God does work for the good for us who love him (Romans 8:28).
So, when you are feeling beat up, knocked down, and you are wallowing in your own sinfull nature, don’t give up. Talk to that great psychologist, coach, mentor and our best friend, Jesus. The Holy Spirit will help you get up, dust yourself off, and get you back in that spiritual fight we all face.
October 31, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 71
Why are we not to judge others? Because we are just as guilty as they are.
Romans 2:1 Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.
On the other hand, does the limitation on judging others prevent you from confronting one another of their sin? It depends.
Non believers do not hold to the standards Christians do. They often disagree with Christian ideals. Calling these people “sinners” should only earn you a whirlwind of judgments on yourself. It’s better to discuss sin as a common thread between you and such a person, showing you are just as wretched as they are. The goal is to lead them to repentance through Jesus Christ. Guide without condemnation. Judging them will only drive them away, and who will be to blame for that?
Jesus calls us to be witnesses, not lawyers or judges. (I think there’s a T shirt that says that at my website: www.GodNCountryStore.com . Sorry for the shameless plug.)
Those who call themselves Christians, who continue to violate God’s commands while insisting they are forgiven, need to be taken out to the spiritual woodshed. You need to confront such Christians alone the first time, with witnesses the second time (if necessary) and then if there is still no repentance you are to disassociate yourself from this transgressor. (Matthew 18:15-17).
In today’s age of depravity, what the world defines as tolerance is actually nothing more than an endorsement for their immoral, anti religious, even anti Judeo Christian lifestyle. While we need to put up with it, we should not participate in it, sypathise in it, not endorse it. While we have to work within it, especially if we are on the front lines witnessing, we should refrain from these activities as we share notes with the non believers our common sinful culture, heritage and nature.
Romans 2:1 Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.
On the other hand, does the limitation on judging others prevent you from confronting one another of their sin? It depends.
Non believers do not hold to the standards Christians do. They often disagree with Christian ideals. Calling these people “sinners” should only earn you a whirlwind of judgments on yourself. It’s better to discuss sin as a common thread between you and such a person, showing you are just as wretched as they are. The goal is to lead them to repentance through Jesus Christ. Guide without condemnation. Judging them will only drive them away, and who will be to blame for that?
Jesus calls us to be witnesses, not lawyers or judges. (I think there’s a T shirt that says that at my website: www.GodNCountryStore.com . Sorry for the shameless plug.)
Those who call themselves Christians, who continue to violate God’s commands while insisting they are forgiven, need to be taken out to the spiritual woodshed. You need to confront such Christians alone the first time, with witnesses the second time (if necessary) and then if there is still no repentance you are to disassociate yourself from this transgressor. (Matthew 18:15-17).
In today’s age of depravity, what the world defines as tolerance is actually nothing more than an endorsement for their immoral, anti religious, even anti Judeo Christian lifestyle. While we need to put up with it, we should not participate in it, sypathise in it, not endorse it. While we have to work within it, especially if we are on the front lines witnessing, we should refrain from these activities as we share notes with the non believers our common sinful culture, heritage and nature.
October 27, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 70
I heard of a Christian family this week, in need of financial assistance, rejecting aid from one of their neighbors. Why? The neighbors were not Christians! This is craziness!! God used a non-believer to provide for them when they needed it the most. What was this family waiting for; a miracle?! God can and will use non believers, pagans, thugs and even secular humanistic atheists to promote His will; which at the very least is to make sure His own are provided for. (Matthew 6:32) Accepting the aid and showing gratitude to this non Christian family was not only the right thing to do, but can also be used to introduce the neighbor to Jesus. See example below:
Ezra 1:2,3 "This is what Cyrus king of Persia Jerusalem Judah Jerusalem Judah Israel Jerusalem
The king of Persia Jerusalem
Ezra 1:4 And the people of any place where survivors may now be living are to provide him with silver and gold, with goods and livestock, and with freewill offerings for the temple of God in Jerusalem.'"
When the Lord wants you to do something for Him, the obstacles will be removed. The funding will be provided; from the most peculiar of places, too! You will have everything you need to accomplish the task. Don’t question where it came from (unless it was stolen!); give glory to God Almighty and put the resources to good use. (Non believers seeking the truth are counting on you!)
October 26, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 69
Who will receive the greater reward in heaven? The American Christian who out of his excess gives to missions around the world yet cowers in his faith with his neighbors; or the poor Christian who has nothing to give except for his life, and freely does so, rather than denouncing Christ.
Acts:4:19 ,20 But Peter and John replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard."
In your workplace, at school, or in your neighborhood, are people telling you that you should not (or even may not) speak or teach about Jesus? What is your response??
We are blessed in theUnited States US
We are blessed in the
Nonetheless, there are employers here in the US
Knowing you can lose your job in the USA China India Iran Africa and many other parts of the world, it’s not jobs being lost; it’s lives. People are arrested, imprisoned, tortured and massacred because they will not recant their faith.
These strong willed believers are an inspiration to many of us. We as Christians in some of the wealthiest nations need to develop a backbone for Christ or face the wrath of a returning Christ. If Jesus called the church of Laodicea
So, who gets the greater reward? It’s just a guess, but methinx it’s the latter. For if Jesus is worth dying over, He is certainly worth losing a job over.
So, who gets the greater reward? It’s just a guess, but methinx it’s the latter. For if Jesus is worth dying over, He is certainly worth losing a job over.
October 25, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 11
Jeremiah 9:24 But let him who glories glory in this, That he understands and knows Me, That I am the LORD, exercising loving kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight," says the LORD.
We were created for the purpose of having an intimate relationship with God. This is why God knows all about our intimate details, down to the hairs on our head. (...which seems to be getting easier and easier to keep track of in my case!)
Once you deal with this, you begin a process where you learn that God is, has been, and will be, preparing you for the paths which He has made for you. (Jer. 29:11) Things of good and not of evil, with hope and purpose.
But without the relationship first, you will try to serve god and will serve this god via worldly, material things; possessions, wealth, employment position, as well as guilt, fear, and insecurity. Any of these things are of a false god, not our Father in Heaven. They may inflate your ego; but overall, they will deflate you spiritually and make you weak for God’s Kingdom. Finally, these “things” end up getting placed before God (Exodus 20:3); which, get in the way of that true relationship God and your spirit crave. (Sounds like this is the work of the devil, you think?)
Once this relationship is established, any wealth, possessions and position you do acquire will be to God’s glory, not yours, and you will joyfully share your blessings with others. And as your faith grows, so will your courage and boldness for Christ.
October 24, 2011
Jesus Calls All - 68
2 Samuel 10:11,12 Joab said, "If the Arameans are too strong for me, then you are to come to my rescue; but if the Ammonites are too strong for you, then I will come to rescue you. Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The LORD will do what is good in his sight."
They’re ganging up on you. You are surrounded. You can’t run, you can’t hide. You can only fight you way out of this situation.
Well, not exactly. There is one thing; one asset you can also use: your faith. Prayer. God is there with you throughout any mess you find yourself in. He doesn’t care if it’s your fault or not. He is there for you. It can be as trivial as an errant golf shot putting your ball in a bunker or harsh words or actions resulting in a loss of a client or job. It can be as severe as having a neighboring country (or in this case, two neighboring countries) to go to war against you. God is there. Be it the entire Israelite army (as in this case) or only the 300 chosen men that Gideon used (Judges 8), God is there.
So, if God is there for everything, large and small, why don’t we discuss our problems and concerns to Him more often? Because we don’t ask Him. And when we do ask, it’s for the wrong, selfish motives. (James 4:2,3) He wants to hear form us. He wants to guide us as the one who sees all and knows the beginning from the end. Don’t you think he understands the path we are taking may look good from our angle but he knows of something even better for you if you go a different path? His path?
Whatever the challenges you face (and they are only becoming more intense and more severe) remember, The Lord our God will do what is good in His sight. Seek his insight, follow His still small voice. (Proverbs 3) The world is one big minefield…you must go through it…it’s part of life. The Lord our God will do what is good in His sight.
October 19, 2011
Are Mormons and Christians really the same?
The link attached to this post is from a blog from Seattle PI writer Amy Rolph; a decent writer by any means. But it appears (since I have never met her) she may be in over her head on this post. Or is she?
Amy commented, from a secular perspective, Seattle pastor Mark Driscoll's comments that he believes Mormonism is a cult. (As do I, for that matter.) And pastor Driscoll's initial post not only explains a few key differences in mainstream Christianity and Mormonism (specifically, the lack of a triune God in Mormonism) but a detailed history review the word, "cult itself, dating it back to the early 17th century. The key to this is pastor Driscoll's use of the ESV bible's definition of a cult; being, "…any religious movement that claims to be derived from the Bible and/or the Christian faith, and that advocates beliefs that differ so significantly with major Christian doctrines that two consequences follow: (1) The movement cannot legitimately be considered a valid “Christian” denomination because of its serious deviation from historic Christian orthodoxy. (2) Believing the doctrines of the movement is incompatible with trusting in the Jesus Christ of the Bible for the salvation that comes by God’s grace alone.”
That, from a Christian's perspective, is exactly what the Mormon Church is. Ergo, the "cult" moniker.
Mormons believe God and Jesus are two separate individuals, yet Jesus states, "He how has seen me has seen the Father" and "I and the Father are one", and "before Abraham was, I am", where Jesus used the very same phrase "I am" used when God introduced Himself to Moses in Exodus 3:14. Jesus also commanded we baptize others in the "name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit", placing Himself and the Holy Spirit on equal footing with God Himself. Either Jesus was telling the truth, or he is the greatest deceiver (liar) the world has ever known. But the miracles he performed His prophecies that have come true and are today coming true have convinced me He is the Son of God, and God Himself, in the flesh. While Mormons will confess they acknowledge the three facets of the Godhead, they deny that these three manifestations can be the one and the same God.
This difference can separate a good, loving person from the grace of God. In John 4:1-3, John warns about the spirit who fails to claim Jesus (God) has come in the flesh; that this spirit is of anti-Christ, and should be avoided. John 3:18 refers to such a person as condemned, for denying Jesus as the born Son of God.
Mark goes on to point out we are not saved by the sacrifice Christ made, giving us His grace to be good, but only by the blood of Jesus Christ that covers all of our sins and transgressions, past present and future. he also quotes various Mormon commentaries and discourses that are in direct contradiction of Ephesians 2:9, "not by works, so that no one can boast".
I can go on. Mormonism teaches perfection is an attainable goal (vs. Romans 3:23); in baptism for the dead (this removes all freedom of choice) as one family member can "pinch hit" for another member who had passed away; as was the case when a cousin of mine who is Mormon was baptized for his atheist father.
Some questions I have with any Mormon are, "Are you at peace with your Heavenly Father? If so, does this peace come via your righteous means, (which would contradict Ephesians 2:9) or via the righteous means of Jesus Christ?" The average Mormon is uncomfortable understanding these questions together.
Mark Driscoll, myself and every Christian I know of does not want to see any Mormon (or anyone, for that matter) be condemned, yet Jesus said He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life and that no one comes to (God) the Father except through Him. That means there is only one path; not many. It's an easy path; however, narrow but straight. All have access but unfortunately few will find it.
Amy has stirred up a kettle of controversy that will result in lots of attention and some great ratings for her site, something all bloggers aspire! Furthermore, she makes no attempt to explain one side or the other, she just sticks out the few comments she thinks will agitate the most people:Christian, Mormon, and atheist/ agnostic. For that, I have to say, well done!
Amy commented, from a secular perspective, Seattle pastor Mark Driscoll's comments that he believes Mormonism is a cult. (As do I, for that matter.) And pastor Driscoll's initial post not only explains a few key differences in mainstream Christianity and Mormonism (specifically, the lack of a triune God in Mormonism) but a detailed history review the word, "cult itself, dating it back to the early 17th century. The key to this is pastor Driscoll's use of the ESV bible's definition of a cult; being, "…any religious movement that claims to be derived from the Bible and/or the Christian faith, and that advocates beliefs that differ so significantly with major Christian doctrines that two consequences follow: (1) The movement cannot legitimately be considered a valid “Christian” denomination because of its serious deviation from historic Christian orthodoxy. (2) Believing the doctrines of the movement is incompatible with trusting in the Jesus Christ of the Bible for the salvation that comes by God’s grace alone.”
That, from a Christian's perspective, is exactly what the Mormon Church is. Ergo, the "cult" moniker.
Mormons believe God and Jesus are two separate individuals, yet Jesus states, "He how has seen me has seen the Father" and "I and the Father are one", and "before Abraham was, I am", where Jesus used the very same phrase "I am" used when God introduced Himself to Moses in Exodus 3:14. Jesus also commanded we baptize others in the "name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit", placing Himself and the Holy Spirit on equal footing with God Himself. Either Jesus was telling the truth, or he is the greatest deceiver (liar) the world has ever known. But the miracles he performed His prophecies that have come true and are today coming true have convinced me He is the Son of God, and God Himself, in the flesh. While Mormons will confess they acknowledge the three facets of the Godhead, they deny that these three manifestations can be the one and the same God.
This difference can separate a good, loving person from the grace of God. In John 4:1-3, John warns about the spirit who fails to claim Jesus (God) has come in the flesh; that this spirit is of anti-Christ, and should be avoided. John 3:18 refers to such a person as condemned, for denying Jesus as the born Son of God.
Mark goes on to point out we are not saved by the sacrifice Christ made, giving us His grace to be good, but only by the blood of Jesus Christ that covers all of our sins and transgressions, past present and future. he also quotes various Mormon commentaries and discourses that are in direct contradiction of Ephesians 2:9, "not by works, so that no one can boast".
I can go on. Mormonism teaches perfection is an attainable goal (vs. Romans 3:23); in baptism for the dead (this removes all freedom of choice) as one family member can "pinch hit" for another member who had passed away; as was the case when a cousin of mine who is Mormon was baptized for his atheist father.
Some questions I have with any Mormon are, "Are you at peace with your Heavenly Father? If so, does this peace come via your righteous means, (which would contradict Ephesians 2:9) or via the righteous means of Jesus Christ?" The average Mormon is uncomfortable understanding these questions together.
Mark Driscoll, myself and every Christian I know of does not want to see any Mormon (or anyone, for that matter) be condemned, yet Jesus said He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life and that no one comes to (God) the Father except through Him. That means there is only one path; not many. It's an easy path; however, narrow but straight. All have access but unfortunately few will find it.
Amy has stirred up a kettle of controversy that will result in lots of attention and some great ratings for her site, something all bloggers aspire! Furthermore, she makes no attempt to explain one side or the other, she just sticks out the few comments she thinks will agitate the most people:Christian, Mormon, and atheist/ agnostic. For that, I have to say, well done!
March 30, 2011
Courage for Christ - 10
Luke 10:19 Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
What is holding us back from proclaiming the Lord’s good news? Fear, also known as a lack of faith? Lack of time? Wherever you go you can talk Jesus or leave literature behind. It’s too cold to witness, no one is out? You can write and blog. Are you terrible at speaking, writing, and talking to strangers? So am I, yet, with practice and the Glory of the Lord going before me, here I am, writing, speaking, passing out literature, etc. Keep in mind, it may be me doing these things, but I would not be able to do any of them without the Holy Spirit pushing and pulling me forward. Without the Holy Spirit, I would be the same yellow bellied wimp as everyone else!
If, by Jesus, power has been given us over the enemy, and nothing can hurt us, why are we not using this power? Where is our faith, that we have access to this power and are afraid to try to use it!
Sure, in this day and age, people are being imprisoned, fined, taxed and on occasion, executed for the high crime of being a Christian or a Jew. And this kind of persecution will increase. While most of us are blessed to live in a country where such persecutions don’t exist, we are the ones who don’t show any courage. Rather, it’s the ones who face persecution daily; in Africa and the Middle East; who show the most courage. We fear embarrassment, they fear for their lives; yet they who face persecution daily know that Christ, in His perfect way, will protect them, and be with them to the very end.
It is this kind of faith that produces the courage that also casts out demons, heals the sick, shows up at opportune times, and brings others to Christ. What can you do today to strengthen your faith in Christ, to give you the courage to stand up for Christ?
What is holding us back from proclaiming the Lord’s good news? Fear, also known as a lack of faith? Lack of time? Wherever you go you can talk Jesus or leave literature behind. It’s too cold to witness, no one is out? You can write and blog. Are you terrible at speaking, writing, and talking to strangers? So am I, yet, with practice and the Glory of the Lord going before me, here I am, writing, speaking, passing out literature, etc. Keep in mind, it may be me doing these things, but I would not be able to do any of them without the Holy Spirit pushing and pulling me forward. Without the Holy Spirit, I would be the same yellow bellied wimp as everyone else!
If, by Jesus, power has been given us over the enemy, and nothing can hurt us, why are we not using this power? Where is our faith, that we have access to this power and are afraid to try to use it!
Sure, in this day and age, people are being imprisoned, fined, taxed and on occasion, executed for the high crime of being a Christian or a Jew. And this kind of persecution will increase. While most of us are blessed to live in a country where such persecutions don’t exist, we are the ones who don’t show any courage. Rather, it’s the ones who face persecution daily; in Africa and the Middle East; who show the most courage. We fear embarrassment, they fear for their lives; yet they who face persecution daily know that Christ, in His perfect way, will protect them, and be with them to the very end.
It is this kind of faith that produces the courage that also casts out demons, heals the sick, shows up at opportune times, and brings others to Christ. What can you do today to strengthen your faith in Christ, to give you the courage to stand up for Christ?
March 29, 2011
Courage For Christ - 9
Most of us have noticed how one person has much difficulty in a task, where another finds it so easy. One can speak on the fly about Jesus on street corners, another writes, others provide services to the poor; others challenge and encourage the above, while others support and fund the above, and so on.
Romans 12:6-8 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.
Your gifts usually will be found in the way you enjoy serving the Lord the most. Occasionally, the Holy Spirit will command you to go outside of what is comfortable to you, and do something you never, ever would have thought of (i.e. Moses, or Gideon); but mostly He has been preparing you all of your life – even when you were not in Christ – for God knew you would be with Him.
These gifts and skills should be used to your fullest potential not just for God; but for your employer as well, as he will see the work of the Lord within you, and both of you will be blessed. Make these gifts – your skills, your talents, your passion - your joy. Do these things without fear, giving glory to our Lord and Savior.
Romans 12:6-8 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.
Your gifts usually will be found in the way you enjoy serving the Lord the most. Occasionally, the Holy Spirit will command you to go outside of what is comfortable to you, and do something you never, ever would have thought of (i.e. Moses, or Gideon); but mostly He has been preparing you all of your life – even when you were not in Christ – for God knew you would be with Him.
These gifts and skills should be used to your fullest potential not just for God; but for your employer as well, as he will see the work of the Lord within you, and both of you will be blessed. Make these gifts – your skills, your talents, your passion - your joy. Do these things without fear, giving glory to our Lord and Savior.
March 16, 2011
Courage for Christ - 8
2Cor 10:10 "For his letters," they say, "are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible."
The author of a book is about to make a speech. You have read his book, a magnificent teaching on the word of God. Yet as he arrives at the podium, you notice his appearance to be disheveled. He’s a short, fat, bald guy who appears to be hunchbacked. He needs guidance to make it to the podium because he is nearly blind. Then as he starts to speak, you are frustrated in that his speech is so slurred or with such a heavy accent you find it very difficult to understand. And now you are thinking, “why am I wasting my time? This man is nothing in person!”
This would be the Apostle Paul. The same Paul who was beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, left in the open sea, bitten by poisonous snakes, yet persevered to the finish line for Christ; which in his case, was a beheading.
All too often we judge the outside appearance of someone. And all too often we miss a great blessing because of our judgments. (Prejudices are just that; pre judging someone based often on nothing more than different appearance or a foreign accent.) Didn’t you like his written words? What is really wrong with his spoken words?
Don’t be afraid to share God’s word with others; regardless of circumstances, and freely receive (with discernment – see 2John and Jude for details) others who share God’s word with you. – regardless of any preconceived notion you may have of them - based on what you might assume. This is how we strengthen one another.
The author of a book is about to make a speech. You have read his book, a magnificent teaching on the word of God. Yet as he arrives at the podium, you notice his appearance to be disheveled. He’s a short, fat, bald guy who appears to be hunchbacked. He needs guidance to make it to the podium because he is nearly blind. Then as he starts to speak, you are frustrated in that his speech is so slurred or with such a heavy accent you find it very difficult to understand. And now you are thinking, “why am I wasting my time? This man is nothing in person!”
This would be the Apostle Paul. The same Paul who was beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, left in the open sea, bitten by poisonous snakes, yet persevered to the finish line for Christ; which in his case, was a beheading.
All too often we judge the outside appearance of someone. And all too often we miss a great blessing because of our judgments. (Prejudices are just that; pre judging someone based often on nothing more than different appearance or a foreign accent.) Didn’t you like his written words? What is really wrong with his spoken words?
Don’t be afraid to share God’s word with others; regardless of circumstances, and freely receive (with discernment – see 2John and Jude for details) others who share God’s word with you. – regardless of any preconceived notion you may have of them - based on what you might assume. This is how we strengthen one another.
March 15, 2011
Courage for Christ - 7
Luke 8:35 Then they went out to see what had happened, and came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid.
Afraid? Of what?? These gentiles had just witnessed a life changing miracle that was performed on one of their own, once a naked, demon posessed lunatic, now a civil, right minded person. And they are nothing but a bunch of scardy cats!
Instead of inviting Jesus into their city and proclaiming this miracle to all, what did they do? They told Jesus to leave! What? No more requests for healings? Just go away? Did they actually value the pigs that were drowned in the process more than the health and well being of one of their citizens?
Ignorance of Jesus is not an excuse. Look what the healed man did: he sat at the feet of Jesus! It gets better. He wants to join Jesus! But Jesus sent him home to tell all what great things God has done for him. (v. 38,39)
When a miracle is being done on your behalf, do you request that the miracle worker go away? NO! You scream praises of such a person. Get the word out! You want more! Any business person knows the best form of advertising is word of mouth. So, what you do is talk it up!
All of us who are Christians have such a story. Maybe not as spectacular, but a good news story nonetheless. Why are we not shouting out our own stories?
Afraid? Of what?? These gentiles had just witnessed a life changing miracle that was performed on one of their own, once a naked, demon posessed lunatic, now a civil, right minded person. And they are nothing but a bunch of scardy cats!
Instead of inviting Jesus into their city and proclaiming this miracle to all, what did they do? They told Jesus to leave! What? No more requests for healings? Just go away? Did they actually value the pigs that were drowned in the process more than the health and well being of one of their citizens?
Ignorance of Jesus is not an excuse. Look what the healed man did: he sat at the feet of Jesus! It gets better. He wants to join Jesus! But Jesus sent him home to tell all what great things God has done for him. (v. 38,39)
When a miracle is being done on your behalf, do you request that the miracle worker go away? NO! You scream praises of such a person. Get the word out! You want more! Any business person knows the best form of advertising is word of mouth. So, what you do is talk it up!
All of us who are Christians have such a story. Maybe not as spectacular, but a good news story nonetheless. Why are we not shouting out our own stories?
March 14, 2011
Courage for Christ - 6
Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
Do you? Do you go and tell others about Jesus, baptizing those who come to believe? What do you do to “promote and market” Jesus Christ to the world? At work, while shopping, driving in your car or even while taking a walk in your neighborhood.
Be it wearing a simple t shirt, placing a bumper sticker on your car, a sign in your window or plaque at your front door; or leaving bible tracks in public places; hold up a sign on a street corner that says “Jesus IS Lord and God” (or whatever) these are all tools you can use to “advertise” Christianity. Also, you can distribute flyers to the houses around your church building, and even knock on doors, promoting your congregation as a warm fuzzy place to check Jesus out. These are all things any of us, regardless of handicap, fear, insecurity, or even laziness can do.
We can also fund these efforts. Donating to cover the printing, and distribution of literature; sending someone on a mission trip; or funding a relief organization are alternatives if you are blessed with more money than time.
Yes, it can be scary. We have heard of the unsults thrown and the violence incurred. (That’s just Satan seeking revenge against you for hacking him off!) Jesus said these things would happen, but Jesus also commands we tell the world about Him. He also promised, he would “be with us always, even to the end of the age”. So when you share Jesus, the Holy Spirit is with you. You will know what to say and when, as well as what to do and when. And you will be protected, comforted, and blessed for keeping His commandments.
Do you? Do you go and tell others about Jesus, baptizing those who come to believe? What do you do to “promote and market” Jesus Christ to the world? At work, while shopping, driving in your car or even while taking a walk in your neighborhood.
Be it wearing a simple t shirt, placing a bumper sticker on your car, a sign in your window or plaque at your front door; or leaving bible tracks in public places; hold up a sign on a street corner that says “Jesus IS Lord and God” (or whatever) these are all tools you can use to “advertise” Christianity. Also, you can distribute flyers to the houses around your church building, and even knock on doors, promoting your congregation as a warm fuzzy place to check Jesus out. These are all things any of us, regardless of handicap, fear, insecurity, or even laziness can do.
We can also fund these efforts. Donating to cover the printing, and distribution of literature; sending someone on a mission trip; or funding a relief organization are alternatives if you are blessed with more money than time.
Yes, it can be scary. We have heard of the unsults thrown and the violence incurred. (That’s just Satan seeking revenge against you for hacking him off!) Jesus said these things would happen, but Jesus also commands we tell the world about Him. He also promised, he would “be with us always, even to the end of the age”. So when you share Jesus, the Holy Spirit is with you. You will know what to say and when, as well as what to do and when. And you will be protected, comforted, and blessed for keeping His commandments.
February 7, 2011
Courage for Christ - 5
1 Corinthians 10:31 Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
What kind of Christian are you? Or are you a Christian at all?? Is Christianity nothing more than fire insurance for your soul?
There are non believers that want nothing to do with Christ, and have chosen their own way. Christ will honor their desire and keep them eternally separated from Him.
Then there are believers in word only. These are the ones who honor God with their lips but their heart is far from them. (Matthew 15:8) God doesn’t impact these people at all, because, aside from being saved from Hell, they “don’t need Christ” for much else. Most of these “fire insurance” Christians will be very disapointed when they face the Judgment seat.
The dual life Christians are pious on Sunday, secular on Monday thru Saturday. They have their issues and know their sins are forgiven, but they cannot get past their addictions to whatever vice they may have, choose not to humble themselves to Jesus who can remove these sins and addictions from them, but instead surrender to the sinfull nature and expect to be forgiven. A dissapointing eternity awaits these as well; at best they are empty handed in Heaven.
The Christian striving to live by and with the Holy Spirit, who studies and obeys the word and prays, develops a mind that becomes a close and intimate relationsip with Jesus. The vices and sins of the past, while they still may remain temptations, are more easily disregarded. The power of God is making a significan impact in their life. Their judgment at the Bhema seat will reveal the treasure they have in Heaven.
Does your life glorify God?
What kind of Christian are you? Or are you a Christian at all?? Is Christianity nothing more than fire insurance for your soul?
There are non believers that want nothing to do with Christ, and have chosen their own way. Christ will honor their desire and keep them eternally separated from Him.
Then there are believers in word only. These are the ones who honor God with their lips but their heart is far from them. (Matthew 15:8) God doesn’t impact these people at all, because, aside from being saved from Hell, they “don’t need Christ” for much else. Most of these “fire insurance” Christians will be very disapointed when they face the Judgment seat.
The dual life Christians are pious on Sunday, secular on Monday thru Saturday. They have their issues and know their sins are forgiven, but they cannot get past their addictions to whatever vice they may have, choose not to humble themselves to Jesus who can remove these sins and addictions from them, but instead surrender to the sinfull nature and expect to be forgiven. A dissapointing eternity awaits these as well; at best they are empty handed in Heaven.
The Christian striving to live by and with the Holy Spirit, who studies and obeys the word and prays, develops a mind that becomes a close and intimate relationsip with Jesus. The vices and sins of the past, while they still may remain temptations, are more easily disregarded. The power of God is making a significan impact in their life. Their judgment at the Bhema seat will reveal the treasure they have in Heaven.
Does your life glorify God?
February 5, 2011
Courage for Christ - 4
Genesis 6:14 Make yourself an ark of gopherwood; make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and outside with pitch...
Imagine, the world becomming corrupt and violent; (Have you read the news today?) and one man who has none of that tainted gene pool, caused when fallen angels breed with humans, gets to hear from God directly: Make a big boat in the middle of a desert, and seal it nice and tight. It will house you, your family and a sampling of the entire animal kingdom.
It’s not recorded, but I’m sure Noah had questions. What’s an Ark? What’s a flood? How do I explain to the rabbits, “only two?” But Noah believed, and followed (Hebrews 11:7)
Imagine the ridicule Noah and his family received building this monster of a box: about one and a half times the length of a football field, with a length to width ratio of 6:1, (the same ratio shipbuilders use today) 3 stories high. There was no water anywhere nearby to float this thing. But build he did, amongst the insults, the mocking, the teasing.
Today, it appears more and more the days of Noah are fast approaching. It appears more and more we will need the faith of Noah to listen to God, hear and bravely obey His commands each of us will be given. For those with the courage to follow, the rewards shall be great! Noah’s reward was he and his family were the only human survivors of the great flood. Imagine what your rewards will be!
Imagine, the world becomming corrupt and violent; (Have you read the news today?) and one man who has none of that tainted gene pool, caused when fallen angels breed with humans, gets to hear from God directly: Make a big boat in the middle of a desert, and seal it nice and tight. It will house you, your family and a sampling of the entire animal kingdom.
It’s not recorded, but I’m sure Noah had questions. What’s an Ark? What’s a flood? How do I explain to the rabbits, “only two?” But Noah believed, and followed (Hebrews 11:7)
Imagine the ridicule Noah and his family received building this monster of a box: about one and a half times the length of a football field, with a length to width ratio of 6:1, (the same ratio shipbuilders use today) 3 stories high. There was no water anywhere nearby to float this thing. But build he did, amongst the insults, the mocking, the teasing.
Today, it appears more and more the days of Noah are fast approaching. It appears more and more we will need the faith of Noah to listen to God, hear and bravely obey His commands each of us will be given. For those with the courage to follow, the rewards shall be great! Noah’s reward was he and his family were the only human survivors of the great flood. Imagine what your rewards will be!
February 4, 2011
Courage for Christ - 3
2Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind
What are you afraid of? Persecution? A good solid mocking? Rejection? The latter seems to be the most common excuse for not being a bold witness for God. This excuse works well at work, too, for we all put off difficult, uncomfortable tasks and all to often end up wallowing in mediocrity. In addition, we use profainty, gossip, and rude and cold behavior to others, mostly because everyone else around us is doing it too. (Sheeple!:))))
But if God has given us the spirit of power and love, and of a sound mind, how much more are we capable of doing? Not just for God’s kingdom, but for your employer’s kingdom on earth; where we are supposed to be bearing fruit for His kingdom! This is where we are required to get uncomfortable with ourselves, and “do the difficult”.
Be that Christlike person in everything you do. Your actions will bear witness for Christ when words will never do.
What are you afraid of? Persecution? A good solid mocking? Rejection? The latter seems to be the most common excuse for not being a bold witness for God. This excuse works well at work, too, for we all put off difficult, uncomfortable tasks and all to often end up wallowing in mediocrity. In addition, we use profainty, gossip, and rude and cold behavior to others, mostly because everyone else around us is doing it too. (Sheeple!:))))
But if God has given us the spirit of power and love, and of a sound mind, how much more are we capable of doing? Not just for God’s kingdom, but for your employer’s kingdom on earth; where we are supposed to be bearing fruit for His kingdom! This is where we are required to get uncomfortable with ourselves, and “do the difficult”.
Be that Christlike person in everything you do. Your actions will bear witness for Christ when words will never do.
February 3, 2011
Courage for Christ - 2
Numbers 13:30 Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, "We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it."
God has given Canaan to the Israelites. It is indeed a land of milk and honey. But the inhabitants at the time were many, and they were huge! Ten of the witnesses convinced the others of the impossible task before them. Two of them pointed out the victory before them since God was the one really in charge.
Ten wimps, and two men of faith and courage. The wimps never saw their reward. Only the men of faith and courage entered the promised land. Where are you in this eternal struggle? Do you stand up or stand down for the Lord? Christ can sure use more courage and fewer excuses.
God has given Canaan to the Israelites. It is indeed a land of milk and honey. But the inhabitants at the time were many, and they were huge! Ten of the witnesses convinced the others of the impossible task before them. Two of them pointed out the victory before them since God was the one really in charge.
Ten wimps, and two men of faith and courage. The wimps never saw their reward. Only the men of faith and courage entered the promised land. Where are you in this eternal struggle? Do you stand up or stand down for the Lord? Christ can sure use more courage and fewer excuses.
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