March 31, 2011
Encouraging Words-Price Tags
From Strength For The Journey
“I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” Philippians 3:8
You may have heard the story about the pranksters who broke into a hardware store. Strangely enough, they didn’t steal a thing. Yet what they did created chaos of epic proportions—they switched all the price tags!
The store owner was unaware of anything amiss until the first customer stepped to the cash register with a hammer that rang up at $199.95. Naturally, the customer’s jaw dropped. “What’s that thing made of?” he demanded. “Platinum?”
On further inspection, employees noticed that a big screen TV in the appliance section was selling for $14.95. The goods were all the same, resting on the same shelves as the night before, but the assigned values were hopelessly jumbled.
I can’t help but think that Satan likes to pull the same stunt with us. Unaware of his stealth work, we go through life with mixed-up price tags on our accomplishments and accolades. We assign the wrong value to who we are and what we have—not to mention the lack of value we assign to God who unequivocally deserves the highest value.
Paul had the price tags right when he wrote to the Philippian believers: “The very credentials these people are waving around as something special, I’m tearing up and throwing out with the trash—along with everything else I used to take credit for. And why? Because of Christ. Yes, all the things I once thought were so important are gone from my life. . . . I’ve dumped it all in the trash so that I could embrace Christ and be embraced by Him” (Philippians 3:7-8, The Message).
There’s Paul at the cash register, looking at all the price tags attached to his experiences, achievements, and treasures. He’s got a red pen in his hand, and all those things that used to be so valuable, so precious, so terribly important to him have been slashed down to zero. In fact, Paul’s loading them up in boxes, headed for the dumpster out back.
I find it interesting that this same Paul who once assigned no value to Jesus at all—and in fact hated Him—now can’t even put a price on the privilege of experiencing Him. After his unforgettable personal encounter with the living Christ (Acts 9), Paul’s whole world was reordered, and he never looked back. The value of his relationship with Jesus became “priceless.” What’s more, he lived like he really meant it.
And for us, it’s more than just giving mental or verbal assent to the “surpassing value” of knowing Jesus. Many of us have been doing that for a long time—and then we go on to live like He is eighth or ninth on the list. Unfortunately in this glitz-and-glamour world, we are far too prone to place great value on all that is temporal and seductive. And believe me, we pay a high price for that. It means that we miss out on the most valuable asset of all—the joy of a deep, abiding relationship with the only One who can meet all of our needs and fill us with His joy. His invitation still stands: “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).
Find time for Him and make His will and His ways your greatest treasure! For what you value will capture your heart (Matthew 6:21)!
“I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” Philippians 3:8
You may have heard the story about the pranksters who broke into a hardware store. Strangely enough, they didn’t steal a thing. Yet what they did created chaos of epic proportions—they switched all the price tags!
The store owner was unaware of anything amiss until the first customer stepped to the cash register with a hammer that rang up at $199.95. Naturally, the customer’s jaw dropped. “What’s that thing made of?” he demanded. “Platinum?”
On further inspection, employees noticed that a big screen TV in the appliance section was selling for $14.95. The goods were all the same, resting on the same shelves as the night before, but the assigned values were hopelessly jumbled.
I can’t help but think that Satan likes to pull the same stunt with us. Unaware of his stealth work, we go through life with mixed-up price tags on our accomplishments and accolades. We assign the wrong value to who we are and what we have—not to mention the lack of value we assign to God who unequivocally deserves the highest value.
Paul had the price tags right when he wrote to the Philippian believers: “The very credentials these people are waving around as something special, I’m tearing up and throwing out with the trash—along with everything else I used to take credit for. And why? Because of Christ. Yes, all the things I once thought were so important are gone from my life. . . . I’ve dumped it all in the trash so that I could embrace Christ and be embraced by Him” (Philippians 3:7-8, The Message).
There’s Paul at the cash register, looking at all the price tags attached to his experiences, achievements, and treasures. He’s got a red pen in his hand, and all those things that used to be so valuable, so precious, so terribly important to him have been slashed down to zero. In fact, Paul’s loading them up in boxes, headed for the dumpster out back.
I find it interesting that this same Paul who once assigned no value to Jesus at all—and in fact hated Him—now can’t even put a price on the privilege of experiencing Him. After his unforgettable personal encounter with the living Christ (Acts 9), Paul’s whole world was reordered, and he never looked back. The value of his relationship with Jesus became “priceless.” What’s more, he lived like he really meant it.
And for us, it’s more than just giving mental or verbal assent to the “surpassing value” of knowing Jesus. Many of us have been doing that for a long time—and then we go on to live like He is eighth or ninth on the list. Unfortunately in this glitz-and-glamour world, we are far too prone to place great value on all that is temporal and seductive. And believe me, we pay a high price for that. It means that we miss out on the most valuable asset of all—the joy of a deep, abiding relationship with the only One who can meet all of our needs and fill us with His joy. His invitation still stands: “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).
Find time for Him and make His will and His ways your greatest treasure! For what you value will capture your heart (Matthew 6:21)!
March 30, 2011
Encouraging Words-Unmerited Favor
From Reflections
Isaiah 6:5, KJV: Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.
Grace. The very word deeply stirs the hearts of many who follow Jesus Christ. It is something that penetrates to the inmost parts, and touches more deeply and words alone can describe. Some have said that grace can be defined as “unmerited favor.” But try as we might, grace is not something easily defined—it is something grasped only truly by receiving it and experiencing it. It is most often understood in moments of personal spiritual poverty. It is often only comprehended at a time when we look into ourselves and realize our needy condition. And should we put aside our pride and utter such words as, “Woe is me, for I am undone…” then we shall here our Lord reply, “My Grace is sufficient for you…” We do not deserve it. We cannot earn it. We can only receive it. And through it, we are drawn more closely to God—more closely to His Grace—to a place wherein we experience His Grace more deeply with each passing day.
Isaiah 6:5, KJV: Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.
Grace. The very word deeply stirs the hearts of many who follow Jesus Christ. It is something that penetrates to the inmost parts, and touches more deeply and words alone can describe. Some have said that grace can be defined as “unmerited favor.” But try as we might, grace is not something easily defined—it is something grasped only truly by receiving it and experiencing it. It is most often understood in moments of personal spiritual poverty. It is often only comprehended at a time when we look into ourselves and realize our needy condition. And should we put aside our pride and utter such words as, “Woe is me, for I am undone…” then we shall here our Lord reply, “My Grace is sufficient for you…” We do not deserve it. We cannot earn it. We can only receive it. And through it, we are drawn more closely to God—more closely to His Grace—to a place wherein we experience His Grace more deeply with each passing day.
March 29, 2011
Encouraging Words-Eternally Covered
From The Active Word
“I go to prepare a place for you.” John 14:2 (NKJV)
Looking at things through the lens of eternity has a way of getting our hearts and minds on track. It sets issues straight, and this is especially true when it comes to the issue of worrying about God’s ability to provide for our needs.
Look at what Jesus promises in the passage above. He assures His people that He’s going to prepare a place for them. Specifically, we know He’s referring to Heaven, where every single need we’ll ever have will be eternally taken care of and provided for by Him.
Most of us don’t have a problem with this whatsoever. In fact, when was the last time you paced back and forth worrying about whether or not you’d receive what you’d need in God’s Kingdom? For the most part, we just assume that the Lord has enough of everything to go around and that every need will be met.
However, our outlook is often different when it comes to our existence here on earth. We worry. We second-guess God’s ability to provide for us when it comes to the needs of this life. But think it through: Our lifespan and all that we will ever need on earth is a blip in comparison to eternity. Why are we okay with God handling things infinitely but not temporarily? It makes no sense.
Here’s what’s going to take place: Something is going to happen that will cause your heart to question God’s ability to provide for your needs. When it does, remember that He’s got you covered for all eternity, and that He who covers you eternally is all the more able to cover you temporarily.
Our earthly worry wilts and withers in the light of God’s eternal provision for us. Don’t forget that!
“But seek first the kingdom of God…do not worry about tomorrow…” (Matthew 6:33-34 NKJV)
“I go to prepare a place for you.” John 14:2 (NKJV)
Looking at things through the lens of eternity has a way of getting our hearts and minds on track. It sets issues straight, and this is especially true when it comes to the issue of worrying about God’s ability to provide for our needs.
Look at what Jesus promises in the passage above. He assures His people that He’s going to prepare a place for them. Specifically, we know He’s referring to Heaven, where every single need we’ll ever have will be eternally taken care of and provided for by Him.
Most of us don’t have a problem with this whatsoever. In fact, when was the last time you paced back and forth worrying about whether or not you’d receive what you’d need in God’s Kingdom? For the most part, we just assume that the Lord has enough of everything to go around and that every need will be met.
However, our outlook is often different when it comes to our existence here on earth. We worry. We second-guess God’s ability to provide for us when it comes to the needs of this life. But think it through: Our lifespan and all that we will ever need on earth is a blip in comparison to eternity. Why are we okay with God handling things infinitely but not temporarily? It makes no sense.
Here’s what’s going to take place: Something is going to happen that will cause your heart to question God’s ability to provide for your needs. When it does, remember that He’s got you covered for all eternity, and that He who covers you eternally is all the more able to cover you temporarily.
Our earthly worry wilts and withers in the light of God’s eternal provision for us. Don’t forget that!
“But seek first the kingdom of God…do not worry about tomorrow…” (Matthew 6:33-34 NKJV)
March 28, 2011
Encouraging Words-Verses vs. Voices
From Daily Disciples
"The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down from here. For it is written:" 'He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'" Jesus answered, "It says: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Luke 4:9-12
Many times my mind taunts me with thoughts like “If you are really God’s child, then why doesn’t He do this for you?” or “If God has really given you this spiritual gift for the body of Christ, why aren’t you any good at it?” Over and over, I hear thoughts that make me feel guilty or condemned and insecure in my Christian walk. I know the Word of God and yet, my mind doesn’t seem strong enough to just stay focused on the verses to overcome the voices. In essence, Satan attempts to discredit us just like he tried with Jesus. Satan said to Jesus, “If you are the Son of God”… prove it! These are the same kind of words we as believers hear in our heads too. We question if we are really saved, we question God’s ability to use us and we question that the promises given to us in His Word are really for us today. In other words, we find ourselves testing the Lord’s ability to save us, protect us, use us and speak to us; thus, saying to Him, “Prove it.” But Jesus didn’t do that.
Jesus confidently used the Word of God to attack Satan’s use of the Scriptures directly. It is amazing that the Living Word of God (Jesus) quotes the Written Word of God (the Bible) to attack the words of the enemy.
Lately, I have been struggling with a trial that I have failed in the past. The circumstances and people have changed but the trial is the same. I felt myself heading down the same path as in the past. Crying out to the Lord, I said to Him, “OK, Lord, I’ve been here before and have lived through the consequences of failing this test. I know that You have been faithful regardless of my faithlessness. I know that You love me and You have every right to test my heart and try my motives to see which way I will go. Lord, I choose You. I choose to not test You or question You in this. I know that Your promises will come to pass and You don’t have to prove anything to me.” With that prayer, I knew that the temptation to fail had been lifted. Jesus is our example as He was tempted in the same types of trials (with different circumstances and people) but overcame them all. We, too, can overcome the taunting voices of the enemy to live a life pleasing to God by staying on His side and by fighting His way using His words.
"The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down from here. For it is written:" 'He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'" Jesus answered, "It says: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Luke 4:9-12
Many times my mind taunts me with thoughts like “If you are really God’s child, then why doesn’t He do this for you?” or “If God has really given you this spiritual gift for the body of Christ, why aren’t you any good at it?” Over and over, I hear thoughts that make me feel guilty or condemned and insecure in my Christian walk. I know the Word of God and yet, my mind doesn’t seem strong enough to just stay focused on the verses to overcome the voices. In essence, Satan attempts to discredit us just like he tried with Jesus. Satan said to Jesus, “If you are the Son of God”… prove it! These are the same kind of words we as believers hear in our heads too. We question if we are really saved, we question God’s ability to use us and we question that the promises given to us in His Word are really for us today. In other words, we find ourselves testing the Lord’s ability to save us, protect us, use us and speak to us; thus, saying to Him, “Prove it.” But Jesus didn’t do that.
Jesus confidently used the Word of God to attack Satan’s use of the Scriptures directly. It is amazing that the Living Word of God (Jesus) quotes the Written Word of God (the Bible) to attack the words of the enemy.
Lately, I have been struggling with a trial that I have failed in the past. The circumstances and people have changed but the trial is the same. I felt myself heading down the same path as in the past. Crying out to the Lord, I said to Him, “OK, Lord, I’ve been here before and have lived through the consequences of failing this test. I know that You have been faithful regardless of my faithlessness. I know that You love me and You have every right to test my heart and try my motives to see which way I will go. Lord, I choose You. I choose to not test You or question You in this. I know that Your promises will come to pass and You don’t have to prove anything to me.” With that prayer, I knew that the temptation to fail had been lifted. Jesus is our example as He was tempted in the same types of trials (with different circumstances and people) but overcame them all. We, too, can overcome the taunting voices of the enemy to live a life pleasing to God by staying on His side and by fighting His way using His words.
March 27, 2011
Welcome to Affirming Sunday Worship
If you don't have a welcoming church near you, or you just can't make yourself step into one, we're bringing worship to you. We have listed below links to open and affirming churches that feature live worship music and/or services that have been previously recorded. We hope you are blessed and take time out of your busy schedule to enter into the Lord's day.
If one of the live feeds we post isn't working (stuff happens, especially during the winter) we hope you will take time to check out a different live broadcast or peruse our selection of pre-recorded services listed below.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail at encouragementforliving@gmail.com and share it with us.
The list follows the jump:
If one of the live feeds we post isn't working (stuff happens, especially during the winter) we hope you will take time to check out a different live broadcast or peruse our selection of pre-recorded services listed below.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail at encouragementforliving@gmail.com and share it with us.
The list follows the jump:
March 26, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-The Fool For Christ
From Crosswalk the Devotional
"Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe." 1 Corinthians 1:20-21
I read Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment for fun when I was 15. In college, I took classes on constitutional law and Byzantium and Islam as electives. Now, I'm an editor who reads and writes all day, and lo, the sun shineth upon my great vinyl desk. I'm definitely an academic at heart. And who doesn't like to appear smart? Or wise? Or "in the know"? Or just downright witty and funny? In my human heart, I love it when someone says, "Wow, that's a great point" or "Haha! Great comeback!" to something I said.
You can imagine me deflating when a Sunday school teacher brought out these verses a few days ago. What do you mean I'm called to look like a fool? God nudged me and I looked back with a little pout. Then He nudged me again and pointed to his "more excellent way." (1 Cor. 12:31)
The apostle Paul had the ability - and the guts - to take on the philosophers of Athens, the Jewish elite, and any other wise guy who came his way. But in his God-given wisdom, he understood that it wasn't about winning the argument, or even sounding intelligent. His goal was to speak God's truth and let the Lord work on people's hearts and minds.
Paul knew that "the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing" - those who don't know Christ don't "get" what's so earth-shattering about the Gospel. Yet "to us who are being saved it is the power of God," (1 Cor. 1:18) it's far more incredible than anything Plato could dream up or Shakespeare could write. The fact that God took me when I was dead in sin and made me "alive together with Christ" (Eph. 2:5) shuts my mouth and heart to anything "smart" I have to say. There's no room for my tiny human accomplishments beside God's infinite wisdom and work. God's love simply overwhelms, well, everything. That humbles me. My attitude should be like that in the praise song:
How can I keep from singing Your praise?
How can I ever say enough?
How amazing is Your love!
How can I keep from shouting Your name?
I know I am loved by the King
And it makes my heart want to sing.
Everything else is just tomfoolery compared to such grace. How can I keep from singing His wisdom?
Intersection of Faith & Life: In your conversations today, ask yourself what's behind your words. Is it a motivation to be funny for its own sake? Impress someone with your knowledge? Or to live out the Gospel by humility, edification, and love?
"Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe." 1 Corinthians 1:20-21
I read Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment for fun when I was 15. In college, I took classes on constitutional law and Byzantium and Islam as electives. Now, I'm an editor who reads and writes all day, and lo, the sun shineth upon my great vinyl desk. I'm definitely an academic at heart. And who doesn't like to appear smart? Or wise? Or "in the know"? Or just downright witty and funny? In my human heart, I love it when someone says, "Wow, that's a great point" or "Haha! Great comeback!" to something I said.
You can imagine me deflating when a Sunday school teacher brought out these verses a few days ago. What do you mean I'm called to look like a fool? God nudged me and I looked back with a little pout. Then He nudged me again and pointed to his "more excellent way." (1 Cor. 12:31)
The apostle Paul had the ability - and the guts - to take on the philosophers of Athens, the Jewish elite, and any other wise guy who came his way. But in his God-given wisdom, he understood that it wasn't about winning the argument, or even sounding intelligent. His goal was to speak God's truth and let the Lord work on people's hearts and minds.
Paul knew that "the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing" - those who don't know Christ don't "get" what's so earth-shattering about the Gospel. Yet "to us who are being saved it is the power of God," (1 Cor. 1:18) it's far more incredible than anything Plato could dream up or Shakespeare could write. The fact that God took me when I was dead in sin and made me "alive together with Christ" (Eph. 2:5) shuts my mouth and heart to anything "smart" I have to say. There's no room for my tiny human accomplishments beside God's infinite wisdom and work. God's love simply overwhelms, well, everything. That humbles me. My attitude should be like that in the praise song:
How can I keep from singing Your praise?
How can I ever say enough?
How amazing is Your love!
How can I keep from shouting Your name?
I know I am loved by the King
And it makes my heart want to sing.
Everything else is just tomfoolery compared to such grace. How can I keep from singing His wisdom?
Intersection of Faith & Life: In your conversations today, ask yourself what's behind your words. Is it a motivation to be funny for its own sake? Impress someone with your knowledge? Or to live out the Gospel by humility, edification, and love?
Encouraging Words-Maintaining Focus
From New Life Daily Devotion
Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess.
Hebrews 3:1
Has it ever been easier than now for a believer to become distracted and lose focus on God? If the apostle Paul found himself “greatly distressed” that Athens was “full of idols” (Acts 17:16), what would he think after checking out today’s culture–the internet, TV, movies, DVD’s, video games, radio, faxes, email, cell phones, etc.?
A recent Wall Street Journal article quotes an Internet guru who plugged the word “God” into a popular search engine. He received 600,000 responses—remarkably close to the 775,000 sites listed for “sex.” Yahoo lists 17,000 sites devoted to religion and spirituality, compared with 12,000 about movies.
And these figures are expanding exponentially. We’re only a mouse click away from countless links, Web pages, and chat rooms, that attempt to define God, recast Him into our own image, or explain Him away altogether.
With all this at your fingertips, it’s more important than ever to stay connected to and focused on the true God and His Son, Jesus Christ. Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked by things that aren’t true. In other words, hold onto God’s Son for dear life! Even when the distractions of the world are tugging at your sleeve to let go.
“We can tell from our experience that His light is more powerful than the deepest darkness. . . How wonderful that the reality of His presence is greater than the reality of the hell about us.
Betsie ten Boom, to her sister, Corrie (1930-1944)
Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess.
Hebrews 3:1
Has it ever been easier than now for a believer to become distracted and lose focus on God? If the apostle Paul found himself “greatly distressed” that Athens was “full of idols” (Acts 17:16), what would he think after checking out today’s culture–the internet, TV, movies, DVD’s, video games, radio, faxes, email, cell phones, etc.?
A recent Wall Street Journal article quotes an Internet guru who plugged the word “God” into a popular search engine. He received 600,000 responses—remarkably close to the 775,000 sites listed for “sex.” Yahoo lists 17,000 sites devoted to religion and spirituality, compared with 12,000 about movies.
And these figures are expanding exponentially. We’re only a mouse click away from countless links, Web pages, and chat rooms, that attempt to define God, recast Him into our own image, or explain Him away altogether.
With all this at your fingertips, it’s more important than ever to stay connected to and focused on the true God and His Son, Jesus Christ. Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked by things that aren’t true. In other words, hold onto God’s Son for dear life! Even when the distractions of the world are tugging at your sleeve to let go.
“We can tell from our experience that His light is more powerful than the deepest darkness. . . How wonderful that the reality of His presence is greater than the reality of the hell about us.
Betsie ten Boom, to her sister, Corrie (1930-1944)
March 25, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-The Lord Will Provide
From Encouragement For Today
“Abraham, Abraham!” … “Do not lay your hand on the lad or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.” Genesis 22:11b-12 (NKJ)
One of my favorite stories of the Bible is recorded in Genesis 22 where Abraham’s faith is totally tested by God. God commands him to offer up his only son, Isaac, as a human sacrifice.
Whenever I read about this historical event, I picture the scene in my mind … Abraham stands over his son, distraught in anguish, as sweat pours from his brow. For a moment he turns away to gain composure, then clinches his teeth and lifts the knife high into the air, pausing just long enough to secure control of his quivering hand. Suddenly, he hears a voice from heaven say, “Abraham, don’t touch him!” (my paraphrase).
Instantly, tension melts into relief as he drops the knife and burst into tears of joy. I can almost hear the clang of the knife’s blade as it falls against rocks. Abraham scoops his boy into his arms and kisses his face repeatedly. Under his breath, he praises the Lord, “Thank You, God. Thank You.”
God’s command, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and…sacrifice him,” must have pierced Abraham’s ever-faithful heart. Sometimes it feels as if God pierces my faithful heart, too. Perhaps you’re feeling pierced today and battling to maintain your hope in God.
Let’s face it, when everything seems to be against us it hurts, especially when we’ve been faithful.
· It hurts when you’ve been a good spouse, but the divorce papers appear anyway.
· It hurts when you’ve sacrificed for your friend only to be rejected in your time of need.
· It hurts when you deserve the promotion only to discover it went to someone younger.
· It hurts when you diligently save only to lose your lifelong savings in the stock market.
· It hurts when you’ve raised your teenager in church and he walks away from God.
Sometimes I want to scream, “I can’t sacrifice anymore, Lord!”
It’s when I reach the end of self-effort that I realize what God is after—my undivided heart.
The same was true with Abraham. God never wanted Abraham to sacrifice his son. He wanted Abraham’s trust and his surrendered heart. It’s what the Lord longs from you and me, too. He wants us to trust Him no matter our situation.
So, where did Abraham get that kind of trust? He got it from God’s promise. Before Isaac was born, God promised Abraham that countless descendents would come through his son. If Abraham were to eliminate Isaac, God would still fulfill His promise. According to Hebrews 11:19, Abraham believed if he killed his son, God would raise him from the dead. Notice Abraham’s faith when he said, “I and the boy [will] go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you” (Genesis 22:5).
Abraham not only took God at His word, he fully trusted Him with the situation. You and I would do well to do the same. The Bible is full of God’s promises to provide for us in times of sorrow, hardship, weakness, and fear. Standing on His promises during adversity gives us the support we need until our troubles pass.
Dear Lord, teach me Your promises. Help me to hide them in my heart so that they may become the support and help You intend them to be in my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“Abraham, Abraham!” … “Do not lay your hand on the lad or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.” Genesis 22:11b-12 (NKJ)
One of my favorite stories of the Bible is recorded in Genesis 22 where Abraham’s faith is totally tested by God. God commands him to offer up his only son, Isaac, as a human sacrifice.
Whenever I read about this historical event, I picture the scene in my mind … Abraham stands over his son, distraught in anguish, as sweat pours from his brow. For a moment he turns away to gain composure, then clinches his teeth and lifts the knife high into the air, pausing just long enough to secure control of his quivering hand. Suddenly, he hears a voice from heaven say, “Abraham, don’t touch him!” (my paraphrase).
Instantly, tension melts into relief as he drops the knife and burst into tears of joy. I can almost hear the clang of the knife’s blade as it falls against rocks. Abraham scoops his boy into his arms and kisses his face repeatedly. Under his breath, he praises the Lord, “Thank You, God. Thank You.”
God’s command, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and…sacrifice him,” must have pierced Abraham’s ever-faithful heart. Sometimes it feels as if God pierces my faithful heart, too. Perhaps you’re feeling pierced today and battling to maintain your hope in God.
Let’s face it, when everything seems to be against us it hurts, especially when we’ve been faithful.
· It hurts when you’ve been a good spouse, but the divorce papers appear anyway.
· It hurts when you’ve sacrificed for your friend only to be rejected in your time of need.
· It hurts when you deserve the promotion only to discover it went to someone younger.
· It hurts when you diligently save only to lose your lifelong savings in the stock market.
· It hurts when you’ve raised your teenager in church and he walks away from God.
Sometimes I want to scream, “I can’t sacrifice anymore, Lord!”
It’s when I reach the end of self-effort that I realize what God is after—my undivided heart.
The same was true with Abraham. God never wanted Abraham to sacrifice his son. He wanted Abraham’s trust and his surrendered heart. It’s what the Lord longs from you and me, too. He wants us to trust Him no matter our situation.
So, where did Abraham get that kind of trust? He got it from God’s promise. Before Isaac was born, God promised Abraham that countless descendents would come through his son. If Abraham were to eliminate Isaac, God would still fulfill His promise. According to Hebrews 11:19, Abraham believed if he killed his son, God would raise him from the dead. Notice Abraham’s faith when he said, “I and the boy [will] go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you” (Genesis 22:5).
Abraham not only took God at His word, he fully trusted Him with the situation. You and I would do well to do the same. The Bible is full of God’s promises to provide for us in times of sorrow, hardship, weakness, and fear. Standing on His promises during adversity gives us the support we need until our troubles pass.
Dear Lord, teach me Your promises. Help me to hide them in my heart so that they may become the support and help You intend them to be in my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Encouraging Words-Receiving Bad News
From Marketplace Meditations
"A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the sea. . . Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD. . ." (2 Chron 20:2-3).
Have you ever had someone bring you really bad news? It was so bad that when you heard it your stomach immediately became upset. You went into a crisis mode. I once received a letter that brought such fear upon me I could hardly stand up.
This was the situation for King Jehoshaphat. He had just been informed that his country was going to be attacked by an army much larger than his. However, instead of panicking, he immediately turned to the Lord by calling for a time of a fasting and prayer. The people from every town in Judah responded.
King Jehoshaphat prayed and reminded God of His promise to Israel. Then he asked God for strategy. "For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." At the end of his prayer it says they waited on God's answer. It came through the prophet, Jahaziel son of Zechariah. He said, "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's'" (2 Chron 20:15-16).
God supernaturally wiped out their enemies that day. They didn't even have to fight. God caused the enemy to fight themselves. However, the one thing they did do that began the ambush was when they began to praise God on the battlefield. "As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated" (2 Chron 20:22-23).
Jehoshaphat immediately did four things in response to bad news. He called for prayer, he called for fasting, he asked for God's strategy, and he began his battle by praising God in the midst of the battle.
Maybe you've just gotten some bad news. If so, follow the example of Jehoshaphat. Pray. Fast. Ask. Praise.
"A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the sea. . . Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD. . ." (2 Chron 20:2-3).
Have you ever had someone bring you really bad news? It was so bad that when you heard it your stomach immediately became upset. You went into a crisis mode. I once received a letter that brought such fear upon me I could hardly stand up.
This was the situation for King Jehoshaphat. He had just been informed that his country was going to be attacked by an army much larger than his. However, instead of panicking, he immediately turned to the Lord by calling for a time of a fasting and prayer. The people from every town in Judah responded.
King Jehoshaphat prayed and reminded God of His promise to Israel. Then he asked God for strategy. "For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." At the end of his prayer it says they waited on God's answer. It came through the prophet, Jahaziel son of Zechariah. He said, "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's'" (2 Chron 20:15-16).
God supernaturally wiped out their enemies that day. They didn't even have to fight. God caused the enemy to fight themselves. However, the one thing they did do that began the ambush was when they began to praise God on the battlefield. "As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated" (2 Chron 20:22-23).
Jehoshaphat immediately did four things in response to bad news. He called for prayer, he called for fasting, he asked for God's strategy, and he began his battle by praising God in the midst of the battle.
Maybe you've just gotten some bad news. If so, follow the example of Jehoshaphat. Pray. Fast. Ask. Praise.
March 24, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-Discerning the Darkness
From Our Daily Journey
While working through a recent unit on Shakespeare with my sophomore students, I was reminded that the power of media is nothing new. Although its presentation today is perhaps more vivid, and therefore more memorable, the world of entertainment has had its place in culture for thousands of years. An ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle, saw the cathartic nature of drama which, by engaging the audience, brings people into the action and allows them to become part of the story without leaving their seats. Media isn’t passive; it embraces us.
Colossians 1:13 reminds us, “For He has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of His dear Son.” When considering the media we take in on a daily basis, we need to ask ourselves if it belongs in the kingdom of light or of darkness. Our flesh will not willingly expose its darkness (John 3:19-20). The more intimate we are with the Spirit, however, the more we readily discern light from darkness (Hebrews 5:14).
In a world that aggressively blurs the lines between good and evil, we must not forget that God is serious about our leaving behind the darkness to walk in the light of His Word. Excusing things as “no big deal” or refusing to surrender areas of our lives to God opens a door for the enemy to take us down a dangerous path. What may become a casual interest or attraction to things that are ungodly can later become an area of bondage in our lives.
God is amazingly powerful, and He has already overcome the darkness. He won’t take something out of our lives, however, if we’re unwilling to let it go. The choice is ours—light or darkness. We can’t have both.
While working through a recent unit on Shakespeare with my sophomore students, I was reminded that the power of media is nothing new. Although its presentation today is perhaps more vivid, and therefore more memorable, the world of entertainment has had its place in culture for thousands of years. An ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle, saw the cathartic nature of drama which, by engaging the audience, brings people into the action and allows them to become part of the story without leaving their seats. Media isn’t passive; it embraces us.
Colossians 1:13 reminds us, “For He has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of His dear Son.” When considering the media we take in on a daily basis, we need to ask ourselves if it belongs in the kingdom of light or of darkness. Our flesh will not willingly expose its darkness (John 3:19-20). The more intimate we are with the Spirit, however, the more we readily discern light from darkness (Hebrews 5:14).
In a world that aggressively blurs the lines between good and evil, we must not forget that God is serious about our leaving behind the darkness to walk in the light of His Word. Excusing things as “no big deal” or refusing to surrender areas of our lives to God opens a door for the enemy to take us down a dangerous path. What may become a casual interest or attraction to things that are ungodly can later become an area of bondage in our lives.
God is amazingly powerful, and He has already overcome the darkness. He won’t take something out of our lives, however, if we’re unwilling to let it go. The choice is ours—light or darkness. We can’t have both.
Encouraging Words-Keep Me From Wrath
From Our Daily Bread
I have a friend whose note cards are imprinted with a picture of Rodin’s The Thinker, the famous sculpture depicting a man in sober reflection. Below the picture is this inscription: “Life is not fair.”
Indeed, it is not. And any theory that insists that this life is fair is illusory and deceptive.
Despite the overwhelming unfairness of life, however, David in Psalm 37 prays that he will not retaliate but will instead rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him to bring justice to the earth in due time (v.7). “For evildoers shall be cut off; but those who wait on the Lord, they shall inherit the earth” (v.9).
Our wrath tends to be vindictive and punitive. God’s wrath is untainted by self-interest and tempered by mercy. His wrath can even be His relentless love that brings our antagonists to repentance and faith. We must not then avenge ourselves, “for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord . . . . Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:19,21).
This must begin in the heart, the wellspring from which the issues of our lives flow. May we cease from anger, forsake wrath, and wait patiently for the Lord.
I have a friend whose note cards are imprinted with a picture of Rodin’s The Thinker, the famous sculpture depicting a man in sober reflection. Below the picture is this inscription: “Life is not fair.”
Indeed, it is not. And any theory that insists that this life is fair is illusory and deceptive.
Despite the overwhelming unfairness of life, however, David in Psalm 37 prays that he will not retaliate but will instead rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him to bring justice to the earth in due time (v.7). “For evildoers shall be cut off; but those who wait on the Lord, they shall inherit the earth” (v.9).
Our wrath tends to be vindictive and punitive. God’s wrath is untainted by self-interest and tempered by mercy. His wrath can even be His relentless love that brings our antagonists to repentance and faith. We must not then avenge ourselves, “for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord . . . . Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:19,21).
This must begin in the heart, the wellspring from which the issues of our lives flow. May we cease from anger, forsake wrath, and wait patiently for the Lord.
March 23, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-Fear of the Unknown
From Strength For The Journey
By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called . . . . And he went out, not knowing where he was going. —Hebrews 11:8
Has God ever asked you to do something that seemed unreasonable? Something that took you into the territory of the unknown? What if He asked you to refuse a long-awaited promotion or resist a longed-for relationship? What if He called you to a remote part of the world or asked you to release your children to serve Him in a faraway place?
The unknown is full of haunting “what ifs.” Yet God often calls us to chart unknown territory as we follow Him. Obeying His commands to forgive, to give away our treasures, or to give up things that provide security and pleasure often leave us in the scary territory of unknown outcomes.
Imagine how Abraham felt when God asked him to move his whole family without telling him where they were going (Gen. 12:1-3). God also asked Abraham to persevere—to stay in an unknown land even when the lure of past comforts may have threatened to seduce him and his family back to their comfort zone in Ur.
Entering a new year is like entering uncharted territory. The fear of the unknown could cripple our capacity to follow God’s leading through the days ahead. Yet, like Abraham, when we cling to the One who knows all things, we’re in good hands—regardless of where He leads.
By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called . . . . And he went out, not knowing where he was going. —Hebrews 11:8
Has God ever asked you to do something that seemed unreasonable? Something that took you into the territory of the unknown? What if He asked you to refuse a long-awaited promotion or resist a longed-for relationship? What if He called you to a remote part of the world or asked you to release your children to serve Him in a faraway place?
The unknown is full of haunting “what ifs.” Yet God often calls us to chart unknown territory as we follow Him. Obeying His commands to forgive, to give away our treasures, or to give up things that provide security and pleasure often leave us in the scary territory of unknown outcomes.
Imagine how Abraham felt when God asked him to move his whole family without telling him where they were going (Gen. 12:1-3). God also asked Abraham to persevere—to stay in an unknown land even when the lure of past comforts may have threatened to seduce him and his family back to their comfort zone in Ur.
Entering a new year is like entering uncharted territory. The fear of the unknown could cripple our capacity to follow God’s leading through the days ahead. Yet, like Abraham, when we cling to the One who knows all things, we’re in good hands—regardless of where He leads.
Encouraging Words-Seize the Day
From Reflections
Matthew 6:34, NIV: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
A terrible irony is played out within the lives of so many. They go from day to day thinking about what tomorrow will bring—worrying about what they will do, where they will work, or what they will do in the future. And when the they finally arrive to the future that they worried so much about, they look back with deep regret over what they lost by not living each day to the fullest—embracing the opportunities each day offered. To oversimplify a bit, consider how many days you actually notice the clouds, the trees, or the sunshine. Think about how often you see the Hand of God within a moment of your day and are awestruck by what He does. There are many things within a day that God provides to enrich our lives. We just need to learn to let go of tomorrow, live within the moment, and truly find God’s provision to help us to seize the day. There is no need to worry about tomorrow, or regret our yesterdays. Each moment of today can be a treasure to a heart that seeks God first.
Matthew 6:34, NIV: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
A terrible irony is played out within the lives of so many. They go from day to day thinking about what tomorrow will bring—worrying about what they will do, where they will work, or what they will do in the future. And when the they finally arrive to the future that they worried so much about, they look back with deep regret over what they lost by not living each day to the fullest—embracing the opportunities each day offered. To oversimplify a bit, consider how many days you actually notice the clouds, the trees, or the sunshine. Think about how often you see the Hand of God within a moment of your day and are awestruck by what He does. There are many things within a day that God provides to enrich our lives. We just need to learn to let go of tomorrow, live within the moment, and truly find God’s provision to help us to seize the day. There is no need to worry about tomorrow, or regret our yesterdays. Each moment of today can be a treasure to a heart that seeks God first.
March 22, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-The Secret of Spiritual Growth
From Harvest Daily Devotion
Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.—John 15:4
Imagine if I planted a tree in my front yard, but after awhile, I decided it would look better in my backyard. Then after a few months, I realized it would be better in the front yard. So I dig it up and plant it again in the front yard. Not only will that tree fail to flourish, but it also will struggle to just survive.
Yet some people are like that with God. They decide to go to church, read their Bible, and pray regularly. They do this for a month, and then they uproot themselves and disappear for a few months. Then they come back again. Then they uproot themselves and go back to the old life again. Eventually they come back and are at it again. But they never will grow spiritually that way.
Jesus said, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me” (John 15:4). That is the secret of spiritual growth: to abide. To abide means to stay in a given place. For believers, it means to maintain unbroken fellowship with God. It is regularity. It is consistency. And it results in producing lasting fruit.
Another way of abiding is walking with God. As 1 John 2:6 says, “He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.” Walking speaks of consistent motion. That means making time for the Word of God and for prayer every day. If you are too busy, then get up earlier. Go to bed earlier. You will find time for what is important.
The true mark of conversion is the test of time and results in your life. Are you producing spiritual fruit?
Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.—John 15:4
Imagine if I planted a tree in my front yard, but after awhile, I decided it would look better in my backyard. Then after a few months, I realized it would be better in the front yard. So I dig it up and plant it again in the front yard. Not only will that tree fail to flourish, but it also will struggle to just survive.
Yet some people are like that with God. They decide to go to church, read their Bible, and pray regularly. They do this for a month, and then they uproot themselves and disappear for a few months. Then they come back again. Then they uproot themselves and go back to the old life again. Eventually they come back and are at it again. But they never will grow spiritually that way.
Jesus said, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me” (John 15:4). That is the secret of spiritual growth: to abide. To abide means to stay in a given place. For believers, it means to maintain unbroken fellowship with God. It is regularity. It is consistency. And it results in producing lasting fruit.
Another way of abiding is walking with God. As 1 John 2:6 says, “He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.” Walking speaks of consistent motion. That means making time for the Word of God and for prayer every day. If you are too busy, then get up earlier. Go to bed earlier. You will find time for what is important.
The true mark of conversion is the test of time and results in your life. Are you producing spiritual fruit?
Encouraging Words-Just Step Out In Faith
From Daily Disciples
And as soon as we heard these things, our hearts melted; neither did there remain any more courage in anyone because of you, for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath. Joshua 2:11
Joshua sent two men to the enemy city of Jericho to spy out the land. Of all of the places they could end up staying, they lodged in the home of a harlot named Rahab. Once the king of Jericho heard of their whereabouts, he sent his men to go and find them, and the first place they went to was Rahab’s home. Instead of turning them in, she hid them and protected them from being caught. In return for her loyalty and faith in Israel’s God, she and her family were spared when the city walls of Jericho came down.
It is interesting to note that up until this time, neither she nor the inhabitants of Jericho had actually seen any of the Israelites. But they had heard of them. They heard of their conquests in the desert and how the Lord had parted the Red Sea. At this point, the Red Sea parting had occurred some forty years earlier. The fear of the Lord caused this response from Rahab; she knew which side she needed to be on. God had prepared the way by moving on Rahab’s heart even before these two men entered Jericho. The Israelites were about to take over the Promised Land, not because of their strength, but because of the Lord’s promise and power.
The same is true for us today. As Christians, we are blessed to live in God’s promises. The Bible is filled with His promises for us. Sometimes, the new land is hard to see and even harder to walk through, but if we just step out in faith, we will see how God has taken care of every step we need to take. As the Lord leads you in His purposes for your life, you will see how He has prepared even those around you. As God would continue to tell Joshua, “Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9) Take this message with you today and go forth in all that the Lord is leading you to do. The Jordan River will part for you when the Lord sends you in.
And as soon as we heard these things, our hearts melted; neither did there remain any more courage in anyone because of you, for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath. Joshua 2:11
Joshua sent two men to the enemy city of Jericho to spy out the land. Of all of the places they could end up staying, they lodged in the home of a harlot named Rahab. Once the king of Jericho heard of their whereabouts, he sent his men to go and find them, and the first place they went to was Rahab’s home. Instead of turning them in, she hid them and protected them from being caught. In return for her loyalty and faith in Israel’s God, she and her family were spared when the city walls of Jericho came down.
It is interesting to note that up until this time, neither she nor the inhabitants of Jericho had actually seen any of the Israelites. But they had heard of them. They heard of their conquests in the desert and how the Lord had parted the Red Sea. At this point, the Red Sea parting had occurred some forty years earlier. The fear of the Lord caused this response from Rahab; she knew which side she needed to be on. God had prepared the way by moving on Rahab’s heart even before these two men entered Jericho. The Israelites were about to take over the Promised Land, not because of their strength, but because of the Lord’s promise and power.
The same is true for us today. As Christians, we are blessed to live in God’s promises. The Bible is filled with His promises for us. Sometimes, the new land is hard to see and even harder to walk through, but if we just step out in faith, we will see how God has taken care of every step we need to take. As the Lord leads you in His purposes for your life, you will see how He has prepared even those around you. As God would continue to tell Joshua, “Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9) Take this message with you today and go forth in all that the Lord is leading you to do. The Jordan River will part for you when the Lord sends you in.
March 21, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-Power Struggle
From The Active Word
And they bound Jesus, led Him away, and delivered Him to Pilate. Mark 15:1b (NKJV)
All told, Pilate’s interaction with Jesus didn’t last more than a few hours. But the effect of that interaction was (and is) eternal.
History tells us the Roman Emperor chose him to rule over the region of Palestine. He was constantly clashing with the indigenous Jewish population. They complained to Rome about him on several occasions, and even threatened to rebel unless Pilate was reprimanded. Suffice it to say, Pilate’s position was on thin ice long before we see him in Scripture.
Then the day came that would forever define Pilate’s destiny. The Jewish leaders wanted Jesus crucified, but only Pilate had the authority to do it. So they brought Jesus before Pilate and asked him to sign-off on the execution. Pilate recognized an innocent man when he saw one, and Jesus obviously was just that. So Pilate tried to sidestep the request, but they kept pressing him to crucify Jesus.
The Jewish leaders eventually played their “ace in the hole.” They told Pilate that if he didn’t execute Jesus he was being disloyal to the Emperor, because Jesus claimed to be a rival king to Rome. In other words they were saying, “Crucify Jesus or we’ll go to Rome—and you can kiss your powerful position goodbye.”
Pilate wavered, but his sense of self-preservation won out. He chose to protect his position by appeasing the Jews. He ordered the Son of God to be executed. Ironically, he was stripped of his power just a few years later, and according to tradition, he spiraled into a state of depression and took his own life.
Much like the rich young ruler, Pilate’s eternal downfall was his reluctance to let go of the things of this world. He clung to his powerful position and lost everything. If only he was more eternally minded.
The lesson is obvious. Don’t cling to your position or prestige in this life at the expense of the life to come. Be eternally minded, and always keep eternity in mind.
And they bound Jesus, led Him away, and delivered Him to Pilate. Mark 15:1b (NKJV)
All told, Pilate’s interaction with Jesus didn’t last more than a few hours. But the effect of that interaction was (and is) eternal.
History tells us the Roman Emperor chose him to rule over the region of Palestine. He was constantly clashing with the indigenous Jewish population. They complained to Rome about him on several occasions, and even threatened to rebel unless Pilate was reprimanded. Suffice it to say, Pilate’s position was on thin ice long before we see him in Scripture.
Then the day came that would forever define Pilate’s destiny. The Jewish leaders wanted Jesus crucified, but only Pilate had the authority to do it. So they brought Jesus before Pilate and asked him to sign-off on the execution. Pilate recognized an innocent man when he saw one, and Jesus obviously was just that. So Pilate tried to sidestep the request, but they kept pressing him to crucify Jesus.
The Jewish leaders eventually played their “ace in the hole.” They told Pilate that if he didn’t execute Jesus he was being disloyal to the Emperor, because Jesus claimed to be a rival king to Rome. In other words they were saying, “Crucify Jesus or we’ll go to Rome—and you can kiss your powerful position goodbye.”
Pilate wavered, but his sense of self-preservation won out. He chose to protect his position by appeasing the Jews. He ordered the Son of God to be executed. Ironically, he was stripped of his power just a few years later, and according to tradition, he spiraled into a state of depression and took his own life.
Much like the rich young ruler, Pilate’s eternal downfall was his reluctance to let go of the things of this world. He clung to his powerful position and lost everything. If only he was more eternally minded.
The lesson is obvious. Don’t cling to your position or prestige in this life at the expense of the life to come. Be eternally minded, and always keep eternity in mind.
Encouraging Words-Grace From Heaven's Bank
From A Wisdom Retreat
Romans 2:4
Do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?
Understanding grace doesn't mean that you can sin without penalty. Understanding grace means that you never want to sin again. It is the goodness of God that motivates us to repentance and holy living.
I read of a rather unusual accountability partnership that demonstrated the power of grace over sin. Paul was trying to break his habit of using profanity. Swearing had become a second language to him and he desperately wanted to overcome it. He began meeting with another man from his church, and with Bill's help, set up an aggressive plan for purifying his speech.
Here's the plan: each Sunday Paul would report to Bill the number of times he had used profanity during the week and would put five dollars in the offering plate for each incident. The first week cost Paul one hundred dollars! Although the following weeks improved to some degree, he was not having the success that he desired, not to mention the fact that he was quickly running out of money!
After a few weeks, Bill had an idea that he thought might make the difference. He informed Paul that things were going to change the following Sunday, but he wouldn't tell him how they would change. Curiosity gnawed at Paul all week. A few times he tried to find out what the new plan was, but each time Bill simply responded, "Trust me, Paul. This new strategy will cost you less and challenge you even more."
Sunday finally arrived, and before the worship service began Paul looked more discouraged than ever. Bill knew his friend had failed again. This time Bill put a hand on his shoulder and said, "Paul, my new plan is called grace." Bill then took out his own checkbook, wrote in the church's name, dated it, signed it, and left only the amount blank. He handed the check to Paul and said, "Your sin still costs something, but you can go free on my account; just fill in the numbers—I'll take care of the cost. Oh, by the way, next week there will be more grace."
That first week of grace cost Bill fifty-five dollars, but the second week cost him only twenty. And there was no third week . . . Paul was so overwhelmed by the grace of Bill that his heart broke to think of his friend having to write another check to cover his sin.
It was only after the discovery of Bill's grace and love toward him that Paul was able to overcome his life-long, sinful habit of swearing.
If you are feeling overcome by sin today, look again to the cross. Counseling sessions, accountability, personal discipleship, and twelve-step programs won't be enough to ward off the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Only when you gaze upon the grace of God, realizing again that He paid the debt for your sin with the blood of His Son, will you find enough motivation to consciously quit your sin.
Christ handed you a blank check . . . how much will it cost Him today?
Romans 2:4
Do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?
Understanding grace doesn't mean that you can sin without penalty. Understanding grace means that you never want to sin again. It is the goodness of God that motivates us to repentance and holy living.
I read of a rather unusual accountability partnership that demonstrated the power of grace over sin. Paul was trying to break his habit of using profanity. Swearing had become a second language to him and he desperately wanted to overcome it. He began meeting with another man from his church, and with Bill's help, set up an aggressive plan for purifying his speech.
Here's the plan: each Sunday Paul would report to Bill the number of times he had used profanity during the week and would put five dollars in the offering plate for each incident. The first week cost Paul one hundred dollars! Although the following weeks improved to some degree, he was not having the success that he desired, not to mention the fact that he was quickly running out of money!
After a few weeks, Bill had an idea that he thought might make the difference. He informed Paul that things were going to change the following Sunday, but he wouldn't tell him how they would change. Curiosity gnawed at Paul all week. A few times he tried to find out what the new plan was, but each time Bill simply responded, "Trust me, Paul. This new strategy will cost you less and challenge you even more."
Sunday finally arrived, and before the worship service began Paul looked more discouraged than ever. Bill knew his friend had failed again. This time Bill put a hand on his shoulder and said, "Paul, my new plan is called grace." Bill then took out his own checkbook, wrote in the church's name, dated it, signed it, and left only the amount blank. He handed the check to Paul and said, "Your sin still costs something, but you can go free on my account; just fill in the numbers—I'll take care of the cost. Oh, by the way, next week there will be more grace."
That first week of grace cost Bill fifty-five dollars, but the second week cost him only twenty. And there was no third week . . . Paul was so overwhelmed by the grace of Bill that his heart broke to think of his friend having to write another check to cover his sin.
It was only after the discovery of Bill's grace and love toward him that Paul was able to overcome his life-long, sinful habit of swearing.
If you are feeling overcome by sin today, look again to the cross. Counseling sessions, accountability, personal discipleship, and twelve-step programs won't be enough to ward off the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Only when you gaze upon the grace of God, realizing again that He paid the debt for your sin with the blood of His Son, will you find enough motivation to consciously quit your sin.
Christ handed you a blank check . . . how much will it cost Him today?
March 20, 2011
Welcome to Affirming Sunday Worship
If you don't have a welcoming church near you, or you just can't make yourself step into one, we're bringing worship to you. We have listed below links to open and affirming churches that feature live worship music and/or services that have been previously recorded. We hope you are blessed and take time out of your busy schedule to enter into the Lord's day.
If one of the live feeds we post isn't working (stuff happens, especially during the winter) we hope you will take time to check out a different live broadcast or peruse our selection of pre-recorded services listed below.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail at encouragementforliving@gmail.com and share it with us.
The list follows the jump:
If one of the live feeds we post isn't working (stuff happens, especially during the winter) we hope you will take time to check out a different live broadcast or peruse our selection of pre-recorded services listed below.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail at encouragementforliving@gmail.com and share it with us.
The list follows the jump:
March 19, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-Believing God's Promises
From New Life Daily Devotion
For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever. Psalm 37:28
I read and study God’s Word because it’s a map—an instruction manual—for my life. As the psalmist said, Scripture’s a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our paths. Yet there’s an important discipline to consider when we spend time in Scripture: and that is believing God’s promises. Listen to a few:
God is always near and will never forsake you.
God has good plans for you.
God listens to you when you pray.
God will forgive you when you fail.
From first to last, Scripture is filled with God’s promises to us. These promises of God fill us with hope and love, and they give you courage to live in the world, but not of the world. Believe God’s promises to us.
For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever. Psalm 37:28
I read and study God’s Word because it’s a map—an instruction manual—for my life. As the psalmist said, Scripture’s a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our paths. Yet there’s an important discipline to consider when we spend time in Scripture: and that is believing God’s promises. Listen to a few:
God is always near and will never forsake you.
God has good plans for you.
God listens to you when you pray.
God will forgive you when you fail.
From first to last, Scripture is filled with God’s promises to us. These promises of God fill us with hope and love, and they give you courage to live in the world, but not of the world. Believe God’s promises to us.
Encouraging Words-Trust In Numbers
From Encouragement For Today
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.”Psalm 20:7 (NIV)
Devotion:
Recently my husband and I were discussing our ongoing efforts to build up our emergency fund. A series of setbacks that included car repairs, replacing an HVAC system and my husband’s six month unemployment had left little in our emergency savings. It seemed every time we got a little bit of money in, it went right back out. I voiced my frustration to my husband. “If we could just get a certain amount in there,” I said, “We wouldn’t have to worry anymore.”
The idea of not worrying appealed to me. I wanted something to stay the same. I wanted to be confident and stable. This all sounded like a good idea.
But that’s not what was happening. So what was God trying to teach me?
A few days later I was reading the story of Gideon, the man God called a mighty warrior even as he was hiding out, scared of his enemies. In Judges 7 God finally convinces Gideon to assemble an army of Israelites to face their enemy. I am sure Gideon was pleased and surprised when 32,000 men responded to his battle cry. I imagine the strength of their numbers was a comfort to this less than confident soldier.
And then God told him to cut the army down in size. Then cut it again. God cut the army’s numbers from 32,000 down to just 300. Contrast that with Judges 7:12, where the enemy troops are described as “thick as locusts.” I can only imagine what Gideon was feeling. He had to think that more was better, that surely having a large army to count on was a good idea.
As I read this passage I thought of another time a soldier wanted to know the numbers he was dealing with. First Chronicles 21:1 tells us that King David was enticed by Satan to count his men. He knew that if he could get David’s focus on the numbers instead of on God, he’d gain access to David’s thoughts and trust.
These two biblical examples were a good wakeup call. God was trying to teach me to stop trusting in numbers – specifically in bank account numbers. He was gently reminding me that—as good as an emergency fund is—I can really only trust in Him. I didn’t need to worry about my balance or my battlefield. I only had to believe He would supply all I need.
God calls us mighty, even as we are hiding out. God calls us powerful, even as our forces dwindle. God calls us wealthy, even as we are fretting about finances. God majors in the impossible. He can overpower terrible odds because He’s free to shine His light on our situation. Are your numbers looking grim? Let your lack invite His might.
Don’t trust in numbers that change like the tides. Trust in the unchanging God. Watch Him work against the odds. Just ask Gideon, who won a decisive victory with his 300 men. You can be victorious too, no matter what the numbers say.
Dear Lord, my numbers don’t look good right now. The statistics are stacked against me. The account balance doesn’t make sense. I’m in the red. I feel like I’m facing impossible odds. And yet, today I feel a spark of hope. Please fan it into a flame of complete trust—not in numbers, but in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.”Psalm 20:7 (NIV)
Devotion:
Recently my husband and I were discussing our ongoing efforts to build up our emergency fund. A series of setbacks that included car repairs, replacing an HVAC system and my husband’s six month unemployment had left little in our emergency savings. It seemed every time we got a little bit of money in, it went right back out. I voiced my frustration to my husband. “If we could just get a certain amount in there,” I said, “We wouldn’t have to worry anymore.”
The idea of not worrying appealed to me. I wanted something to stay the same. I wanted to be confident and stable. This all sounded like a good idea.
But that’s not what was happening. So what was God trying to teach me?
A few days later I was reading the story of Gideon, the man God called a mighty warrior even as he was hiding out, scared of his enemies. In Judges 7 God finally convinces Gideon to assemble an army of Israelites to face their enemy. I am sure Gideon was pleased and surprised when 32,000 men responded to his battle cry. I imagine the strength of their numbers was a comfort to this less than confident soldier.
And then God told him to cut the army down in size. Then cut it again. God cut the army’s numbers from 32,000 down to just 300. Contrast that with Judges 7:12, where the enemy troops are described as “thick as locusts.” I can only imagine what Gideon was feeling. He had to think that more was better, that surely having a large army to count on was a good idea.
As I read this passage I thought of another time a soldier wanted to know the numbers he was dealing with. First Chronicles 21:1 tells us that King David was enticed by Satan to count his men. He knew that if he could get David’s focus on the numbers instead of on God, he’d gain access to David’s thoughts and trust.
These two biblical examples were a good wakeup call. God was trying to teach me to stop trusting in numbers – specifically in bank account numbers. He was gently reminding me that—as good as an emergency fund is—I can really only trust in Him. I didn’t need to worry about my balance or my battlefield. I only had to believe He would supply all I need.
God calls us mighty, even as we are hiding out. God calls us powerful, even as our forces dwindle. God calls us wealthy, even as we are fretting about finances. God majors in the impossible. He can overpower terrible odds because He’s free to shine His light on our situation. Are your numbers looking grim? Let your lack invite His might.
Don’t trust in numbers that change like the tides. Trust in the unchanging God. Watch Him work against the odds. Just ask Gideon, who won a decisive victory with his 300 men. You can be victorious too, no matter what the numbers say.
Dear Lord, my numbers don’t look good right now. The statistics are stacked against me. The account balance doesn’t make sense. I’m in the red. I feel like I’m facing impossible odds. And yet, today I feel a spark of hope. Please fan it into a flame of complete trust—not in numbers, but in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
March 18, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-Comforting Others
From Marketplace Meditations
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God" (2 Cor 1:3-4).
I was 14 years old in September 1966. I was home watching I Dream of Jeannie on television when the program was interrupted by a news bulletin: "Three prominent local businessmen have died in a plane crash in the mountains of Tennessee." That's how I learned of the death of my father.
It was difficult and painful growing up without a father. I loved and needed my dad. I couldn't understand why God would take him away from me so suddenly. I certainly didn't see the death of my father as a "blessing" in any sense of the word.
Yet I have seen blessings come out of that terrible tragedy. In the years since my father died, God has brought a number of men across my path that have lost fathers at an early age. Because of my own loss, I had an instant connection with others who suffered similar losses. We shared an experience that other people couldn't fully understand.
I went through a seven year period where I experienced major financial problems. I can't say that it was a blessing to go through those seven years of adversity, but God has used my trial to bring blessing to other people. It actually was a catalyst to move me into a whole new calling. When I meet someone who is going through a business failure or a financial loss, there's an instant bond between us of shared experience.
God can take our adversity—a heart attack, cancer, an automobile accident, violent crime, bankruptcy, a marriage crisis, the loss of a loved one—and transform that pain into encouragement for the people around us. We come out of those experiences stronger and better able to comfort others.
Although adversity may never be a blessing, God in His grace can bring blessing out of our adversity. The key is releasing the hurt and pain to the Lord so He can bring the needed healing to our lives. Why not give your circumstance to the Lord today and let Him use it in the lives of others. This will be the first step toward healing.
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God" (2 Cor 1:3-4).
I was 14 years old in September 1966. I was home watching I Dream of Jeannie on television when the program was interrupted by a news bulletin: "Three prominent local businessmen have died in a plane crash in the mountains of Tennessee." That's how I learned of the death of my father.
It was difficult and painful growing up without a father. I loved and needed my dad. I couldn't understand why God would take him away from me so suddenly. I certainly didn't see the death of my father as a "blessing" in any sense of the word.
Yet I have seen blessings come out of that terrible tragedy. In the years since my father died, God has brought a number of men across my path that have lost fathers at an early age. Because of my own loss, I had an instant connection with others who suffered similar losses. We shared an experience that other people couldn't fully understand.
I went through a seven year period where I experienced major financial problems. I can't say that it was a blessing to go through those seven years of adversity, but God has used my trial to bring blessing to other people. It actually was a catalyst to move me into a whole new calling. When I meet someone who is going through a business failure or a financial loss, there's an instant bond between us of shared experience.
God can take our adversity—a heart attack, cancer, an automobile accident, violent crime, bankruptcy, a marriage crisis, the loss of a loved one—and transform that pain into encouragement for the people around us. We come out of those experiences stronger and better able to comfort others.
Although adversity may never be a blessing, God in His grace can bring blessing out of our adversity. The key is releasing the hurt and pain to the Lord so He can bring the needed healing to our lives. Why not give your circumstance to the Lord today and let Him use it in the lives of others. This will be the first step toward healing.
Encouraging Words-Questioning God
From Our Daily Journey
Although I’ve been walking with God for decades, I admit that I sometimes still question Him. While I’ve learned not to blame Him for things I now recognize as Satan’s handiwork, there are still moments when my faith is weak and I wonder if He really cares.
It’s been helpful to see in the Bible examples of God’s servants going through their own times of questioning Him. One of the most dramatic examples occurred in the life of the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah. God called him as a teenager to go and warn his fellow people of His impending judgment. Knowing Jeremiah would encounter strong resistance, God encouraged him not to be afraid of the people, and promised His presence and protection (Jeremiah 1:5-19; 15:11).
Strong resistance is exactly what Jeremiah found as he spoke God’s message. His countrymen treated him like a joke and he was hated wherever he went (Jeremiah 15:10). They physically tortured him and at one point left him for dead in a pit (Jeremiah 38:6). Even Jeremiah’s family abandoned him (Jeremiah 12:6).
As time went on, the disillusioned prophet said to God, “Lord, you know what’s happening to me. Please step in and help me. . . . Your help seems as uncertain as a seasonal brook, like a spring that has gone dry” (Jeremiah 15:15,18). Later, Jeremiah would flat-out accuse God of deceiving him and blame Him for all of his troubles (Jeremiah 20:7-8). But in the midst of calling God out, something unlikely happened within Jeremiah. As much as he tried to forget God, the more he realized he couldn’t deny Him (Jeremiah 20:9).
Having doubts about God? Go ahead and tell Him. It won’t surprise Him or change His love for you. But, as it did for Jeremiah, it just might change what you think about Him. —Jeff Olson
Although I’ve been walking with God for decades, I admit that I sometimes still question Him. While I’ve learned not to blame Him for things I now recognize as Satan’s handiwork, there are still moments when my faith is weak and I wonder if He really cares.
It’s been helpful to see in the Bible examples of God’s servants going through their own times of questioning Him. One of the most dramatic examples occurred in the life of the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah. God called him as a teenager to go and warn his fellow people of His impending judgment. Knowing Jeremiah would encounter strong resistance, God encouraged him not to be afraid of the people, and promised His presence and protection (Jeremiah 1:5-19; 15:11).
Strong resistance is exactly what Jeremiah found as he spoke God’s message. His countrymen treated him like a joke and he was hated wherever he went (Jeremiah 15:10). They physically tortured him and at one point left him for dead in a pit (Jeremiah 38:6). Even Jeremiah’s family abandoned him (Jeremiah 12:6).
As time went on, the disillusioned prophet said to God, “Lord, you know what’s happening to me. Please step in and help me. . . . Your help seems as uncertain as a seasonal brook, like a spring that has gone dry” (Jeremiah 15:15,18). Later, Jeremiah would flat-out accuse God of deceiving him and blame Him for all of his troubles (Jeremiah 20:7-8). But in the midst of calling God out, something unlikely happened within Jeremiah. As much as he tried to forget God, the more he realized he couldn’t deny Him (Jeremiah 20:9).
Having doubts about God? Go ahead and tell Him. It won’t surprise Him or change His love for you. But, as it did for Jeremiah, it just might change what you think about Him. —Jeff Olson
March 17, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-The Overflow
From Our Daily Bread
Joyful shouts filtered into our house from outside and I wanted to know what was so wonderful out there. I peeked through the curtains and watched two young boys splashing in a thick stream of water that gushed from a fire hydrant.
The overflow reminded me of how God pours out blessings on His children, and how important it is to recognize that “the Lord . . . daily loads us with benefits” (Ps. 68:19).
Although I know He has furnished countless good things for me, when the car blows a gasket, when the flu infects my family, and when relationships threaten to unravel, dissatisfaction threatens my view of God’s blessings—they seem more like infrequent drips from a faucet rather than a flood of water from a hydrant!
Maybe that’s why in Psalm 103 David reminds us to “forget not all His benefits” (v.2). And then, to help us, he lists a torrent of blessings for believers. He reminds us that God forgives all our iniquities, heals all our diseases, redeems our lives from destruction, crowns us with lovingkindness, and satisfies our mouths with good things (vv.3-5).
Today, let’s take time to acknowledge God’s abundance instead of overlooking the overflow of His blessings.
We’re loaded with benefits daily,
Sent down from the Father above;
His mercies and blessings abounding
Are gifts of His marvelous love. —Anon.
Adding up your blessings will multiply your joy.
Joyful shouts filtered into our house from outside and I wanted to know what was so wonderful out there. I peeked through the curtains and watched two young boys splashing in a thick stream of water that gushed from a fire hydrant.
The overflow reminded me of how God pours out blessings on His children, and how important it is to recognize that “the Lord . . . daily loads us with benefits” (Ps. 68:19).
Although I know He has furnished countless good things for me, when the car blows a gasket, when the flu infects my family, and when relationships threaten to unravel, dissatisfaction threatens my view of God’s blessings—they seem more like infrequent drips from a faucet rather than a flood of water from a hydrant!
Maybe that’s why in Psalm 103 David reminds us to “forget not all His benefits” (v.2). And then, to help us, he lists a torrent of blessings for believers. He reminds us that God forgives all our iniquities, heals all our diseases, redeems our lives from destruction, crowns us with lovingkindness, and satisfies our mouths with good things (vv.3-5).
Today, let’s take time to acknowledge God’s abundance instead of overlooking the overflow of His blessings.
We’re loaded with benefits daily,
Sent down from the Father above;
His mercies and blessings abounding
Are gifts of His marvelous love. —Anon.
Adding up your blessings will multiply your joy.
Encouraging Words-Make Up Your Mind
From Strength For the Journey
“This is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best” Philippians 1:9-10
When I was young, my mother tried to prepare me for life by urging me to make up two things: my bed and my mind. When I got up each day she would remind me, “Joe, make up your bed.” And when I couldn’t decide what I wanted to do, she would prod me, “Joe, make up your mind.”
By far, making up our minds is the more important of the two skills. The real issue is not whether we can make up our mind; it’s whether we can make up our minds correctly. Correct thinking leads to correct decisions—the kind of decisions that guarantee productive and satisfying outcomes. But in our culture correct thinking is a challenge. Every day we are bombarded with secular input that is not only incorrect from God’s point of view, but also counterproductive in our relationships, aspirations, and spiritual growth.
This tug of war in our minds is really about values. Our values define us. They are the guiding principles that form our thoughts, our conclusions, and ultimately our behavior. They are instilled in us by our families, teachers, experiences, entertainment choices, our heroes, our community, and sometimes even by our fallen instincts. When we listen to all the voices around us and ignore the input of God’s Word, making up our mind always get us into trouble.
But when we accept the truth of God’s Word as the guiding principle for decision-making, we will be equipped with the discernment to make up our minds in good ways. And, there is no shortage of good advice in Scripture! God has given us the correct information on how to handle money, relationships, children, spouses, offenses, employers, employees, and politicians. You name it—God has the correct information to guide your mind to correct conclusions.
But beware—good discernment can be easily derailed by rationalization. It’s easy to make mental excuses that neutralize our ability to make good choices. We’ve all heard the excuses—and sometimes from our own lips: “I know it’s wrong, but . . .” or “If it weren’t for the way he treats me” or “I know a lot of people who do worse things.”
In Philippians 1:9-11, Paul encourages us to make excellent decisions that are the by-product of an uncompromised, excuse-free commitment to unselfish acts of love grounded in a discerning application of the knowledge of God’s Word. The result? A life that basks in the pleasures of purity, the fruit of the Spirit, and the fulfillment of our redemptive purpose to live to the praise and glory of God (Philippians 1:10-11).
So take my mother’s advice: Every day, make up your bed and make up your mind. Just be careful how you make up your mind!
“This is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best” Philippians 1:9-10
When I was young, my mother tried to prepare me for life by urging me to make up two things: my bed and my mind. When I got up each day she would remind me, “Joe, make up your bed.” And when I couldn’t decide what I wanted to do, she would prod me, “Joe, make up your mind.”
By far, making up our minds is the more important of the two skills. The real issue is not whether we can make up our mind; it’s whether we can make up our minds correctly. Correct thinking leads to correct decisions—the kind of decisions that guarantee productive and satisfying outcomes. But in our culture correct thinking is a challenge. Every day we are bombarded with secular input that is not only incorrect from God’s point of view, but also counterproductive in our relationships, aspirations, and spiritual growth.
This tug of war in our minds is really about values. Our values define us. They are the guiding principles that form our thoughts, our conclusions, and ultimately our behavior. They are instilled in us by our families, teachers, experiences, entertainment choices, our heroes, our community, and sometimes even by our fallen instincts. When we listen to all the voices around us and ignore the input of God’s Word, making up our mind always get us into trouble.
But when we accept the truth of God’s Word as the guiding principle for decision-making, we will be equipped with the discernment to make up our minds in good ways. And, there is no shortage of good advice in Scripture! God has given us the correct information on how to handle money, relationships, children, spouses, offenses, employers, employees, and politicians. You name it—God has the correct information to guide your mind to correct conclusions.
But beware—good discernment can be easily derailed by rationalization. It’s easy to make mental excuses that neutralize our ability to make good choices. We’ve all heard the excuses—and sometimes from our own lips: “I know it’s wrong, but . . .” or “If it weren’t for the way he treats me” or “I know a lot of people who do worse things.”
In Philippians 1:9-11, Paul encourages us to make excellent decisions that are the by-product of an uncompromised, excuse-free commitment to unselfish acts of love grounded in a discerning application of the knowledge of God’s Word. The result? A life that basks in the pleasures of purity, the fruit of the Spirit, and the fulfillment of our redemptive purpose to live to the praise and glory of God (Philippians 1:10-11).
So take my mother’s advice: Every day, make up your bed and make up your mind. Just be careful how you make up your mind!
March 16, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-Worthy Pursuit
From Reflections
Ecclesiastes 12:13, NIV: Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Day runs into day—week runs into week—and so much of what is done seems pointless. I look at my life today and ask, “Have I become today what I thought I might? Have I accomplished much?” Do I consider what I will have accomplished a year from now? What will I look back on, and will I only look back in regret? Solomon wrote, “Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun” (Eccl. 2:11). However, we do not have to resign to a live of pointless pursuit. God has much more in mind for each of us. There is a tendency to slip into mundane mediocrity and live life from the depths of our status quo. Yet to seek God…now that is truly a great adventure. And to seek Him daily—that is what will bring clarity and purpose to keep the days from simply running from one day to the next.
Ecclesiastes 12:13, NIV: Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Day runs into day—week runs into week—and so much of what is done seems pointless. I look at my life today and ask, “Have I become today what I thought I might? Have I accomplished much?” Do I consider what I will have accomplished a year from now? What will I look back on, and will I only look back in regret? Solomon wrote, “Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun” (Eccl. 2:11). However, we do not have to resign to a live of pointless pursuit. God has much more in mind for each of us. There is a tendency to slip into mundane mediocrity and live life from the depths of our status quo. Yet to seek God…now that is truly a great adventure. And to seek Him daily—that is what will bring clarity and purpose to keep the days from simply running from one day to the next.
Encouraging Words-Called For a Purpose
From Harvest Daily Devotion
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.—Galatians 5:22-23
People will endlessly debate the whole issue of election: Who is chosen? Who is not chosen? How are they chosen? But all too often, no one will ever ask why they were chosen. Jesus said, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain . . . ” (John 15:16). Why were believers chosen by God? They were chosen to bring forth fruit.
And one way to bring forth fruit is by a change in conduct and character. Galatians 5:22-23 tells us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” In this verse, the word for “love” in the original language is agape, used more than any other word for love in the New Testament. And how we define love? It is joy, patience, kindness, goodness, and so forth. So this verse deals with our attitude toward God, toward ourselves, and toward others.
But is it even possible to know love, joy, and peace in this cynical age? According to Scripture, they should be the present experience of every believer. It is joy, a joy unspeakable, regardless of circumstances. It is peace that passes all human understanding. This all comes as a result of our walk with God.
Then we have patience, kindness, and goodness, virtues that we show toward others. Patience speaks of longsuffering toward others. Kindness speaks of our disposition. Goodness speaks of our words and deeds. Faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control speak of who we are as people.
Believers talk about the power of the Holy Spirit. But we also need the fruit of the Spirit. That is what Jesus is looking for.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.—Galatians 5:22-23
People will endlessly debate the whole issue of election: Who is chosen? Who is not chosen? How are they chosen? But all too often, no one will ever ask why they were chosen. Jesus said, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain . . . ” (John 15:16). Why were believers chosen by God? They were chosen to bring forth fruit.
And one way to bring forth fruit is by a change in conduct and character. Galatians 5:22-23 tells us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” In this verse, the word for “love” in the original language is agape, used more than any other word for love in the New Testament. And how we define love? It is joy, patience, kindness, goodness, and so forth. So this verse deals with our attitude toward God, toward ourselves, and toward others.
But is it even possible to know love, joy, and peace in this cynical age? According to Scripture, they should be the present experience of every believer. It is joy, a joy unspeakable, regardless of circumstances. It is peace that passes all human understanding. This all comes as a result of our walk with God.
Then we have patience, kindness, and goodness, virtues that we show toward others. Patience speaks of longsuffering toward others. Kindness speaks of our disposition. Goodness speaks of our words and deeds. Faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control speak of who we are as people.
Believers talk about the power of the Holy Spirit. But we also need the fruit of the Spirit. That is what Jesus is looking for.
March 15, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-No Earthly Good?
From The Active Word
And we also ought to lay down our lives... 1 John 3:16 (NKJV)
“You’re so heavenly minded that you’re no earthly good!”
Ever hear that expression before? Of course you have, because there’s often a dynamic that takes place when it comes to the balance between earth and eternity. Here’s what can happen: People can become so fully focused on the things of eternity that they lose touch with their responsibilities in the here and now.
That’s the exact opposite effect eternity is supposed to have on us. While God wants us to have an eternal perspective, He also wants us actively engaged with the world around us. The hope of Heaven shouldn’t render us useless but rather make us more and more useful.
What the world needs are people who are more sacrificial and less selfish. A heavenward focus here on earth ought to inspire an attitude of sacrifice. It’s people who realize that Heaven is awaiting them who are able to loosen their grip on the things of this life. They can gladly sacrifice now because they’re fully assured of what God will give them later.
Now, what would happen if everyone headed for Heaven really took hold of this truth and applied it in a radical way? What if they became more sacrificial and less selfish? What if they started serving others instead of themselves? What if they started setting aside their own rights and privileges in order to make things better for the people around them?
You already know the answer. Their lives would become much more useful because, as Jesus taught us, our lives become most useful when we sacrificially lay them down (John 12:25). A healthy perspective of Heaven can always be measured by a sacrificial attitude here on earth. May we be filled with both!
And we also ought to lay down our lives... 1 John 3:16 (NKJV)
“You’re so heavenly minded that you’re no earthly good!”
Ever hear that expression before? Of course you have, because there’s often a dynamic that takes place when it comes to the balance between earth and eternity. Here’s what can happen: People can become so fully focused on the things of eternity that they lose touch with their responsibilities in the here and now.
That’s the exact opposite effect eternity is supposed to have on us. While God wants us to have an eternal perspective, He also wants us actively engaged with the world around us. The hope of Heaven shouldn’t render us useless but rather make us more and more useful.
What the world needs are people who are more sacrificial and less selfish. A heavenward focus here on earth ought to inspire an attitude of sacrifice. It’s people who realize that Heaven is awaiting them who are able to loosen their grip on the things of this life. They can gladly sacrifice now because they’re fully assured of what God will give them later.
Now, what would happen if everyone headed for Heaven really took hold of this truth and applied it in a radical way? What if they became more sacrificial and less selfish? What if they started serving others instead of themselves? What if they started setting aside their own rights and privileges in order to make things better for the people around them?
You already know the answer. Their lives would become much more useful because, as Jesus taught us, our lives become most useful when we sacrificially lay them down (John 12:25). A healthy perspective of Heaven can always be measured by a sacrificial attitude here on earth. May we be filled with both!
Encouraging Words-The Christian Life is Like Climbing Stairs
From Daily Disciples Devotional
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2
We realize early in our Christian life that we start on the bottom floor of the staircase. Our main goal is to get up to the top. While first beginning to ascend, the climb seems to go easy and fast. After all, the need for change was evident and our goals for coming to Christ were clear. Who wants to stay on the bottom step? As we keep climbing, sometimes we wonder if we will ever make it to the top. Our muscles ache and our heart pounds at times. We pray for an elevator or escalator to make the climb easier. But God makes sure that we consciously have to make a choice to go each step, and God is not in a rush. He waits patiently, lovingly and relentlessly for us to catch our breath and relax.
At these times of rest, we look down and see what we have had to overcome just to get this high. God does not let us know how far we still have to go. But we still get overwhelmed, thinking about the remaining climb. We gaze at the top, keep looking up, and taking one step at a time. At some levels, the rest is nice with balconies and water fountains. At other times, only by faith do we keep climbing. We know that climbing back down would be a mistake but we think about it sometimes. Other times, we just want to sit right where we are without continuing in the climb, just hang out for a while in one place. We pass those on our way up the stairs who are hanging out in their spot, and then sometimes we step aside to let someone pass by who is heading back down the stairs. Those of us who continue upward know that the temptation to stop is not a valid option because we hear the Lord’s call to go higher. In our heart of hearts, we know that when we finally arrive, we will be so happy we kept climbing. There is no hurry, but no advantage to slowing down either. So we pray for a steady pace, understanding each level and making a conscious decision to move up and onward.
Where are you at today on the staircase to God? Are you hanging out, taking a break, or are you seriously contemplating heading back down? Keep a couple of things in mind: fix your eyes upward towards the top and listen for God’s voice. Not only is the Lord calling you to come, to keep moving, but He is also waiting for you. And the best part of all of it? He is with you in every step you take. So today, lift your head up and get moving. The prize awaits at the end.
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2
We realize early in our Christian life that we start on the bottom floor of the staircase. Our main goal is to get up to the top. While first beginning to ascend, the climb seems to go easy and fast. After all, the need for change was evident and our goals for coming to Christ were clear. Who wants to stay on the bottom step? As we keep climbing, sometimes we wonder if we will ever make it to the top. Our muscles ache and our heart pounds at times. We pray for an elevator or escalator to make the climb easier. But God makes sure that we consciously have to make a choice to go each step, and God is not in a rush. He waits patiently, lovingly and relentlessly for us to catch our breath and relax.
At these times of rest, we look down and see what we have had to overcome just to get this high. God does not let us know how far we still have to go. But we still get overwhelmed, thinking about the remaining climb. We gaze at the top, keep looking up, and taking one step at a time. At some levels, the rest is nice with balconies and water fountains. At other times, only by faith do we keep climbing. We know that climbing back down would be a mistake but we think about it sometimes. Other times, we just want to sit right where we are without continuing in the climb, just hang out for a while in one place. We pass those on our way up the stairs who are hanging out in their spot, and then sometimes we step aside to let someone pass by who is heading back down the stairs. Those of us who continue upward know that the temptation to stop is not a valid option because we hear the Lord’s call to go higher. In our heart of hearts, we know that when we finally arrive, we will be so happy we kept climbing. There is no hurry, but no advantage to slowing down either. So we pray for a steady pace, understanding each level and making a conscious decision to move up and onward.
Where are you at today on the staircase to God? Are you hanging out, taking a break, or are you seriously contemplating heading back down? Keep a couple of things in mind: fix your eyes upward towards the top and listen for God’s voice. Not only is the Lord calling you to come, to keep moving, but He is also waiting for you. And the best part of all of it? He is with you in every step you take. So today, lift your head up and get moving. The prize awaits at the end.
March 14, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-The Lord Is Still In Control
From Wisdom From the Psalms
Psalm 27:3
Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this I will be confident.
Each new day brings with it the threat of war somewhere in the world. Many countries have seldom known peace. Even in America, there are people who live in fear for the future as we escalate the creation of new nuclear instruments of destruction. If this world is our only source of faith, then we are in serious trouble.
Thankfully, our destiny is not tied to this world, but to the eternal domain of our God. We need fear nothing, since we have the assurance of an eternal home of peace and sanity. There is great comfort in knowing that the Lord is still in control. This world may come to an untimely end, but the heavens shall endure forever. Praise God!
Prayer: Maker of all good things, be the source of sanity in a world gone mad. In the face of nuclear terror, be our support and strength. Keep us safely in Your care, both this day a nd evermore. Amen.
Psalm 27:3
Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this I will be confident.
Each new day brings with it the threat of war somewhere in the world. Many countries have seldom known peace. Even in America, there are people who live in fear for the future as we escalate the creation of new nuclear instruments of destruction. If this world is our only source of faith, then we are in serious trouble.
Thankfully, our destiny is not tied to this world, but to the eternal domain of our God. We need fear nothing, since we have the assurance of an eternal home of peace and sanity. There is great comfort in knowing that the Lord is still in control. This world may come to an untimely end, but the heavens shall endure forever. Praise God!
Prayer: Maker of all good things, be the source of sanity in a world gone mad. In the face of nuclear terror, be our support and strength. Keep us safely in Your care, both this day a nd evermore. Amen.
Encouraging Words-Jealousy...or Jesus
From A Wisdom Retreat
Romans 13:13-14
Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.
In one of his books, Dr. Lloyd John Ogilvie, retired Chaplain of the U.S. Senate, retells an ancient Greek legend of a major foot race between two competitive young athletes. As in all sports contests, there is a winner and a loser—and the loser of this one was devastated. He had trained long and hard, believing himself to be the superior of the two runners. His memory became haunted by the face of his opponent and the man's adoring fans.
Moved by the victory, the city erected a statue in the winner's honor. The losing athlete was consumed with envy, both physically and emotionally; he could think of nothing but his defeat and his opponent's new-found prestige. Ultimately, he reached the decision to destroy the statue that plagued him with the daily reminder of lost glory; a plan began to take form in his mind.
Late each night, when the city square was empty, the youth went to the statue and chiseled away at the base, hoping to weaken the foundation enough to make it eventually topple. While chipping at the sculpture with especially violent envy one night, he misjudged his efforts. The heavy statue teetered on its already fragile base, crashing to the ground. The disgruntled athlete was crushed beneath the weight of the marble replica of his nemesis, literally destroyed by his own jealousy.
Obviously, the moral of this story lies in the fact that this man had been dying long before the statue fell on him. Inch by inch, blow by blow of the chisel, he had become the victim of his own dissatisfaction.
How many Christians have you known who were overcome with bitterness? It chips away at a believer's life, destroying the spirit and corrupting the heart.
Hebrews 12:15 warns, "See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled." The Scripture is clear—a Christian is to overcome his feelings of bitterness lest he become overtaken by them, for to be defiled is to be destroyed . . . and bitterness has the power to do both.
In addition, bitterness resulting from jealousy is the complete opposite of putting on Christ—as you would put on clothing, your attire should be "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control," as described in Galatians 5:21-23.
Since you can't wear both, which outfit will you choose to wear—jealousy . . . or Jesus?
Prayer Point: Are you struggling with bitterness toward someone? Is your spirit being eroded by the slow chipping away of jealousy's chisel? Pray that God will reveal to you any hidden malice in your heart toward others; ask Him to replace it with a spirit of gentleness and kindness.
Romans 13:13-14
Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.
In one of his books, Dr. Lloyd John Ogilvie, retired Chaplain of the U.S. Senate, retells an ancient Greek legend of a major foot race between two competitive young athletes. As in all sports contests, there is a winner and a loser—and the loser of this one was devastated. He had trained long and hard, believing himself to be the superior of the two runners. His memory became haunted by the face of his opponent and the man's adoring fans.
Moved by the victory, the city erected a statue in the winner's honor. The losing athlete was consumed with envy, both physically and emotionally; he could think of nothing but his defeat and his opponent's new-found prestige. Ultimately, he reached the decision to destroy the statue that plagued him with the daily reminder of lost glory; a plan began to take form in his mind.
Late each night, when the city square was empty, the youth went to the statue and chiseled away at the base, hoping to weaken the foundation enough to make it eventually topple. While chipping at the sculpture with especially violent envy one night, he misjudged his efforts. The heavy statue teetered on its already fragile base, crashing to the ground. The disgruntled athlete was crushed beneath the weight of the marble replica of his nemesis, literally destroyed by his own jealousy.
Obviously, the moral of this story lies in the fact that this man had been dying long before the statue fell on him. Inch by inch, blow by blow of the chisel, he had become the victim of his own dissatisfaction.
How many Christians have you known who were overcome with bitterness? It chips away at a believer's life, destroying the spirit and corrupting the heart.
Hebrews 12:15 warns, "See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled." The Scripture is clear—a Christian is to overcome his feelings of bitterness lest he become overtaken by them, for to be defiled is to be destroyed . . . and bitterness has the power to do both.
In addition, bitterness resulting from jealousy is the complete opposite of putting on Christ—as you would put on clothing, your attire should be "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control," as described in Galatians 5:21-23.
Since you can't wear both, which outfit will you choose to wear—jealousy . . . or Jesus?
Prayer Point: Are you struggling with bitterness toward someone? Is your spirit being eroded by the slow chipping away of jealousy's chisel? Pray that God will reveal to you any hidden malice in your heart toward others; ask Him to replace it with a spirit of gentleness and kindness.
March 13, 2011
Welcome to Affirming Sunday Worship
If you don't have a welcoming church near you, or you just can't make yourself step into one, we're bringing worship to you. We have listed below links to open and affirming churches that feature live worship music and/or services that have been previously recorded. We hope you are blessed and take time out of your busy schedule to enter into the Lord's day.
If one of the live feeds we post isn't working (stuff happens, especially during the winter) we hope you will take time to check out a different live broadcast or peruse our selection of pre-recorded services listed below.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail at encouragementforliving@gmail.com and share it with us.
The list follows the jump:
If one of the live feeds we post isn't working (stuff happens, especially during the winter) we hope you will take time to check out a different live broadcast or peruse our selection of pre-recorded services listed below.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail at encouragementforliving@gmail.com and share it with us.
The list follows the jump:
March 12, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-A Jonah Moment
From Crosswalk the Devotional
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins. - Mark 11:25
Last week I had a Jonah Moment. I was on Facebook, e-mailing some old friends, when I noticed a message posted on one of the walls. A guy I knew from school had just been admitted to the hospital, and though it wasn't anything serious, he had still sent out a Facebook post asking for prayers in the days ahead. Now, this guy and I had never gotten along, and I'm ashamed to say that my first thought after reading the post was "Ha, you deserved that."
A day later, I was reading my Bible when I came across the story of Jonah. Most Christians probably learned this story in Grade School. They'll remember how God commanded Jonah to preach to the people of Nineveh, but Jonah, hating Nineveh, tried to sail to Tarshish instead. God then sent a great fish to swallow him and deliver him to the city. Look at what's written in the very last chapter of the book.
But Jonah was greatly displeased and became angry. He prayed to the LORD, "O LORD, is this not what I said when I was still at home? That is why I was so quick to flee to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Now, O LORD, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live."
But the LORD replied, "Have you any right to be angry?" Jonah went out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. Then the LORD God provided a vine and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the vine. But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the vine so that it withered.
When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah's head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, "It would be better for me to die than to live." But God said to Jonah, "Do you have a right to be angry about the vine?" "I do," he said. "I am angry enough to die." But the LORD said, "You have been concerned about this vine, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?" - Jonah 4:1-11
We Christians usually give Jonah a lot of grief for not following God's commands, but the truth is we aren't much different. Like Jonah, I had let my pride and my past feelings get in the way of my duty to God.
God does not allow us to carry old grudges, and if we think becoming a Christian means Christ will beat up on our enemies, we will be sorely disappointed. Instead, Jesus has commanded us to live in harmony with our Christian Brothers and Sisters, and forgive those who have sinned against us. After all, that's what Christ did for us.
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins. - Mark 11:25
Last week I had a Jonah Moment. I was on Facebook, e-mailing some old friends, when I noticed a message posted on one of the walls. A guy I knew from school had just been admitted to the hospital, and though it wasn't anything serious, he had still sent out a Facebook post asking for prayers in the days ahead. Now, this guy and I had never gotten along, and I'm ashamed to say that my first thought after reading the post was "Ha, you deserved that."
A day later, I was reading my Bible when I came across the story of Jonah. Most Christians probably learned this story in Grade School. They'll remember how God commanded Jonah to preach to the people of Nineveh, but Jonah, hating Nineveh, tried to sail to Tarshish instead. God then sent a great fish to swallow him and deliver him to the city. Look at what's written in the very last chapter of the book.
But Jonah was greatly displeased and became angry. He prayed to the LORD, "O LORD, is this not what I said when I was still at home? That is why I was so quick to flee to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Now, O LORD, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live."
But the LORD replied, "Have you any right to be angry?" Jonah went out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. Then the LORD God provided a vine and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the vine. But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the vine so that it withered.
When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah's head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, "It would be better for me to die than to live." But God said to Jonah, "Do you have a right to be angry about the vine?" "I do," he said. "I am angry enough to die." But the LORD said, "You have been concerned about this vine, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?" - Jonah 4:1-11
We Christians usually give Jonah a lot of grief for not following God's commands, but the truth is we aren't much different. Like Jonah, I had let my pride and my past feelings get in the way of my duty to God.
God does not allow us to carry old grudges, and if we think becoming a Christian means Christ will beat up on our enemies, we will be sorely disappointed. Instead, Jesus has commanded us to live in harmony with our Christian Brothers and Sisters, and forgive those who have sinned against us. After all, that's what Christ did for us.
Encouraging Words-Where Would Jesus Sit?
From Encouragement for Today
“When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating
with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples:
‘Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?’” Mark 2:16 (NIV 2010)
At a recent funeral reception, two choices faced me. Both concerned where to sit. Not that big of a deal, really. But it was. That day, I had to choose between where I felt most comfortable sitting, and where Jesus wanted me to sit. They weren’t the same.
Normally when in this situation, I would look for a friend, or at least a friendly face. That day, except for a few family members who were surrounded by people, strangers faced me in every corner. My choice was between strangers who looked like me, and those who didn’t.
It’s not that they really looked like me, they just seemed like me on the surface - traditionally dressed, about my age, and talking about things I might talk about. Then there was the group outside on the back patio. I knew who they were, and they weren’t like me. Their lifestyle choices were far from mine. Were they sitting outside because they didn’t “fit” with the inside group? No one would have intentionally snubbed them, but they sat apart nonetheless.
Plate in hand, I stood beside the buffet table weighing my options. And I asked myself, “Where would Jesus sit?” Would He choose to sit inside with those like Him? Or would He be outside with those whose choices revealed a heart far from God? The answer was obvious; I headed for the back door.
“May I sit with you?” I asked. Smiles and nods greeted me. Immediately someone jumped to grab a chair, another introduced himself, and I was drawn into the lively conversation. The next hour flew by as we chatted and laughed about vacations, movies and community happenings.
They could have judged me for being obviously different from them, but they didn’t. For that moment in time, they welcomed me into their group. As we parted ways, my mind imagined Jesus intentionally choosing to hang out with those shunned by the religious types. They welcomed His presence. In spending time with those far from God, He created quite a stir.
I can imagine a disciple or two trying to warn Jesus about the dangers of hanging out with “sinners.” Perhaps they thought Him naive, or simply unwise. “What will people think?” some might have said. “Will others trust what we have to say after they see us having dinner with them?”
But Jesus didn’t worry about what others thought. He didn’t worry about His reputation being sullied by His choice of friends. Instead, He went out of His way to show acceptance and love to those who needed Him.
That’s how I want to be. My choice of where to sit should expand beyond an hour at a reception - it should be a lifestyle of reaching out to those who need to know Jesus. Whether at church, the cafeteria at work, the bleachers on Saturday morning, or a child’s birthday party, there will be people far from God.
Each time I have a choice, the questions will be the same: Will I gravitate towards the known? Or where Jesus might go?
We are called to be set apart in many ways; we don’t live like the world lives. But Jesus also said we are to be a light. In my experience, lighting a candle in a well-lit room doesn’t make much of a difference. A candle in the dark, however, changes the scene dramatically.
So the next time we have a choice of where to sit, let’s think about Jesus and go where He would choose.
Dear Lord, thank You for loving this broken and hurting world. You’ve asked me to do the same. Forgive me for those times I’ve chosen the safe route. I know those times have been based in fear, and concern for myself. Help me to be a woman who trusts You enough with her reputation that she’s willing to sit where Jesus would sit. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating
with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples:
‘Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?’” Mark 2:16 (NIV 2010)
At a recent funeral reception, two choices faced me. Both concerned where to sit. Not that big of a deal, really. But it was. That day, I had to choose between where I felt most comfortable sitting, and where Jesus wanted me to sit. They weren’t the same.
Normally when in this situation, I would look for a friend, or at least a friendly face. That day, except for a few family members who were surrounded by people, strangers faced me in every corner. My choice was between strangers who looked like me, and those who didn’t.
It’s not that they really looked like me, they just seemed like me on the surface - traditionally dressed, about my age, and talking about things I might talk about. Then there was the group outside on the back patio. I knew who they were, and they weren’t like me. Their lifestyle choices were far from mine. Were they sitting outside because they didn’t “fit” with the inside group? No one would have intentionally snubbed them, but they sat apart nonetheless.
Plate in hand, I stood beside the buffet table weighing my options. And I asked myself, “Where would Jesus sit?” Would He choose to sit inside with those like Him? Or would He be outside with those whose choices revealed a heart far from God? The answer was obvious; I headed for the back door.
“May I sit with you?” I asked. Smiles and nods greeted me. Immediately someone jumped to grab a chair, another introduced himself, and I was drawn into the lively conversation. The next hour flew by as we chatted and laughed about vacations, movies and community happenings.
They could have judged me for being obviously different from them, but they didn’t. For that moment in time, they welcomed me into their group. As we parted ways, my mind imagined Jesus intentionally choosing to hang out with those shunned by the religious types. They welcomed His presence. In spending time with those far from God, He created quite a stir.
I can imagine a disciple or two trying to warn Jesus about the dangers of hanging out with “sinners.” Perhaps they thought Him naive, or simply unwise. “What will people think?” some might have said. “Will others trust what we have to say after they see us having dinner with them?”
But Jesus didn’t worry about what others thought. He didn’t worry about His reputation being sullied by His choice of friends. Instead, He went out of His way to show acceptance and love to those who needed Him.
That’s how I want to be. My choice of where to sit should expand beyond an hour at a reception - it should be a lifestyle of reaching out to those who need to know Jesus. Whether at church, the cafeteria at work, the bleachers on Saturday morning, or a child’s birthday party, there will be people far from God.
Each time I have a choice, the questions will be the same: Will I gravitate towards the known? Or where Jesus might go?
We are called to be set apart in many ways; we don’t live like the world lives. But Jesus also said we are to be a light. In my experience, lighting a candle in a well-lit room doesn’t make much of a difference. A candle in the dark, however, changes the scene dramatically.
So the next time we have a choice of where to sit, let’s think about Jesus and go where He would choose.
Dear Lord, thank You for loving this broken and hurting world. You’ve asked me to do the same. Forgive me for those times I’ve chosen the safe route. I know those times have been based in fear, and concern for myself. Help me to be a woman who trusts You enough with her reputation that she’s willing to sit where Jesus would sit. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
March 11, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-
From Today God Is First
"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed" (1 Peter 4:12-13).
I've observed a principle: The pathway to leadership almost always takes us through the valley of adversity. We see this principle not only in the story of Joseph, who endured thirteen years of adversity, but also in the lives of many other leaders in both the Old and New Testament.
Moses was raised in the royal splendor of Pharaoh's household in Egypt, but he was forced to flee and spend 40 years in desert exile before God spoke from a burning bush and called him to lead the Hebrew people out of slavery. Joshua spent the years of his youth as a slave in Egypt and his middle-aged years wandering in the desert at Moses' side. He was well acquainted with adversity when God called him to lead Israel's armies in the conquest of Canaan. The prophet Daniel was thrown into a den of hungry lions before he could reach a place of power and influence in the Babylonian courts. And we see this same pattern played out in the lives of David, Isaiah, Amos, Hosea and other Old Testament leaders.
Turning to the New Testament, we see that even Jesus had to face adversity in the desert, suffering hunger, thirst, temptation and opposition from Satan. Only then could He begin His public ministry. The Lord's disciples had to endure the loss of their Master, the failure of their own faith and character, and the dark days of despair between the cross and the empty tomb before they could become the founding leaders of the Lord's church.
It's hard to find anyone in Christian history who became a great leader without earning an advanced degree at the "University of Adversity."
"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed" (1 Peter 4:12-13).
I've observed a principle: The pathway to leadership almost always takes us through the valley of adversity. We see this principle not only in the story of Joseph, who endured thirteen years of adversity, but also in the lives of many other leaders in both the Old and New Testament.
Moses was raised in the royal splendor of Pharaoh's household in Egypt, but he was forced to flee and spend 40 years in desert exile before God spoke from a burning bush and called him to lead the Hebrew people out of slavery. Joshua spent the years of his youth as a slave in Egypt and his middle-aged years wandering in the desert at Moses' side. He was well acquainted with adversity when God called him to lead Israel's armies in the conquest of Canaan. The prophet Daniel was thrown into a den of hungry lions before he could reach a place of power and influence in the Babylonian courts. And we see this same pattern played out in the lives of David, Isaiah, Amos, Hosea and other Old Testament leaders.
Turning to the New Testament, we see that even Jesus had to face adversity in the desert, suffering hunger, thirst, temptation and opposition from Satan. Only then could He begin His public ministry. The Lord's disciples had to endure the loss of their Master, the failure of their own faith and character, and the dark days of despair between the cross and the empty tomb before they could become the founding leaders of the Lord's church.
It's hard to find anyone in Christian history who became a great leader without earning an advanced degree at the "University of Adversity."
Encouraging Words-Good Ground
From Our Daily Journey
At dusk, I left the house with a fistful of wildflower seeds. I crossed the street and tossed them into the open field adjacent to our home. I waited all summer for the flowers to bloom, but all that grew was a monster thistle bush, milkweed, and some prairie grass. Since then, I’ve learned a bit about gardening. I now know that my silly experiment was doomed to fail because seeds prefer soil that is moist, free of weeds, and deep enough to accommodate their roots. They need good ground.
In the parable of the sower, Jesus said that we are good ground for the gospel when we hear and understand God’s Word. While most people get the gist of the gospel, not everyone understands it. For example, recent studies show that many professing Christians don’t believe Jesus is the only way to eternal life. Our world wants us to be cool with Christ, as well as other religious leaders, teachings, and practices. That’s not what it looks like to understand the gospel.
Those of us who comprehend the good news and “cling to it” are supposed to bear fruit, patiently producing “a huge harvest” (Luke 8:15). Spiritually speaking, our lives should be characterized by Christlike righteousness (Philippians 1:11). Over a lifetime of experiences, our spiritual yield of righteousness should multiply. Jesus said, “When you produce much fruit, you are My true disciples” (John 15:8).
We can consider ourselves good ground for the gospel if we understand that God sent His only Son to take the punishment for our sin, and that Christ alone is the way to eternal life (John 14:6). Then we can bear the fruit of a changed life—one that produces “thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted” (Matthew 13:23).
At dusk, I left the house with a fistful of wildflower seeds. I crossed the street and tossed them into the open field adjacent to our home. I waited all summer for the flowers to bloom, but all that grew was a monster thistle bush, milkweed, and some prairie grass. Since then, I’ve learned a bit about gardening. I now know that my silly experiment was doomed to fail because seeds prefer soil that is moist, free of weeds, and deep enough to accommodate their roots. They need good ground.
In the parable of the sower, Jesus said that we are good ground for the gospel when we hear and understand God’s Word. While most people get the gist of the gospel, not everyone understands it. For example, recent studies show that many professing Christians don’t believe Jesus is the only way to eternal life. Our world wants us to be cool with Christ, as well as other religious leaders, teachings, and practices. That’s not what it looks like to understand the gospel.
Those of us who comprehend the good news and “cling to it” are supposed to bear fruit, patiently producing “a huge harvest” (Luke 8:15). Spiritually speaking, our lives should be characterized by Christlike righteousness (Philippians 1:11). Over a lifetime of experiences, our spiritual yield of righteousness should multiply. Jesus said, “When you produce much fruit, you are My true disciples” (John 15:8).
We can consider ourselves good ground for the gospel if we understand that God sent His only Son to take the punishment for our sin, and that Christ alone is the way to eternal life (John 14:6). Then we can bear the fruit of a changed life—one that produces “thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted” (Matthew 13:23).
March 10, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-Forgetting Ourselves
From Our Daily Bread
I was fishing a local trout stream last summer, when my attention was fixed on a fish that was feeding nearby. I looked up and there on the bank I spied an acquaintance—nationally known fly-fishing guide and outfitter Dave Tucker. Immediately I became aware of my own performance, bungled the next cast, and lost the fish. So it is when we turn our attention away from the activity at hand and think about ourselves.
W. H. Auden has an engaging little poem about those who forget themselves in an activity—a cook mixing a sauce, a surgeon making an incision, a clerk completing a bill of lading. He says that all “wear the same rapt expression, forgetting themselves in a function.” That phrase “forgetting themselves in a function” brings Philippians 2:3-4 to mind: “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out . . . for the interests of others.”
When I’m listening to a friend, I need to remind myself to focus on him, not to begin wondering how I look, what he thinks of me, what I should say next. Let’s put others first by listening in rapt attention, concentrating on the one in front of us, forgetting ourselves.
When we hold our tongues and listen,
We communicate our care;
For an open ear speaks volumes
To a heart that’s in despair. —Sper
Listening may be the most loving thing you do today.
I was fishing a local trout stream last summer, when my attention was fixed on a fish that was feeding nearby. I looked up and there on the bank I spied an acquaintance—nationally known fly-fishing guide and outfitter Dave Tucker. Immediately I became aware of my own performance, bungled the next cast, and lost the fish. So it is when we turn our attention away from the activity at hand and think about ourselves.
W. H. Auden has an engaging little poem about those who forget themselves in an activity—a cook mixing a sauce, a surgeon making an incision, a clerk completing a bill of lading. He says that all “wear the same rapt expression, forgetting themselves in a function.” That phrase “forgetting themselves in a function” brings Philippians 2:3-4 to mind: “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out . . . for the interests of others.”
When I’m listening to a friend, I need to remind myself to focus on him, not to begin wondering how I look, what he thinks of me, what I should say next. Let’s put others first by listening in rapt attention, concentrating on the one in front of us, forgetting ourselves.
When we hold our tongues and listen,
We communicate our care;
For an open ear speaks volumes
To a heart that’s in despair. —Sper
Listening may be the most loving thing you do today.
Encouraging Words-The Problem With Self-Sufficiency
From Strength For the Journey
I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. —Revelation 3:15
The city of Laodicea had a water problem. One nearby town had fabulous hot springs and another had cold, clear water. Laodicea, however, was stuck with tepid, mineral-laden water that tasted like sulphur. Not hot. Not cold. Just gross.
Given those facts, the words of Jesus to the Laodicean believers in Revelation 3 must have stung. Jesus rebuked them for being “neither cold nor hot” (Rev. 3:15). And when He thought of them, He felt like vomiting (Rev. 3:16)—like the effect of their drinking water.
What was their problem? It was the sin of self-sufficiency. The Laodiceans had become so affluent that they had forgotten how much they needed Jesus (Rev. 3:17).
When we say we have everything we need, but Jesus isn’t at the top of the list, He is deeply offended. Self-sufficiency distracts us from pursuing the things we really need that only He can give. If you’d rather have cash than character, if your credit cards are maximized and your righteousness is minimized, if you’ve become smart but aren’t wise, then you’ve been shopping in all the wrong places. Jesus offers commodities that are far better (Rev. 3:18).
He’s knocking at your heart’s door (Rev. 3:20). Let Him in. He will give you all you really need!
We must be careful to avoid
All self-sufficiency;
If sinful pride gets in the way,
God’s hand we will not see. —Sper
We always have enough when God is our supply.
I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. —Revelation 3:15
The city of Laodicea had a water problem. One nearby town had fabulous hot springs and another had cold, clear water. Laodicea, however, was stuck with tepid, mineral-laden water that tasted like sulphur. Not hot. Not cold. Just gross.
Given those facts, the words of Jesus to the Laodicean believers in Revelation 3 must have stung. Jesus rebuked them for being “neither cold nor hot” (Rev. 3:15). And when He thought of them, He felt like vomiting (Rev. 3:16)—like the effect of their drinking water.
What was their problem? It was the sin of self-sufficiency. The Laodiceans had become so affluent that they had forgotten how much they needed Jesus (Rev. 3:17).
When we say we have everything we need, but Jesus isn’t at the top of the list, He is deeply offended. Self-sufficiency distracts us from pursuing the things we really need that only He can give. If you’d rather have cash than character, if your credit cards are maximized and your righteousness is minimized, if you’ve become smart but aren’t wise, then you’ve been shopping in all the wrong places. Jesus offers commodities that are far better (Rev. 3:18).
He’s knocking at your heart’s door (Rev. 3:20). Let Him in. He will give you all you really need!
We must be careful to avoid
All self-sufficiency;
If sinful pride gets in the way,
God’s hand we will not see. —Sper
We always have enough when God is our supply.
March 9, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-In Time
From Reflections
Matthew 6:27, NKJV: Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
Of all the things we have that require from us a decisive act, it is amazing how much time we spend worrying over things for which we have no ability to act. Simply stated: We worry much about things we cannot change. My son was what many would call, "a late bloomer." He hated being the shortest boy in his class, and desperately wanted to grow. There was nothing I could do to help him. There was nothing he could do. It was simply something that took the things we need to grow—along with a good dose of time. There are a great many things we worry over—some known—some unbeknownst to us. I knew a youth who was passionate in her faith for Christ. In her eyes, she couldn’t grow fast enough. But it was inevitable she would learn that not only is patience a virtue, it is a spiritual fruit that grows over time. Our spiritual selves do not mature over night. We require the right things to grow, along with a good dose of time. And in time, we do grow. It is not we who add to our spiritual height, but God alone. So be encouraged. All good things come from the Father above—and so very often they require the process, and sometimes the pains, of time.
Matthew 6:27, NKJV: Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
Of all the things we have that require from us a decisive act, it is amazing how much time we spend worrying over things for which we have no ability to act. Simply stated: We worry much about things we cannot change. My son was what many would call, "a late bloomer." He hated being the shortest boy in his class, and desperately wanted to grow. There was nothing I could do to help him. There was nothing he could do. It was simply something that took the things we need to grow—along with a good dose of time. There are a great many things we worry over—some known—some unbeknownst to us. I knew a youth who was passionate in her faith for Christ. In her eyes, she couldn’t grow fast enough. But it was inevitable she would learn that not only is patience a virtue, it is a spiritual fruit that grows over time. Our spiritual selves do not mature over night. We require the right things to grow, along with a good dose of time. And in time, we do grow. It is not we who add to our spiritual height, but God alone. So be encouraged. All good things come from the Father above—and so very often they require the process, and sometimes the pains, of time.
Encouraging Words-It's How You Finish
From Greg Laurie Daily Devotion
Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.”—John 4:34
G. K. Chesterton said, “Christianity has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult and not tried.” If someone says they have tried Christianity and it didn’t work for them, it is because they never had a true encounter with the living God. I believe any person who has really met Jesus Christ will continue to grow spiritually.
Sometimes we wonder about people who seem to have responded to the gospel but then fall away. I would suggest that if they truly were believers, they never would have left. Having said that, it is possible to be a true believer and go astray. If you are a believer, you always will come home again. But if you never were a believer, you won’t. The Bible says, “A pig returns to its sloth and a dog returns to its own vomit.” A pig goes back to his element; he never changes. But if you are a prodigal, then you will always return home again.
Sometimes people start off with great enthusiasm and don’t finish what they have begun. And sometimes people start off weak, but they get stronger with the passing of time. We see this in the life of Nicodemus, who was a religious leader and national celebrity in Jesus’ day. John 3 tells us that he came to Jesus at night, asking questions. We don’t know whether he believed at that point. But when Jesus was crucified, it was Nicodemus who stepped forward, along with Joseph of Arimathea, to claim the body of Jesus. The point is that Nicodemus ended well.
Some have a feeble beginning, but a strong finish. But that is better than having a strong beginning and no finish at all. So it is not how you start out—It is how you end!
Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.”—John 4:34
G. K. Chesterton said, “Christianity has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult and not tried.” If someone says they have tried Christianity and it didn’t work for them, it is because they never had a true encounter with the living God. I believe any person who has really met Jesus Christ will continue to grow spiritually.
Sometimes we wonder about people who seem to have responded to the gospel but then fall away. I would suggest that if they truly were believers, they never would have left. Having said that, it is possible to be a true believer and go astray. If you are a believer, you always will come home again. But if you never were a believer, you won’t. The Bible says, “A pig returns to its sloth and a dog returns to its own vomit.” A pig goes back to his element; he never changes. But if you are a prodigal, then you will always return home again.
Sometimes people start off with great enthusiasm and don’t finish what they have begun. And sometimes people start off weak, but they get stronger with the passing of time. We see this in the life of Nicodemus, who was a religious leader and national celebrity in Jesus’ day. John 3 tells us that he came to Jesus at night, asking questions. We don’t know whether he believed at that point. But when Jesus was crucified, it was Nicodemus who stepped forward, along with Joseph of Arimathea, to claim the body of Jesus. The point is that Nicodemus ended well.
Some have a feeble beginning, but a strong finish. But that is better than having a strong beginning and no finish at all. So it is not how you start out—It is how you end!
March 8, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-In Christ
From Daily In Christ
John 3:3
Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God
Being in Christ, and all that it means to Christian maturity and freedom, is the overwhelming theme of the New Testament. For example, in the six chapters of the Book of Ephesians alone there are 40 references to being in Christ and having Christ in you. For every reference to Christ being in you, there are 10 to you being in Christ. Being in Christ is the most critical element of our identity.
But we weren't born in Christ. We were born in sin, thanks to the first Adam. What is God's plan for transforming us from being in Adam to being in Christ? We must be born again (John 3:3). Physical birth only gains us physical life. Spiritual life, the eternal life Christ promises to those who come to Him, is only gained through spiritual birth (John 3:36).
What does it mean to be spiritually alive in Christ? The moment you were born again your soul came into union with God in the same way Adam was in union with God before the Fall. Your spiritual union with God is complete and eternal because it is provided by Christ, the last Adam. As long as Christ remains alive spiritually, you will remain alive spiritually--and that's for eternity.
Contrary to what many Christians believe, eternal life is not something you get when you die. You are spiritually alive in Christ right now. That's how you got to be in union with God, by being born again spiritually. You'll never be more spiritually alive than you are right now. The only thing that will change when you die physically is that you will exchange your old earthbound body for a new one. But your spiritual life in Christ, which began when you personally trusted Him, will merely continue on.
Salvation is not a future addition; it's a present transformation. And that transformation occurs at spiritual birth, not physical death. God's Word promises, "He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life" (1 John 5:12). Eternal life is something you possess right now because you're in Christ. Believe it. Rejoice in it.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, that my eternal salvation is a present-day reality. I rejoice in this wonderful security and assurance.
John 3:3
Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God
Being in Christ, and all that it means to Christian maturity and freedom, is the overwhelming theme of the New Testament. For example, in the six chapters of the Book of Ephesians alone there are 40 references to being in Christ and having Christ in you. For every reference to Christ being in you, there are 10 to you being in Christ. Being in Christ is the most critical element of our identity.
But we weren't born in Christ. We were born in sin, thanks to the first Adam. What is God's plan for transforming us from being in Adam to being in Christ? We must be born again (John 3:3). Physical birth only gains us physical life. Spiritual life, the eternal life Christ promises to those who come to Him, is only gained through spiritual birth (John 3:36).
What does it mean to be spiritually alive in Christ? The moment you were born again your soul came into union with God in the same way Adam was in union with God before the Fall. Your spiritual union with God is complete and eternal because it is provided by Christ, the last Adam. As long as Christ remains alive spiritually, you will remain alive spiritually--and that's for eternity.
Contrary to what many Christians believe, eternal life is not something you get when you die. You are spiritually alive in Christ right now. That's how you got to be in union with God, by being born again spiritually. You'll never be more spiritually alive than you are right now. The only thing that will change when you die physically is that you will exchange your old earthbound body for a new one. But your spiritual life in Christ, which began when you personally trusted Him, will merely continue on.
Salvation is not a future addition; it's a present transformation. And that transformation occurs at spiritual birth, not physical death. God's Word promises, "He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life" (1 John 5:12). Eternal life is something you possess right now because you're in Christ. Believe it. Rejoice in it.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, that my eternal salvation is a present-day reality. I rejoice in this wonderful security and assurance.
Encouraging Words-Invisibly Involved
From A Wisdom Retreat
Philippians 2:13
For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.
The internet has allowed people to engage in events worldwide. Today we can surf sites and witness incidents unfolding in real time.
A decade ago, much was made of the approaching millennium Y2K. At that time, an article from the Wall Street Journal caught my attention. Daystar International Ministry had high hopes of using a strategically located webcam to capture an unusual sight: the second coming of the Messiah! This was expected at the stroke of midnight, signaling the year 2000.
I won’t take time to mention the prophetic problems Daystar was overlooking. Okay––maybe I will mention one . . . the people who care about His second coming won’t be watching Him descend to Jerusalem; we’ll be coming with Him!
Imagine capturingGod on film! You would have Messiah where you could actually see Him. Your own personal DVD from Daystar for $29.99—if you purchase it in the next fifteen minutes, of course!
A paparazzi photo frenzy would be old news compared to such a spectacle as this.
A miraculous sighting of the Lord seems far more marketable and exciting than the invisible working of God . . . an idea that won’t sell many DVDs.
Still, the longing in all our hearts remains—a longing that has television shows spinning off series after series: trying to understand the ways of God; imagining how heaven responds to earth; interpreting the role of angels and demons in the affairs of mankind.
There are today fabricated reports of miraculous occurrences all across the globe: visions, sightings, miracles, and strange happenings.
I’ll admit that it would be exciting to see with my own eyes a miracle performed by God. That’s so much more interesting than attempting to discern His invisible providence—His invisible working in the ordinary events of everyday life.
Yet for the believer today, that is where God actually is at work—in the mundane, tiring, ordinary, and even repetitive duties of life. It may come without the thunder and lightning of Mount Sinai, but He is working in our lives right now just as He worked in the lives of His disciples and followers in the first century.
Howie Stevenson, former Music Minister who served with Pastor Chuck Swindoll for many years, was fond of saying, “God moves among the casseroles.” He meant that God was just as much at work in a person making dinner in the kitchen as He was in Paul planting a church in Ephesus.
God knows how easy it is for you to doubt His sovereignty when you don’t see and hear His power . . . or sense His presence in the silence. But He has spoken, and He is present.
Walter Chalmers Smith put it this way when he wrote the first verse to a hymn in 1867:
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
In light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
Most blessed, most glorious,
The Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious—
Thy great name we praise.
Kitchens, cubicles, car pools, and conference rooms—all are the Holy of Holies. You are in His presence today; although invisible, He is at work in you at this very moment. You don’t need a camera to prove it—God promised it.
So trust His heart . . . even when you can’t see His hand.
Prayer Point: Ask the Lord for greater trust in His presence and involvement in your life, addressing Him as “The God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and me.” This will help remind you that He is the God of all history—past and present.
Philippians 2:13
For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.
The internet has allowed people to engage in events worldwide. Today we can surf sites and witness incidents unfolding in real time.
A decade ago, much was made of the approaching millennium Y2K. At that time, an article from the Wall Street Journal caught my attention. Daystar International Ministry had high hopes of using a strategically located webcam to capture an unusual sight: the second coming of the Messiah! This was expected at the stroke of midnight, signaling the year 2000.
I won’t take time to mention the prophetic problems Daystar was overlooking. Okay––maybe I will mention one . . . the people who care about His second coming won’t be watching Him descend to Jerusalem; we’ll be coming with Him!
Imagine capturingGod on film! You would have Messiah where you could actually see Him. Your own personal DVD from Daystar for $29.99—if you purchase it in the next fifteen minutes, of course!
A paparazzi photo frenzy would be old news compared to such a spectacle as this.
A miraculous sighting of the Lord seems far more marketable and exciting than the invisible working of God . . . an idea that won’t sell many DVDs.
Still, the longing in all our hearts remains—a longing that has television shows spinning off series after series: trying to understand the ways of God; imagining how heaven responds to earth; interpreting the role of angels and demons in the affairs of mankind.
There are today fabricated reports of miraculous occurrences all across the globe: visions, sightings, miracles, and strange happenings.
I’ll admit that it would be exciting to see with my own eyes a miracle performed by God. That’s so much more interesting than attempting to discern His invisible providence—His invisible working in the ordinary events of everyday life.
Yet for the believer today, that is where God actually is at work—in the mundane, tiring, ordinary, and even repetitive duties of life. It may come without the thunder and lightning of Mount Sinai, but He is working in our lives right now just as He worked in the lives of His disciples and followers in the first century.
Howie Stevenson, former Music Minister who served with Pastor Chuck Swindoll for many years, was fond of saying, “God moves among the casseroles.” He meant that God was just as much at work in a person making dinner in the kitchen as He was in Paul planting a church in Ephesus.
God knows how easy it is for you to doubt His sovereignty when you don’t see and hear His power . . . or sense His presence in the silence. But He has spoken, and He is present.
Walter Chalmers Smith put it this way when he wrote the first verse to a hymn in 1867:
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
In light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
Most blessed, most glorious,
The Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious—
Thy great name we praise.
Kitchens, cubicles, car pools, and conference rooms—all are the Holy of Holies. You are in His presence today; although invisible, He is at work in you at this very moment. You don’t need a camera to prove it—God promised it.
So trust His heart . . . even when you can’t see His hand.
Prayer Point: Ask the Lord for greater trust in His presence and involvement in your life, addressing Him as “The God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and me.” This will help remind you that He is the God of all history—past and present.
March 7, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-Something More
From The Active Word
He has put eternity in their hearts… Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NKJV)
There's a realm and reality that transcends this world we live in. It's something we can't tangibly see, taste, or touch. And yet it's something we can't ignore, either. Buried deep inside the human soul, there's an inkling, a longing, and an awareness that there has to be something more than what we experience on earth.
Why are we wired that way? How did that sense of "something more" get there to begin with?
When we go back to the beginning of man's existence, back to the creation of Adam and Eve, we see that they were created to enjoy an unrestricted and unending relationship with God. Something tragic happened, however. They disobeyed Him, and in doing so they brought the burden of sin on themselves and on the rest of the human race.
As a result, a rift occurred in their relationship with God. But their God-given desire for an unending relationship with Him wasn't erased or eradicated. Their longing to connect with the Eternal God forever remained in them, just as it remains in the human heart to this very day.
When God made man in His image and likeness, He put a taste for eternity in his heart. People can search and scour the face of the earth for something to satisfy this appetite. But they never will. Only a connection with the things of eternity, namely God's presence, can fulfill us. He wants it that way, because He doesn't want us to dwell in a state of separated contentment.
The awareness of something more, of eternity, is God's merciful reminder that we're made for so much more than anything this world has to offer.
"I thank thee, O Lord, that Thou hast so set eternity within my heart that no earthly thing can ever satisfy me wholly." -John Baillie
He has put eternity in their hearts… Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NKJV)
There's a realm and reality that transcends this world we live in. It's something we can't tangibly see, taste, or touch. And yet it's something we can't ignore, either. Buried deep inside the human soul, there's an inkling, a longing, and an awareness that there has to be something more than what we experience on earth.
Why are we wired that way? How did that sense of "something more" get there to begin with?
When we go back to the beginning of man's existence, back to the creation of Adam and Eve, we see that they were created to enjoy an unrestricted and unending relationship with God. Something tragic happened, however. They disobeyed Him, and in doing so they brought the burden of sin on themselves and on the rest of the human race.
As a result, a rift occurred in their relationship with God. But their God-given desire for an unending relationship with Him wasn't erased or eradicated. Their longing to connect with the Eternal God forever remained in them, just as it remains in the human heart to this very day.
When God made man in His image and likeness, He put a taste for eternity in his heart. People can search and scour the face of the earth for something to satisfy this appetite. But they never will. Only a connection with the things of eternity, namely God's presence, can fulfill us. He wants it that way, because He doesn't want us to dwell in a state of separated contentment.
The awareness of something more, of eternity, is God's merciful reminder that we're made for so much more than anything this world has to offer.
"I thank thee, O Lord, that Thou hast so set eternity within my heart that no earthly thing can ever satisfy me wholly." -John Baillie
Encouraging Words-You Can Be Sure
From Daily Disciples
And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
2 Peter 1:19-21
My son went through a season of time when he would ask me the same question. "Mom, how do we know that what we believe about God is true?" I encourage those questions because I am glad that my son is honest with me and can openly question these things. I pray that the answer I give him always comes from the Lord. I am so thankful that I worship a God who can handle any controversy, doubt or question. In 1 Peter 3:15, the Lord tells us to "always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear." So, if we are not asking those questions ourselves, we may not always be ready to have an answer for someone else.
How do we know that our belief in Jesus is true? Some people base their faith on a feeling. Others would say that it is based on all the years of tradition that have withstood the test of time. And some would say, "Because it works for me." But the reason why we know that Christianity is true is because of the sure word of prophecy spoken of in 2 Peter 1:19-21.
Prophecy (or the prediction of future events) proves that God holds time and events in His hand. Fulfilled prophecy clearly shows us that God knows the end from the beginning. The Old Testament prophets predicted the coming of Jesus Christ. When Jesus came to earth, He fulfilled 333 prophecies, which is why one of God's rules in the Law of Moses was to stone someone who was a false prophet. God does not make mistakes. He would not speak through someone and give false words for the future. God is completely in control and nothing surprises Him. If God said it, we can believe it. When we understand that we can trust Him with our future, then we will know that we can and do trust and believe.
And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
2 Peter 1:19-21
My son went through a season of time when he would ask me the same question. "Mom, how do we know that what we believe about God is true?" I encourage those questions because I am glad that my son is honest with me and can openly question these things. I pray that the answer I give him always comes from the Lord. I am so thankful that I worship a God who can handle any controversy, doubt or question. In 1 Peter 3:15, the Lord tells us to "always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear." So, if we are not asking those questions ourselves, we may not always be ready to have an answer for someone else.
How do we know that our belief in Jesus is true? Some people base their faith on a feeling. Others would say that it is based on all the years of tradition that have withstood the test of time. And some would say, "Because it works for me." But the reason why we know that Christianity is true is because of the sure word of prophecy spoken of in 2 Peter 1:19-21.
Prophecy (or the prediction of future events) proves that God holds time and events in His hand. Fulfilled prophecy clearly shows us that God knows the end from the beginning. The Old Testament prophets predicted the coming of Jesus Christ. When Jesus came to earth, He fulfilled 333 prophecies, which is why one of God's rules in the Law of Moses was to stone someone who was a false prophet. God does not make mistakes. He would not speak through someone and give false words for the future. God is completely in control and nothing surprises Him. If God said it, we can believe it. When we understand that we can trust Him with our future, then we will know that we can and do trust and believe.
March 6, 2011
Welcome to Affirming Sunday Worship
If you don't have a welcoming church near you, or you just can't make yourself step into one, we're bringing worship to you. We have listed below links to open and affirming churches that feature live worship music and/or services that have been previously recorded. We hope you are blessed and take time out of your busy schedule to enter into the Lord's day.
If one of the live feeds we post isn't working (stuff happens, especially during the winter) we hope you will take time to check out a different live broadcast or peruse our selection of pre-recorded services listed below.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail at encouragementforliving@gmail.com and share it with us.
The list follows the jump:
If one of the live feeds we post isn't working (stuff happens, especially during the winter) we hope you will take time to check out a different live broadcast or peruse our selection of pre-recorded services listed below.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail at encouragementforliving@gmail.com and share it with us.
The list follows the jump:
March 5, 2011
PM Encouraging Words-Win Or Lose
From Our Daily Bread
During the 2009 college football season, University of Texas quarterback Colt McCoy began every post-game interview by thanking God for the opportunity to play. When he was injured early in the national championship game, he was forced to watch from the sidelines as his team lost.
The apostle Paul experienced God’s deliverance many times, but he didn’t insist on things going his way. From prison in Rome he wrote to Timothy: “I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand” (2 Tim. 4:6). Some might say that Paul had failed to accomplish his goals and that his life was ending in defeat. But he saw it differently: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (v.7). He looked forward to an eternal crown (v.8).
As we walk with God, we can praise Him for His faithfulness—win or lose.
I can always count on God, my heavenly Father,
For He changes not; He always is the same.
Yesterday, today, forever, He is faithful,
And I know He loves me, praise His holy name! —Felten
In every change He faithful will remain. —Katharina von Schlegel
During the 2009 college football season, University of Texas quarterback Colt McCoy began every post-game interview by thanking God for the opportunity to play. When he was injured early in the national championship game, he was forced to watch from the sidelines as his team lost.
The apostle Paul experienced God’s deliverance many times, but he didn’t insist on things going his way. From prison in Rome he wrote to Timothy: “I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand” (2 Tim. 4:6). Some might say that Paul had failed to accomplish his goals and that his life was ending in defeat. But he saw it differently: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (v.7). He looked forward to an eternal crown (v.8).
As we walk with God, we can praise Him for His faithfulness—win or lose.
I can always count on God, my heavenly Father,
For He changes not; He always is the same.
Yesterday, today, forever, He is faithful,
And I know He loves me, praise His holy name! —Felten
In every change He faithful will remain. —Katharina von Schlegel
Encouraging Words-Never Too Late
From Our Daily Journey
In the popular TV series LOST, a character named Sayid Jarrah was an airplane crash survivor and castaway on a mysterious tropical island. As a former military interrogator, he was haunted by those he tortured and spent much of his adult life trying to atone for his past mistakes.
At the start of LOST’s final season, Sayid died from a gunshot wound. He was resuscitated, however, by an evil character (the unnamed man in black) and recruited to the dark side. But just when viewers were convinced that he had given himself completely over to evil, he sacrificed his life to save his fellow crash survivors.
That shocking twist (something LOST fans were accustomed to seeing) takes me back to the Old Testament character Samson. Remember him? The long-haired Nazirite, endowed by God’s Spirit with super-human strength to deliver Israel from the hands of the Philistines? (Judges 13:5). Unfortunately, Samson became full of himself and fell prey to manipulation by the woman he loved (Judges 16:4). Eventually, Delilah coaxed him into divulging the secret of his strength, which she then used to betray him into the hands of his enemies (Judges 16:5-21).
Samson’s foolish pride left him blind, weak, and in shackles. Publicly disgraced and chained between two massive pillars supporting the roof of a crowded Philistine temple, Samson humbled himself and asked God for one last feat of super-human strength. God granted Samson’s request. And with one mighty push, Samson brought down the temple, destroying more enemies in his death than he did while he was alive (Judges 16:23-30).
Samson’s life shows it’s never too late to come back to God and do something great for Him. Even after we make huge mistakes, our lives can still be redeemed for His purposes.
In the popular TV series LOST, a character named Sayid Jarrah was an airplane crash survivor and castaway on a mysterious tropical island. As a former military interrogator, he was haunted by those he tortured and spent much of his adult life trying to atone for his past mistakes.
At the start of LOST’s final season, Sayid died from a gunshot wound. He was resuscitated, however, by an evil character (the unnamed man in black) and recruited to the dark side. But just when viewers were convinced that he had given himself completely over to evil, he sacrificed his life to save his fellow crash survivors.
That shocking twist (something LOST fans were accustomed to seeing) takes me back to the Old Testament character Samson. Remember him? The long-haired Nazirite, endowed by God’s Spirit with super-human strength to deliver Israel from the hands of the Philistines? (Judges 13:5). Unfortunately, Samson became full of himself and fell prey to manipulation by the woman he loved (Judges 16:4). Eventually, Delilah coaxed him into divulging the secret of his strength, which she then used to betray him into the hands of his enemies (Judges 16:5-21).
Samson’s foolish pride left him blind, weak, and in shackles. Publicly disgraced and chained between two massive pillars supporting the roof of a crowded Philistine temple, Samson humbled himself and asked God for one last feat of super-human strength. God granted Samson’s request. And with one mighty push, Samson brought down the temple, destroying more enemies in his death than he did while he was alive (Judges 16:23-30).
Samson’s life shows it’s never too late to come back to God and do something great for Him. Even after we make huge mistakes, our lives can still be redeemed for His purposes.
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