Growing in Christ can be a joy and a pain. Obviously, we receive joy because we are becoming more like Christ, understanding God's ways better and putting our own ways behind us. Oh, but the pain! The pain of change. The heart breaking pain. We are often afraid of change because we are comfortable with the way things are right now, or we have a fear of the unknown. We are not promised a guarantee that the situation will work out the way WE WANT. We must remember that God's ways are always best. I've never been disappointed in His plans. I've read stories & heard stories when other people go through situations that seem unbearable. When we read the wonderful lessons of many Biblical people, the Bible doesn't always go into detail on the thoughts & feelings those people experienced. The truth is that our trials will change us. We can either grow better or bitter. How many times have we heard of another person's terrible stories and we are amazed at their strength & courage because we may think that if we went through that same situation, we would fall apart? In our weakness , we are made strong in Christ. HE ALONE is the source of our strength! In fact, at my church, Thomas Road Baptist Church, the words, "Not I, But Christ", are highlighted on the back wall behind our choir on Sunday mornings. Our pastor, Jonathan Falwell, said that when his dad Jerry Falwell, passed away 5 years ago, Jonathan began to think about how he could not continue on following in his dad's footsteps in the pastoring of the church. His inspiration was the words--"Not I, but Christ". Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." There are a number of examples of personal trials I could share here. I have had a number of times in my life where I poured more into a relationship than the other person. In my own flesh, I would have given up on these relationships. It is tiring & draining to be the only one communicating when another person seems to be shutting you out. I would have definitely given up and said obviously this person(s) does not want me to be a part of their life anymore. But, because I loved God with all my heart and I knew that God loved this person too, I did not give up. It was painful to feel rejection. I never knew if that person would ever come around to communicating with me anymore. I just knew that when I meet God one day, He could not be disappointed because I gave up trying. So, I encourage any friend reading this (including myself) to keep pressing on toward the high calling God has for each of us. Even through the pain you may be going through, keep working through it and asking God daily for the strength to do what He desires of us.
1 Peter 4:12-13 "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings, that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."
Dear Heavenly Father,
I love You and adore You. When there is no one I can trust, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I can completely trust You. Thank you for providing so generously for me and my family. Thank you for loving us unconditionally. May your Holy Spirit work in the lives of every member of my immediate and extended family, my friends & loved ones, and all the read this devotion. Change my heart, O God! Make it ever new! Change my heart, O God! May I be like You! You know my downsitting & my uprising and are aquainted with all my ways. (Psalm 139:2-3) I long to hear You say "Well done my good & faithful servant!" In the precious name of Jesus, I pray. AMEN!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Christ--our coach, The Holy Bible is our playbook, We are the "team"
I (Valorie) did not write the following devotional. It was written by a lady from the Tuesday Bible study at my church. I felt it was quite worthy of reposting. “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.” John 13:14-16(ESV)
Ever wanted a private tutor for life? How about someone who would coach you on the fundamentals and help you understand the team strategy? We have the best coach ever - Christ Himself. When you study His ministry, you’ll see He led by example and left behind the best playbook. He didn’t pick a certain economic background to minister to; He helped everyone. He also didn’t place a lot of emphasis on material things; He was basically homeless. He was the King of Kings but had no problem being the servant washing someone’s feet.
Below are some keys to living the Christian life as exemplified by Christ Himself:
- Have a quiet time every day-Mark 1:35
- Serve others and never think more highly of yourself- John 13:14-16
- Love one another-John 13:33
- It’s okay to grieve and cry-John 11:35
- Don’t judge others-John 8:7
- Be obedient to God’s will-Luke 22:42
The Bible is our guidebook through life. It’s better than Barnes & Noble because in one book you have love stories, poetry, history, self-help, marriage, parenting, and relationship advice. We just have to take the time to study it and get the tips directly from our Coach on how to live the Christian life.
“Dear God, Thank You for being our coach, mentor, teacher, and tutor by sending Your Son to be the example to follow. May we study His life and strive to live it out in our own lives.”
For His Glory
Katrina RedmanTRBC Coffee Break
Monday, July 16, 2012
Setting goals & changing habits........this sounds like a topic for a New Year's Resolution. It's really the story of my life. I feel like I can never get out of my bad habits & permanently adopt new ones....healthier eating, daily exercise and of course daily Bible study & prayer. But, I was inspired this morning to read that our church's Women's Ministry Leader & a few others are doing a 21 day challenge and I thought that was perfect for me to do too! My Sunday School teacher, Dr. Elmer Towns, even spoke on setting goals yesterday--the short term & the long term goals. He used Joshua & the Israelites as example in Joshua 1:10-11 "And Joshua commanded the leaders of Israel, 'Go tell the people to prepare food and get everything else ready because in 3 days (short term goal) we will cross the Jordan River and take possession of the land God has given to us." (long term goal).
Here's some reminders on our goals.
Our Short Term Goals:
1. Walking in obedient fellowship gives us confidence. "If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin." I John 1:7
2. Grow through the scriptures. "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." Psalm 119:105
3. Practice all kinds of prayer, worship, communion, fellowship, request, intercession for others, thanksgiving, and fasting.
4. Share your faith with others.
5. Know the enemy and principles of spiritual warfare.
6. Be spiritually victorious. "Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of His knowledge by us in every place." 2 Corinthians 2:14
Our Long Term Goals:
1. Find and follow God's plan for your life. Romans 12:1-2
2. Write out spiritual and natural goals
3. Grow in personal discipline and effective service.
4. Expect opposition and trials (James 1:2-4)
5. Finish well!
Why are goals important? They challenge us to press ahead and do better, to change. As believers, that is exactly what we need to be doing every day. We need to continue growing in Christ, doing better, and changing to be more like Him. We know that we will never reach perfection and be completely Christlike in all our ways. This is not to discourage us. It is actually a relief to know that I do not have to be perfect for God to love me & accept me into His family. I simply know that the greatest blessings & even wisdom is found through obedience. God doesn't tell us to be obedient when we "feel" like it, or when it seems right in our own eyes. We are to always be obedient, even when we don't "feel" like it. As Romans 12 speaks of running a race and finishing well.........that is exactly what I want to do. It is a challenge for sure. My body, my personal desires are to do my own thing. Lord, forgive me and give me the strength & perseverence to make every day & every moment count for You! 21 days.......I CAN do it through Christ---who gives ME strength!
Lord, I thank you for loving me more than any person could ever love me. May my thoughts be 24/7 towards You. Consume me from the inside out. May I think of You as I am making food choices, may I think of You as I purposely choose to exercise my body that is Your temple, and may I think of You as I pray & talk to you continually about concerns & requests, just as we talk to a best friend & tell them our innermost thoughts. I pray for Lisa, Cheryl & Lynn who are also on this 21 Day Commitment that You are speaking to them & encouraging them & strengthening them in body, mind & spirit. In Jesus name, Amen!
Here's some reminders on our goals.
Our Short Term Goals:
1. Walking in obedient fellowship gives us confidence. "If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin." I John 1:7
2. Grow through the scriptures. "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." Psalm 119:105
3. Practice all kinds of prayer, worship, communion, fellowship, request, intercession for others, thanksgiving, and fasting.
4. Share your faith with others.
5. Know the enemy and principles of spiritual warfare.
6. Be spiritually victorious. "Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of His knowledge by us in every place." 2 Corinthians 2:14
Our Long Term Goals:
1. Find and follow God's plan for your life. Romans 12:1-2
2. Write out spiritual and natural goals
3. Grow in personal discipline and effective service.
4. Expect opposition and trials (James 1:2-4)
5. Finish well!
Why are goals important? They challenge us to press ahead and do better, to change. As believers, that is exactly what we need to be doing every day. We need to continue growing in Christ, doing better, and changing to be more like Him. We know that we will never reach perfection and be completely Christlike in all our ways. This is not to discourage us. It is actually a relief to know that I do not have to be perfect for God to love me & accept me into His family. I simply know that the greatest blessings & even wisdom is found through obedience. God doesn't tell us to be obedient when we "feel" like it, or when it seems right in our own eyes. We are to always be obedient, even when we don't "feel" like it. As Romans 12 speaks of running a race and finishing well.........that is exactly what I want to do. It is a challenge for sure. My body, my personal desires are to do my own thing. Lord, forgive me and give me the strength & perseverence to make every day & every moment count for You! 21 days.......I CAN do it through Christ---who gives ME strength!
Lord, I thank you for loving me more than any person could ever love me. May my thoughts be 24/7 towards You. Consume me from the inside out. May I think of You as I am making food choices, may I think of You as I purposely choose to exercise my body that is Your temple, and may I think of You as I pray & talk to you continually about concerns & requests, just as we talk to a best friend & tell them our innermost thoughts. I pray for Lisa, Cheryl & Lynn who are also on this 21 Day Commitment that You are speaking to them & encouraging them & strengthening them in body, mind & spirit. In Jesus name, Amen!
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Come on! Let's edify someone today!
1 Thessalonians 5:11
"Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing."
When was the last time that you edified someone or someone edified you? Would you even like to be edified? It's not a word that we typically use today, so perhaps I will explain the definition.
EDIFY: to build up, strengthen a person, instruct or improve spiritually.
My first thought is that the Bible is the greatest edification we have! Nothing compares to it! God's Word provides so much wisdom and definitely builds us up, strengthens us , instructs and helps us grow spiritually!
A comparable word more common today would be "encourage". However, to encourage is actually a little different.
ENCOURAGE:to inspire with courage or confidence.
I'm very glad I looked these two words up because edifying seems to be the same as encouraging, but perhaps goes a little deeper.....because we are to lift up others in Christ. It's definitely a Biblical term. It would be true to say that we can encourage others without edifying them. How interesting. As a follower of Christ, I want to edify, and I hope you want to do that too!
If you read the passages preceding 1 Thessalonians 5:11, such as verses 1-11, and understand that Paul was giving a description on the Day of the Lord and how He will come as a thief in the night. The reason we are to "edify" one another is because we need to be lifting up other believers to walk close to the Lord and be ready for His return. The idea is that we must take advantage of every opportunity to serve Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 5:16 "Redeeming the time, because the days are evil") How true! Jesus paid the price for my sins and your sins, and when I give Him my life, the least I can do is give Him my time & talents. There are opportunities every day to serve the Lord, witness for Christ, to be a channel of blessing and advance the cause of Christ. How many times do we waste precious moments because we choose to do our own thing? We either don't want to spend the time edifying another person, or we want to focus on our problems, or Satan has us "busy" doing other things that are of little importance. I'm definitely speaking to myself here! If no one reads my blog, I pray that God will transform my heart to get busy doing the best things for Him. Why should I want to read that magazine that tells of current movies & TV shows and what's going on with celebrities? Does it matter that I've played an hour or more of "games" on my computer or ipod? There are many time wasters in a day and many excuses. I am guilty. I hope I'm not getting too far off track, but a dear friend shared with me something she heard a pastor say that really changed her way of thinking. The pastor asked if people could think back and remember their 3rd grade picture. You may be trying hard to remember........what did you wear? What was the background in the picture? You might say, I think I was wearing a blue shirt. No. Maybe it was green. Maybe there were trees in the background. Well, my friends, one day we will be in Heaven. We may be talking to each other and say something like, "Do you remember when we lived on Earth? What was that like? Can you remember our time on Earth? I think such & such happened." Friends.....this life is like a vapor. The things we get caught up in now are not of much importance as we think. We need to examine if the things that occupy our time are really worth it? There are souls that need to be reached. People are hurting and they definitely need our EDIFYING! Do you have a phone? Make some phone calls & lift up people and let them know they are important. Encourage them to get into God's Word which certainly edifies! Do you have a computer? Send emails. I remember when we first got email and we were writing letters to friends & family. It was great to hear from people and be encouraged. I know stamps are getting costly, but it sure does mean A LOT to get a good old fashioned letter in the mail! When I take the time to do that, I am so excited thinking about the other person getting a hand-written letter! There's no doubt that is a blessing for both!
I may be going out on a limb here. This is very much out of my comfort zone to say this. I am not a person that likes to hurt another with my words, if I can help it. But, upon further studying of the many verses on edification, I would even say that edifying would include telling another believer if you see they are doing something or having an attitude that is in contrast to God's Word.....yeah.....that would be a little something we call sin. The fine line with that is that the Bible also tells us not to be judges of one another, because we all sin. Remember Jesus saying in John 8:7 that " He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her." In that example, this woman was being judged for her sins and about to be killed. I've always felt that I shouldn't say something to another person in regard to their sin, because I am a sinner too, and I have no right to point out their faults when I have my own. However, going back to edification in the body of believers, in Ephesians 4 talks about the conduct of the church---the body of believers. If you read these verses, it tells us how to treat one another, "walking worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called, with all lowliness & meekness, longsuffering, forbearing one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. In verse 11, Paul talks of the spiritual gifts that God gave to us and the purpose of the gifts in verse 12 " For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ....." There is more to that, but in verse 15 "But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ." This entire passage speaks of the body of Christ and our role that we need to be lifting each other up and doing our part. Sad to say, but we aren't always doing that. Once again, I am guilty. Friends, this isn't just people in our own church that we need to be edifying---but ALL believers. And, we are to speak the truth in love. Yes, I know that not everyone handles the truth very well. I am guilty of that too. But, I have been "called out" before and others brought my actions & attitude to my awareness, and although I did not like it at the time, I examined my ways and realized I was at fault and changed. Speaking the truth in love is vital. We can really hurt people with our words, coming across very judgmental, so this definitely needs to be prayed about if you are edifying another believer bringing to attention their faults in the body of Christ. I just finished my ladies Bible study at church where we studied the book of James. I feel that James was a man that didn't beat around the bush and he got to the point and told it like he saw it. The first two chapters of James, he wrote in general like he was giving words of wisdom for others, often saying ye or you--depending on which Bible translation you read. However in chapter 3 when James talks about controlling the tongue, he seems to add himself referring to "we". Sounds like James had to work on the issue on "speaking truth to one another"! It is a fine line knowing what to say and when to say it. We must pray for discernment and ask God to give us the right words. Wow. If we prayed before we spoke, our speech would have power behind our words! We are living in days where there is so much criticism of each other---on the internet, on talk radio, on television, in newspapers, in our homes........ Let us make a change and lift up, encourage and edify one another. It will cost you. To do so will take your time, but you will reap rewards and blessings that will make it worth the cost.
Lord,
I love You and want You to know how grateful I am for Your Word. I will make it a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I thank You for speaking to my heart today and opening my eyes to study edification. Thank You Lord for edifying me! Forgive me when I do not use my time wisely, when I do not spend a single day opening the Bible and hearing from You. Help me Lord to know the things that are important to do, and the things that are a waste of my time. Every day, I need to open this wonderful book and study and learn that I may grow. May everything I do bring glory to You---the words I speak, the thoughts I think, the places I go. Help me to to be an encouragement to others.I pray for my friends & family that they will desire to walk closer to You and we will all edify one another in the beautiful body of Christ.
In Jesus' name, AMEN
EXTRA: If you would like to read more on edifying, here are some verses. Read them in full context; meaning that you should read entire passages to see exactly what the meaning is behind that particular point of edification.
Romans 14:19 "1Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may EDIFY another.
Romans 15:2 "Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to EDIFICATION."
1 Corinthians 8:1 "Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity EDIFIETH."
I Corinthians 14:3-4 "But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to EDIFICATION, and exhortation, and comfort.He that speaketh in an unknown tongue EDIFIETH himself; but he that prophesieth EDIFIETH the church."
1 Corinthians 10:23 "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things EDIFY not."
Ephesians 4:12 "For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the EDIFYING of the body of Christ"
2 Corinthians 10:8 "For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for EDIFICATION, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed."
2 Corinthians 13:10 "Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to EDIFICATION, and not to destruction.
1 Timothy 1:4 "Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly EDIFYING which is in faith: so do."
When was the last time that you edified someone or someone edified you? Would you even like to be edified? It's not a word that we typically use today, so perhaps I will explain the definition.
EDIFY: to build up, strengthen a person, instruct or improve spiritually.
My first thought is that the Bible is the greatest edification we have! Nothing compares to it! God's Word provides so much wisdom and definitely builds us up, strengthens us , instructs and helps us grow spiritually!
A comparable word more common today would be "encourage". However, to encourage is actually a little different.
ENCOURAGE:to inspire with courage or confidence.
I'm very glad I looked these two words up because edifying seems to be the same as encouraging, but perhaps goes a little deeper.....because we are to lift up others in Christ. It's definitely a Biblical term. It would be true to say that we can encourage others without edifying them. How interesting. As a follower of Christ, I want to edify, and I hope you want to do that too!
If you read the passages preceding 1 Thessalonians 5:11, such as verses 1-11, and understand that Paul was giving a description on the Day of the Lord and how He will come as a thief in the night. The reason we are to "edify" one another is because we need to be lifting up other believers to walk close to the Lord and be ready for His return. The idea is that we must take advantage of every opportunity to serve Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 5:16 "Redeeming the time, because the days are evil") How true! Jesus paid the price for my sins and your sins, and when I give Him my life, the least I can do is give Him my time & talents. There are opportunities every day to serve the Lord, witness for Christ, to be a channel of blessing and advance the cause of Christ. How many times do we waste precious moments because we choose to do our own thing? We either don't want to spend the time edifying another person, or we want to focus on our problems, or Satan has us "busy" doing other things that are of little importance. I'm definitely speaking to myself here! If no one reads my blog, I pray that God will transform my heart to get busy doing the best things for Him. Why should I want to read that magazine that tells of current movies & TV shows and what's going on with celebrities? Does it matter that I've played an hour or more of "games" on my computer or ipod? There are many time wasters in a day and many excuses. I am guilty. I hope I'm not getting too far off track, but a dear friend shared with me something she heard a pastor say that really changed her way of thinking. The pastor asked if people could think back and remember their 3rd grade picture. You may be trying hard to remember........what did you wear? What was the background in the picture? You might say, I think I was wearing a blue shirt. No. Maybe it was green. Maybe there were trees in the background. Well, my friends, one day we will be in Heaven. We may be talking to each other and say something like, "Do you remember when we lived on Earth? What was that like? Can you remember our time on Earth? I think such & such happened." Friends.....this life is like a vapor. The things we get caught up in now are not of much importance as we think. We need to examine if the things that occupy our time are really worth it? There are souls that need to be reached. People are hurting and they definitely need our EDIFYING! Do you have a phone? Make some phone calls & lift up people and let them know they are important. Encourage them to get into God's Word which certainly edifies! Do you have a computer? Send emails. I remember when we first got email and we were writing letters to friends & family. It was great to hear from people and be encouraged. I know stamps are getting costly, but it sure does mean A LOT to get a good old fashioned letter in the mail! When I take the time to do that, I am so excited thinking about the other person getting a hand-written letter! There's no doubt that is a blessing for both!
I may be going out on a limb here. This is very much out of my comfort zone to say this. I am not a person that likes to hurt another with my words, if I can help it. But, upon further studying of the many verses on edification, I would even say that edifying would include telling another believer if you see they are doing something or having an attitude that is in contrast to God's Word.....yeah.....that would be a little something we call sin. The fine line with that is that the Bible also tells us not to be judges of one another, because we all sin. Remember Jesus saying in John 8:7 that " He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her." In that example, this woman was being judged for her sins and about to be killed. I've always felt that I shouldn't say something to another person in regard to their sin, because I am a sinner too, and I have no right to point out their faults when I have my own. However, going back to edification in the body of believers, in Ephesians 4 talks about the conduct of the church---the body of believers. If you read these verses, it tells us how to treat one another, "walking worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called, with all lowliness & meekness, longsuffering, forbearing one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. In verse 11, Paul talks of the spiritual gifts that God gave to us and the purpose of the gifts in verse 12 " For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ....." There is more to that, but in verse 15 "But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ." This entire passage speaks of the body of Christ and our role that we need to be lifting each other up and doing our part. Sad to say, but we aren't always doing that. Once again, I am guilty. Friends, this isn't just people in our own church that we need to be edifying---but ALL believers. And, we are to speak the truth in love. Yes, I know that not everyone handles the truth very well. I am guilty of that too. But, I have been "called out" before and others brought my actions & attitude to my awareness, and although I did not like it at the time, I examined my ways and realized I was at fault and changed. Speaking the truth in love is vital. We can really hurt people with our words, coming across very judgmental, so this definitely needs to be prayed about if you are edifying another believer bringing to attention their faults in the body of Christ. I just finished my ladies Bible study at church where we studied the book of James. I feel that James was a man that didn't beat around the bush and he got to the point and told it like he saw it. The first two chapters of James, he wrote in general like he was giving words of wisdom for others, often saying ye or you--depending on which Bible translation you read. However in chapter 3 when James talks about controlling the tongue, he seems to add himself referring to "we". Sounds like James had to work on the issue on "speaking truth to one another"! It is a fine line knowing what to say and when to say it. We must pray for discernment and ask God to give us the right words. Wow. If we prayed before we spoke, our speech would have power behind our words! We are living in days where there is so much criticism of each other---on the internet, on talk radio, on television, in newspapers, in our homes........ Let us make a change and lift up, encourage and edify one another. It will cost you. To do so will take your time, but you will reap rewards and blessings that will make it worth the cost.
Lord,
I love You and want You to know how grateful I am for Your Word. I will make it a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I thank You for speaking to my heart today and opening my eyes to study edification. Thank You Lord for edifying me! Forgive me when I do not use my time wisely, when I do not spend a single day opening the Bible and hearing from You. Help me Lord to know the things that are important to do, and the things that are a waste of my time. Every day, I need to open this wonderful book and study and learn that I may grow. May everything I do bring glory to You---the words I speak, the thoughts I think, the places I go. Help me to to be an encouragement to others.I pray for my friends & family that they will desire to walk closer to You and we will all edify one another in the beautiful body of Christ.
In Jesus' name, AMEN
EXTRA: If you would like to read more on edifying, here are some verses. Read them in full context; meaning that you should read entire passages to see exactly what the meaning is behind that particular point of edification.
Romans 14:19 "1Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may EDIFY another.
Romans 15:2 "Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to EDIFICATION."
1 Corinthians 8:1 "Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity EDIFIETH."
I Corinthians 14:3-4 "But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to EDIFICATION, and exhortation, and comfort.He that speaketh in an unknown tongue EDIFIETH himself; but he that prophesieth EDIFIETH the church."
1 Corinthians 10:23 "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things EDIFY not."
Ephesians 4:12 "For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the EDIFYING of the body of Christ"
2 Corinthians 10:8 "For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for EDIFICATION, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed."
2 Corinthians 13:10 "Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to EDIFICATION, and not to destruction.
1 Timothy 1:4 "Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly EDIFYING which is in faith: so do."
Friday, March 2, 2012
Getting to the heart
I'm just loving this Beth Moore Bible study on the book of James! Oh how I wish I could bring all of my friends & family to Bible study.....or better yet, just sit & talk as a group or even one on one with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate or glass of iced tea. I take the time to share what I am learning with you, because I want God to work in your life and help you to fall in love with Him. The following are 9 questions to give you introspection into your life. Perhaps you could write them on a separate sheet of paper to see your answers.
1. What is the biggest battle you have going on inside of you?
2. How long has it been going on?
3.The whole idea of battle implies that several different sides of the situation (for example, options, feelings or conflicts) are clamoring against one another inside of you. If you are the uneasy home to an internal wrestling match right now, try to describe the sides at war.
4. We each have internal, unspoken conflicts with any number of people, but most of us have a few people in our life with whom we actually engage in external conflict or quarreling. Who are those people for you?
5. Now, switch tracks with me for a moment. What is something you've wanted for a long while that you do not have?
6. Do you know someone who has this thing, situation, or relationship that you've longed for? If so, who? Keep in mind that naming the person doesn't automatically mean you envy them. What we're establishing right now is whether or not your deep longing is a sustainable reality on this Earth. That said, who possesses what you really long for?
7. Have you consistently and earnestly asked God for this thing, situation or relationship? If so, name a couple of reasons why you think you haven't received it.
8. Can you identify any link between the person or people with whom you are most prone to quarrel and something you want but do not have? If so, what?
9. Has anything good or beneficial come to you or to others as a result of your lack (whatever you wrote in question #5)? If so, list every bit of fruit you can identify or even remotely discern.
These questions were actually derived from God's Word!
James 4:1-3 New KJV "Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? 2 You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet[a] you do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.
Now, reading James 4:1-3 in the Message "1-2Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don't have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn't yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it.
2-3You wouldn't think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you'd be asking for what you have no right to. You're spoiled children, each wanting your own way.
Before this Bible study on the book of James (as taught by Beth Moore), I had read those verses and never felt they applied to me, because I had no desire to "kill" anyone or risk "violence" to get my hands on something I did not have. However, not having something that I want, does put me in a discontent place and cause me to perhaps feel bitter at times or resentful. Just plain old unhappy with myself. I realized after answering these questions that I have not been consistently giving this to the Lord and asking for His help. I also realized that because of my situation, I have a lot of fruit and the gain of God's fruit was much more profitable than the thing/situation that I desire in question #5. Perhaps now with this insight, I am ready to pursue on the path God has for me, rather than fight it on my own.
Dear Lord.....as always, You are wonderful! Today I lift up my dear friends that desire to get to the heart of their issues they deal with. Many of us are in personal battles practically our entire life. Lord, we give this to You, on a day after day basis. Give us wisdom and the desire to obey You and trust You wholeheartedly that we will focus on bearing fruit for You rather than wasting our time with consuming thoughts of what we do not have. We have been given much and have all that we need. May we be doers of the Word and not hearers only! Thank you Lord for what You are going to do in my life and the lives of my precious friends & family that I lift up to You! AMEN
1. What is the biggest battle you have going on inside of you?
2. How long has it been going on?
3.The whole idea of battle implies that several different sides of the situation (for example, options, feelings or conflicts) are clamoring against one another inside of you. If you are the uneasy home to an internal wrestling match right now, try to describe the sides at war.
4. We each have internal, unspoken conflicts with any number of people, but most of us have a few people in our life with whom we actually engage in external conflict or quarreling. Who are those people for you?
5. Now, switch tracks with me for a moment. What is something you've wanted for a long while that you do not have?
6. Do you know someone who has this thing, situation, or relationship that you've longed for? If so, who? Keep in mind that naming the person doesn't automatically mean you envy them. What we're establishing right now is whether or not your deep longing is a sustainable reality on this Earth. That said, who possesses what you really long for?
7. Have you consistently and earnestly asked God for this thing, situation or relationship? If so, name a couple of reasons why you think you haven't received it.
8. Can you identify any link between the person or people with whom you are most prone to quarrel and something you want but do not have? If so, what?
9. Has anything good or beneficial come to you or to others as a result of your lack (whatever you wrote in question #5)? If so, list every bit of fruit you can identify or even remotely discern.
These questions were actually derived from God's Word!
James 4:1-3 New KJV "Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? 2 You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet[a] you do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.
Now, reading James 4:1-3 in the Message "1-2Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don't have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn't yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it.
2-3You wouldn't think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you'd be asking for what you have no right to. You're spoiled children, each wanting your own way.
Before this Bible study on the book of James (as taught by Beth Moore), I had read those verses and never felt they applied to me, because I had no desire to "kill" anyone or risk "violence" to get my hands on something I did not have. However, not having something that I want, does put me in a discontent place and cause me to perhaps feel bitter at times or resentful. Just plain old unhappy with myself. I realized after answering these questions that I have not been consistently giving this to the Lord and asking for His help. I also realized that because of my situation, I have a lot of fruit and the gain of God's fruit was much more profitable than the thing/situation that I desire in question #5. Perhaps now with this insight, I am ready to pursue on the path God has for me, rather than fight it on my own.
Dear Lord.....as always, You are wonderful! Today I lift up my dear friends that desire to get to the heart of their issues they deal with. Many of us are in personal battles practically our entire life. Lord, we give this to You, on a day after day basis. Give us wisdom and the desire to obey You and trust You wholeheartedly that we will focus on bearing fruit for You rather than wasting our time with consuming thoughts of what we do not have. We have been given much and have all that we need. May we be doers of the Word and not hearers only! Thank you Lord for what You are going to do in my life and the lives of my precious friends & family that I lift up to You! AMEN
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Willing to Yield?
When we think of yielding, we usually think of those traffic signs that are upside down triangles, where we are supposed to stop if necessary to allow another driver at their approach to proceed. We definitely want to obey this traffic rule, to avoid an accident. However, in our Christian life, do we remember to yield as well?
James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
Wisdom is from above, as God freely gives it to us. James began his letter in 1:5 simply stating "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him."
As a follower of Christ, I want wisdom! I don't want to do dumb things that will cause me stress & frustration. So, I will ask God to bless me with His wisdom, to know what to do in all situations---even during those times when I need a quick response and I don't have time to pray. James tells us that God's wisdom is pure, peaceable and gentle. Pure = free from contamination. Peaceable = to avoid strife, not argumentative. Gentile =kind, mild, not severe or rough. When I think about those words, I know that I definitely want lots of God's wisdom! We hear enough negative language in our day to day adventures, that this kind of wisdom is refreshing. Then, we come to the "willing to yield" portion. I pondered a number of minutes on the times during the day when we have opportunities to be "willing to yield". Of course, there is the obvious, as mentioned at the beginning, when I referred to driving, but there are times of opening a door for someone and letting them enter first, or even the kindness of letting someone with less items go ahead of you in a checkout line. What about in conversations; are we willing to yield and let someone else have their turn to talk? In an argument, are we willing to listen to the other person and how they feel?
The greatest example of yielding was portrayed by Jesus. Matthew 27:50 "And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit." Jesus knew that His purpose was fulfilled as He was willingly surrendering His life for the sake of you and me. Thank you precious Lord, for yielding for me!
But wait! There's still more to this verse. God's wisdom is full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Mercy = compassionate or kindly forbearance shown toward an offender, an enemy, or other person in one's power. Think on that for a moment. God's wisdom is full of mercy. It is compassionate. This isn't just a compassion shown toward those we love. Nope. That is way too easy. Anyone can do that. We, who call ourselves Christians or believers are different. God's wisdom is without partiality, which means that we are not to favor one over another or show a preference or liking. We are to love & show mercy to the unlovable. We are to show mercy to the ones that are in need, and we are to do it without expecting anything in return. We are not to do this for approval of others or a pat on the back or our own praise. We do this in the name of Jesus, who demonstrated mercy to us. Let us not be hypocrites that say we love God, but we fail to love our neighbor. True wisdom is shown just in our daily living. God will bring into our paths and lay on our hearts the dear people that we can pour mercy & love upon. If God blesses you financially, then help those in need. Perhaps you can do this anonymously. It doesn't matter who gets the credit---God blessed you with the resources, didn't he? If money is tight, then simply bring value to people with words. Find worth in people and bring them dignity. Verbally tell someone something that will encourage them, or even take some time to write a note. You may be thinking, that you can't do this.....especially if you are doing it for a stranger or an enemy. That's the great thing about God.....He can do it through you! Our enemies are people too that deal with hurts, pain, & stress. In our flesh, we may not want to give them the time of day. Pray and let God use you to reach out, trusting that God will heal the many issues they have and eventually heal the heart of that person!
"Lord, You are so amazing and Your love is endless! Thank you for showering me with love and wisdom and all good gifts that You want to abundantly bless us with. I pray for my friends & family that we are all growing closer to You and walking in obedience every day with hearts being changed and conformed to be Christlike. I pray for the enemies of each of my friends & family members, that You are also working in their hearts. With God ALL things are possible! With all the evil going on in this world, we must remember that You are in control and will make all things new and good. We trust You alone and praise You for all that You have done, are still working on, and will be doing in the days we have yet to see! AMEN!"
James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
Wisdom is from above, as God freely gives it to us. James began his letter in 1:5 simply stating "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him."
As a follower of Christ, I want wisdom! I don't want to do dumb things that will cause me stress & frustration. So, I will ask God to bless me with His wisdom, to know what to do in all situations---even during those times when I need a quick response and I don't have time to pray. James tells us that God's wisdom is pure, peaceable and gentle. Pure = free from contamination. Peaceable = to avoid strife, not argumentative. Gentile =kind, mild, not severe or rough. When I think about those words, I know that I definitely want lots of God's wisdom! We hear enough negative language in our day to day adventures, that this kind of wisdom is refreshing. Then, we come to the "willing to yield" portion. I pondered a number of minutes on the times during the day when we have opportunities to be "willing to yield". Of course, there is the obvious, as mentioned at the beginning, when I referred to driving, but there are times of opening a door for someone and letting them enter first, or even the kindness of letting someone with less items go ahead of you in a checkout line. What about in conversations; are we willing to yield and let someone else have their turn to talk? In an argument, are we willing to listen to the other person and how they feel?
The greatest example of yielding was portrayed by Jesus. Matthew 27:50 "And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit." Jesus knew that His purpose was fulfilled as He was willingly surrendering His life for the sake of you and me. Thank you precious Lord, for yielding for me!
But wait! There's still more to this verse. God's wisdom is full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Mercy = compassionate or kindly forbearance shown toward an offender, an enemy, or other person in one's power. Think on that for a moment. God's wisdom is full of mercy. It is compassionate. This isn't just a compassion shown toward those we love. Nope. That is way too easy. Anyone can do that. We, who call ourselves Christians or believers are different. God's wisdom is without partiality, which means that we are not to favor one over another or show a preference or liking. We are to love & show mercy to the unlovable. We are to show mercy to the ones that are in need, and we are to do it without expecting anything in return. We are not to do this for approval of others or a pat on the back or our own praise. We do this in the name of Jesus, who demonstrated mercy to us. Let us not be hypocrites that say we love God, but we fail to love our neighbor. True wisdom is shown just in our daily living. God will bring into our paths and lay on our hearts the dear people that we can pour mercy & love upon. If God blesses you financially, then help those in need. Perhaps you can do this anonymously. It doesn't matter who gets the credit---God blessed you with the resources, didn't he? If money is tight, then simply bring value to people with words. Find worth in people and bring them dignity. Verbally tell someone something that will encourage them, or even take some time to write a note. You may be thinking, that you can't do this.....especially if you are doing it for a stranger or an enemy. That's the great thing about God.....He can do it through you! Our enemies are people too that deal with hurts, pain, & stress. In our flesh, we may not want to give them the time of day. Pray and let God use you to reach out, trusting that God will heal the many issues they have and eventually heal the heart of that person!
"Lord, You are so amazing and Your love is endless! Thank you for showering me with love and wisdom and all good gifts that You want to abundantly bless us with. I pray for my friends & family that we are all growing closer to You and walking in obedience every day with hearts being changed and conformed to be Christlike. I pray for the enemies of each of my friends & family members, that You are also working in their hearts. With God ALL things are possible! With all the evil going on in this world, we must remember that You are in control and will make all things new and good. We trust You alone and praise You for all that You have done, are still working on, and will be doing in the days we have yet to see! AMEN!"
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Hoarders
If you didn't know this, there is a reality TV show called "Hoarders". My husband & I watch this show in amazement that people can live their life among filth. This show definitely gives me a desire to turn off the TV and clean my house! The people I have seen are more than just collectors of stuff, or even accumulate a few piles of clutter in their home. If this were simply the case, I would be guilty! In all of the episodes I have seen, the hoarders are dealing with depression resulting from a deep loss in their life. Not only have they lost a loved one or lost a dream they had, but they have lost a grip on life itself. Then their days turn into weeks which turn into years where they stop to do their daily chores to make their home comfortable. The show has some expert counseling organizer come in that helps the home owner understand that their situation is not healthy and they need to rid of the stuff to enjoy their home again. Again, in every episode I have seen, family members are also brought in to help clean and help encourage their loved one. Quite often, the visiting family member has to step outside because they are so overwhelmed by the living situation. They can not believe that their loved one is living in such horrible conditions. I've seen people break down crying because they did not realize how bad things had become. I was recently thinking that if someone took us to visit our loved ones and we could actually SEE the sin hoarding in the lives of our loved ones, we too would break down & cry and say "Oh, I didn't know their problem was THIS bad!" I am not at all pointing a finger at others. I completely know I have my own sins. The more I read God's Word, I am convicted. Not just to the point that I say "Ouch. That is a sin that I deal with and go my own way." If I am to believe that God's Word is true, then I need to be a doer and not just a hearer only. I have to change. I HAVE TO CHANGE. If I read verses over and over that tell me that I am to help the poor......then, I need to help the poor. If I read verses over and over that tell me to love others......then, I need to love others. Not just pick & choose who I want to love, and not just love those that I have something in common with. When God said we are to love others, He meant to love every single person that has a soul that God sent His Son to die for.....black, white,brown, yellow, red, purple.....ha ha, there's no purple people....just wanted to see if you are actually reading this! What are we saying to God when we choose not to obey? James 1:21-25 "Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the Word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed." OH! How I want to be blessed! Don't you? Bible study author Beth Moore says it best..."The reason we stay in bondage to our sins is simply because we DELIBERATELY choose not to obey. We choose not to live what we have learned from God's Word."
Oh, Lord.....the One that loves me more than any other person. There's nothing that comes close. You don't just love me....but You love each and every person. That amazes me. People that do not love You back. People that disregard You, disrespect You, and yet, you still love them. Once again, I ask You to help me love those same people. Don't let me give up hope on them. Give me Your words to be an encouragement and lead them to the cross. The greatest decision I ever made was to trust Christ. He has guided me in the rest of the decisions and I know He can do that for every person. I choose to trust Christ every day. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit that I will also choose every decision to be for the glory of my Saviour. This world is not easy. I am left in tears most days. I understand when I asked You to break my heart for what breaks Yours, this is what I should expect. You have changed my heart. The things I knew in my head, are now in my heart. Now, Lord, bless me with the talents & abilities & resources to use my hands & feet for You. Help the hurting dear Lord. Provide for our needs. Protect us in our travels. Give us wisdom to know what to say and when to say it. In these times when people are quick to speak and say things that are hurtful, may I be different and represent You by being slow to speak and slow to anger. Thank you for blessing us so abundantly. In the name of Jesus my Lord & Savior, I pray. Amen!
Oh, Lord.....the One that loves me more than any other person. There's nothing that comes close. You don't just love me....but You love each and every person. That amazes me. People that do not love You back. People that disregard You, disrespect You, and yet, you still love them. Once again, I ask You to help me love those same people. Don't let me give up hope on them. Give me Your words to be an encouragement and lead them to the cross. The greatest decision I ever made was to trust Christ. He has guided me in the rest of the decisions and I know He can do that for every person. I choose to trust Christ every day. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit that I will also choose every decision to be for the glory of my Saviour. This world is not easy. I am left in tears most days. I understand when I asked You to break my heart for what breaks Yours, this is what I should expect. You have changed my heart. The things I knew in my head, are now in my heart. Now, Lord, bless me with the talents & abilities & resources to use my hands & feet for You. Help the hurting dear Lord. Provide for our needs. Protect us in our travels. Give us wisdom to know what to say and when to say it. In these times when people are quick to speak and say things that are hurtful, may I be different and represent You by being slow to speak and slow to anger. Thank you for blessing us so abundantly. In the name of Jesus my Lord & Savior, I pray. Amen!
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