What does it mean to serve? And who, how, when, where, why?
Christ did not serve Himself... He served others the glory of God, which He obtained through prayer and spending time w/ God... seeking the Will of God.
Matthew 7:21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.
Christ did not come on His own authority, nor did He conduct His own agenda's in all the work God assigned to Him. There are many times in the bible where Jesus prayed, much upon the mountains, away from the busyness of the cities. He had to submit Himself before God, due to living in our fleshy nature. He prayed... living by faith, not by sight. There was a time when people were coming after Him so they could make Him king, but Christ departed... being tempted to become king over the land by the miracles He was conducting on behalf of God. He departed to come before God... to let go of the temptations of this world, to ask for strengthening during the time when He sent the disciples across the lake to the other side. And look what happens... Jesus walks on water, catching up to them as they were rowing against the wind.
His attention was fully dependent upon God. He was sent to serve us according to the glory and riches that God has for our lives.
But, what does that mean for us. There have been many of times where I have served myself, and not those around me. He was humble. I have to be more humble before others- regardless of how they speak to me. Serve them.
Its like having a platter in our hands... do I serve what I put on it to others? Or do I serve... in a form of response... a platter of love to the person who is frustrating me.
Joshua or Jacob served Laban for 14 years... being obedient to God as he served Laban- despite how He was treated.
So how do I do it? I cannot do it on my own- that just is guaranteed to lead to destruction. I need to pray to God for the wisdom and strength to take the brunt of this world, and in return... by His mercy and grace that is freely given... I can share that mercy and grace to those around me... as best I can.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Friday, April 15, 2011
Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne 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, 2 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 verse 1 - 2
1. The Race for the Prize.
1 Corinthians 9 verses 24 - 27
27 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.
25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.
26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.
27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
2. Perseverance and persistence will gain you the prize.
2 Timothy 2 verses 3-13
3 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.
5 And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.
6 The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops.
7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.
8 Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel,
9 for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained.
10 Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
11 This is a faithful saying: For if we died with Him, We shall also live with Him.
12 If we endure, We shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He also will deny us.
13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.
3. We have to press in toward the mark.
Philippians 3 verses 12-14
12 Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.
13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,
14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
2 Corinthians 4 verse 16-18
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.
17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,
18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
2 Timothy 4 verses 6-8
6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
James 1 verses 12-17
12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.
14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.
15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
1 Peter 5 verses 1-4
1 The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed:
2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly;
3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;
4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.
Revelation 2 verse 10
10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Revelation 3 verses 10-11
10 Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.
11 Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.
Any Comments ..................................
1. The Race for the Prize.
1 Corinthians 9 verses 24 - 27
27 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.
25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.
26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.
27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
2. Perseverance and persistence will gain you the prize.
2 Timothy 2 verses 3-13
3 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.
5 And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.
6 The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops.
7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.
8 Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel,
9 for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained.
10 Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
11 This is a faithful saying: For if we died with Him, We shall also live with Him.
12 If we endure, We shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He also will deny us.
13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.
3. We have to press in toward the mark.
Philippians 3 verses 12-14
12 Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.
13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,
14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
2 Corinthians 4 verse 16-18
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.
17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,
18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
2 Timothy 4 verses 6-8
6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
James 1 verses 12-17
12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.
14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.
15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
1 Peter 5 verses 1-4
1 The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed:
2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly;
3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;
4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.
Revelation 2 verse 10
10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Revelation 3 verses 10-11
10 Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.
11 Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.
Any Comments ..................................
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Fruits of His labor
I just want to share what God has shown me, the fruits of His labor in me.
Many times He speaks to us through dreams, and that is the case with me at times. Its amazing how He speaks to us through anything in this world. Seeking Him, investing time with Him, bonding with Him... just as He seeks you, invests in you, bonds with you.
I had a dream las week where I walk upon a table... somewhere I don't know. I looked upon the table and seen small paper drinking cups with a flowery pattern on them. But I found in amazement were large sprouts, in full rich colors... from the green stems... to some buds. The stems were beyond the normal growth, but were thick and healthy. There were many on this table... possible 30-40. Someone prepared these and I was amazed.
Later that morning, I was reading the paper. In the sports section there was a gardening article that was stating to plant 2 different vegetables at this time. Then it came to me in clear understanding...
God spoke to me showing me the fruits of His labor in me. He was showing me a portion of His Glory of the work that He has given responsibility to me to do. Through obedience, I have been sowing seeds... that it. I try my best to do what has been shared w/ me... as God speaks to those whom has brought across my path.
I did not know any of the specimens that were on the table, I only seen that they were in full bloom. These sprouts are being nourished and someone did the sowing.
His word never returns to Him empty. Whatever I share, or others, go out to minister to those who has an ear. To me, it doesn't matter who hears it... many will reject it. But it is up to God to minister to those who it is intended.
Thank You God for sharing Your provision... only through the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen
Many times He speaks to us through dreams, and that is the case with me at times. Its amazing how He speaks to us through anything in this world. Seeking Him, investing time with Him, bonding with Him... just as He seeks you, invests in you, bonds with you.
I had a dream las week where I walk upon a table... somewhere I don't know. I looked upon the table and seen small paper drinking cups with a flowery pattern on them. But I found in amazement were large sprouts, in full rich colors... from the green stems... to some buds. The stems were beyond the normal growth, but were thick and healthy. There were many on this table... possible 30-40. Someone prepared these and I was amazed.
Later that morning, I was reading the paper. In the sports section there was a gardening article that was stating to plant 2 different vegetables at this time. Then it came to me in clear understanding...
God spoke to me showing me the fruits of His labor in me. He was showing me a portion of His Glory of the work that He has given responsibility to me to do. Through obedience, I have been sowing seeds... that it. I try my best to do what has been shared w/ me... as God speaks to those whom has brought across my path.
I did not know any of the specimens that were on the table, I only seen that they were in full bloom. These sprouts are being nourished and someone did the sowing.
His word never returns to Him empty. Whatever I share, or others, go out to minister to those who has an ear. To me, it doesn't matter who hears it... many will reject it. But it is up to God to minister to those who it is intended.
Thank You God for sharing Your provision... only through the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen
Monday, April 11, 2011
Jesus could not do it on His own
He was fully man when He was here. He grew hungry, tired, weeped, deeply distressed.
The Prayer in the Garden
Mark 14:32 Then they came to a place which was named Gethsemane; and He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 And He took Peter, James, and John with Him, and He began to be troubled and deeply distressed.
There are many things in this life that we experience that we become fearful... or distressed... anxious... hurtful... and those natural reactions sink us. There are times when God lets me go into this world alone... to test my obedience to the things He has put before me. I experience the feelings mentioned before- but the Holy Spirit comes and 'checks' my spirit and points me to Jesus... in the way that I should react. It is at that time that I repent and ask for forgiveness. Its a learning process to react in a Holy manner.
The natural desires that we have often try to come to the surface and sometimes we react according to its ways. The main thing here is that I cannot do it w/out Jesus in my life. Through Him, I can do all things. Through Him, I am reconciled w/ God. Through Him, I am strengthened. Through Him, I can ask for forgiveness.
Jesus was the same way. In the garden of Gethsemane, He was being persecuted by satan not to go through all the pain and agony. Jesus, fully man as we are, knows what we go through... because He went through it all.
When Peter asked the Lord to come out onto the water that Jesus was walking on, He couldn't do w/out Jesus- but knowing who Jesus was- He had the faith to ask. But when the winds and water became turbulent, in fear Peter began to sink.
Its the fear that we give into that diminishes the Glory of God. God granted Peter to walk on water, but fear sank Him. People fear many things in this life... and they are diminishing and putting aside the Glory of God. Peter was walking by faith, but when his focus turned to what he was seeing and not keeping his eyes upon Jesus, who he was walking to... he began to sink.
When Sunday comes around and the offering bags come around, I might have 20 bucks in my wallet... I was given $150.... I still gotta give my fifteen... I don't know when I am going to get more gas money to take my girls to school! I have gone through fear and frustrations in my finance dept... how many people give 'til it hurts... ya just gotta do it by faith and He still provides me gas money... but it was those times when I got angry.... for what? For nothing.
The bottom line is this in my life... ... .... I'm a failure. I've tried changing. Can't do it. Thats who I am. BUT, by Him, through, Him, for Him... I CAN DO ALL THINGS.
One of my favorite scriptures is... it is no longer I who live... but He who lives in me.
I can't help to say that the times that I have gone through.... have been nasty. I have been on depression meds twice, financially troubled, fully dependent upon other people- its not easy what I have gone through. Certain things have had to come to pass for me to get to this point in my life where I am at! I have trusted all that He has shared w/ me. I know that He will bless me and glorify Himself in my life... if I wait for Him. Look what Jesus got... He got ALL AUTHORITY! God blessed Him for what God put Him through... and really, it was for us... because God Loved us so much that He sent His ONLY begotten Son. What is going to be the prize for us to wait and trust in Him... ultimately- eternal life.
Chances are that He is going to do something in your lifetime here on earth that is going to glorify God. When satan is persecuting you... its God severely chastening you... so that you may learn. But you can't do it on your own... you gotta helper- the Holy Spirit whom God sends by the petition from Jesus Christ... you can't do it w/out Jesus.
The Prayer in the Garden
Mark 14:32 Then they came to a place which was named Gethsemane; and He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 And He took Peter, James, and John with Him, and He began to be troubled and deeply distressed.
There are many things in this life that we experience that we become fearful... or distressed... anxious... hurtful... and those natural reactions sink us. There are times when God lets me go into this world alone... to test my obedience to the things He has put before me. I experience the feelings mentioned before- but the Holy Spirit comes and 'checks' my spirit and points me to Jesus... in the way that I should react. It is at that time that I repent and ask for forgiveness. Its a learning process to react in a Holy manner.
The natural desires that we have often try to come to the surface and sometimes we react according to its ways. The main thing here is that I cannot do it w/out Jesus in my life. Through Him, I can do all things. Through Him, I am reconciled w/ God. Through Him, I am strengthened. Through Him, I can ask for forgiveness.
Jesus was the same way. In the garden of Gethsemane, He was being persecuted by satan not to go through all the pain and agony. Jesus, fully man as we are, knows what we go through... because He went through it all.
When Peter asked the Lord to come out onto the water that Jesus was walking on, He couldn't do w/out Jesus- but knowing who Jesus was- He had the faith to ask. But when the winds and water became turbulent, in fear Peter began to sink.
Its the fear that we give into that diminishes the Glory of God. God granted Peter to walk on water, but fear sank Him. People fear many things in this life... and they are diminishing and putting aside the Glory of God. Peter was walking by faith, but when his focus turned to what he was seeing and not keeping his eyes upon Jesus, who he was walking to... he began to sink.
When Sunday comes around and the offering bags come around, I might have 20 bucks in my wallet... I was given $150.... I still gotta give my fifteen... I don't know when I am going to get more gas money to take my girls to school! I have gone through fear and frustrations in my finance dept... how many people give 'til it hurts... ya just gotta do it by faith and He still provides me gas money... but it was those times when I got angry.... for what? For nothing.
The bottom line is this in my life... ... .... I'm a failure. I've tried changing. Can't do it. Thats who I am. BUT, by Him, through, Him, for Him... I CAN DO ALL THINGS.
One of my favorite scriptures is... it is no longer I who live... but He who lives in me.
I can't help to say that the times that I have gone through.... have been nasty. I have been on depression meds twice, financially troubled, fully dependent upon other people- its not easy what I have gone through. Certain things have had to come to pass for me to get to this point in my life where I am at! I have trusted all that He has shared w/ me. I know that He will bless me and glorify Himself in my life... if I wait for Him. Look what Jesus got... He got ALL AUTHORITY! God blessed Him for what God put Him through... and really, it was for us... because God Loved us so much that He sent His ONLY begotten Son. What is going to be the prize for us to wait and trust in Him... ultimately- eternal life.
Chances are that He is going to do something in your lifetime here on earth that is going to glorify God. When satan is persecuting you... its God severely chastening you... so that you may learn. But you can't do it on your own... you gotta helper- the Holy Spirit whom God sends by the petition from Jesus Christ... you can't do it w/out Jesus.
Friday, April 8, 2011
I'm gonna bust you up... go for it.
In the epic battle between Clubber Lang and Rocky Balboa, an exchange of words took place prior to the commencement of war.
Mr. T conquered Rocky in the first fight, but rendered powerless the second.
Yeah, I know... you prob guessed it... more sharing!
With the dawn of Easter approaching soon, a battle was set forth by the 'ring master'- God. In one corner... satan, in the other... Jesus Christ.
This was not one fight Jesus wanted. Being fully man- just as we are, He wavered in the temptation to resist submitting Himself over to authorities.
Luke 22:42 ...“Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me..."
Rocky didn't have much interest in doing another fight vs. Clubber Land... but Apollo Creed pushed him and encouraged him.
Jesus continued..."nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.”
I can imagine satan, arrogantly speaking to Jesus the words... I'm gonna bust you up! Inasmuch ferventness as Rocky answered, Jesus responding... go for it.
Easter is a time remembering what Christ went through. Crucified, died... and risen.
In the end... Rocky arms were up in the air- overcome by joy, knowing that it was all over... he won... the crowd screaming and yelling. He received his prize- a belt of recognition of an achievement by going through something near horrific. Clubber Lang's sting is no more... rendered defeated... but his presence still lingers.
We are now left to fight Clubber Lang... he is a formidable opponent. He is going to defeat us round by round... until we can overcome his adversity- with the knowledge of Who is in our corner. He is our Trainer, our Encourager, our Cut-man, He gives us drink, He lets us rest between rounds... even though we want to give up and walk out of the ring while we are being punched in the face. During the bout, He is yelling instructions out to us to keep our guard up... keep moving. When the bell rings, we sit down and He gets in our face and He tells us what to do next... do we listen to Him or do we throw in the towel.
You gotta Clubber Lang in your face... (it could be anything... sex-drugs-alcohol-depression). I can share with you a testament of how He helped me defeat him. Anytime, anywhere, no matter what... He can be in your corner if you want Him to be.
Mr. T conquered Rocky in the first fight, but rendered powerless the second.
Yeah, I know... you prob guessed it... more sharing!
With the dawn of Easter approaching soon, a battle was set forth by the 'ring master'- God. In one corner... satan, in the other... Jesus Christ.
This was not one fight Jesus wanted. Being fully man- just as we are, He wavered in the temptation to resist submitting Himself over to authorities.
Luke 22:42 ...“Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me..."
Rocky didn't have much interest in doing another fight vs. Clubber Land... but Apollo Creed pushed him and encouraged him.
Jesus continued..."nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.”
I can imagine satan, arrogantly speaking to Jesus the words... I'm gonna bust you up! Inasmuch ferventness as Rocky answered, Jesus responding... go for it.
Easter is a time remembering what Christ went through. Crucified, died... and risen.
In the end... Rocky arms were up in the air- overcome by joy, knowing that it was all over... he won... the crowd screaming and yelling. He received his prize- a belt of recognition of an achievement by going through something near horrific. Clubber Lang's sting is no more... rendered defeated... but his presence still lingers.
We are now left to fight Clubber Lang... he is a formidable opponent. He is going to defeat us round by round... until we can overcome his adversity- with the knowledge of Who is in our corner. He is our Trainer, our Encourager, our Cut-man, He gives us drink, He lets us rest between rounds... even though we want to give up and walk out of the ring while we are being punched in the face. During the bout, He is yelling instructions out to us to keep our guard up... keep moving. When the bell rings, we sit down and He gets in our face and He tells us what to do next... do we listen to Him or do we throw in the towel.
You gotta Clubber Lang in your face... (it could be anything... sex-drugs-alcohol-depression). I can share with you a testament of how He helped me defeat him. Anytime, anywhere, no matter what... He can be in your corner if you want Him to be.
No one has to be the asking price.
Lyrics in the song 'Undone' sang by FFH.
One night, I became overwhelmed in an onslaught of such wickedness, only a Man of Holy Power can diminish its grasp on me.
Its not easy at all what we all can go through. But He cares for us, He loves us and He can deliver us.
Satan can only do so much as allowed by God. he is given power and authority in this world... the main word here is given. he can only do as much as God allows- at least in my Christian faith. What I mean, is when God's wrath was being released on me (just as it happened w/ Christ in His cruxifixction), He came as a Savior in my life... I started to let go of all the temptations.
I suppose that I am not the only one that can loose composure. But instead of the continuing of self-punishment (waling on my legs w/ a dowel rod), I settled myself down, closed by eyes and began to think of the blessings God has shared w/ me in recent past. I did not want to throw that away- He cared enough for me to share some of His glory in what He is doing in this world. So, despite all the thoughts that fed my inferno... I closed my eyes because the things that I was looking at was being used against me- they were tools to persecute me, that could be used to cause harm.
2 Corinthians 5:7 We live by faith, not by sight.
By closing my eyes, the things of this world I could not see. By closing my eyes, I could focus on Christ... I could focus on His blessings, His work in my life... the work that He can do through me sharing w/ others. I could focus on resisting the thoughts that I was reacting on.
James 4:7 So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
It took some time- it did not go away immediately. But, his death-grip on my life began to fade... then it was gone.
One day the disciples were rowing a boat against the wind as Jesus was walking on water approaching them. When Jesus boarded the boat, the winds subsided.
Thats who God is in my life. Jesus is my Savior. Without Him, who knows what type of destruction could have arise. But he showed me what people go through... in completion. The will to react and convict, condemn, persecute others, and carry out relentless thought after thought of kayos and destruction.
Cutting, self bludgeoning, suicide, will to die, blaming others. These things happen in our world... and who can help them??? When is God going to begin a world-revival?
Matthew 3:8 Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance.
When we repent... first we need to realize that we are wrong in our transgressions. The humbleness that we know will come to us, bringing us before God in unworthiness.
Philippians 4:6 that he who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ.
His work in this trial, He is building up your trust in Him. Was this God pushing us through the 'threshing floor'.
Matthew 3:12 "Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." At the time of threshing, the wheat is separated from the chaff and the tares... but I guess that is another sermon.
The main point is... Christ paid the full price for us- because of our sinful ways we live... through Him, we no longer face the penalty for sin- which was death. Now, through Christ, we can be reconciled to God... through Christ whom forgives all sin who ask for it- NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF SIN.
Christ paid the asking price, put up be His father, whom sent His only begotten Son, to serve it... not judge it. He received the full onslaught wrath of God... until God's Will was satisfied during His cruxifixction.
In this trial, Christ kept His faith in the Will of God... knowing that He was going to go through tremendous pain and persecution. But, in the end, God vindicated His Son...
After His resurrection:
The Great Commission
16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted.
18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
God vindicated His Son by giving all authority............. wow. He received a blessing, for what He went through... no different when we take our kids to the doctors- I certainly have given a prize for what they went through.
So, Christ paid the asking price... WE DON'T HAVE TOO! Thank God for that. I don't have to wail my legs to pay for the way I am treated by others... I can bask in the peace that covers me and let go of everything.
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Thats who God is and how He love me and you... spend some time with Him. Learn to hear His voice... because He 'IS' reaching out to you. Build in the personal relationship with Him- nobody likes to be ignored.
One night, I became overwhelmed in an onslaught of such wickedness, only a Man of Holy Power can diminish its grasp on me.
Its not easy at all what we all can go through. But He cares for us, He loves us and He can deliver us.
Satan can only do so much as allowed by God. he is given power and authority in this world... the main word here is given. he can only do as much as God allows- at least in my Christian faith. What I mean, is when God's wrath was being released on me (just as it happened w/ Christ in His cruxifixction), He came as a Savior in my life... I started to let go of all the temptations.
I suppose that I am not the only one that can loose composure. But instead of the continuing of self-punishment (waling on my legs w/ a dowel rod), I settled myself down, closed by eyes and began to think of the blessings God has shared w/ me in recent past. I did not want to throw that away- He cared enough for me to share some of His glory in what He is doing in this world. So, despite all the thoughts that fed my inferno... I closed my eyes because the things that I was looking at was being used against me- they were tools to persecute me, that could be used to cause harm.
2 Corinthians 5:7 We live by faith, not by sight.
By closing my eyes, the things of this world I could not see. By closing my eyes, I could focus on Christ... I could focus on His blessings, His work in my life... the work that He can do through me sharing w/ others. I could focus on resisting the thoughts that I was reacting on.
James 4:7 So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
It took some time- it did not go away immediately. But, his death-grip on my life began to fade... then it was gone.
One day the disciples were rowing a boat against the wind as Jesus was walking on water approaching them. When Jesus boarded the boat, the winds subsided.
Thats who God is in my life. Jesus is my Savior. Without Him, who knows what type of destruction could have arise. But he showed me what people go through... in completion. The will to react and convict, condemn, persecute others, and carry out relentless thought after thought of kayos and destruction.
Cutting, self bludgeoning, suicide, will to die, blaming others. These things happen in our world... and who can help them??? When is God going to begin a world-revival?
Matthew 3:8 Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance.
When we repent... first we need to realize that we are wrong in our transgressions. The humbleness that we know will come to us, bringing us before God in unworthiness.
Philippians 4:6 that he who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ.
His work in this trial, He is building up your trust in Him. Was this God pushing us through the 'threshing floor'.
Matthew 3:12 "Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." At the time of threshing, the wheat is separated from the chaff and the tares... but I guess that is another sermon.
The main point is... Christ paid the full price for us- because of our sinful ways we live... through Him, we no longer face the penalty for sin- which was death. Now, through Christ, we can be reconciled to God... through Christ whom forgives all sin who ask for it- NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF SIN.
Christ paid the asking price, put up be His father, whom sent His only begotten Son, to serve it... not judge it. He received the full onslaught wrath of God... until God's Will was satisfied during His cruxifixction.
In this trial, Christ kept His faith in the Will of God... knowing that He was going to go through tremendous pain and persecution. But, in the end, God vindicated His Son...
After His resurrection:
The Great Commission
16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted.
18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
God vindicated His Son by giving all authority............. wow. He received a blessing, for what He went through... no different when we take our kids to the doctors- I certainly have given a prize for what they went through.
So, Christ paid the asking price... WE DON'T HAVE TOO! Thank God for that. I don't have to wail my legs to pay for the way I am treated by others... I can bask in the peace that covers me and let go of everything.
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Thats who God is and how He love me and you... spend some time with Him. Learn to hear His voice... because He 'IS' reaching out to you. Build in the personal relationship with Him- nobody likes to be ignored.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Rowing against the wind
But wait, there's more... as I go through bankruptcy, all the past was being re-lived by means of how I got to this point. The marital problems or the missed opportunities to come to a settlement w/ credit card company, the depression, the loss of living a life. Then I have a lawsuit against me and an impossible amount of paperwork, of which, I do not fully understand.
In the book of Mark, there was a great multitude of people and it was time to eat but they only had 5 loaves of bread and two fish. The disciples asked if they spend 200 units of money to go buy bread for the five thousand people. In the end, all were fed to their fulfillment. Jesus took an impossible moment and made it happen. A true miracle.
That is just what I am up against in this paperwork- an impossible situation to complete it as required. But, I call out for help.
Psalm 145:18 The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.
I am not alone in this- but only if I desire.
After Jesus fed the five thousand, He made His disciples get into a boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida. But the disciples were rowing against the wind and here comes Jesus walking on water. They cried out in fear of the ghost that was drawing near. Then Jesus said, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased.
How many times to we find ourselves rowing against the wind... I find myself doing it quite a bit. But... how many times do we give ourselves and opportunity to call out to Him. In these storms that we face, there is always going to be turmoil to a degree- but when we call upon Jesus... the storms subside and His peace covers our understanding (Philippians 4:7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.)
In the book of Mark, there was a great multitude of people and it was time to eat but they only had 5 loaves of bread and two fish. The disciples asked if they spend 200 units of money to go buy bread for the five thousand people. In the end, all were fed to their fulfillment. Jesus took an impossible moment and made it happen. A true miracle.
That is just what I am up against in this paperwork- an impossible situation to complete it as required. But, I call out for help.
Psalm 145:18 The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.
I am not alone in this- but only if I desire.
After Jesus fed the five thousand, He made His disciples get into a boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida. But the disciples were rowing against the wind and here comes Jesus walking on water. They cried out in fear of the ghost that was drawing near. Then Jesus said, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased.
How many times to we find ourselves rowing against the wind... I find myself doing it quite a bit. But... how many times do we give ourselves and opportunity to call out to Him. In these storms that we face, there is always going to be turmoil to a degree- but when we call upon Jesus... the storms subside and His peace covers our understanding (Philippians 4:7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.)
Give unto Cesura what us to to Caesar
I am under rule of my father's house. He is giving me a room and food to partake in. He has his ways backed by his pride- to say that his ways are not His ways.
In the emotions that come upon me, I take defense to to wickedness of pride. This is nothing new, but I now proclaim the wisdom that is freely given to those who ask.
You see, as he curses his name in vain- it hurts me to the point of tears because Jesus is Lord. He is the author of my life. I do my best to surrender all unto Him with the help of the Holy Spirit. But the Lord my God does not hold grudges against anyone...
Even when Peter denied Him 3 times when the romans were proclaiming that Peter was one of His disciples. I am sure that Jesus was tempted to condemn Peter for what transpired before everyone. But, His trust was in God, He had to let it go- for God knows no sin.
God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit is forever Loving no matter how we treat or rebel against Him. The fruit of His promise is forgiveness, showing grace and mercy towards those who follow His commandments and law. He consistently give opportunity to those of His creation to come before Him, and when they lay down all the walls and give up everything, He may grant them repentance.
But as my dad holds the world in contempt, so do I hold him in contempt before God. I have despised his presence and ways of his pride, but I must let it go and forgive him and let it go.
How can the Lord forgive me if I can't forgive those around me. Matthew 6:15 But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
In the emotions that come upon me, I take defense to to wickedness of pride. This is nothing new, but I now proclaim the wisdom that is freely given to those who ask.
You see, as he curses his name in vain- it hurts me to the point of tears because Jesus is Lord. He is the author of my life. I do my best to surrender all unto Him with the help of the Holy Spirit. But the Lord my God does not hold grudges against anyone...
Even when Peter denied Him 3 times when the romans were proclaiming that Peter was one of His disciples. I am sure that Jesus was tempted to condemn Peter for what transpired before everyone. But, His trust was in God, He had to let it go- for God knows no sin.
God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit is forever Loving no matter how we treat or rebel against Him. The fruit of His promise is forgiveness, showing grace and mercy towards those who follow His commandments and law. He consistently give opportunity to those of His creation to come before Him, and when they lay down all the walls and give up everything, He may grant them repentance.
But as my dad holds the world in contempt, so do I hold him in contempt before God. I have despised his presence and ways of his pride, but I must let it go and forgive him and let it go.
How can the Lord forgive me if I can't forgive those around me. Matthew 6:15 But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Past, Present, Future trials... turmoil or His Glory?
There has been many a day in the past when I have come to the table to eat. But, in doing so, giving thanks in the form of tears and pain and unworthiness.
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
As I said my grace this morning, I was reminded of the past that I had lived. I was a man badly broken, severely chastened (Ps. 118), pressed against the threshing floor, pruned of all the bad fruit... only so He could complete the good work that He had begun in me.
I humbly look at my past w/ thanksgiving for who was with me when I was at my weakest point... only to find out that was when I was the strongest I have ever been. Faith in Jesus was my only hope and there is where I rested. Though I speak of praise, I am not exempt of the feelings of being oppressed and defined by those around me.
Do I forgive them. God instructs us to forgive 7 x 70 which means to forgive forever. I can leave the judgement to Him.
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, (Matthew 5:44). Instead of reacting in a nasty way, we can let it go and respond for praying for them... ultimately, giving it all up unto the Lord. Ya see? I cannot condemn them. If I can say that God has great plans for me... what about them. We are for the sinners, if we accept that Jesus is for the sinner.
The work of satan and his craftiness is at work, therefore I cannot condemn another person for their wrong doing, can I? God doesn't want us correcting the prideful man lest he will hate us. So just let it go and pray for those who curse at you.
What was meant for evil against you, God meant it for good (ref. Genesis 50:20)
In all that happens to us can bear us down into deep depressions, but The LORD is near to all who call on him, (Ps 145:18). When we put our trust in Him in those bad times we go through, He can cover us w/ His peace- which surpasses all understanding. He increases our faith in the trials He puts us through.
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
As I said my grace this morning, I was reminded of the past that I had lived. I was a man badly broken, severely chastened (Ps. 118), pressed against the threshing floor, pruned of all the bad fruit... only so He could complete the good work that He had begun in me.
I humbly look at my past w/ thanksgiving for who was with me when I was at my weakest point... only to find out that was when I was the strongest I have ever been. Faith in Jesus was my only hope and there is where I rested. Though I speak of praise, I am not exempt of the feelings of being oppressed and defined by those around me.
Do I forgive them. God instructs us to forgive 7 x 70 which means to forgive forever. I can leave the judgement to Him.
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, (Matthew 5:44). Instead of reacting in a nasty way, we can let it go and respond for praying for them... ultimately, giving it all up unto the Lord. Ya see? I cannot condemn them. If I can say that God has great plans for me... what about them. We are for the sinners, if we accept that Jesus is for the sinner.
The work of satan and his craftiness is at work, therefore I cannot condemn another person for their wrong doing, can I? God doesn't want us correcting the prideful man lest he will hate us. So just let it go and pray for those who curse at you.
What was meant for evil against you, God meant it for good (ref. Genesis 50:20)
In all that happens to us can bear us down into deep depressions, but The LORD is near to all who call on him, (Ps 145:18). When we put our trust in Him in those bad times we go through, He can cover us w/ His peace- which surpasses all understanding. He increases our faith in the trials He puts us through.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Frozen, thawed, flowing
I walk my 1st grader to school everyday. Yesterday as I picked her up from school, I noticed that my pant legs were damp from walking in the spring run off. This morning as we walked, we crunched the thin layers of ice that covered the pot holes- something that I used to like doing... and still do. My daughter and I fought for position so that we could break the upcoming crust frozen water.
Christ is the water of life. Revelation 22:17 The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.
Then there is satan whom is on our other shoulder- per say. 2 Corinthians 12:7 To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.
In these early spring days where the warmth of the day comes, so too does the cold nights that re-freezes the spring runoff.
Through all the trials that we go through, Christ is here to preserve and strengthen us when we have fallen. We are like the frozen water that is brought by winter. We become frozen and go no where, we are in a stand still. But, if we wait long enough... in his perfect timing, we will be able to flow where He directs us.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
But, when the darkness of the night comes, satan temps us (doesn't make us) to quit flowing... the water from the previous day had become frozen- but not all of it. There were puddles at the top of the hill that still had some water under the thin cover of ice. A remnant of water still in its form and not entirely affected by the coldness of night. (Which would you consider yourself to be... the water that completely freezes or the water that does not fully succumb to the cold).
John 5:21 For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it.
The process of winter becoming summer- and who isn't ready for summer, will go through many cycles of freezing and melting... until the freezing of the night succumbs to the warmth, it no longer has the power to freeze the water. The same happens to us in the faith-building trials that we go through. We will go through the same trial over and over until we learn to focus on Him who knows the way and delivers us- through His resurrection power... hmmm, strange that Easter is near!
Christ is the water of life. Revelation 22:17 The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.
Then there is satan whom is on our other shoulder- per say. 2 Corinthians 12:7 To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.
In these early spring days where the warmth of the day comes, so too does the cold nights that re-freezes the spring runoff.
Through all the trials that we go through, Christ is here to preserve and strengthen us when we have fallen. We are like the frozen water that is brought by winter. We become frozen and go no where, we are in a stand still. But, if we wait long enough... in his perfect timing, we will be able to flow where He directs us.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
But, when the darkness of the night comes, satan temps us (doesn't make us) to quit flowing... the water from the previous day had become frozen- but not all of it. There were puddles at the top of the hill that still had some water under the thin cover of ice. A remnant of water still in its form and not entirely affected by the coldness of night. (Which would you consider yourself to be... the water that completely freezes or the water that does not fully succumb to the cold).
John 5:21 For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it.
The process of winter becoming summer- and who isn't ready for summer, will go through many cycles of freezing and melting... until the freezing of the night succumbs to the warmth, it no longer has the power to freeze the water. The same happens to us in the faith-building trials that we go through. We will go through the same trial over and over until we learn to focus on Him who knows the way and delivers us- through His resurrection power... hmmm, strange that Easter is near!
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