Since I've been reading through David Brainerd's diary, the primary thing that struck me is his fervency to enter the presence of the Most High. He was acutely aware of the presence of God. If he did not sense the presence of God he was struck with depression and the hideous nature of sin. He groaned and mourned that he would be far from God. But when God drew near to his heart, it is as if a bright light shone into his heart, warming it with heavenly virtue, love, and grace.
The thought occurred to me: how far am I willing to go to cultivate the Holy Spirit's presence in my life? We do not earn the right to enter into the presence of God through prayer, fasting, mourning, or any external action. By the grace of God, those who have been born again have the privilege of entering into the throne room of grace and speaking with God face to face as a man speaks to His friend. We have become the Temple of the Holy Spirit. Proverbs 18:16 states, "A man's gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men." When we give our lives to God, we receive of His eternal gift of salvation. In the words of the "Joy to the World," all people are exhorted: "Let every heart prepare Him room."
What is the presence of God worth to you? If you had to put a monetary value on it, would it be $5? $500? What would you pay for access to the ear of Jesus Christ? Our mouths speak words easily, but what does your life say? People pay thousands of dollars for a couple hours in a sports stadium! What would you be willing to give God for just a second in presence of your Creator and Savior? If it required not eating or drinking for a day would you do it? If it meant throwing your cell phone away? What if it meant giving up your most valued hobby? What kind of things hinder us from entering in to that blessed presence of God? Living in God's presence is worth more than the lives we choose for ourselves.
James 4:8 says, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded." Let us cleanse our hands and hearts in the flow of Christ's blood. Before this can happen, we must set down the idols we carry. If we attempt to wash idols into this divine flow we pollute and blaspheme His sacrifice. There is hope for those who draw near in humility and faith, giving themselves to God. Oh the preciousness of the presence of God! May nothing stop us from entering into His presence with singing and into His courts with praise!
31 July 2009
30 July 2009
Shepherd's Staff
I have been praising God for His faithfulness and peace. I was able to meet with Pastor Pat from Shepherd's Staff and believe that I will take steps to pursue a partnership with that group. From the moment we sat down, God directed our conversation. I enjoyed the sweetness of gracious fellowship. Even in Coco's, I felt right at home.
Now I'm not much of a "feeling" person. I don't believe that feelings always dictate God's leading. I tend to distrust feelings as a basis for belief. But sometimes we can go too far and disregard feelings entirely. God has given us feelings as well as senses. They both are necessary and important. However, faith operates on a plane that reaches beyond the physical senses. The Word of God provides the foundation for belief and though our feelings or senses may not agree, faith remains the true path. The scriptures say, "The just shall live by faith."
How good it is to have a God who directs and guides us along this path of faith! If all I had to guide me were my feelings and senses, I would be absolutely lost! Walking by sight is a curse rather than a blessing. Walking by sight and consequent unbelief denied the children of Israel their inheritance in Canaan. They saw the giants in the land and saw themselves as puny as grasshoppers. Had they looked with eyes of faith to God Almighty, they would have seen the giants in the land as grasshoppers!
When we see God in truth as the Almighty Creator of All, and praise Him as the conquering, triumphant KING, all else fades in comparison. We see ourselves in truth as pitiful, weak, and helpless. Following Jesus is too much for us. But to God be the glory, who is the Lifter of our heads and the Giver of peace. Philip. 4:6-7 says, "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."
Our feelings can fail us and our senses can deceive us, but the Word of God will endure forever! No one goes to heaven because they "feel" like it, and the eyes of man cannot see nor hear Death coming for him. We will enter into heaven on the merits of Christ alone, a finished work received through repentance and faith in Him. That feels pretty good to me.
Now I'm not much of a "feeling" person. I don't believe that feelings always dictate God's leading. I tend to distrust feelings as a basis for belief. But sometimes we can go too far and disregard feelings entirely. God has given us feelings as well as senses. They both are necessary and important. However, faith operates on a plane that reaches beyond the physical senses. The Word of God provides the foundation for belief and though our feelings or senses may not agree, faith remains the true path. The scriptures say, "The just shall live by faith."
How good it is to have a God who directs and guides us along this path of faith! If all I had to guide me were my feelings and senses, I would be absolutely lost! Walking by sight is a curse rather than a blessing. Walking by sight and consequent unbelief denied the children of Israel their inheritance in Canaan. They saw the giants in the land and saw themselves as puny as grasshoppers. Had they looked with eyes of faith to God Almighty, they would have seen the giants in the land as grasshoppers!
When we see God in truth as the Almighty Creator of All, and praise Him as the conquering, triumphant KING, all else fades in comparison. We see ourselves in truth as pitiful, weak, and helpless. Following Jesus is too much for us. But to God be the glory, who is the Lifter of our heads and the Giver of peace. Philip. 4:6-7 says, "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."
Our feelings can fail us and our senses can deceive us, but the Word of God will endure forever! No one goes to heaven because they "feel" like it, and the eyes of man cannot see nor hear Death coming for him. We will enter into heaven on the merits of Christ alone, a finished work received through repentance and faith in Him. That feels pretty good to me.
29 July 2009
Focus Divided
Last night I intended to read a book. Laura had started a movie that did not interest me, but as I sat there for the next hour something interesting happened. Though I was very interested in my book I read about three pages (and not too well I'm afraid) and I was drawn to the movie. While I prepared for bed I thought about how the evening went, and repented that I had allowed myself to be robbed of time with God for a movie I didn't care about even after watching it.
God showed me something through it all: if I had to be truthful, I would say that night sums up most of my Christian existence. I know I am not alone. Our Christianity is like a good book we pick up intending to immerse ourselves in but the world grabs our attention. We're robbed of scripture truth and spend our lives playing at following Jesus instead of really doing it. Now there's nothing inherently wrong with sitting down to watch a movie. Yet that was not my intention: my intention was to fellowship with God and I missed out. I was not actually robbed of my time with God - sadly, I gave it up. I can't blame the T.V. for my divided focus.
Thanks to the gracious God we serve, there is a lesson from this for me and you. Don't play at your relationship with God. In the "texting" age in which we live, nothing is more frustrating than attempting to have a conversation with someone who is constantly looking down at their phone and sending text after text. Let's not be this way with God. Let us place ourselves in a position to give Him our full, undivided attention. The devil likes nothing more than to hinder us from walking in the awesome power of our Savior. He loves it when we open the Bible without focus or diligence. I have resolved not to rob myself of time with God again. Will you?
God showed me something through it all: if I had to be truthful, I would say that night sums up most of my Christian existence. I know I am not alone. Our Christianity is like a good book we pick up intending to immerse ourselves in but the world grabs our attention. We're robbed of scripture truth and spend our lives playing at following Jesus instead of really doing it. Now there's nothing inherently wrong with sitting down to watch a movie. Yet that was not my intention: my intention was to fellowship with God and I missed out. I was not actually robbed of my time with God - sadly, I gave it up. I can't blame the T.V. for my divided focus.
Thanks to the gracious God we serve, there is a lesson from this for me and you. Don't play at your relationship with God. In the "texting" age in which we live, nothing is more frustrating than attempting to have a conversation with someone who is constantly looking down at their phone and sending text after text. Let's not be this way with God. Let us place ourselves in a position to give Him our full, undivided attention. The devil likes nothing more than to hinder us from walking in the awesome power of our Savior. He loves it when we open the Bible without focus or diligence. I have resolved not to rob myself of time with God again. Will you?
28 July 2009
Thursday meeting...
Thursday morning I have the privilege to meet with Pat Kenney of Shepherd's Staff (http://shepsstaff.org) for breakfast. Pat serves with this organization that aids in sending missionaries into foreign fields and provides training, oversight of funds, and performs other administrative tasks. It is by the grace of God that we have been connected through a common friend. My prayer is that God's will be accomplished. If God desires that my family partner with this group I ask that God would make it clear to both Pat and me. I will not consult with an arm of flesh in lieu of obedience, but I also want to avail myself to the wisdom and experience God has gifted others in this arena.
Please seek the LORD with me, praying and fasting that God's will be accomplished in Australia and at home. May God receive all the glory for He alone is worthy.
Please seek the LORD with me, praying and fasting that God's will be accomplished in Australia and at home. May God receive all the glory for He alone is worthy.
The Poison of Compromise
When it comes to matters of morality and righteousness, God will never meet a sinner halfway: His holy standards do not shift or adjust with the moral climate of a society. No matter how the earth may quake, east remains east and west remains west. We serve a Savior who humbled Himself, put on human flesh, and became sin for us. He does not command that we befriend the world to gain followers for Christ. Compromise can be so subtle that it can even threaten to influence the workings of the church.
1 Cor. 7:23 says, "You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men." How easily we can become slaves to the opinions and desires of others and neglect our heavenly purpose! God has called every believer into His service, and the specific role of each slave is dictated by the Master. Jesus not only reveals the path but the activity; He commands not only the activity but the means to His end. God does not show the end and allow us to devise the way to that end. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As Christ is allowed to live out His life through us, His end is realized by His grace.
As we cannot compromise the call of God, we must refuse to compromise the path God has chosen that we walk to fulfill that call in obedience. We cannot say, "I will be a pastor, LORD, but only after I have fulfilled the requirements of seminary training." In like manner we must not say, "I refuse formal training, for the disciples were unlearned men who God filled with His Spirit and all wisdom." God has called many to be pastors and teachers, and for some the path has been through study and others primarily through experience. But for each true follower of God He must remain all in all.
Compromise is a poison that clouds judgment and the ability to hear God clearly. It obscures the vision of God's call. It numbs a man as alcohol, instead it increases inhibitions rather than reducing them. Compromise inhibits us from reckless abandonment to God's plan, will, and call that faith requires. Every compromise appears small: like Lot we say, "Isn't it a little one?" We think that compromise will allow us to escape judgment but gives place for even greater sin (Genesis 19:17-20). Let us be led by God and not fall prey to man-pleasing. May we commit to be slaves of God first, only, and always.
1 Cor. 7:23 says, "You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men." How easily we can become slaves to the opinions and desires of others and neglect our heavenly purpose! God has called every believer into His service, and the specific role of each slave is dictated by the Master. Jesus not only reveals the path but the activity; He commands not only the activity but the means to His end. God does not show the end and allow us to devise the way to that end. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As Christ is allowed to live out His life through us, His end is realized by His grace.
As we cannot compromise the call of God, we must refuse to compromise the path God has chosen that we walk to fulfill that call in obedience. We cannot say, "I will be a pastor, LORD, but only after I have fulfilled the requirements of seminary training." In like manner we must not say, "I refuse formal training, for the disciples were unlearned men who God filled with His Spirit and all wisdom." God has called many to be pastors and teachers, and for some the path has been through study and others primarily through experience. But for each true follower of God He must remain all in all.
Compromise is a poison that clouds judgment and the ability to hear God clearly. It obscures the vision of God's call. It numbs a man as alcohol, instead it increases inhibitions rather than reducing them. Compromise inhibits us from reckless abandonment to God's plan, will, and call that faith requires. Every compromise appears small: like Lot we say, "Isn't it a little one?" We think that compromise will allow us to escape judgment but gives place for even greater sin (Genesis 19:17-20). Let us be led by God and not fall prey to man-pleasing. May we commit to be slaves of God first, only, and always.
25 July 2009
David Brainerd quotes...
During a sermon at camp, youth pastor Jeremy King of CC Vista suggested The Life and Diary of David Brainerd, compiled by Jonathan Edwards. I was able to purchase this book on alibris.com (great for rare or out of print books; for Christian books in print I use christianbook.com) So far it has been an interesting read of Edwards and Brainerd, two men whose devotion and piety towards God are rarely seen among professing followers of Christ and from whose example I fall woefully short.
A couple of quotes resonated in my heart: "I wanted not the favor of man to lean upon; for I knew Christ's favor was infinitely better, and that it was no matter when, nor where, nor how Christ should send me, nor what trials He should still exercise me with, if I might be prepared for His work and will" (pg. 79).
On the day of his 24th birthday (David only lived to 29 years of age) he writes, "Oh, how much mercy have I received the year past! How often has God caused His goodness to pass before me! And how poorly have I answered the vows I made this time twelve month to be wholly the Lord's, to be forever devoted to His service! The Lord help me to live more to His glory for the time to come. This has been a sweet, a happy day to me; blessed be God...I hardly ever so longed to live to God and to be altogether devoted to Him. I wanted to wear out my life in His service, and for His glory" (pg. 81).
Indeed, and well put. So sings my soul: Amen, and Amen!
A couple of quotes resonated in my heart: "I wanted not the favor of man to lean upon; for I knew Christ's favor was infinitely better, and that it was no matter when, nor where, nor how Christ should send me, nor what trials He should still exercise me with, if I might be prepared for His work and will" (pg. 79).
On the day of his 24th birthday (David only lived to 29 years of age) he writes, "Oh, how much mercy have I received the year past! How often has God caused His goodness to pass before me! And how poorly have I answered the vows I made this time twelve month to be wholly the Lord's, to be forever devoted to His service! The Lord help me to live more to His glory for the time to come. This has been a sweet, a happy day to me; blessed be God...I hardly ever so longed to live to God and to be altogether devoted to Him. I wanted to wear out my life in His service, and for His glory" (pg. 81).
Indeed, and well put. So sings my soul: Amen, and Amen!
24 July 2009
How necessary is God for you?
There are people who believe in God who do not live according to His ways. I am not even speaking of professing followers of Christ. The demons believe and tremble while many men believe and shrug. Demons believe according to the knowledge of the power and dominion of God, while man's idea of God is no bigger than the distance between his ears.
It is the great shame of the church today that many times God is not indispensable to the daily lives of those who call themselves by Christ's name. We all agree that God is necessary for life, but we are content to live for ourselves according to our design. Pastor Rob Salvado of CC Vista claimed that many professing Christian lives could be compared to a Swanson's TV dinner: all parts conveniently separate. We confine all "God" activity with the peas, but we keep His influence from the mashed potatoes, meat, and brownie! He is a seasoning rather than substance. God is an ideal, not a reality. Brothers and sisters, this will never do!
God wants to teach me total reliance upon Him for provision, guidance, comfort, and strength. I am to regard His Word over my daily bread. Tozer said that if "You don't live hazardously for God you're too soft." Allow God to examine your heart: we say we believe, but does Jesus have the preeminence? Is Christ more precious to you than all things? I desire to live in a place where God is completely necessary for survival: absolutely indispensable. Let us dispense with all the walls we put up and allow Christ to be our all in all! Discard the old plastic life and let Christ fill every part of your existence. The cost is great, but the reward is greater.
It is the great shame of the church today that many times God is not indispensable to the daily lives of those who call themselves by Christ's name. We all agree that God is necessary for life, but we are content to live for ourselves according to our design. Pastor Rob Salvado of CC Vista claimed that many professing Christian lives could be compared to a Swanson's TV dinner: all parts conveniently separate. We confine all "God" activity with the peas, but we keep His influence from the mashed potatoes, meat, and brownie! He is a seasoning rather than substance. God is an ideal, not a reality. Brothers and sisters, this will never do!
God wants to teach me total reliance upon Him for provision, guidance, comfort, and strength. I am to regard His Word over my daily bread. Tozer said that if "You don't live hazardously for God you're too soft." Allow God to examine your heart: we say we believe, but does Jesus have the preeminence? Is Christ more precious to you than all things? I desire to live in a place where God is completely necessary for survival: absolutely indispensable. Let us dispense with all the walls we put up and allow Christ to be our all in all! Discard the old plastic life and let Christ fill every part of your existence. The cost is great, but the reward is greater.
23 July 2009
A Defense of Modern Apostleship
There are those who claim the call of an apostle is not a call of God today upon a believer or relegate it to a general call. This smacks of the same sentiment as when people claim that tongues are not a gift for today or the need for prophecy has passed into antiquity. There is nothing more devious of Satan to convince believers that God could not possibly call them into a particular role or ministry because it is not relevant for today and thus never seek or participate in their rightful place in the Body of Christ. I believe that God has called me to be an apostle and preacher, and I relish this call with humility and thanksgiving.
When I was growing up in the church, I was taught that apostleship is confined only to the first 12 disciples chosen by Jesus Christ. The Bible reveals this is simply not true. The Bible makes a distinction concerning the original 12 apostles for ease of understanding so we know who is being referred to instead of listing all 12 names every time, but this does not mean God does not call today to the role of apostle. There are no biblical "classes" or distinctions between those called to the role of an apostle, one who is sent. In the New Testament, the word "apostle(s)" is used over 70 times, and all with the exact definition save one (2 Cor. 11:13) where Paul says there is such a thing as a "pseudo-apostle." Such a one would be Judas Iscariot, who God called as an apostle but he chose apostasy and betrayed Jesus. The definition of "apostle" is "an ambassador, he who is sent." Did you know that Jesus is called an Apostle? Hebrews 3:1 says, "Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus..." Jesus was sent by His Father to seek and save the lost.
The most common argument I have heard against modern apostleship is that the call must be given personally by the physical person of Jesus Christ. Some claim that since biblical canon is closed, apostolic authority is no longer justified or needed today. Jesus put no such limitation on this calling. Paul says by the "will of God" and "command of God" and "call of God" he is an apostle. He does not say that He is an apostle on the grounds of hearing an audible voice from God or the touch of Christ's hand. Jesus has appeared to me personally, saving and calling me into the ministry. I have not touched His physical body with my hands, but His blood has cleansed and redeemed my soul. The Holy Spirit has filled my heart with His fullness through baptism. Ephes. 4:11 states, "And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers..." People do not doubt that evangelists, pastors, and teachers are called by God today, but hedge on apostles and prophets. Paul says in 1 Tim. 2:6-7 of Christ, "who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time, [7] for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle--I am speaking the truth in Christ and not lying--a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth." God still appoints people in this capacity today.
The scripture is clear in referring to other people in scripture by the same title as apostle. After Judas killed himself, the remaining eleven nominated people as his replacement and by lot Mathias was chosen (Acts 1:23-26). Later in the book, Paul and Barnabas healed a crippled man in Lystra and the people intended to sacrifice unto them. Acts 14:14 says, "But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard this, they tore their clothes and ran in among the multitude..." Luke, the writer of this epistle, affirmed the apostleship of Barnabas and Paul through his profession. At the end of his letter to the Romans, Paul includes this interesting note in Romans 16:7: "Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me." This means either that these were highly regarded by the 12 apostles, or that Andronicus and Junia had the calling of apostleship upon their lives, perhaps even as Gentile believers. The latter interpretation is the strongest in light of other evidence.
By the grace of God I am what I am (1 Cor. 15:9-10) and certainly am not trying to "make a name" for myself. If I claim to have been called by God as a teacher, few would notice. Yet if I claim to answer the call of apostle, eyebrows go up: "Who does this guy think he is?" Men have a habit of glorifying self or other men. If you believe the call to apostleship is glorious for the flesh, you may have forgotten 1 Cor. 4:9-13: "For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. [10] We are fools for Christ's sake...We are weak...we are dishonoured! [11] To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. [12] And we labour, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; [13] being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the off-scouring of all things until now." This is the price to answer the call to apostleship. If anyone wants to assume this role for themselves outside the will or call of God, I beg you reconsider!
God's word to me is "You will preach, and you will be sent." The fact remains that God has appointed different roles in the body of Christ and one specific calling is apostleship. 1 Cor. 12:28-30 states, "And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. [29] Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? [30] Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?" The answer to these rhetorical questions is no: all are not apostles, prophets, teachers, workers of miracles, healers, and so on. But the truth remains that some are called to each office for the edification of the Body of Christ and the glory of God. God is my witness and Judge, and He alone created me, knows me, saved me, and called me into the work of the ministry by His grace.
Please heed the words of 2 Peter 1:10-11: "Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; [11] for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." Refuse to be satisfied with election alone, but be obedient to the call that God has placed upon your life. Let God be true and every man a liar. Trust Him with your life, surrender to Him, and remain committed entirely to His use and service.
When I was growing up in the church, I was taught that apostleship is confined only to the first 12 disciples chosen by Jesus Christ. The Bible reveals this is simply not true. The Bible makes a distinction concerning the original 12 apostles for ease of understanding so we know who is being referred to instead of listing all 12 names every time, but this does not mean God does not call today to the role of apostle. There are no biblical "classes" or distinctions between those called to the role of an apostle, one who is sent. In the New Testament, the word "apostle(s)" is used over 70 times, and all with the exact definition save one (2 Cor. 11:13) where Paul says there is such a thing as a "pseudo-apostle." Such a one would be Judas Iscariot, who God called as an apostle but he chose apostasy and betrayed Jesus. The definition of "apostle" is "an ambassador, he who is sent." Did you know that Jesus is called an Apostle? Hebrews 3:1 says, "Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus..." Jesus was sent by His Father to seek and save the lost.
The most common argument I have heard against modern apostleship is that the call must be given personally by the physical person of Jesus Christ. Some claim that since biblical canon is closed, apostolic authority is no longer justified or needed today. Jesus put no such limitation on this calling. Paul says by the "will of God" and "command of God" and "call of God" he is an apostle. He does not say that He is an apostle on the grounds of hearing an audible voice from God or the touch of Christ's hand. Jesus has appeared to me personally, saving and calling me into the ministry. I have not touched His physical body with my hands, but His blood has cleansed and redeemed my soul. The Holy Spirit has filled my heart with His fullness through baptism. Ephes. 4:11 states, "And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers..." People do not doubt that evangelists, pastors, and teachers are called by God today, but hedge on apostles and prophets. Paul says in 1 Tim. 2:6-7 of Christ, "who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time, [7] for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle--I am speaking the truth in Christ and not lying--a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth." God still appoints people in this capacity today.
The scripture is clear in referring to other people in scripture by the same title as apostle. After Judas killed himself, the remaining eleven nominated people as his replacement and by lot Mathias was chosen (Acts 1:23-26). Later in the book, Paul and Barnabas healed a crippled man in Lystra and the people intended to sacrifice unto them. Acts 14:14 says, "But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard this, they tore their clothes and ran in among the multitude..." Luke, the writer of this epistle, affirmed the apostleship of Barnabas and Paul through his profession. At the end of his letter to the Romans, Paul includes this interesting note in Romans 16:7: "Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me." This means either that these were highly regarded by the 12 apostles, or that Andronicus and Junia had the calling of apostleship upon their lives, perhaps even as Gentile believers. The latter interpretation is the strongest in light of other evidence.
By the grace of God I am what I am (1 Cor. 15:9-10) and certainly am not trying to "make a name" for myself. If I claim to have been called by God as a teacher, few would notice. Yet if I claim to answer the call of apostle, eyebrows go up: "Who does this guy think he is?" Men have a habit of glorifying self or other men. If you believe the call to apostleship is glorious for the flesh, you may have forgotten 1 Cor. 4:9-13: "For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. [10] We are fools for Christ's sake...We are weak...we are dishonoured! [11] To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. [12] And we labour, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; [13] being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the off-scouring of all things until now." This is the price to answer the call to apostleship. If anyone wants to assume this role for themselves outside the will or call of God, I beg you reconsider!
God's word to me is "You will preach, and you will be sent." The fact remains that God has appointed different roles in the body of Christ and one specific calling is apostleship. 1 Cor. 12:28-30 states, "And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. [29] Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? [30] Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?" The answer to these rhetorical questions is no: all are not apostles, prophets, teachers, workers of miracles, healers, and so on. But the truth remains that some are called to each office for the edification of the Body of Christ and the glory of God. God is my witness and Judge, and He alone created me, knows me, saved me, and called me into the work of the ministry by His grace.
Please heed the words of 2 Peter 1:10-11: "Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; [11] for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." Refuse to be satisfied with election alone, but be obedient to the call that God has placed upon your life. Let God be true and every man a liar. Trust Him with your life, surrender to Him, and remain committed entirely to His use and service.
21 July 2009
Would you divorce God?
God is like a king who married a poor peasant and gave her the keys to his castle. Should the new queen avoid meeting with the king, refusing to speak with him, serve or obey him, content with her new keys rather than her husband? God is a King too gracious to divorce such an ungrateful one, but this is the kind who would divorce Him and sue Him for His goods, never having truly loved Him.
Many people desire the blessings and benefits of a Savior, but few are willing to serve Him as a slave. They desire the glory of heaven without earthly sacrifice or labor, and demand the comfort of the Spirit without obedience. Because of the hardness of man's heart Moses permitted men to divorce their wives but from the beginning this was not so. God will not force the apostate to live in His house. Some say a man cannot divorce God: if only that were so! Those who joined themselves to Him for His keys and riches are free to leave, though the Father's heart breaks, Jesus is wounded, and the Spirit grieved.
When an apostate divorces God, he leaves the blessings, protection, and grace of the one who has given him all things. In the words of Thomas Watson, "Worldly things can no more relieve a troubled mind than a silk stocking can ease a broken leg" (The Mischief of Sin, pg. 9). God will pursue this wandering selfish soul and plead, "Come back, my love, my spouse!" God's love does not force faithfulness. May we be as those who worship and praise God for He is worthy, the Creator and Savior of our souls. His beauty and dominion are matched by His infinite love and faithfulness, and rewards all those who serve Him joyfully.
Many people desire the blessings and benefits of a Savior, but few are willing to serve Him as a slave. They desire the glory of heaven without earthly sacrifice or labor, and demand the comfort of the Spirit without obedience. Because of the hardness of man's heart Moses permitted men to divorce their wives but from the beginning this was not so. God will not force the apostate to live in His house. Some say a man cannot divorce God: if only that were so! Those who joined themselves to Him for His keys and riches are free to leave, though the Father's heart breaks, Jesus is wounded, and the Spirit grieved.
When an apostate divorces God, he leaves the blessings, protection, and grace of the one who has given him all things. In the words of Thomas Watson, "Worldly things can no more relieve a troubled mind than a silk stocking can ease a broken leg" (The Mischief of Sin, pg. 9). God will pursue this wandering selfish soul and plead, "Come back, my love, my spouse!" God's love does not force faithfulness. May we be as those who worship and praise God for He is worthy, the Creator and Savior of our souls. His beauty and dominion are matched by His infinite love and faithfulness, and rewards all those who serve Him joyfully.
20 July 2009
What has it cost you to follow Jesus?
During the high school summer camp, Zach Vestnys, lead pastor from Calvary Chapel Petaluma, talked much about the cost of following Jesus Christ. He explained that if your relationship with Christ has cost you nothing, it is likely worth nothing. There were four questions given to us for a group discussion and I found them thought provoking and a profitable challenge:
Believer, God requires much of you and through His Spirit has given you the ability to obey Him through His power. Have you walked in obedience to His Word? Jesus says, "If you love me, keep my commandments." Count the cost of following Jesus and you will see that the cost is small compared to the excellency of the knowledge of Christ.
- What has the cost of your Christianity been thus far?
- What price is God calling you to pay to pursue Him in a deeper relationship?
- In what ways has your life shown evidence of spiritual transformation?
- What trials have you gone through that God has used to change you?
Believer, God requires much of you and through His Spirit has given you the ability to obey Him through His power. Have you walked in obedience to His Word? Jesus says, "If you love me, keep my commandments." Count the cost of following Jesus and you will see that the cost is small compared to the excellency of the knowledge of Christ.
19 July 2009
Camp Love...
One of the things that I always make expressly clear before I take the High School group to camp is that "camp love" is not tolerated. "Camp love" occurs when guys or girls from our group become infatuated with kids from other groups and this mirage tends to distract and detract from what God wants to do and say. Most if not all "camp love" experiences end with disillusionment, sadness, and broken hearts when faced with the reality of how distance taxes a relationship. The euphoria of this kind of physical love is only overshadowed by the heartache of shattered hopes.
There are few things as fulfilling to have kids put aside their idols and routines to spend a week seeking God. The kids are always amazed at how God speaks to them at camp! It is interesting that many become preoccupied as early as the day of arrival that they will have to leave and face difficulties at home and manifold temptations. God is not only found at camp, however: the difference is when someone commits to seek God and sits quietly before Him, God will reveal Himself with power. God is not hindered by geography, but will only be found by those who seek Him with their whole heart.
If only we would put aside our idols, allow the LORD to search our hearts, commit to obedience and prayer! One of the speakers at camp comically portrayed God and angels as listening to our common prayers - typically over a meal - and rolling their eyes: "Not another FOOD prayer!" God is poised to provide guidance, power, endurance, forgiveness, deliverance, wisdom, truth, and comfort for His people. He is a Healer, Deliverer, and Savior. Yet we are betrayed by the fact that we are often comforted by food, not God. We have a closer relationship to our food than to the Creator and Sustainer of all things.
"Camp love" is a mirage, but to receive God's love and love Him back is the real thing. God uses camp, trials, and afflictions to open our eyes to how wonderful, good, great, and glorious He is. God's will is that we would fall completely in love to Him and surrender to His will. Let's decide we're through with trudging through a long-distance relationship with God due to our sin. Sin separates the unbeliever as well as believers from Jesus Christ. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.
There are few things as fulfilling to have kids put aside their idols and routines to spend a week seeking God. The kids are always amazed at how God speaks to them at camp! It is interesting that many become preoccupied as early as the day of arrival that they will have to leave and face difficulties at home and manifold temptations. God is not only found at camp, however: the difference is when someone commits to seek God and sits quietly before Him, God will reveal Himself with power. God is not hindered by geography, but will only be found by those who seek Him with their whole heart.
If only we would put aside our idols, allow the LORD to search our hearts, commit to obedience and prayer! One of the speakers at camp comically portrayed God and angels as listening to our common prayers - typically over a meal - and rolling their eyes: "Not another FOOD prayer!" God is poised to provide guidance, power, endurance, forgiveness, deliverance, wisdom, truth, and comfort for His people. He is a Healer, Deliverer, and Savior. Yet we are betrayed by the fact that we are often comforted by food, not God. We have a closer relationship to our food than to the Creator and Sustainer of all things.
"Camp love" is a mirage, but to receive God's love and love Him back is the real thing. God uses camp, trials, and afflictions to open our eyes to how wonderful, good, great, and glorious He is. God's will is that we would fall completely in love to Him and surrender to His will. Let's decide we're through with trudging through a long-distance relationship with God due to our sin. Sin separates the unbeliever as well as believers from Jesus Christ. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.
11 July 2009
The Prince is Coming!
“The Prince is coming!” heralds shouted in the village square. The news spread like wildfire through an orphanage in the small town. "Is it true? The prince is coming here? We must prepare gifts for him!" "But what can an orphan give a prince?" the children asked one another.
A child named Humble spoke. “Perhaps if we give him a wonderful gift he will even adopt us!”
“Stupid!” barked a little girl. “What would a prince want with an orphan?”
Humble shrugged. “I dunno. But I am going to give him a great gift.”
“Like what? You don’t have anything to give.”
“I am going to dig really deep in the yard and find a big hunk of gold. I will give every piece of gold I find to the prince.”
“Like you’re going to find gold in the yard,” another child butted in. “If there was gold, don’t you think miners would have discovered it by now?"
“Just the same,” said Humble, “I will try.”
The children decided that they too would give a gift to the king. One declared that she would sing a lovely song because she was a great singer. A little girl was a gifted painter and worked for weeks on her “masterpiece.” “I have read all the books the Prince has written,” a young boy said, “and I shall recite all that I have memorized.” The owner of the orphanage gathered all the money she had earned and placed it in a box for the prince. Despite the heat, Humble continued to dig every day in the yard for gold.
As sudden as the announcement, the day of the Prince’s arrival came! Everyone in the orphanage was prepared for the Prince: all except Humble. After all his digging, he had not managed to find any gold. His clothes were filthy from sweat and dust. Sweat streaked lines through the dirt on his face. Humble dug feverishly, for at any moment the Prince could arrive.
The Prince finally came! The children were amazed because He did not look much different than you or me, but wore a very handsome suit of white. As he sat down in the place of honor, the owner made an announcement. “We thought it fitting, your Majesty, that we should give you gifts to show our loyalty and appreciation.” The Prince nodded once slowly with a small smile. The owner brought out a box and removed the lid, revealing stacks of money with a bow.
The prince listened intently as the boy recited every stanza that he could remember. He spoke every verse with passion and did not miss a single world. Orators in the King’s court would have been impressed with his delivery. The artist brought in her masterpiece and placed it on the table before the Prince. “It is my finest work,” she said. It was a beautiful piece, no doubt worthy to grace the corridors of a palace. Finally a girl sang a lovely song, a song of her own composition.
After all had brought their gifts to the Prince he thanked them all. “I appreciate your devotion and gifts. But isn’t there another boy here?”
“Yeah, Humble. He’s probably still outside “digging for gold” in his hole. Do you want me to get him?” said the owner.
“No, I will go to him,” said the prince as he stood to his feet. He walked out towards the hole where Humble was working. When Humble saw the Prince he started, dropped his shovel, and climbed out of the hole wiping his hands on his pants. He certainly was a sight. His face had been washed with tears and he quickly put something behind his back.
“What do you have there, child?” asked the prince.
“Well, uh, nothing. It’s a rock actually,” said Humble, bringing the rock out from behind his back looking at the ground. “I was hoping that I could find you gold…but I couldn’t. Then I thought I might be able to find something valuable or really pretty…” The poor boy broke down in tears.
“Let me see your rock,” said the prince.
Humble slowly held out his hand, still looking at the ground. It was a common rock, covered in dirt clods. As the prince reached for the rock, the boy rushed forward, fell to his knees and clutched the leg of the prince sobbing. As the attendants stepped quickly forward to grab the child, the Prince held up his hands to motion for them to stop.
“I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” cried Humble as he clutched the Prince’s leg. “I have nothing to give you! I cannot sing, I cannot paint, I cannot recite, and I have no money. I thought if only I could find some gold…Kings like gold!”
A tear fell from the Prince’s eye onto the boy as the Prince reached down to touch him. “Child, you have given the greatest gift because you have given yourself. I have angels who sing to me without ceasing. I have created the colors of the world and the universe is my canvas. The words that I have written will endure forever. All the currency, gold, or silver of the world cannot add to my infinite wealth.”
“I don’t understand, my prince.”
“The one thing that I did not yet have is you. And now that I have you, we will never be apart. My Father, the King, has chosen to adopt any who will give themselves to Him.” He lifted the boy from the ground and wiped his tears with his white handkerchief. “You will be a prince with me, and it is my Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
The other children and the owner were amazed and confused. Humble had given nothing, but was adopted into the King’s family. The Prince’s eyes brimmed with tears as He placed the rock in His pocket. A smile like sunshine spread over the little boy's face. The Prince whispered in His ear, “I will never leave you or forsake you. Enter into the joy of the LORD!” He reached for the hand of Humble and they lived joyfully ever after.
A child named Humble spoke. “Perhaps if we give him a wonderful gift he will even adopt us!”
“Stupid!” barked a little girl. “What would a prince want with an orphan?”
Humble shrugged. “I dunno. But I am going to give him a great gift.”
“Like what? You don’t have anything to give.”
“I am going to dig really deep in the yard and find a big hunk of gold. I will give every piece of gold I find to the prince.”
“Like you’re going to find gold in the yard,” another child butted in. “If there was gold, don’t you think miners would have discovered it by now?"
“Just the same,” said Humble, “I will try.”
The children decided that they too would give a gift to the king. One declared that she would sing a lovely song because she was a great singer. A little girl was a gifted painter and worked for weeks on her “masterpiece.” “I have read all the books the Prince has written,” a young boy said, “and I shall recite all that I have memorized.” The owner of the orphanage gathered all the money she had earned and placed it in a box for the prince. Despite the heat, Humble continued to dig every day in the yard for gold.
As sudden as the announcement, the day of the Prince’s arrival came! Everyone in the orphanage was prepared for the Prince: all except Humble. After all his digging, he had not managed to find any gold. His clothes were filthy from sweat and dust. Sweat streaked lines through the dirt on his face. Humble dug feverishly, for at any moment the Prince could arrive.
The Prince finally came! The children were amazed because He did not look much different than you or me, but wore a very handsome suit of white. As he sat down in the place of honor, the owner made an announcement. “We thought it fitting, your Majesty, that we should give you gifts to show our loyalty and appreciation.” The Prince nodded once slowly with a small smile. The owner brought out a box and removed the lid, revealing stacks of money with a bow.
The prince listened intently as the boy recited every stanza that he could remember. He spoke every verse with passion and did not miss a single world. Orators in the King’s court would have been impressed with his delivery. The artist brought in her masterpiece and placed it on the table before the Prince. “It is my finest work,” she said. It was a beautiful piece, no doubt worthy to grace the corridors of a palace. Finally a girl sang a lovely song, a song of her own composition.
After all had brought their gifts to the Prince he thanked them all. “I appreciate your devotion and gifts. But isn’t there another boy here?”
“Yeah, Humble. He’s probably still outside “digging for gold” in his hole. Do you want me to get him?” said the owner.
“No, I will go to him,” said the prince as he stood to his feet. He walked out towards the hole where Humble was working. When Humble saw the Prince he started, dropped his shovel, and climbed out of the hole wiping his hands on his pants. He certainly was a sight. His face had been washed with tears and he quickly put something behind his back.
“What do you have there, child?” asked the prince.
“Well, uh, nothing. It’s a rock actually,” said Humble, bringing the rock out from behind his back looking at the ground. “I was hoping that I could find you gold…but I couldn’t. Then I thought I might be able to find something valuable or really pretty…” The poor boy broke down in tears.
“Let me see your rock,” said the prince.
Humble slowly held out his hand, still looking at the ground. It was a common rock, covered in dirt clods. As the prince reached for the rock, the boy rushed forward, fell to his knees and clutched the leg of the prince sobbing. As the attendants stepped quickly forward to grab the child, the Prince held up his hands to motion for them to stop.
“I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” cried Humble as he clutched the Prince’s leg. “I have nothing to give you! I cannot sing, I cannot paint, I cannot recite, and I have no money. I thought if only I could find some gold…Kings like gold!”
A tear fell from the Prince’s eye onto the boy as the Prince reached down to touch him. “Child, you have given the greatest gift because you have given yourself. I have angels who sing to me without ceasing. I have created the colors of the world and the universe is my canvas. The words that I have written will endure forever. All the currency, gold, or silver of the world cannot add to my infinite wealth.”
“I don’t understand, my prince.”
“The one thing that I did not yet have is you. And now that I have you, we will never be apart. My Father, the King, has chosen to adopt any who will give themselves to Him.” He lifted the boy from the ground and wiped his tears with his white handkerchief. “You will be a prince with me, and it is my Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
The other children and the owner were amazed and confused. Humble had given nothing, but was adopted into the King’s family. The Prince’s eyes brimmed with tears as He placed the rock in His pocket. A smile like sunshine spread over the little boy's face. The Prince whispered in His ear, “I will never leave you or forsake you. Enter into the joy of the LORD!” He reached for the hand of Humble and they lived joyfully ever after.
10 July 2009
Me First!
There is at least one occasion in the Christian walk where "Me First!" is the correct attitude: repentance. Repentance means a change of mind (Gr. metanoia). I have heard it said that repentance means to turn around, but this can happen only after the mind has been changed by God's truth and the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations (Luke 24:27). A reason why Christians are anemic spiritually is that repentance is neglected in daily living. It is not a "one time thing" when one repents and trusts in Christ as Savior: it is a moment by moment exercise of faith and humility. We need our minds continually renewed (Romans 12:2) so we can discern the perfect will of God. If we say we have no sin we deceive ourselves and call God a liar (1 John 1:8-10). Repentance brings us into fellowship with God. When you hear the call to repentance, say ME FIRST!
08 July 2009
Fettered by Experience
Experience is a great teacher. God uses the experiences of our lives to build our faith and prove to us how sure a foundation He is. Through trials, failures, and obedience we grow in wisdom and grace. Yet there is a dangerous side of experience: we can allow experience to fetter us to our past. We begin to look at our experience as a model that others should follow because of the outcome. We can trust our methods and allow our own past to hinder future progress. Our experience can take our eyes off Christ and focus on ourselves.
Samson was a judge over Israel who had faith in God. He is one of the few mentioned in the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11. Yet the physical strength of Samson caused him to rely upon himself and wander from God. Samson was living in sin with Delilah and finally broke the vow concerning shaving his head. He said in Judges 16:20, "...I will go out as before, at other times, and shake myself free!" But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him." Instead of seeking strength from God, Samson looked to his own strength. He did not realize that God's Spirit had left him. He was blinded, bound in a Philistine prison, and enslaved.
My success can be the path to trusting in myself rather than God. We can find ourselves striving to finish in the flesh what God has begun in the Spirit. It is by God's grace that He allows us to fail and fall that we might learn to trust in Him more deeply. God restored Samson and his supernatural strength and He can restore us when we begin to walk by faith instead of sight. Refuse to fetter yourself with your experience, and never shackle anyone else to your past. Learn from your mistakes and seek wisdom from God, trusting Him and His Word. Lead others in the path of righteousness through your gracious love and conduct. God has a race for each one of us to run. Let us all look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. He will teach us how to run with obedience and endurance the race set before us.
Samson was a judge over Israel who had faith in God. He is one of the few mentioned in the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11. Yet the physical strength of Samson caused him to rely upon himself and wander from God. Samson was living in sin with Delilah and finally broke the vow concerning shaving his head. He said in Judges 16:20, "...I will go out as before, at other times, and shake myself free!" But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him." Instead of seeking strength from God, Samson looked to his own strength. He did not realize that God's Spirit had left him. He was blinded, bound in a Philistine prison, and enslaved.
My success can be the path to trusting in myself rather than God. We can find ourselves striving to finish in the flesh what God has begun in the Spirit. It is by God's grace that He allows us to fail and fall that we might learn to trust in Him more deeply. God restored Samson and his supernatural strength and He can restore us when we begin to walk by faith instead of sight. Refuse to fetter yourself with your experience, and never shackle anyone else to your past. Learn from your mistakes and seek wisdom from God, trusting Him and His Word. Lead others in the path of righteousness through your gracious love and conduct. God has a race for each one of us to run. Let us all look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. He will teach us how to run with obedience and endurance the race set before us.
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