Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Mark 5 and Philippians 2.1-15 while pondering on humble service.
I have one question today: Who are you going to serve today? May I make some suggestions.
First, serve the Lord. His priorities are our priorities. Second, put others before yourself.
Philippians 2.4- Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
I believe you will be surprised about how well your needs are taken care of when your priorities are that of God's and then of others.
At least try it today...and have a blessed day!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Family Resemblance
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 8 and various passages concerning Paul's mentoring relationship with Timothy: I Cor. 4.17, 16.10, II Cor. 1.1,19, Phil. 1.1, and 2.19-22.
The Holy Spirit has a wonderful way of taking a familiar passage, that you have read many times, and striking a new or resounding chord in your life that sticks. That is the wonder of reading the Word every day and asking God to give you a verse to live by for THAT day. Like corn flakes, read this again for the first time. It's in Luke 8.21- But he answered them, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it."
If you are in the family of God, it will show in how much you listen (and read) the Word AND how your life is changed and impacted by the your time in the Word. You know, family members resemble each other. If you see my Dad, you know the apple did not fall far from the tree. Well, let it be so said, about our resemblance to our Father in heaven.
Let's look like one of His...today! Be like Jesus!
The Holy Spirit has a wonderful way of taking a familiar passage, that you have read many times, and striking a new or resounding chord in your life that sticks. That is the wonder of reading the Word every day and asking God to give you a verse to live by for THAT day. Like corn flakes, read this again for the first time. It's in Luke 8.21- But he answered them, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it."
If you are in the family of God, it will show in how much you listen (and read) the Word AND how your life is changed and impacted by the your time in the Word. You know, family members resemble each other. If you see my Dad, you know the apple did not fall far from the tree. Well, let it be so said, about our resemblance to our Father in heaven.
Let's look like one of His...today! Be like Jesus!
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
The Seed Among Us
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew13 and I Samuel 3 and ponder on the question: How well do we hear the Lord when He speaks?
Matthew 13 is filled with stories that Jesus told to help us understand what in the world is going on. One great story is about the enemy that plants bad seed among the good seed. What do you do about the bad seed in this world. Matthew 13.27-29 tells us- And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, 'Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?' He said to them, 'An enemy has done this.' So the servants said to him, 'Then do you want us to go and gather them?' But he said, 'No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them.
There is bad seed around us. You already knew that though. What do we do about it? Well, we don't go around trying to uproot the trouble. If we do, we are going to cause a lot of trouble for the good seed among them.
Instead of uprooting, let us make sure that we are grounded ourselves, aware of our surroundings, and scattering good seed in the field that God has planted us in.
Everything is not legitimate out there. Let's make sure we are.
Matthew 13 is filled with stories that Jesus told to help us understand what in the world is going on. One great story is about the enemy that plants bad seed among the good seed. What do you do about the bad seed in this world. Matthew 13.27-29 tells us- And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, 'Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?' He said to them, 'An enemy has done this.' So the servants said to him, 'Then do you want us to go and gather them?' But he said, 'No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them.
There is bad seed around us. You already knew that though. What do we do about it? Well, we don't go around trying to uproot the trouble. If we do, we are going to cause a lot of trouble for the good seed among them.
Instead of uprooting, let us make sure that we are grounded ourselves, aware of our surroundings, and scattering good seed in the field that God has planted us in.
Everything is not legitimate out there. Let's make sure we are.
Monday, January 28, 2013
In Your Storm
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Mark 4 and John 1.12-13 pondering on our relationship with the Father as His Child. We also begin learning to memory Romans 1.16.
I know that the greatest storms that people face are often very private ones. Many times when a health concern is made known to others, there has already been a lot of suffering. When marital failures are made known, there has already been a lot of difficulty. When stress causes degradation in one of many ways, there has been a lot of heat before the boiling point was reached. I know that many are in storms. I know about some of those storms. I do not know about most of them. Whether your storm is known by many or you are privately buffeted by the winds and rains of a personal storm, hold on to the truth found in Mark 4.37-39 -And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling.
38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?"
39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
The truth is that you are not in your storm alone. Jesus is in your boat. He cares. Listen to His Voice and you shall find peace today.
I know that the greatest storms that people face are often very private ones. Many times when a health concern is made known to others, there has already been a lot of suffering. When marital failures are made known, there has already been a lot of difficulty. When stress causes degradation in one of many ways, there has been a lot of heat before the boiling point was reached. I know that many are in storms. I know about some of those storms. I do not know about most of them. Whether your storm is known by many or you are privately buffeted by the winds and rains of a personal storm, hold on to the truth found in Mark 4.37-39 -And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling.
38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?"
39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
The truth is that you are not in your storm alone. Jesus is in your boat. He cares. Listen to His Voice and you shall find peace today.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Peacemaking Unity
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Mark 3 and Epheisans 4.1--6.
Yesterday, we talked about being careful with the tongue. Along that same theme, read
Epheisans 4.3- (Be) eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
There are many ways to encourage unity and promote peace. A lot of it starts with your mouth. What do you say and when do you say it? Some folks may not know what to say and may not pick up on what they have said, when they said it. However, most just say it, know better, and do it anyway. That is not unifying and not peaceful.
Your presence, your encouragement, your effort- all of these bring the Body of Christ closer, make the Bond strong, make the Ministry more productive.
Let us always unify for His Work and promote Peace from the Prince of Peace, who has forever changed us. Let It Show! Let It Show! Let It Show!
Yesterday, we talked about being careful with the tongue. Along that same theme, read
Epheisans 4.3- (Be) eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
There are many ways to encourage unity and promote peace. A lot of it starts with your mouth. What do you say and when do you say it? Some folks may not know what to say and may not pick up on what they have said, when they said it. However, most just say it, know better, and do it anyway. That is not unifying and not peaceful.
Your presence, your encouragement, your effort- all of these bring the Body of Christ closer, make the Bond strong, make the Ministry more productive.
Let us always unify for His Work and promote Peace from the Prince of Peace, who has forever changed us. Let It Show! Let It Show! Let It Show!
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Carefully Crafted
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 12 and Numbers 13.24-14.45 and reflect on how God has gifted us and how our insecurity limits us from reaching the potential that God has placed upon us.
I am struck and challenged this morning by a passage concerning careless words. Read
Matthew 12.36-37-I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."
Now, before the big mouths panic, there are a lot of passages concerning judgment and a lot of them talk about God's grace. As children of God, the professed Christians who have been forgiven and whose sins have been removed, have been forgiven and their sin has been removed. We have a strong and sufficient advocate on the day of judgment. Having said that, now reread the verses above.
Careless words are a big deal to God and, if they are a big deal to God, they better be a big deal to us. Don't take the words you spit out in slang, or in anger, or in degradation lightly. God does not take it lightly. We should not. I am sure there are others that do not take it lightly.
Let's not be so crass or careless, that we hurt our witness or weaken His Cause.
'Oh, be careful little mouth what you say...' TODAY!
I am struck and challenged this morning by a passage concerning careless words. Read
Matthew 12.36-37-I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."
Now, before the big mouths panic, there are a lot of passages concerning judgment and a lot of them talk about God's grace. As children of God, the professed Christians who have been forgiven and whose sins have been removed, have been forgiven and their sin has been removed. We have a strong and sufficient advocate on the day of judgment. Having said that, now reread the verses above.
Careless words are a big deal to God and, if they are a big deal to God, they better be a big deal to us. Don't take the words you spit out in slang, or in anger, or in degradation lightly. God does not take it lightly. We should not. I am sure there are others that do not take it lightly.
Let's not be so crass or careless, that we hurt our witness or weaken His Cause.
'Oh, be careful little mouth what you say...' TODAY!
Friday, January 25, 2013
The Transforming Blessing
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 11, look back at Matthew 10.8, and continue to ponder and learn 2 Corinthians 3.18.
What an opportunity we have! What a blessing has been given to us! What a blessing we can be! Don't miss the opportunity that is before us!
Notice 2 Corinthians 3.18-And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
We have the opportunity to behold Him! We are being transformed by Him! Let's let both show forth through our lives today.
What an opportunity we have! What a blessing has been given to us! What a blessing we can be! Don't miss the opportunity that is before us!
Notice 2 Corinthians 3.18-And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
We have the opportunity to behold Him! We are being transformed by Him! Let's let both show forth through our lives today.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Gently Ready
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 7 and 1 Peter 3.8-15 and are challenged about the effectiveness of our everyday witness.
There is a great correlation between two Scripture passages today that strike to the heart concerning how we present ourselves in the everyday. First, we have to shine as we are instructed in
Matthew 5.16- In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Second, we are to be ready with a good, steady word on the tip of our tongue, when the opportunity opens as instructed in I Peter 3.15- ...always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.
Let's pray today that God will open up to us an opportunity to share His Love and Truth through our lifestyle, a well spoken word, and a gentle and respectful spirit.
There is a great correlation between two Scripture passages today that strike to the heart concerning how we present ourselves in the everyday. First, we have to shine as we are instructed in
Matthew 5.16- In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Second, we are to be ready with a good, steady word on the tip of our tongue, when the opportunity opens as instructed in I Peter 3.15- ...always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.
Let's pray today that God will open up to us an opportunity to share His Love and Truth through our lifestyle, a well spoken word, and a gentle and respectful spirit.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Speaking Through Us
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 10 and Acts 16.1-3, 17.13-16, 18.5, and 19.22 and look at Paul and Timothy's relationship and their ministry was affected.
I am struck this morning by the need to read and absorb Matthew 10.20- For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
Jesus was speaking to his disciples about spreading his message. He encouraged them to be bold...and sensitive.
It seems today that Christians tend to be polar opposites. It seems that one is quiet and inhibited about his/her faith and the other seems to be loud and mad at the world about it. It is not time to be silent. We need to speak boldly. It is not time to be mad and building up walls to keep people out of the faith, instead of meeting them where they are, and tearing down the dividing walls. We ought to never compromise our convictions, but we ought to always temper our convictions to be expressed in a way that does allow us to be a hindrance from one coming to Christ.
Let's walk through the doors God opens, express ourselves with the love of Jesus, and watch the Spirit take over the conversation.
I am struck this morning by the need to read and absorb Matthew 10.20- For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
Jesus was speaking to his disciples about spreading his message. He encouraged them to be bold...and sensitive.
It seems today that Christians tend to be polar opposites. It seems that one is quiet and inhibited about his/her faith and the other seems to be loud and mad at the world about it. It is not time to be silent. We need to speak boldly. It is not time to be mad and building up walls to keep people out of the faith, instead of meeting them where they are, and tearing down the dividing walls. We ought to never compromise our convictions, but we ought to always temper our convictions to be expressed in a way that does allow us to be a hindrance from one coming to Christ.
Let's walk through the doors God opens, express ourselves with the love of Jesus, and watch the Spirit take over the conversation.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Stretching Our Skins
Today as we are continuing to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read Matthew 9 and Genesis 22 and ponder on times we followed God through a difficult decision that caused some personal sacrifice.
I am drawn, however, to Matthew 9.17-
Neither is new wine put into old wineskins. If it is, the skins burst and the wine is spilled and the skins are destroyed. But new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.
Wine was stored in sewn animal skins that allowed the wine to ferment and expand with the natural elasticity of a fresh skin. However, if you got an old wineskin that no longer expanded and new juice that had not yet expanded, you got juice in your lap. The old wineskin was 'too set in its ways to handle the new. '
You have never been like an old wineskin have you? Has God wanted to do a new thing in your life, and you balked it because you 'had never done it that way before.'
How about at church? How do handle change? Are you stuck in your particular spot, your particular style, and your particular way? Open your eyes and see the fields that are white unto harvest! God is doing a new thing. Oh, how ready the church must be to expand and grow in their ministries, styles, and ways! We are never to compromise His Word or Way, but we ought to always be ready and open to His Will and His Direcrion.
People need The Lord. Come out of your ways and share and praise and grow in a new way...today!
I am drawn, however, to Matthew 9.17-
Neither is new wine put into old wineskins. If it is, the skins burst and the wine is spilled and the skins are destroyed. But new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.
Wine was stored in sewn animal skins that allowed the wine to ferment and expand with the natural elasticity of a fresh skin. However, if you got an old wineskin that no longer expanded and new juice that had not yet expanded, you got juice in your lap. The old wineskin was 'too set in its ways to handle the new. '
You have never been like an old wineskin have you? Has God wanted to do a new thing in your life, and you balked it because you 'had never done it that way before.'
How about at church? How do handle change? Are you stuck in your particular spot, your particular style, and your particular way? Open your eyes and see the fields that are white unto harvest! God is doing a new thing. Oh, how ready the church must be to expand and grow in their ministries, styles, and ways! We are never to compromise His Word or Way, but we ought to always be ready and open to His Will and His Direcrion.
People need The Lord. Come out of your ways and share and praise and grow in a new way...today!
Monday, January 21, 2013
The Battle
Today as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E) we read Matthew 8 and I Samuel 17.
What battle are you facing today? What is constraining you? Keep it on in perspective. When David's giant came into His valley, He gave God the praise for the victory....profoundly....before waging the battle. The same God that brought him out will being you out. Notice what he says in
I Samuel 17. 45-47- Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
46 This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head. And I will give the dead bodies of the host of the Philistines this day to the birds of the air and to the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel,
47 and that all this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the LORD's, and he will give you into our hand."
The same God that gave profound victory for David will give it for you. Be victorious today!
What battle are you facing today? What is constraining you? Keep it on in perspective. When David's giant came into His valley, He gave God the praise for the victory....profoundly....before waging the battle. The same God that brought him out will being you out. Notice what he says in
I Samuel 17. 45-47- Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
46 This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head. And I will give the dead bodies of the host of the Philistines this day to the birds of the air and to the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel,
47 and that all this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the LORD's, and he will give you into our hand."
The same God that gave profound victory for David will give it for you. Be victorious today!
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Windshield Reminders
Today, we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E) by reading John 5 and Romans 12.9-12.
I love the bullet points that Paul so often includes in the second half of his letters. It is some of the most challenging Scripture in all the Bible. Notice Romans 12.10-12-
10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.
12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Outdo one another in showing honor. Isn't that classic!
Don't be slothful in zeal. So many times I see people spending a lot of time bellyaching and complaining. What good does that do? What does that do for your testimony?
Allow your zeal to determine your words and actions. If you lack the zeal you need, use these bullet points to be refrigerator, bathroom mirror, or windshield reminders of the task that is before you today and every day.
Looking forward to worship. We are going to do some dedicating, some celebrating, and some committing. I hope you are a part of it!
I love the bullet points that Paul so often includes in the second half of his letters. It is some of the most challenging Scripture in all the Bible. Notice Romans 12.10-12-
10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.
12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Outdo one another in showing honor. Isn't that classic!
Don't be slothful in zeal. So many times I see people spending a lot of time bellyaching and complaining. What good does that do? What does that do for your testimony?
Allow your zeal to determine your words and actions. If you lack the zeal you need, use these bullet points to be refrigerator, bathroom mirror, or windshield reminders of the task that is before you today and every day.
Looking forward to worship. We are going to do some dedicating, some celebrating, and some committing. I hope you are a part of it!
Saturday, January 19, 2013
A Long Look
Today as we continue Preparing 90 Days for Easter (P90E) we read John 4 and James 1.22-27.
Notice James 1.23 -For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror.
One of the great differences between men and women (in most cases) is the time they spend in front of the mirror. Women prepare themselves and go to great lengths to look their best. Men won't take near as long and spend much less time pondering on how they look. Women's results are lasting, because of the time spent.
When it comes to spending time in. the Word, we need to prepare ourselves by reflecting upon our lives as we read the Word. We need to ponder on how it applies and the difference it must make in our lives.
Take a long look and let it sink in, like a woman in front of a mirror. The results will be much more lasting.
Notice James 1.23 -For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror.
One of the great differences between men and women (in most cases) is the time they spend in front of the mirror. Women prepare themselves and go to great lengths to look their best. Men won't take near as long and spend much less time pondering on how they look. Women's results are lasting, because of the time spent.
When it comes to spending time in. the Word, we need to prepare ourselves by reflecting upon our lives as we read the Word. We need to ponder on how it applies and the difference it must make in our lives.
Take a long look and let it sink in, like a woman in front of a mirror. The results will be much more lasting.
Friday, January 18, 2013
I've Got Good News
Today as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E) we read Luke 6 and 2 Kings 7.
In the second passage we find the hungry men walked up on an abandoned treasure and had a feast. They quickly realized it was not right of them to keep it a secret from their people. Their comments are in 2 Kings 7.9a- Then they said to one another, "We are not doing right. This day is a day of good news."
Have you had the privilege of walking up on a spiritual treasure?
Do you find that the blessings of the Lord are like a spiritual feast to you?
And the most crucial question...are you sharing the good news with others?
More than 'God bless you' when they sneeze or 'I had a good day at church.', tell folks about the life-changing difference that Jesus has made and how you came to Him...and do it today!
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Thursday, January 17, 2013
The Ministry of Reconciliation
Today as we continue Preparing 90 Days for Easter (P90E) we read Luke 5 and 2 Corinthians 5.11-21 and ponder on the ministry of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5.17-20 explains it well:
17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation;
19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.
20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
Since Christ has reconciled us and instructed us to lead others to Him for reconciliation, it is our job to do the ministry of reconciliation. We cannot do it for them. We just point people to Jesus. We are not the Message, we just deliver the mail. We are just one beggar telling other beggars where to find bread. We are responsible to do that.
Share Him today with boldness, and have a great day!
17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation;
19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.
20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
Since Christ has reconciled us and instructed us to lead others to Him for reconciliation, it is our job to do the ministry of reconciliation. We cannot do it for them. We just point people to Jesus. We are not the Message, we just deliver the mail. We are just one beggar telling other beggars where to find bread. We are responsible to do that.
Share Him today with boldness, and have a great day!
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Successful Prosperity
Today we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E) and we read Matthew 7, Acts 13.1-13, Acts 15.36-40 and continue to lean and ponder on Joshua 1.8.
What a powerful passage of Scripture in Joshua 1.8- This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.
Everyone wants to prosper and everyone wants success. We do not do a good job of defining success sometimes. Real success is living life for its true intended purpose, finding the role and plan in life that God has prepared for you, and living it out to the fullness to bring honor and glory to Him. It is the most fulfilling life that you can have. It will bring more real, eternal success than any other path. You will prosper all along the way. How do you do it? Be faithful to read God's Word. Be faithful to carry out God's Word. Be faithful to live your life for His Cause and His Kingdom.
Go, do it today, and have a blessed, successful, and prosperous day!
What a powerful passage of Scripture in Joshua 1.8- This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.
Everyone wants to prosper and everyone wants success. We do not do a good job of defining success sometimes. Real success is living life for its true intended purpose, finding the role and plan in life that God has prepared for you, and living it out to the fullness to bring honor and glory to Him. It is the most fulfilling life that you can have. It will bring more real, eternal success than any other path. You will prosper all along the way. How do you do it? Be faithful to read God's Word. Be faithful to carry out God's Word. Be faithful to live your life for His Cause and His Kingdom.
Go, do it today, and have a blessed, successful, and prosperous day!
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
The Treasure of the Heart
Today as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E) we read Matthew 6 and Genesis 17, while reflecting on physical symbols that point back to our spiritual realities.
After preaching Sunday on have a fertile heart for God and meditating on that throughout the week, I am drawn this morning to Matthew 6.21- For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
I simply ask two questions: what is your heart drawn to? Is it a hindrance in your walk with God?
There are many things that can grab our time and attention, but they all need to be prioritized under the Lordship of Christ in our lives.
Treasure The Lord today...your heart will follow you there.
Monday, January 14, 2013
The Lord Is My Father
Today as we continue Preparing 90 Days for Easter (P90E) we read Matthew 5, begin memorizing Joshua 1.8, and meditate on Psalm 23. David wrote that great psalm from His perspective as a shepherd. He understood shepherding and He related to His relationship with God as a shepherd. How do you relate to God? How would you fill in the following blank: God is my ___________.
It may change every morning, but I think about God today as my Father. Being blessed with a stable, Godly, earthly father, I try to be one for my girls. The way I look to Him and maybe, somewhat, the way my girls look to me, I can relate to my Lord. Let me illustrate:
The Lord is My Father, He provides my every need. He leads me to rest, rather I want to or not.
He looks across the room at me and tells me to calm down.
He is always there to pick me up, but He is never hesitant to correct me for the sake of both of us.
I don't go to bed scared. I know he is there for me. His presence and strength are a comfort to me.
Even when times are shaky, I know my needs will be met. I have more than I need.
I will always rely on my Father. He has paved the way for me and prepared a place for me.
His lead will guide me forever.
However, you relate to Him, relate to Him! Talk to Him. Walk with Him. Give Him praise.
It may change every morning, but I think about God today as my Father. Being blessed with a stable, Godly, earthly father, I try to be one for my girls. The way I look to Him and maybe, somewhat, the way my girls look to me, I can relate to my Lord. Let me illustrate:
The Lord is My Father, He provides my every need. He leads me to rest, rather I want to or not.
He looks across the room at me and tells me to calm down.
He is always there to pick me up, but He is never hesitant to correct me for the sake of both of us.
I don't go to bed scared. I know he is there for me. His presence and strength are a comfort to me.
Even when times are shaky, I know my needs will be met. I have more than I need.
I will always rely on my Father. He has paved the way for me and prepared a place for me.
His lead will guide me forever.
However, you relate to Him, relate to Him! Talk to Him. Walk with Him. Give Him praise.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
By Our Love
Today we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E) by reading Mark 2, I John 4.7-21, and considering what we can do to help promote loving unity in the Body of Christ.
I John 4.7, 21 challenges us- Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God...And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.
We have a job today and it is not one that can be put off. We have to love on some folks. We have to do all we can to unite around the priorities of Christ and show forth the love of God to each other and to the lost and dying world.
As the song says- They will know we are Christians by our love, by our love...
But before we sang it, He said it. Now let's do it! Come worship with us today!
I John 4.7, 21 challenges us- Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God...And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.
We have a job today and it is not one that can be put off. We have to love on some folks. We have to do all we can to unite around the priorities of Christ and show forth the love of God to each other and to the lost and dying world.
As the song says- They will know we are Christians by our love, by our love...
But before we sang it, He said it. Now let's do it! Come worship with us today!
Saturday, January 12, 2013
It's Good To Be A Blessing
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read John 3 and Acts 10.38 and ponder on the good things that Christ has done.
Acts 10.38 says that Christ went about doing good... for God was with him. We are challenged to ponder on and search the Scriptures to see examples of Christ doing good. The Gospels are full of such examples.
Another matter to consider today is -what good are you doing? Are you making a conscious effort to serve the Lord by serving others. This morning I will pray with folks at a free medical clinic and give a devotion at an Upwards basketball game. What about you? What are your plans today to do good?
As God has blessed you, so be a blessing and may God richly bless your efforts and your heart as you serve Him.
Acts 10.38 says that Christ went about doing good... for God was with him. We are challenged to ponder on and search the Scriptures to see examples of Christ doing good. The Gospels are full of such examples.
Another matter to consider today is -what good are you doing? Are you making a conscious effort to serve the Lord by serving others. This morning I will pray with folks at a free medical clinic and give a devotion at an Upwards basketball game. What about you? What are your plans today to do good?
As God has blessed you, so be a blessing and may God richly bless your efforts and your heart as you serve Him.
Friday, January 11, 2013
Count Your Blessings
Today, as we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), we read John 2 and Exodus 15.1-18 and consider a blessing that we have experienced in the early days of this new year.
I celebrate this morning as I read Exodus 15.2- The LORD is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him.
I am thankful for the blessing of P90E and the impact that it is having on many Christians. To put it simply: it is getting them in the Word. Some are reading the Word more faithfully in 2013 than ever. Daily time of meditating and pondering and praying over the Word of God makes a huge difference in the lives of Christians. Studying the same plan in God's Word binds people together around the Word of God and strengthens the Body of Christ.
I am also thankful that I see my youngest child being drawn to the Lord. She is writing little notes about Jesus in her heart and wants to have 'the talk' every night. I talk to children all the time about Christ and try to explain a personal relationship with Christ and try to help parents gauge a child's understanding of salvation. I am very deliberate about it and methodical. It is important that we guide them correctly. Now I am in the process of doing that with Millie and it gives me great joy. She came to us after I have spent years praying for her to know the Lord at an early age, but never really pursuing it with her. Now as God pursues her, she pursues a greater knowledge of Him and looks forward to a lifelong relationship with Him. That makes for fun days for Dad and Mom!
I have a lot of blessings to thank God for already in 2013. You do too. Take time to 'count your blessings' today.
I celebrate this morning as I read Exodus 15.2- The LORD is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him.
I am thankful for the blessing of P90E and the impact that it is having on many Christians. To put it simply: it is getting them in the Word. Some are reading the Word more faithfully in 2013 than ever. Daily time of meditating and pondering and praying over the Word of God makes a huge difference in the lives of Christians. Studying the same plan in God's Word binds people together around the Word of God and strengthens the Body of Christ.
I am also thankful that I see my youngest child being drawn to the Lord. She is writing little notes about Jesus in her heart and wants to have 'the talk' every night. I talk to children all the time about Christ and try to explain a personal relationship with Christ and try to help parents gauge a child's understanding of salvation. I am very deliberate about it and methodical. It is important that we guide them correctly. Now I am in the process of doing that with Millie and it gives me great joy. She came to us after I have spent years praying for her to know the Lord at an early age, but never really pursuing it with her. Now as God pursues her, she pursues a greater knowledge of Him and looks forward to a lifelong relationship with Him. That makes for fun days for Dad and Mom!
I have a lot of blessings to thank God for already in 2013. You do too. Take time to 'count your blessings' today.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Care to Share
Today, as we continue to prepare 90 days for Easter (P90E), we read Luke 4 and Acts 8.26-40 and are asked to think of those that we see often that we know (or, at least, think) need Christ.
Notice first how Luke 4 ends and Christ's ministry begins. Luke 4.43 -"I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well; for I was sent for this purpose."
Now be reminded of the Great Commission, or Jesus' last words before the ascension in Matthew 28.18-20- And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Let's also be reminded of the call upon Philip to go to the divine appointment with the Ethiopian and remember what Philip did when He got there in Acts 8.35-Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.
I don't know about you, but I get the strong sense this morning that it is important to God that we get in on this 'sharing Jesus thing'. Jesus said He came to do it. Jesus said He sent us out to do it. The Book of Acts gives us a powerful example of how God leads when we are willing to follow. The need, the call, and the power has not changed. Let's tell folks about Jesus and just see what God will do through us.
May God open doors for you today in sharing your faith. May He open our eyes to see them, our hearts to care, and our mouths to share! Have a blessed day sharing Christ!
Notice first how Luke 4 ends and Christ's ministry begins. Luke 4.43 -"I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well; for I was sent for this purpose."
Now be reminded of the Great Commission, or Jesus' last words before the ascension in Matthew 28.18-20- And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Let's also be reminded of the call upon Philip to go to the divine appointment with the Ethiopian and remember what Philip did when He got there in Acts 8.35-Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.
I don't know about you, but I get the strong sense this morning that it is important to God that we get in on this 'sharing Jesus thing'. Jesus said He came to do it. Jesus said He sent us out to do it. The Book of Acts gives us a powerful example of how God leads when we are willing to follow. The need, the call, and the power has not changed. Let's tell folks about Jesus and just see what God will do through us.
May God open doors for you today in sharing your faith. May He open our eyes to see them, our hearts to care, and our mouths to share! Have a blessed day sharing Christ!
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Back on Track
Today in our Preparing 90 days for Easter (P90E) study we read Matthew 4 and Acts 9.27-28. In Acts we see Barnabas vouching for Saul and speaking to the validity of Saul's new found faith. This helped Saul become a part of that ministering body. Acts 9.27-28 puts it this way:
What a powerful impact Saul (Paul) made for Christ and I don't think you should underestimate the role of Barnabas in that. When we support others, encourage others, help build bridges for others to enter in to the work, ministry, and fellowship of God's Family, we strengthen the Kingdom of God and further the work of Christ on earth.
Does anybody around you need encouragement today? Of course, there are several. Some are no longer in a church fellowship regularly...invite them back. Some are discouraged in their faith...encourage them in the Lord. Some have been sidetracked by the stuff that happens in our lives...will you go alongside them to help them get back on track?
As the body of Christ, it is not about us, it is about Him and His. Let's encourage others today for Him!
May God guide and bless our efforts.
27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus.
28 So he went in and out among them at Jerusalem, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord.
Does anybody around you need encouragement today? Of course, there are several. Some are no longer in a church fellowship regularly...invite them back. Some are discouraged in their faith...encourage them in the Lord. Some have been sidetracked by the stuff that happens in our lives...will you go alongside them to help them get back on track?
As the body of Christ, it is not about us, it is about Him and His. Let's encourage others today for Him!
May God guide and bless our efforts.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Steering the Corners
Today in our Preparing 90 days for Easter (P90E) study we read John 1, Genesis 15, and Isaiah 41.10 and consider how faithful we are to follow the Lord when it may be fearful to trust Him.
Isaiah 41.10 speaks to the heart of the matter: fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
I must share something this morning that I just read in David Langerfield's Daily Encourager email. He also copied it from Rocky Henriques of The Timothy Report, but it speaks to the heart of fearfully following and trusting God:
I’ve often wondered how those big floats in the Tournament of Roses Parade are steered. You can’t see anyone at a steering wheel—how do they do it? Actually, the person steering is in a little compartment deep inside the float, where no one can see him. He can’t see a thing—he has only a seat, a steering wheel and a set of headphones. Up front, in a similar compartment, sits a man with only a microphone, looking through a very small window. When the float needs to turn a little to the left, he tells the man behind him to turn to the left. If they are drifting too far to the right, he tells the other man to make whatever adjustments are necessary. And this is the guy who guides the other as they turn the corners.
How much like that we are, as we move into a New Year! We have no idea what’s ahead of us—we are moving blindly into the next twelve months. We are like the guy at the steering wheel, not being able to see what’s in front of us, but if we listen closely, we will be able to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit telling us to turn here, make an adjustment here, speed up or slow down. The guy steering the float has only one job: to listen and obey. That’s not much different from our own responsibility, as we follow the Holy Spirit.
That is where we are. We don't know about the corners of tomorrow, but we can safely be guided through them if we listen to His voice. Block out the noise of this world enough to hear the voice of God and steer your life as He leads.
That is a thought worth sharing today! Have a great one.
Isaiah 41.10 speaks to the heart of the matter: fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
I must share something this morning that I just read in David Langerfield's Daily Encourager email. He also copied it from Rocky Henriques of The Timothy Report, but it speaks to the heart of fearfully following and trusting God:
I’ve often wondered how those big floats in the Tournament of Roses Parade are steered. You can’t see anyone at a steering wheel—how do they do it? Actually, the person steering is in a little compartment deep inside the float, where no one can see him. He can’t see a thing—he has only a seat, a steering wheel and a set of headphones. Up front, in a similar compartment, sits a man with only a microphone, looking through a very small window. When the float needs to turn a little to the left, he tells the man behind him to turn to the left. If they are drifting too far to the right, he tells the other man to make whatever adjustments are necessary. And this is the guy who guides the other as they turn the corners.
How much like that we are, as we move into a New Year! We have no idea what’s ahead of us—we are moving blindly into the next twelve months. We are like the guy at the steering wheel, not being able to see what’s in front of us, but if we listen closely, we will be able to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit telling us to turn here, make an adjustment here, speed up or slow down. The guy steering the float has only one job: to listen and obey. That’s not much different from our own responsibility, as we follow the Holy Spirit.
That is where we are. We don't know about the corners of tomorrow, but we can safely be guided through them if we listen to His voice. Block out the noise of this world enough to hear the voice of God and steer your life as He leads.
That is a thought worth sharing today! Have a great one.
Monday, January 7, 2013
A Passionate Christian
As we continue to Prepare 90 Days for Easter (P90E), today we read Mark 1 and I Samuel 13.14, which speaks of David being a man after God's own heart. That description speaks of his passion for The Lord. The question is asked: how passionate is your relationship with God currently?
It is the basics, but I want to remind you this morning how to spark the love for the Lord in your life. I see it as a process involving three commitments.
The first commitment is to the Word. You need to have a daily routine of reading and mediating on the Word of God. The two are not one and the same. I read a lot. Some I comprehend. The Word for the day is not something you want to glance at and forget. It needs to stick. The best way to make it stick is to mediate on it. Chew on it. Savor it. Apply it thoughtfully to your life immediately. Apply it practically throughout the day.
The second commitment is to prayer. Daily communication about more than a meal is important to your daily walk. He knows your heart already, so openly and reverently come boldly before His throne and open up. Get out of just giving God a laundry list of your needs, wants, and concerns. Tell Him what He means to you through prayer. Celebrate what He has done through thanks. Get clean before Him with open, honest, and repentant confession. Take the needs of others before Him with intercession, and then seek His Will with the matters that concern you and yours the most. You cannot have a deep relationship without communication. Talk to the Lord daily and refer back to Him throughout your daily routine.
The third commitment is to share Him with others. Share Him with some for the first time. Share Him with others with sweet reminders. Share Him with your testimony. Share Him with your compassion. Share Him with your smile and positive presence. Share Him by referring others and pointing others to Him at every given opportunity.
If you will commit this day to read and mediate on His Word, seek His Face in prayer, and share His love with others, you will grow more passionate toward the Lord. You are weaker in one of these than the other two, so work to be strong in all of them. Be a well-rounded, passionate Christian.
It is the basics, but I want to remind you this morning how to spark the love for the Lord in your life. I see it as a process involving three commitments.
The first commitment is to the Word. You need to have a daily routine of reading and mediating on the Word of God. The two are not one and the same. I read a lot. Some I comprehend. The Word for the day is not something you want to glance at and forget. It needs to stick. The best way to make it stick is to mediate on it. Chew on it. Savor it. Apply it thoughtfully to your life immediately. Apply it practically throughout the day.
The second commitment is to prayer. Daily communication about more than a meal is important to your daily walk. He knows your heart already, so openly and reverently come boldly before His throne and open up. Get out of just giving God a laundry list of your needs, wants, and concerns. Tell Him what He means to you through prayer. Celebrate what He has done through thanks. Get clean before Him with open, honest, and repentant confession. Take the needs of others before Him with intercession, and then seek His Will with the matters that concern you and yours the most. You cannot have a deep relationship without communication. Talk to the Lord daily and refer back to Him throughout your daily routine.
The third commitment is to share Him with others. Share Him with some for the first time. Share Him with others with sweet reminders. Share Him with your testimony. Share Him with your compassion. Share Him with your smile and positive presence. Share Him by referring others and pointing others to Him at every given opportunity.
If you will commit this day to read and mediate on His Word, seek His Face in prayer, and share His love with others, you will grow more passionate toward the Lord. You are weaker in one of these than the other two, so work to be strong in all of them. Be a well-rounded, passionate Christian.
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Loving Unity
Today as we continue to prepare 90 days for Easter, we are challenged by to read Luke 3 and John 13.34-35. Jesus shows us in John how we are to be identified:
34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
May we love so dearly and be so unified around the cause of Christ that what the world is drawn to is not us, but Christ. Let's make Him known by our love for one another and our love for others.
I hope today is a great day of worship for you.
34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
May we love so dearly and be so unified around the cause of Christ that what the world is drawn to is not us, but Christ. Let's make Him known by our love for one another and our love for others.
I hope today is a great day of worship for you.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Two Maternal Blessings
Continuing in P90E, read Matthew 3 and Acts 9.36 today and record your thoughts. Particularly, think of a modern day Tabitha that has earned a reputation for serving and doing good.
When I think about that this morning, I cannot help but think of mothers. I have had the joy of spending the last week with mine. You could call it the Great Unload. We unload the car, the dog, the children, and Abby blessed us before we left by unloading the stomach virus. Consider your home baptized by our presence. In return we get wonderful meals, a few nights out without children, and great fellowship. A ride to the NC mountains ended our week....well, then Abby started her thing. What they get in return is the impact....of us...for a week. We are very thankful! I also get the chance to see my mother do the Tabitha things that she has always done. Whether a wounded bird in the yard, the wounded spirit of one of her boys, or the hungry belly of a neighbor, my mother always comes through. It is fun and blessed to reflect upon it.
There were many years we did the same thing in Hattiesburg. With Dawn's mother gracing the doors of heaven right before Thanksgiving, this Christmas was very wopsided. We have been thrown for a loop. However, Barbara Sumrall, as long as God gave her breath, was serving. She served her husband, her family, her neighbors, her church, and her Lord. When Grandma Millie was alive, she faithfully served her mother. Barbara's life was marked by her faithfulness, her service, her cooking, and her hosting. What a blessing that we sorely miss!
Are you doing for others or simply doing for yourself? It is something to ponder on today. For those who are faithfully serving around you, join in with them. For those who served all the way to eternity, thank God for them...and have a blessed day!
When I think about that this morning, I cannot help but think of mothers. I have had the joy of spending the last week with mine. You could call it the Great Unload. We unload the car, the dog, the children, and Abby blessed us before we left by unloading the stomach virus. Consider your home baptized by our presence. In return we get wonderful meals, a few nights out without children, and great fellowship. A ride to the NC mountains ended our week....well, then Abby started her thing. What they get in return is the impact....of us...for a week. We are very thankful! I also get the chance to see my mother do the Tabitha things that she has always done. Whether a wounded bird in the yard, the wounded spirit of one of her boys, or the hungry belly of a neighbor, my mother always comes through. It is fun and blessed to reflect upon it.
There were many years we did the same thing in Hattiesburg. With Dawn's mother gracing the doors of heaven right before Thanksgiving, this Christmas was very wopsided. We have been thrown for a loop. However, Barbara Sumrall, as long as God gave her breath, was serving. She served her husband, her family, her neighbors, her church, and her Lord. When Grandma Millie was alive, she faithfully served her mother. Barbara's life was marked by her faithfulness, her service, her cooking, and her hosting. What a blessing that we sorely miss!
Are you doing for others or simply doing for yourself? It is something to ponder on today. For those who are faithfully serving around you, join in with them. For those who served all the way to eternity, thank God for them...and have a blessed day!
Friday, January 4, 2013
Blessed Pondering
What a challenge today! First read Psalm 100.
1 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!
3 Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Now, let me give you something to ponder on today: What are your three greatest blessings for 2012? We serve a gracious God and it is fun to ponder on his blessings.
Today is a travel day for me and I know what I will be pondering. I pray you have blessed pondering as well.
1 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!
3 Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Now, let me give you something to ponder on today: What are your three greatest blessings for 2012? We serve a gracious God and it is fun to ponder on his blessings.
Today is a travel day for me and I know what I will be pondering. I pray you have blessed pondering as well.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Wide Eyed and Going
This morning we continue in Gary Permenter's P90E study and prepare 90 days for Easter by reading Luke 2 in our chronological study of the Gospels and Matthew 9.35-38 in our ministry challenge.
Gary poised a great question from
Matthew 9.36-38- When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few;
therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."
His question: how 'field focused' are you? How big is you circle of evangelistic and ministerial concern? May I answer for most of us? Not near enough.
I challenge you to ponder today how this year we (you and I) can take a 'Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria' approach to ministry. We need to touch the locals, the wider scope of our states, and then the nation or the nations. It begins with a prayerful sensitivity to the everyday doors. God opens doors in random conversations- He did for me yesterday in the Apple store. He opens seemingly random doors in statewide ministries (if we bother to notice). There will also be wider scale mission ministry doors that will open as well, if we will open our eyes and see the white fields ready for harvest.
The questions for the day is 'are you open to God using you in the everyday?' And 'are you willing to go as God widens your opportunity?'
2013 is a great time to widen our eyes and let Him send us out for His Labor. Let's not just talk about it, let's do it!
Gary poised a great question from
Matthew 9.36-38- When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few;
therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."
His question: how 'field focused' are you? How big is you circle of evangelistic and ministerial concern? May I answer for most of us? Not near enough.
I challenge you to ponder today how this year we (you and I) can take a 'Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria' approach to ministry. We need to touch the locals, the wider scope of our states, and then the nation or the nations. It begins with a prayerful sensitivity to the everyday doors. God opens doors in random conversations- He did for me yesterday in the Apple store. He opens seemingly random doors in statewide ministries (if we bother to notice). There will also be wider scale mission ministry doors that will open as well, if we will open our eyes and see the white fields ready for harvest.
The questions for the day is 'are you open to God using you in the everyday?' And 'are you willing to go as God widens your opportunity?'
2013 is a great time to widen our eyes and let Him send us out for His Labor. Let's not just talk about it, let's do it!
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Treasures Along the Way
As We continue in our P90E study (Preparing 90 Days for Easter), I encourage you to read Matthew 1 and Acts 4.36-37. When reading Acts 4.36-37, we are challenged to consider three individuals that have encouraged us spiritually and had significant Christlike influence.
Acts 4.36-37- Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.
It was the generosity and spiritual sensitivity of Barnabas that first influenced his new name- Mr. Encouragement. I was blessed to be raised in a spiritually encouraging home with parents that lived it out before me and supported me in the calling God placed on my lives. I have pastored for 20 years this month and have been blessed with Godly folk that loved The Lord, are generous with what God has given them, and have marked my life by their influence. This morning Iwant to mention three men that did not live in my home and were not members of the churches that I have pastored.
The first was my Papa, Scott Caton. Early in my life I saw the zeal of a man changed by The Lord and determined to let folks know about it. Papa loved his grandsons and he loved his Lord. He died when I was 10 but I cherish every memory of Him. His picture hangs in my study to be a constant encouragement to keep the main thing as the main thing.
The second is a man named Randolph Center. Randy was the R.A. Leader in my church as a kid. He wanted kids to know Christ. He gave out tons of Pal bubble gum, filled up an old Dodge van, and later a station wagon, to bring unchurched kids to church to hear and see the love of Jesus. When I was burdened, I went to Mr. Center to pray for me. He would pray so hard he would shake and I was convinced (and still am), he would shake the gates of glory with the power of his prayers. When I had my first opportunities to speak to youth in the church, he was in the back, searching the relative scriptures, itching to add a word of the Word, and Amening me all along. A giant of a man of God. Mr. Center celebrates around the throne of God today and has for several years.
The third is one that I saw on local, religious broadcasting when I was pastoring in Hattiesburg. I was spellbound at the words the preacher preached. I found out he was in revival and went. Spellbound again, I asked for 15 minutes and he invited me to breakfast. That is when Ken Smith became a pastoral and spiritual mentor to me. Seldom has a week went by since that I have not talked with Ken. He has influenced as many athletes personally as any one in the nation (I am convinced) and was recently honored by FCA for his contributions. Anyone that has stopped to speak to him after a session has been encouraged by him and has felt that he is a best friend. Well, he probably is.
If I don't call him, He will call me to encourage me. I wake every Sunday morning to his emailed prayers to pastors. I spend a week every spring with him being encouraged with other ministers in, what must be, the most underrated conference in America. Fifteen to twenty of us join him in the Tennessee hills that week and leave having seen God do a mighty work. Already this morning I have received words of encouragement from Him. If you are not his friend, you have missed out. Thank you, Ken for 19 years of notes, words, and advice in The Lord! What a treasure!
The more I write the more I think about men that have influenced me. Many that I have pastored have helped me to continue to 'keep the ball in play' and continue on for Christ's sake. Thank you, Lord, for these men and the flood of memories this morning.
Ponder today on the treasures that God has put along your path. Be sure not to miss or forget the blessings that God sprinkles in your path.
Acts 4.36-37- Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.
It was the generosity and spiritual sensitivity of Barnabas that first influenced his new name- Mr. Encouragement. I was blessed to be raised in a spiritually encouraging home with parents that lived it out before me and supported me in the calling God placed on my lives. I have pastored for 20 years this month and have been blessed with Godly folk that loved The Lord, are generous with what God has given them, and have marked my life by their influence. This morning Iwant to mention three men that did not live in my home and were not members of the churches that I have pastored.
The first was my Papa, Scott Caton. Early in my life I saw the zeal of a man changed by The Lord and determined to let folks know about it. Papa loved his grandsons and he loved his Lord. He died when I was 10 but I cherish every memory of Him. His picture hangs in my study to be a constant encouragement to keep the main thing as the main thing.
The second is a man named Randolph Center. Randy was the R.A. Leader in my church as a kid. He wanted kids to know Christ. He gave out tons of Pal bubble gum, filled up an old Dodge van, and later a station wagon, to bring unchurched kids to church to hear and see the love of Jesus. When I was burdened, I went to Mr. Center to pray for me. He would pray so hard he would shake and I was convinced (and still am), he would shake the gates of glory with the power of his prayers. When I had my first opportunities to speak to youth in the church, he was in the back, searching the relative scriptures, itching to add a word of the Word, and Amening me all along. A giant of a man of God. Mr. Center celebrates around the throne of God today and has for several years.
The third is one that I saw on local, religious broadcasting when I was pastoring in Hattiesburg. I was spellbound at the words the preacher preached. I found out he was in revival and went. Spellbound again, I asked for 15 minutes and he invited me to breakfast. That is when Ken Smith became a pastoral and spiritual mentor to me. Seldom has a week went by since that I have not talked with Ken. He has influenced as many athletes personally as any one in the nation (I am convinced) and was recently honored by FCA for his contributions. Anyone that has stopped to speak to him after a session has been encouraged by him and has felt that he is a best friend. Well, he probably is.
If I don't call him, He will call me to encourage me. I wake every Sunday morning to his emailed prayers to pastors. I spend a week every spring with him being encouraged with other ministers in, what must be, the most underrated conference in America. Fifteen to twenty of us join him in the Tennessee hills that week and leave having seen God do a mighty work. Already this morning I have received words of encouragement from Him. If you are not his friend, you have missed out. Thank you, Ken for 19 years of notes, words, and advice in The Lord! What a treasure!
The more I write the more I think about men that have influenced me. Many that I have pastored have helped me to continue to 'keep the ball in play' and continue on for Christ's sake. Thank you, Lord, for these men and the flood of memories this morning.
Ponder today on the treasures that God has put along your path. Be sure not to miss or forget the blessings that God sprinkles in your path.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Blessed To Be A Blessing
What a way to end the year! Cheering on my Clemson Tigers to a win with a host of Tiger fans. The night was complete with elaborate fireworks at halftime- one of which went off right in the road with us. It was a fun night, awesome game, and great victory!
Welcome to 2013! I begin the year doing something different. For 4 1/2 years I have studied the Word by following the Divine Mentor, LifeJournal model without any regrets. However, I start the year studying a new devotional work by Gary Permenter called P90E. Gary grew his inspiration watching a late night infomercial about the 90 day body transformation of an exercise program called P90X. After seeing all the before and after shots of folks, he asked the question: what if we prepared spiritually for 90 days to be a spiritually fit as we could be with the same tenacity that we take on other goals? Out of that He developed a study of the Gospels over 90 days- P90E or Preparing 90 days for Easter, which is day 90 of 2013. He will lead us through the Gospels chronologically and include a second devotional thought with other devotional, spiritual exercises. I plan to pick a verse or verses from one of the looks everyday and challenge you with it.
Today I read Luke 1 and Genesis 12.1-3. God spoke to me this morning as He often speaks to me through Genesis 12.2- And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.
The question of the day is- What is God's Vision for you in 2013 and are you committed to follow it through?
I pray that you are blessed and that God makes you a blessing. When we have been blessed by God with guidance, comfort, passion, salvation, and insight, we ought to pass that on by being a blessing to others.
Let's mark 2013 as the year to acknowledge God's Blessings upon us by being a blessing to others. Be blessed today so that you can be a blessing.
Welcome to 2013! I begin the year doing something different. For 4 1/2 years I have studied the Word by following the Divine Mentor, LifeJournal model without any regrets. However, I start the year studying a new devotional work by Gary Permenter called P90E. Gary grew his inspiration watching a late night infomercial about the 90 day body transformation of an exercise program called P90X. After seeing all the before and after shots of folks, he asked the question: what if we prepared spiritually for 90 days to be a spiritually fit as we could be with the same tenacity that we take on other goals? Out of that He developed a study of the Gospels over 90 days- P90E or Preparing 90 days for Easter, which is day 90 of 2013. He will lead us through the Gospels chronologically and include a second devotional thought with other devotional, spiritual exercises. I plan to pick a verse or verses from one of the looks everyday and challenge you with it.
Today I read Luke 1 and Genesis 12.1-3. God spoke to me this morning as He often speaks to me through Genesis 12.2- And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.
The question of the day is- What is God's Vision for you in 2013 and are you committed to follow it through?
I pray that you are blessed and that God makes you a blessing. When we have been blessed by God with guidance, comfort, passion, salvation, and insight, we ought to pass that on by being a blessing to others.
Let's mark 2013 as the year to acknowledge God's Blessings upon us by being a blessing to others. Be blessed today so that you can be a blessing.
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